Management of Hazardous Substances in the
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Victorian WorkCover Authority Management of Hazardous Substances in the Woodworking Industry Woodwork assessment. Requirements to Undertake A Risk Assessment This booklet has been prepared to assist the woodworking industry comply with their obligations under the Occupational Health & Safety (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 1999. These regulations require employers, in consultation with employees to: make a list of hazardous substances in the workplace (ie compile a register) obtain current manufacturers/importers’ MSDS for each product and put copy in the register ensure MSDS are accessible to employees identify hazardous substances in systems such as pipes, process vessels, reactor vessels or equipment involved in a manufacturing process to employees who may be exposed to them (where applicable) undertake a risk assessment for all hazardous substances in use as well as for any new substance revise risk assessments if conditions change and in any event, every 5 years undertake specific measures to control risk ensure risk control (safety) measures are properly used and maintained ensure exposure standards are not exceeded undertake atmospheric monitoring and health surveillance if required keep various records provide information, instruction and training to employees consult health and safety representatives In order to fulfill these obligations employers should first prepare a Register of Hazardous Substances. An example of such a register is incorporated in this document. Employers should be able to demonstrate they have carefully considered the questions raised in this booklet and have taken all reason steps to minimise worker exposures to substances used in the workplace. Evidence of consultation with OH&S representatives and the workforce is also required. The benefit of consultation with employees is that actual work practices will be reviewed as part of this risk 2 Woodwork List other processes or hazardous substances used at your workplace: How to Use This Booklet …………………………………………………………….. Using the flow chart on the opposite page employers should be able to achieve compliance with the regulations. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Employers should note, the questions are generic to many of the substances and processes used in the industry but may not cover every process or chemical used in the industry. Where other processes or hazardous substances are used, a risk assessment will need to be undertaken based on the hazards posed by the chemicals used in these additional processes (refer Appendix A for risk assessment template) The use of this booklet will enable workplace representatives to perform risk assessments on the following processes: Process Tick if relevant Mixing & Decanting Solvents Woodworking Adhesive Application Sealing, Varnishing and Painting Isocyanate Use By answering the questions in this booklet, employers will identify risks that need additional safety measures. If you require further assistance call the WorkCover Authority on 9641 1444. Cleaning & Waste Removal 3 Woodwork RISK ASSESSMENT FLOW CHART - Woodworking Tools Step 2 Chemical labels Material Safety Data Sheets Code of Practice for Hazardous Substances Step 2a Hazardous Substances Example Register Step 3,4,5 Material Safety Data Sheets Hazardous Substances Risk Assessment Report Visual observations of work process Step 1 Decide who will carry out the assessments Responsibilities Step 1 Step 2 Identify all substances determine which are hazardous Step 2a Set up a Hazardous Substances Register Hazardous Substances Action Plan Step 7 Hazardous Substances Action Plan WorkShop Manager ……………………………... Site OHS Officer ……………………………... OHS Committee (including Union Reps) ……………………………... ……………………………... Step 3 Check that all the processes and chemicals described in this booklet are the same as your workplace. ……………………………... If you have chemicals that are used in processes not outlined below, you must do a risk assessment using the HS Code of Practice. Step 4 Record the results of the Risk Assessment in spaces provided in this booklet. Fill in the Action Plan at the end of each section. Step 5 If uncertain of risk, obtain additional information from chemical & equipment suppliers or safety professional Are safety measures adequate? Further testing may include atmospheric monitoring or health surveillance No Step 6 Record Result in Risk Assessment Report Project team as above Step 7 Uncertain Steps 2 - 6 Mixing and Decanting Solvents Woodworking Adhesives Application Sealing/Varnishing and Painting Isocyanate Use Cleaning and Waste Removal Step 6 Plant Manager Consultation Consultation should occur in all processes after Step 2. This should involve the following: OHS Representatives Union Representatives Employee involved in the use of HS Training of employees should be undertaken in the following areas: Yes Step 6 Record result in Action Plan at the end of each section. Step 7 Implement safety measures Check Risk Assessment and Safety measures every 5 years or as situation requires 4 Training Reading MSDS’s & labels Hazards of exposure Safe Work Practices Use of PPE First Aid Woodwork complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A Mixing & Decanting Solvents 1.0 Mixing & Decanting Locations A range of solvents stored in tins and bottles may be decanted and mixed on site. The majority of these solvents are associated with lacquer paints, varnishes and stains used to finish wood products. These chemicals are flammable and may be manually mixed and applied utilising spray application. Exposure to these products is generally through skin contact and inhalation of solvent vapours and fine spray mists. The solvents may be highly irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory system and may cause central nervous system depression and headache after prolonged exposure. List possible health hazards which may result from using these products: ___________________________________________ Are designated areas assigned for mixing/decanting solvents? Are mixing areas clean and free of stored solvents? Are mixing areas well ventilated? Are mixing and decanting areas isolated from: Pedestrian walkways? Forklift Traffic? ___________________________________________ General work processes? List any safety warnings issued on labels: ___________________________________________ Ignition sources? Are decanting areas provided with ___________________________________________ Yes No Has MSDS and label information been read? (The regulations require you to consider this information) Are the products used as described above? Are the health effects described above applicable to the products used in your workplace? If you answer No to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A. If Yes to all questions, proceed to the following questions hrs/day List who uses these substances or performs this process: hrs/day hrs/day hrs/day Does the form or concentration of the substance differ from that described above? If you answer YES to this question you should Yes No absorbent material to contain spills? Are all solvents stored in packages/tins that are labelled with the product name? Do safety signs provide hazard warnings and indicate which PPE is required to be worn? Are material safety data sheets (MSDS) available in the workplace? Are emergency response procedures and first aid procedures clearly posted in the workplace? Is there a no smoking policy within the mixing/decanting area and signs posted to indicate this? If No to any of the above, additional safety measures should be used to reduce the risk of exposure. ___________________________________________ No Hint: Does natural airflow into the area or is an exhaust fan or ventilation provided. Use a sheet of paper or ribbons to determine effectiveness of exhaust ventilation ___________________________________________ Yes 2.0 Transporting Solvents Are solvents transported in open containers that expose workers to risk of splashing/spills or vapours? Are solvents required to be carried over: Wet or slippery surfaces? 5 Woodwork Up/down stairs or ladders? In close proximity to other workers? Eye protection should be used at all times when mixing and decanting solvents. Are chemical goggles/face shields provided and worn at all times when mixing and decanting solvents? If YES to any of the above, improvements may be required in the methods of transporting solvents. Yes No 4.0 Pouring and Use of Containers Respirators Are containers used to decant solvents: Made of suitable materials? To determine if a respirator is required, read the MSDS safety requirements for handling the chemical. Where MSDS’s require respirators to be worn when decanting or mixing solvents, are the respirators: Available and always worn? Fitted with correct cartridges? Washed free of chemicals after use? Labelled to indicate hazardous nature of contents? Used solely for a specified class of chemical? Provided with spouts to minimise splashing? Are taps, syphons and pumps used to decant from large or difficult to handle containers? Are all spills cleaned immediately? Fit tested to ensure correct protection is provided? Hint: Fit mask to face, place hands over cartridges and breath in. If the mask remains compressed to face, fit is good. Suitable for the chemical? Clean and hygienic? Are staff trained in the use and maintenance of the respirator? 3.2 If NO to any of the above, the risk of exposure to chemical hazards may be further reduced through the use of PPE. 3.0 Use of Personal Protective Equipment 3.1 Yes No If NO to any of the above, consider adopting appropriate safe working procedures or safety measures to reduce the risk of exposure. Gloves and Aprons Gloves should be used at all times when decanting chemicals. Are gloves: Available and always worn? Appropriate for chemicals being handled? (Supplier of gloves can advise) Suitable for enabling maximum dexterity? Clean and hygienic and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers requirements? Are aprons worn when decanting chemicals/solvents? Are aprons appropriate for the chemicals being handled and maintained in a clean and hygienic manner? 3.3 5.0 Results of Risk Assessment Have any risks been identified? Yes No Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Eye Protection 6 Woodwork …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Does a particular issue require further assessment (e.g. monitoring, consultation, etc.)? Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. ACTION PLAN List any actions required to further reduce risks. Person Responsible Date 1 2 3 4 This Action Plan SHOULD be completed by the employer If after answering all the above questions, no actions are necessary to improve safety - Print “No Actions Necessary” in the above box. 7 Woodwork Woodworking 1.0 Evidence of Exposure A range of timber and veneered products are utilised throughout wood working processes. These include soft and hardwoods as well as medium density fibreboards. Wood dust is not classified as a hazardous substance, however, certain hardwoods such as beech and oak may produce allergic asthma like respiratory sensitisation after repeated or prolonged exposure to their dust. Chemical constituents such as formaldehyde may also be released in dust produced through the use of mechanical equipment in the cutting/sanding/routing of MDF. List possible health hazards which may result from using these products: ___________________________________________ Are workers required to handle green timber? Do employees suffer from rashes? Do skin conditions return rapidly Yes No after returning from leave? Do skin conditions occur after working with a particular type of wood? Specify…………………………… Do employees suffer irritated eyes or redness of the eyes during work with wood? Do employees suffer nose irritation or redness whilst working with wood? Do employees find breathing difficult whilst working with wood products? Do employees with respiratory illness (asthma) find their condition deteriorates when working with wood? If YES to any of the above, additional safety measures as detailed below are necessary to further reduce the risk of exposure. ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ List any safety warnings issued on labels: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ 2.0 Safe Operating Procedures ___________________________________________ Is all woodwork undertaken using Yes No exhaust ventilation? Are dust masks worn when working with MDF? Have specific areas been designated for working with MDF that are isolated from other work areas? Are hand tools provided with dust collection bags? Is time spent working with MDF boards limited to minimise employee exposure? Is good housekeeping in place to ensure excessive quantities of wood dust are not laying on surfaces? Is the use of compressed air to clean equipment prohibited? Are vacuum cleaners used to clean the work area of wood dust? Are good hygiene practices a requirement in the workplace (i.e. wash hands prior to lunch or smoking)? Has MSDS and label information been read? (The regulations require you to consider this information) Are the products used as described above? Are the health effects described above applicable to the products used in your workplace? If you answer No to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A. If Yes to all questions, proceed to the following questions List who uses these substances or hrs/day performs this process: hrs/day hrs/day hrs/day Does the form or concentration of the substance differ from that described above? If you answer YES to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A 8 Yes No Woodwork Are employees trained in the use If NO to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required to further reduce the risk of exposure. 3.0 Effectiveness of Safety measures Yes Is the mechanical ventilation No provided operating effectively? Hint: manually place a minor quantity of wood dust on the working surface of the machine and determine whether the dust is extracted. Has the requirement to work with green wood been prohibited? Have any risks been identified? Leather gloves for handling wood (not during machine operation)? Safety glasses with side shields? Long sleeve clothing? Dust masks? Yes No 5.0 Results of Risk Assessment Yes No Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Does a particular issue require further assessment (e.g. monitoring, consultation, etc.) Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. 4.0 Personal Protective Equipment Are the following PPE provided: and maintenance of these items of equipment? If NO to any of the above, the risk of exposure to wood dust hazards may be further reduced through the use of PPE. ACTION PLAN List any actions required to further reduce risks. Person Responsible Date 1 2 3 4 This Action Plan SHOULD be completed by the employer If after answering all the above questions, no actions are necessary to improve safety - Print “No Actions Necessary” in the above box. 9 Woodwork hrs/day hrs/day hrs/day Adhesives Application A variety of woodworking adhesives are utilised in the manufacture of products. These include single part adhesives and two part resins with hardeners. These materials are irritants to the skin, respiratory system and eyes and may also cause sensitisation upon prolonged or repeated contact. Does the form or concentration of the substance differ from that described above? A range of catalysts are also available for efficient curing of adhesives. These catalysts may be acidic compounds such as toluene-4-sulfonic acid or skin and eye irritants such as ammonium chloride. Adhesive thinners are also used to remove excess adhesive from surfaces. These thinners are highly flammable and contain volatile components such as toluene, xylene or methyl ethyl ketone. These chemicals may cause irritation, coughing or headache through repeated inhalation of vapours with exposures increased through chemical absorption through the skin. List possible health hazards which may result from using these products: ___________________________________________ 1.0 Evidence of Chemical Exposure If you answer YES to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A 1.1 irritation or rashes? Do operators experience dermatitis? Does skin rashes/irritation return rapidly following return from holidays or weekends? Is there evidence or reports of skin burns? Is there a risk of splashing? Is there evidence of acid burns to operator clothing? 1.2 Eye Burns and Irritation ___________________________________________ Is there evidence or reports of eye ___________________________________________ Do operators have difficulty breathing whilst undertaking adhesive application? Do operators with pre-existing respiratory conditions (asthma) experience increased symptoms whilst working with adhesives? Do operators experience coughing, headache or dizziness following work conducted with adhesive thinners? ___________________________________________ Yes No Has MSDS and label information been read? (The regulations require you to consider this information) Are the products used as described above? Are the health effects described above applicable to the products used in your workplace? If you answer No to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A. If Yes to all questions, proceed to the following questions hrs/day List who uses these substances or performs this process: No irritation or redness? Is there evidence or reports of eye burns from adhesive catalysts? 1.3 Respiratory Inhalation & Irritation List any safety warnings issued on labels: ___________________________________________ Yes Skin Burns and Irritation Is there evidence or reports of skin ___________________________________________ If YES to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required. 2.0 Safe Work Procedures Is there a requirement for adhesives to be sprayed onto wood? 10 Yes No Woodwork adhesives decanted into nonlabelled squeeze bottles? Are adhesives that are spilled onto surfaces left to dry ? Are adhesives left to dry on the skin after applications ? thinners used to clean adhesive from skin? Are thinners applied to rags for cleaning purposes? Are rags soaked with thinners left in the workplace? Do operators follow good hygiene practices prior to smoking and eating lunch? Is there a non-smoking policy in place for all work areas? Are adhesives or thinners stored in bottles that are not designed for the purpose (ie drink bottles)? Are thinners stored in open containers? Are containers provided with spouts that cause splashing during pouring? Are eye wash stations and emergency showers provided? Are neutralising agents and sorbent materials accessible? Are chemicals used in environments under direct sunlight or in hot conditions? Does the airflow draw vapours away from the operator? Is ventilation regularly maintained? Is adhesive applied in a location isolated from other workers? Can the adhesive spray process be automated to minimise operator exposure? 3.4 Administrative Is the use of thinners prohibited to certain times of the day when minimal operators are working? Are operators rotated between jobs to minimise exposures? are least toxic? Have less toxic alternatives been considered? Can a less volatile thinner be used to replace toluene/xylene based thinners? Can a more viscous product be used to eliminate splashes? 3.2 Engineering & Ventilation Is the following PPE provided: No Is mechanical ventilation provided? Does the ventilation draw from bench level? 4.0 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Impervious Gloves? Elimination or Substitution Are adhesives chosen because they If No to any of the above, the use of additional safety measures may reduce the risk of operator exposure. . Document any action required in section 5 of this risk assessment. 3.0 Effectiveness of Safety measures 3.1 Does ventilation exhaust outside of work areas? Are outlets sucking from close to the source of adhesive application? Is an airless spray system used to apply adhesive? Can spray droplet size be increased to minimise potential exposure? Can the temperature of mixing areas be reduced to minimise vapour release? 3.3 Isolation, Segregation & Enclosure If NO to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required to further reduce the risk of exposure. Yes Face shield? Yes No Impervious chemical resistant boots? Respirator where required by MSDS? Is contaminated PPE washed prior to reuse? Is signage provided indicating the requirement for PPE to be used in the workplace? If NO to any of the above, the risk of chemical exposure may be reduced by improving PPE. 11 Woodwork …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. 5.0 Results of Risk Assessment Have any risks been identified? Yes No Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Does a particular issue require further assessment (e.g. monitoring, consultation, etc.) Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. ACTION PLAN List any actions required to further reduce risks. Person Responsible Date 1 2 3 4 This Action Plan SHOULD be completed by the employer If after answering all the above questions, no actions are necessary to improve safety - Print “No Actions Necessary” in the above box. 12 Woodwork questions List who uses these substances or performs this process: Sealing / Varnishing & Painting The process of sealing, painting or varnishing wood products is the final stage in the manufacturing process. This process typically involves the application of stains, lacquers and acrylic urethanes either by spray painting methods or more traditional manual painting or wiping methods. hrs/day hrs/day hrs/day 1.0 Evidence of Chemical Exposure Do operators experience breathing Yes No difficulties during application of stains/paints? Do operators have visible evidence of paint/chemical stains on clothing? Do operators experience watering eyes, nose irritation or bleeds during work? Do operators experience headaches or dizziness during work with chemicals? Do operators have dry, cracked skin or skin rashes? Do rashes/dermatitis return rapidly after being away from work for some time? Is there evidence of open thinners, stains or lacquer containers or spills in the work area? Do any operators have a particularly bad reaction (headache/nausea) after minor exposure to stains or painting chemicals? Is there evidence of chemical odours in painting and chemical handling areas? If YES to any of the above, additional safety measures may be necessary to reduce the risk of exposure. In addition to these effects, acrylic urethanes may contain isocyanates (refer to next section for risk assessment) that have the potential to cause contact dermatitis and respiratory sensitisation in susceptible individuals. The use of thinning chemicals for spray applications and in cleaning processes also presents similar irritant health effects and central nervous system depression as for stains and paints. List possible health hazards which may result from using these products: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ List any safety warnings issued on labels: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ 2.0 Spray Painting - Locations & Ventilation Yes No Has MSDS and label information been read? (The regulations require you to consider this information) Are the products used as described above? Are the health effects described above applicable to the products used in your workplace? If you answer No to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A. If Yes to all questions, proceed to the following Does the form or concentration of the substance differ from that described above? If you answer YES to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A In most instances the use of spray equipment to apply a product is undertaken within either a closed spray booth or open-faced spray booth. The substances applied to the wood typically contain volatile organic compounds such as xylene, alcohols or even formaldehyde. As such, the principal route of exposure to these substances is through skin contact and inhalation with stains and lacquers being highly irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory system. hrs/day Is spray painting conducted within an enclosed booth provided with exhaust ventilation? Is spray painting conducted at the front of an open-face booth provided with exhaust ventilation? Does the exhaust from the booth discharge outside of the building? 13 Yes No Woodwork Are filters used in the exhaust replaced on a regular basis? Is the exhaust system regularly maintained and tested to ensure adequate operation (ie review maintenance records)? Is an airless spray system used to minimise over spray and airborne mists? If a compressed air spray system is in use, are nozzles adjusted to minimise over spray and airborne mists? Are spray booth doors closed during spraying and drying activities? Are spray booths isolated from all sources of excessive heat and ignition? Are items that are sprayed in an open-faced booth small enough to contain over spray within the booth? If NO to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required to ensure exposure to sprayed chemicals is eliminated or minimised. Fitted with organic vapour filters? Maintained, clean and hygienic? Fit tested to ensure maximum protection is provided? Suitable for the chemicals in use? Have staff been trained in the safe use and maintenance of the respirator? 4.2 Are wiping and hand painting Gloves and Suits Are gloves: Always worn during spraying, hand painting, wiping or mixing activities? Impervious and suitable for the chemicals handled? Suitable to enable maximum dexterity? Clean, hygienic and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications? Is an impervious chemical suit worn when spraying in a spray booth? Is the suit clean, hygienic and in good repair? 3.0 Wiping or Hand Painting - Locations and Ventilation Yes No 4.3 Are chemical goggles provided and worn during the process of mixing and applying chemicals ? Are the goggles clean, hygienic and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers specifications? If NO to any of the above, the risk of chemical exposure may be reduced by improving PPE. activities undertaken in a wellventilated area? Are wiping and hand painting activities undertaken in an area remote from excessive heat and ignition sources? Are containers of paints and stains closed when not in use? Is the use of rags for wiping stains or cleaning with thinners prohibited? Are there alternative methods of cleaning operator skin other than the use of thinners? If NO to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required to ensure exposure to manually painted chemicals is eliminated or minimised Eye 5.0 Results of Risk Assessment 4.0 Personal Protective Equipment Yes 4.1 Have any risks been identified? No Respirator Is a full face or half face respirator provided for work conducted in a spray booth or adjacent an open faced spray booth? Is the respirator: Yes No Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Does a particular issue require further assessment (e.g. monitoring, 14 Woodwork consultation, etc.) Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. ACTION PLAN List any actions required to further reduce risks. Person Responsible Date 1 2 3 4 This Action Plan SHOULD be completed by the employer If after answering all the above questions, no actions are necessary to improve safety - Print “No Actions Necessary” in the above box. 15 Woodwork performs this process: Isocyanate Use hrs/day hrs/day hrs/day A range of two-pack polyurethane paints are available and often used to provide a durable finish to wood products. These paints are provided in a two-part mixture and may be mixed manually for the purposes of spraying onto the products. These paints are extremely volatile and as such large volumes of vapour may be released into the workplace atmosphere potentially causing an explosive environment in confined areas. Is mixing and decanting of ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ List any safety warnings issued on labels: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ Yes No Has MSDS and label information been read? (The regulations require you to consider this information) Are the products used as described above? Are the health effects described above applicable to the products used in your workplace? If you answer No to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A. If Yes to all questions, proceed to the following questions List who uses these substances or hrs/day Yes No Yes No isocyanate based paints undertaken in general work areas? Is mixing and decanting of isocyanate based paints undertaken in close proximity to ignition sources or sources of excessive heat? Are isocyanate based paint tins/containers left open during and after use? Are mixing and decanting areas located in the immediate vicinity of lunchrooms or offices? Are isocyanate-based paints stored in confined areas where vapours may build up? Are isocyanate-based paints stored in areas that may be subject to elevated temperatures that could increase the production of vapours? Is there a potential for splashing to occur during the decanting and mixing of isocyanates? Is the decanting and mixing area for isocyanates only provided with natural ventilation? Are spatula’s used to mix isocyanate based urethanes and do these spatula’s remain in the workplace for the urethane to dry naturally? If YES to any of these additional safety measures may be required. List possible health hazards which may result from using these products: ___________________________________________ 1.0 Mixing and Decanting Isocyanate based products are highly irritating to the eyes, throat and respiratory system and may cause symptoms such as watering eyes, dryness of the throat, headaches and tightness of the chest. These symptoms may occur immediately upon exposure or some hours after. Isocyanate based products may induce respiratory sensitisation that produces asthmalike symptoms in susceptible individuals when exposed to only minor quantities of the chemical substance. There is also a potential for the onset of contact dermatitis after prolonged use of the product. Does the form or concentration of the substance differ from that described above? If you answer YES to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A 2.0 Spray painting Are isocyanate based urethanes sprayed in an enclosed spray booth? Is the spray booth fitted with exhaust ventilation? 16 Woodwork Is the spray booth closed during spraying operations? Is the spray booth exhausted to the exterior of the building? Is the spray booth maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications? Are exhaust filters replaced on a regular basis? Is an airless spray system used to minimise over spray and airborne mist? Is the interior of the spray booth maintained at a low/medium temperature to minimise vapour release during and after spraying? If compressed air is used in the spraying process, is the spray nozzle adjusted to increase the spray droplet size and minimise potential exposure? If NO to any of these additional safety measures should be considered. Is urethane mixing/decanting and spraying undertaken outside normal business hours to reduce worker exposure? Can mixing of isocyanate urethanes be undertaken within a closed spray booth? 3.0 Evidence of Exposure Yes No Do employees experience eye watering, redness or pain during the use of isocyanate based urethane ? Do employees experience a dry throat or headache during or immediately following work with isocyanate based urethane? Do employees experience tightness of the chest following exposure to isocyanate based urethane? Do employees with asthma experience greater difficulty in breathing when in contact with urethanes? Is there visual evidence of urethane residue on employee clothing? Are urethane odours present in mixing/decanting and spraying locations? Do employees suffer from dermatitis following exposure to urethanes? If YES to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required. 5.0 Personal Protective Equipment 5.1 1) A supplied air respirator should be worn at all times when spraying isocyanate based urethanes Repiratory Protection Is respiratory protection provided and worn by all operators undertaking work with isocyanate based urethanes? Is the respiratory protection: Fitted with correct filters or full-face supplied air (for spray booth applications)? Fit tested to ensure correct protection is provided? Clean and hygienic? 4.0 Safe Work Procedures Can manual applications of isocyanate based urethanes be undertaken? Do operators follow good hygiene practices such as cleaning or hands prior to eating lunch and smoking? Is there a non-smoking policy within the urethane mixing and application areas of the workplace? Are eyewash and emergency shower stations provided and in good working order? Are operations with urethanes prohibited from being undertaken in direct sunlight or in hot conditions? Are rags or spatula’s contaminated with isocyanate urethanes removed from the workplace and disposed of correctly? Are all employees familiar with the requirement not to enter the booth when in operation or during drying processes? If NO to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required. Are employees trained in the use and maintenance of the respirator? 5.2 Eye Yes No Eye protection should be worn at all times when mixing 17 Woodwork and decanting isocyanate based urethanes. Yes Are chemical goggles worn at all times when mixing and decanting urethanes ? Are the goggles clean and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers specifications ? 5.3 Are suits clean hygienic and in good condition ? Are suits removed prior to employees walking into other work areas ? No If NO to any of the above, the risk of exposure to chemical hazards may be further reduced through the use of PPE. Hands 6.0 Results of Risk Assessment Impervious gloves should be worn at all times when mixing/decanting and spraying isocyanate based urethanes. Are gloves: Available and always worn during mixing/decanting and spraying operations ? Impervious to isocyanate based urethanes ? Suitable to enable maximum dexterity ? Clean hygienic and maintained in accordance with manufacturer's requirements ? 5.4 Have any risks been identified? Impervious suits should be worn at all times during spraying activities involving isocyanate-based urethanes. No Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Does a particular issue require further assessment (e.g. monitoring, consultation, etc.) Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. List any actions required to further reduce risks. Task 1. Date ………………………………………… 2. ……………. ………………………………………… 3. ……………. ………………………………………… 4. ……………. ………………………………………… ……………. Body Are suits impervious to the urethanes being sprayed ? Are suits worn at all times during spraying activities ? Yes ACTION PLAN List any actions required to further reduce risks. Person Responsible Date 1 2 3 4 This Action Plan SHOULD be completed by the employer If after answering all the above questions, no actions are necessary to improve safety - Print “No Actions Necessary” in the above box. 18 Woodwork substance differ from that described above? If you answer YES to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A Cleaning and Waste Removal Various cleaning methods will be employed in workplaces to ensure working surfaces are maintained in optimal condition. Cleaning methods utilised for removing wood shavings may include dry sweeping, vacuuming or even the use of compressed air. Some of these methods (ie compressed air) may be more detrimental to health and the workplace than beneficial. Cleaning may also involve the use of solvents. 1.0 Solvent Cleaning Are solvents such as thinners used Yes No Yes No Yes No to clean work surfaces? Are solvents used to clean spray equipment? Are solvents applied to rags for the purposes of wiping work surfaces? Are solvents used to clean paints or varnishes from skin? Are solvents used to clean work surfaces during normal operational times? If YES to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required. Waste removal is an important component of the cleaning process as there will often be a requirement for used solvents to be removed from site. In addition to this, there may also be a requirement to remove wood dusts accumulated from site exhaust ventilation. These processes may further expose personnel to hazardous substances in both the cleaning and removal processes. List possible health hazards which may result from using these products: ___________________________________________ 2.0 General Cleaning ___________________________________________ Is compressed air used to clean ___________________________________________ surfaces of wood dust? Are dry sweeping methods used to clean floor surfaces of wood dust? Are the above processes undertaken during normal work hours when operators are in the workplace? If YES to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required. List any safety warnings issued on labels: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ 3.0 Waste Removal Yes No Has MSDS and label information been read? (The regulations require you to consider this information) Are the products used as described above? Are the health effects described above applicable to the products used in your workplace? If you answer No to this question you should complete the risk assessment template in Appendix A. If Yes to all questions, proceed to the following questions List who uses these substances or hrs/day performs this process: hrs/day hrs/day hrs/day Does the form or concentration of the Are waste solvents stored in containers designed for the purpose? Are waste solvent containers labelled to indicate their contents? Are waste solvents stored in a location remote from ignition sources or out of direct sunlight? Are waste solvents removed from site by an approved removalist? Are solvent soaked rags stored in closed containers for removal? Are solvent-soaked rags disposed of separately to general waste? If NO to any of the above, additional safety measures may be required to ensure wastes are stored and removed in a safe manner. 19 Woodwork Clean and hygienic and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements? Are aprons worn when decanting chemicals/solvents? Are aprons appropriate for the chemicals being handled and maintained in a clean and hygienic manner? 4.0 Personal Protective Equipment Yes 4.1 No Respirators To determine if a respirator is required, read the MSDS safety requirements for handling the chemical. Where MSDS’s require respirators to be worn when decanting or mixing solvents, are the respirators: Available and always worn? Fitted with correct cartridges? 4.3 Are staff trained in the use and maintenance of the respirator? 4.2 Appropriate for chemicals being handled? (Supplier of gloves can advise) Suitable for enabling maximum dexterity? Eye Protection 5.0 Results of Risk Assessment Have any risks been identified? Yes No Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Does a particular issue require further assessment (e.g. monitoring, consultation, etc.)? Comment: ……………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. …………………………………………………………….. Gloves should be used at all times when decanting chemicals. Available and always worn? Are chemical goggles/face shields provided and worn at all times when mixing and decanting solvents? If NO to any of the above, the risk of exposure to chemical hazards may be further reduced through the use of PPE. Gloves and Aprons Are gloves: Eye protection should be used at all times when mixing and decanting solvents. Fit tested to ensure correct protection is provided? Hint: Fit mask to face, place hands over cartridges and breath in. If the mask remains compressed to face, fit is good. Suitable for the chemical? Clean and hygienic? ACTION PLAN List any actions required to further reduce risks. Person Responsible Date 1 2 3 4 This Action Plan SHOULD be completed by the employer If after answering all the above questions, no actions are necessary to improve safety - Print “No Actions Necessary” in the above box. 20 Woodwork Example Company Sample Hazardous Substances Register Date Risk Assessment was performed Date of MSDS March 99 Feb 99 July 97 June 97 Acrylic Urethane 1263 3 Duragold Lacquer 1263 3 Syntec AV201 - - - Aug 96 Syntec Catalyst Liquid LF - - May 99 Medium Density Fibreboard Dust - - - Note (1) (2) (3) Other Isocyanates Sealers/Varnish & Paints Adhesives Wood Products Solvents Select the relevant Risk Assessment (3) Dangerous Goods Class UN Number.(2) .(1) Product/Substance Name Is substance Hazardous? Site address May 99 Refer to Caution/Warning clauses on the label OR classification of substance in MSDS to determine if substance is Hazardous United Nations Number (UN No.) will be found on the label or MSDS Dangerous Goods Class can be obtained from the MSDS or Label 21 Woodwork Appendix A Risk Assessment Template Process Description: Substances identified as hazardous: Name of person performing assessment: Date: Possible Health Effects Routes of exposure Current safety measures Are additional safety measures required (if yes state what & reason) 22 Actions Woodwork 23
