Cobalt, a vital component in numerous industrial processes, can also pose serious risks when it comes in the form of dust. The particles generated during manufacturing, processing, or handling of cobalt-based materials can have detrimental effects on both human health and the environment.
Recently Chemical Giant Orca whos operations are based in Newcastle were Fined 1.2 million dollars and charged under the work health and safety laws following major failures to implement critical respiratory protection protocols including the fitment of respiratory protection equipment despite knowing that excessive dust buildup was prominent in the workplace.
Inhalation of cobalt dust particles can lead to a range of respiratory issues, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Furthermore, prolonged exposure may result in chronic conditions such as asthma or bronchitis. What’s more concerning is the potential carcinogenic effect of cobalt compounds, increasing the risk of lung cancer among those regularly exposed to cobalt dust. Moreover, cobalt is a heavy metal, and excessive exposure can lead to cobalt poisoning, manifesting in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and neurological effects.
Given the recent ban on silica based engineered stone products, SysTec has played a large role is helping business’s tackle the ongoing compliance hurdles adopted into the Health and Safety Regulations in Victoria as part of the OHS Essentials Program funded by WorkSafe Victoria.
New Welding Fumes Exposure Standard Released – Liam Cooper – OHS Consultant
Safework Australia has just released the new welding fumes exposure standard, and it got me thinking about working away over the holiday break on engineering projects where welding was the main activity. I found myself thinking about the journey to get to where I am now and the understanding of the nature of work undertaken by everyday workers in engineering trades.
I work alongside workers of all ages, from apprentices to seasoned veterans who have worked worldwide. They all had one thing in common: no matter the skill level or age, they were all great at one thing. Welding.
So, my focus during that time with these workers was on the subject, the materials used and the long-term effects of spending much time around welding fumes. After digging around on the internet, I didn’t find much until I found some information about new exposure standards for persons conducting welding operations in my email.
Individuals who work with welding should be aware of the potential health effects of exposure to welding fumes. These effects can range from short-term issues like eye and respiratory irritation to more severe conditions such as asthma, metal fume fever, nervous system damage, and an increased risk of lung and kidney cancer.
Tragically, since 2019, three workers in Victoria have lost their lives due to illnesses caused by welding fume exposure.
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, employers are responsible for managing the risk posed by hazardous substances, including welding fumes. It is crucial to ensure that workers and others in the workplace are not exposed to levels exceeding any relevant exposure standard.
As of today, there are significant changes in the workplace exposure standard for welding fumes (not otherwise classified). The standard is now set at 1 mg/m3 as an eight-hour time-weighted average, a considerable reduction from the previous 5 mg/m3.
This exposure standard represents the maximum airborne concentration of a substance or mixture that individuals should not surpass to avoid adverse health effects. Depending on the welding processes and components, the fumes may contain specific substances with their exposure standards, which could be lower than the general 1 mg/m3 standard.
To protect individuals from welding fume exposure, it is advisable to prioritize eliminating, substituting, or modifying the welding process. Ventilation controls, such as on-torch extraction or local exhaust ventilation, should be implemented next. Respiratory protection is recommended if exposure is still expected to surpass the exposure standard.
If there’s uncertainty about whether a relevant exposure standard is being exceeded or if there’s a potential health risk, atmospheric monitoring should be conducted. Additionally, health monitoring may be necessary if workers are exposed to specific substances specified by the OHS Regulations that are likely to cause harm.
It’s important to note that Safe Work Australia officially published the adjustment of workplace exposure.
Suppose you conduct welding activities in your workplace and need someone to review your compliance activities. Get in touch with a consultant today. We offer a free service for businesses that have employee numbers under 60.
Australia faces a concerning issue of occupational violence.
Occupational violence in health services is an increasing issue that endangers the safety of community health workers who provide crucial healthcare services. Factors such as high emotional stress, limited resources, and a vulnerable work environment contribute to this problem.
As an Employer, you must provide and maintain a safe working environment that is free of risks to health. You also have a duty ensure that workplace activities don’t endanger other people, such as visitors, clients and the public.
Preventing and managing violence and aggression is part of those duties.
To tackle this issue, the following strategies can be implemented:
Training Programs
Mandatory training in conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and self-defense equips healthcare professionals to handle confrontational situations safely.
Security Measures
Installing surveillance cameras, panic buttons, and access control systems enhances the safety of community health centers. Employing security personnel and collaborating with law enforcement agencies adds an extra layer of protection.
Reporting Systems
Establishing efficient reporting systems encourages prompt reporting of incidents, leading to necessary support and accountability. Open dialogue and confidentiality build trust.
Community Engagement
Engagement with the local community and raising awareness about occupational violence promotes respect towards healthcare workers and helps prevent violent incidents.
Policy Development
Comprehensive policies developed and enforced by the government and regulatory bodies outline guidelines for prevention, response, and support mechanisms.
By implementing training programs, security measures, reporting systems, community engagement, and robust policies, we can create a safer environment for healthcare professionals. Prioritizing their well-being ensures optimal care delivery and promotes respect within the sector. Together, we can combat occupational violence and foster a culture of safety and support.
On the 17th February, Worksafe Victoria released a statement regarding the new psychological regulations as an addition to the current classes of hazards outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017, which will provide clearer guidance to employers on their obligations to ensure workers are not suffering from mental health injury in the workplace.
The new regulations will:
Highlight importance of psychological health and safety in workplaces.
Outline employer obligations in regards psychosocial hazards.
Require employers to create a written prevention plan to address pyschosocial issues and hazards.
Require certain employers to periodically report data on bullying, sexual harassment and aggression and violence.
An outcome of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System found that the need to improve awareness and education around psychological health and safety.
The regulations are expected to be introduced into legislation later on in the year.
If you are in need of addressing pychosocial issues in your workplace, Please make anenquiry.
Managing safety in small business is often overlooked as small business’s are unaware of the impacts that non-compliance can have.
Safety Management systems are not just for large companies, they are for all sizes and industry sectors.
OHS management systems are a sure way to help your organization manage health and safety risks and reap the benefits by expanding your business into the next stage of growth.
Some of the benefits you will experience include:
Improved success rate when tendering for projects with highly regulated industries and Government agencies
Lower risk exposure
Reducing costs from accidents and incidents
Improved Safety conditions for your employees and the public
Improved public relations and image
Easier financial access
Lower staff compensation claims that increase your insurance premiums
Brand confidence
Increased value of business re-sale
Decrease in return to work management activities
Reduce costs of hiring staff to fill your injured workers positions
Increased moral of staff
Increased productivity
and more
Introducing a health and safety management system is a proactive step to developing your business and stepping into new territories of business expansion while keeping your employees happy and safe.
For more information on OHS Management Systems click the link below.
WORKSAFE OHS ESSENTIALS PROGRAMFREE CHEALTH AND SAFETY COMPLIANCE CHECK
SysTec in conjunction with the Worksafe Victoria OHS Essentials Program offers businesses with 60 employees or less, sole traders with contractors a free independent service to help you keep your employees safe at work.
How it works
Step 1 – FREE Initial Visit (up to 3.5 hours)
The three hours of free Worksafe funded OHS consultancy
An experienced OHS consultant will come to your business and conducts a free compliance check at a time that suits you and your business practices.
Working closely with you the consultant will prepare a detailed plan to help you stay on top of current compliance requirements.
The advice the consultant provides is designed to be practical, achievable and efficient.
Our trained safety employees can offer you a safety action plan to:
Prioritise safety in your workplace. and provide advice on implementing strategies to resolve your safety issues.
Check your safety management plan
Step 2 – FREE check-up (up to 2 hours)
The consultant will review the progress of your action plan
SysTec will attend within 6 months to offer you advice on roadblocks or issues you may have encountered
Step 3 – FREE Follow up and review (up to 3 hours)
The consultant will review your progress and advise how to sustain compliance, reduce costs and conduct continual improvement to your health and safety systems
The OHS Essentials Program is:
CONFIDENTAIL – Systec OHS Consultants are not employed by WorkSafe, all recommendations are kept confidential
INDEPENDENT – Practical. tailored Safety advice from Systec Consultants.
For more information on the WorkSafe OHS Essentials program please get in contact with us or send us an enquiry
