Hazardous Substances Coventry

Hazardous Substances Assessment in a Waste Recycling Facility in Coventry

Sysco Environmental Ltd recently conducted a hazardous substances assessment at an industrial facility in Coventry. The objective was to evaluate employee exposure to various hazardous substances and recommend control measures to ensure a safe working environment.

Our assessment focused on measuring atmospheric concentrations of hazardous contaminants, specifically targeting inhalable and respirable dust, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other specific chemicals like xylene and limonene. We monitored different operational areas including the picking station, JCB cabs, and the plant operator’s station.

Results showed that inhalable dust levels for cleaning operatives and plant operators exceeded Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs). Picking station and banksman operatives had significant exposure levels, but below the WELs. Operatives in all areas were found to have exposures below WELs for respirable dust and VOCs.

To mitigate these levels, several recommendations were made. Improved housekeeping practices, such as avoiding dry sweeping and using HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaners, are crucial. It is advised to minimise the use of compressed air guns for cleaning and to rotate operatives between high and low exposure tasks to reduce individual exposure. Additionally, the installation of mechanical ventilation in the warehouse and enclosing conveyor systems can help manage dust levels.