Website to tackle ventilation health risk

Employers are being urged to install proper ventilation systems to protect staff who might be exposed to dust, mists containing dangerous chemicals, fumes, gas or solvents.

A new website has been launched by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)  to advice employers and remind employees of their rights. Designers, installers and examiners can also use the website to find out the latest safety advcie.

Common Sources of Contaminants: Flour dust in bakeries Paint mist from spraying Carbon monoxide from furnaces Solvents from painting Welding

An HSE spokesman said: “Every year, thousands of people in Great Britain die of lung disease or get asthma because of airborne contaminants they have breathed in at work. If your work produces dust, mists, fumes, gas or vapour there may be a risk to the health of employees.

“Many employers buy local exhaust ventilation (LEV) to protect workers’ health but it doesn’t work. This may be because it’s the wrong type or because it’s not properly installed, used or maintained.”

“This website complements HSE guidance on how to apply and use local exhaust ventilation to remove airborne contaminants from the workplace before people breathe them in.

“Designers, installers and examiners of LEV will find this website helpful as will employers and their employees who depend on LEV for the continued protection of their health at work.”

For more information click here.

View the HSE report 'Clearing the Air' by clicking here