Wood Dust Essex

Dust – Hazardous Substance Assessment in Tilbury

n November 2024, a Dust – Hazardous Substance Assessment was conducted by our team at Sysco Environmental LTD at a wood recycling facility in Tilbury to evaluate dust exposure and ensure a safe working environment. The assessment focused on the external yard and shredding areas, where employees handle large volumes of hardwood and softwood materials, generating airborne dust.

The results revealed that inhalable dust levels exceeded Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) in some areas, particularly for employees operating shredders and loading shovels. Hardwood and softwood dust exposure was classified as significant, requiring immediate action to minimise risks. While respirable dust levels were below safety limits, long-term exposure could still pose health concerns.

To reduce dust exposure, the report recommended enhancing water suppression systems, limiting the use of compressed air for cleaning, enforcing respiratory protective equipment (RPE) use, and implementing job rotation to reduce prolonged exposure. Regular health surveillance and air quality monitoring were also advised to ensure ongoing compliance.

By following these recommendations, the facility can effectively manage dust exposure, ensuring a safer and healthier working environment for employees.

Hazardous Substance Assessment in Chelmsford

A recent Hazardous Substance Assessment was conducted at a workplace in Chelmsford to evaluate air quality and ensure a safe working environment. The assessment focused on identifying exposure to airborne particles, including dust and other potentially harmful substances, to protect employees from long-term health risks.

The findings were generally positive; most exposure levels were well within workplace safety limits. However, certain areas, particularly in the polishing and woodwork sections, showed significant dust presence, meaning additional precautions could further reduce risks. Recommendations included fine-tuning dust extraction systems, ensuring proper use of respiratory protection and improving ventilation where needed. Regular health monitoring and training for employees were also suggested to maintain a safe workspace.

By staying proactive in managing air quality, the company can continue to provide a safe and comfortable working environment. Small improvements in equipment maintenance and safety practices will go a long way in reducing exposure and ensuring compliance with health regulations.