Harmful substances
Conduct a risk assessment
Change processes or materials if possible
Control exposure levels
Provide respiratory protective equipment
Choosing the right Respiratory Protective Equipment
Fitting Respiratory Protective Equipment properly to the user
Communicate the dangers
Maintaining Respiratory Protective Equipment
Communicate the dangers
Train people in how to use the equipment
This message must be communicated to employees
Review, maintain records, conduct ongoing risk assessments
In summary
Every year, hundreds of thousands of workers across the globe are made ill by hazardous substances including contracting lung diseases such as asthma and cancer. These diseases cost millions of pounds each year and can include compensation to the individual and their family, for the loss to industry to replace the worker and to society in disabled allowances and medicines.
Unlike many hazards, the many of the hazards and risks associated with chemicals in the workplace cannot be seen and are often not recognised until the damage to an individual (or individuals) has been done. The respiratory system is a target organ for many hazardous substances. Unlike head or foot injuries, respiratory injuries may not be readily apparent. It may take several years or may not be until workers retire before an individual displays symptoms as a result of exposure to hazards in an atmosphere.
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