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Experts overcome fume problems
Page 126
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While it's much easier to plan a greenfields site, advice is available, writes Phil Reed, on how to get around problems arising from lack of space
• The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) for the main part came into force on 1 October 1989. Under these regulations, employers must make an assessment of the risks to health which arise from exposure to hazardous elements. Many of the potential risks to health are obvious. However, one aspect of the workshop environment that tends to get overlooked is that of dirt, dust and fume extraction..
Vehicle exhaust fumes, in a badly ventilated workshop, can seriously affect the health and efficiency of workshop staff. In many cases, open doors and simple ventilation systems are common methods of clearing workshop air. But, while an open door might be tolerated and even appreciated in the summer, the same cannot be said in the depths of winter.
Exhaust fumes are perhaps the more noticeable signs of workshop pollution. Headaches, sore throats and irritated eyes are the obvious results of exhaust fume exposure, but the long-term effects can be fatal.
The noxious fumes emitted by welding equipment are not always so noticeable, but are also detrimental to long-term health and efficiency. Dust from power sanders, grinders and similar equipment is another area which requires particular attention. The operator of the grinding machine may well be protected by face mask and goggles, but are the other members of the workshop workforce similarily protected?
Long term, the harmful effects of grinding dust are dangerous for everyone — whether they are actually using the machine or not — unless an efficient method of extracting the harmful substances is employed.
When space is at a premium With a "green fields" site, planning an efficient workshop ventilation and extraction system is not as great a problem as with already established premises. Many existing workshops have had their facilities adapted, and added to, rather than being planned. In many cases, where space is at a premium, filtration and extraction equipment has not had enough room to be installed.
Nederman of Preston is an acknowledged leader in the manufacture and installation of extraction equipment. During its existence, Nederman has been asked
to overcome many specific filtration and installation problems. By using retracting hose reels and overhead extraction rails, the company can install its equipment in virtually any premises.
In the case of vehicle exhaust fumes, a simple overhead extractor fan can be installed. This method provides an ideal low cost solution to extracting the exhaust fumes from vehicles without encroaching on valuable floor space.
Nederman can advise on exhaust, fume, welding and dust extraction at source and provide equipment suitable for ideal and less than ideal workshops.
Another company associated with fume and dust extraction systems is Betex International. Based in Sheffield, the company has recently added a mobile air cleaner to its range of equipment. Designed for airborne workshop pollutants, it can be positioned alongside the source of the contaminant for greater efficiency. By recycling the cleaned air back into the workshop, rather than to the outside, the heat levels of the workshop are maintained.
There is every likelihood that the legal requirements for pollution-free work environments will get much more stringent. This is likely to come about from public reaction as well as governmental legislation. Apart from considering the health of their employees, many companies are facing up to their responsibilities on the damaging aspects of pollution on a global scale. The old adage of "putting your own house in order first" has taken on a new meaning with reference to workshop pollution.
Fuller details and advice on extracting workshop pollutants can be obtained from: Nederman Turbo 102 Betex International Turbo 103