Sysco Environmental Ltd recently conducted a thorough hazardous substances assessment at an industrial facility in Kendal. The goal was to evaluate employee exposure to hazardous substances and recommend control measures to ensure a safe working environment.
The assessment focused on measuring atmospheric concentrations of hazardous contaminants, specifically respirable crystalline silica, across various operational areas, including fabrication, CNC, and factory saw areas. The results indicated that employees in these areas were exposed to significant levels of respirable crystalline silica, with some measurements exceeding Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs).
To mitigate these levels, several recommendations were made. Installing a Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) system throughout the facility is crucial for reducing airborne contaminants. Additionally, improving housekeeping practices, such as avoiding dry sweeping and using vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters, will help minimise dust generation. Providing comprehensive training for employees on the use and limitations of control measures and ensuring they are face-fit tested for respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is also essential.
Regular monitoring and re-testing should be scheduled to verify the effectiveness of the implemented control measures. These actions will significantly reduce the risk of exposure to hazardous substances, ensuring a safer work environment for all employees.