Clearly something is as the HSE inspector involved took enforcement action against the construction company in Glasgow recently. The sheer amount of dust present tell us the M Class extractor (in this case) just isn’t working effectively.
It is difficult to think of a situation where I can recall the management of dust is exemplary and above any further comment as it seems not to get the attention it requires.
Controlling dust falls under the scope of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations in the UK. COSHH provides a framework for managing and controlling hazardous substances, including dust, in the workplace.
We have 6 steps that might help you avoid making the same mistakes:
1 – Risk Assessment:
Identify the potential hazards associated with dust exposure, including the specific types of dust, their composition, and any associated health risks.
Assess the likelihood and extent of exposure for workers and determine appropriate control measures.
Consider factors such as the quantity of dust generated, duration of exposure, and the effectiveness of existing control measures.
2 – Control Measures:
Implement control measures that are reasonably practicable to reduce dust exposure.
Consider the hierarchy of control measures, which includes eliminating or substituting hazardous substances, implementing engineering controls, and providing personal protective equipment (PPE) as a last resort.
Prioritise engineering controls such as local exhaust ventilation (LEV), enclosures, and water suppression systems to minimise dust generation and exposure.
3 – PPE:
If dust control measures alone cannot adequately reduce exposure, provide appropriate PPE to workers.
Select suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE) based on the identified hazards, such as dust masks or respirators.
Ensure that workers are trained in the proper use, maintenance, and storage of PPE.
4 – Monitoring and Health Surveillance:
Regularly monitor the effectiveness of control measures and adjust them as necessary.
Consider implementing health surveillance programs to monitor the health of workers exposed to hazardous dust, and provide appropriate medical examinations when necessary.
5 – Information, Instruction, and Training:
Provide workers with information about the hazards associated with dust exposure and the control measures in place.
Ensure workers receive adequate instruction and training on safe working practices, including the proper use of control measures, PPE, and hygiene measures.
Promote awareness among workers about the risks of dust exposure and the importance of reporting any issues or concerns.
6 – Documentation and Record-Keeping:
Keep records of risk assessments, control measures implemented, and monitoring results.
Maintain records of staff training and any health surveillance activities.
Regularly review and update COSHH assessments and control measures as necessary.
HSE’s work safe campaign gives further guidance here:
https://shorturl.at/hinoq