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1. When considering potential contractors for work, always ask to see evidence of their Skills, Knowledge, Attitude, Training and Experience (competence) – this would include their qualifications and training, affiliations to trade bodies and industry bodies, and examples of previous similar work. Ask about their knowledge of applicable legislation, best practice and industry standards. Continue reading…

Like other PPE, Respirator Protective Equipment (RPE) must be considered the very last option for protecting the respiratory health of workers. All risks and measures must be assessed before opting for RPE.

This option should only be considered after all other reasonably practicable measures to prevent or control exposure to damaging environments (unless temporarily whilst measures are put in place). RPE should only be used for short periods of time or infrequent exposure, such as temporary or emergency works.

If your risk assessment shows the need for RPE, it is important to note the reasons behind this decision on the risk assessment in order to consider options in the future.

RPE at work should be:

1. able to adequately control inhalation exposure to provide the wearer with effective protection
2. suitable for the intended use
3. CE-marked or of an approved type/standard approved by the HSE
4. used by properly trained people who are supervised,  and
5. properly stored, cleaned and checked regularly to ensure it remains effective

Remember to consult either a safety representative appointed through recognised trade unions or employees, either directly or indirectly via an elected representative when implementing such health and safety measures as RPE.

When completing their workplace inspections, the HSE are prioritising two particular categories of hazardous substances: carcinogens and sensitisers.  If you use or create these hazardous substances as part of your work activities then consider the following seven key actions, you will be expected to have taken.

1. Show you have identified all carcinogens and sensitisers
2. Check you have included the materials or substances produced during processing (e.g. dusts as well as those that come in a pack, can or drum).
3. Ensure your risk assessment is up-to-date.  For these substances, the risk assessments are often referred to as COSHH Assessments.
4. Describe what actions you are taking to minimise the risk – eliminate these materials by replacing them with safer alternatives.  Engineer the controls such as ventilation and dust suppression and providing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
5. Set out how you ensure these controls work in practice, for example, how you check the ventilation is working properly and that PPE remains effective and is worn when needed.
6. Provide information and training relating to the hazards and health effects, the use of the control measures and any specialist equipment.
7. Provide the appropriate health surveillance that is recommended (e.g. lung function testing for employees using spray isocyanate-based paints).

What is the risk?

Carcinogens are substances or materials such as mineral oils and wood dusts that have the potential to cause cancer.  Uncontrolled exposure can trigger serious harm to health.

Sensitisers (some resins, paints, bonding agents) are substances or materials that can trigger and allergic reaction.  Once people become sensitised, even minute quantities of the substance can set off a serious adverse reaction.  For example, painful rash and inflammation (skin sensitisers) or asthma-like symptoms of difficult breathing (respiratory sensitisers) Either way these effects can be so serious the persons is prevented from working with the material in the short term, but may be unable to work with them again.

A recent prosecution of a rubber sealant manufacturer resulted in the admission of failure to manage skin sensitisation risks and as a result, a £40,000 fine.