Are your workers exposed to levels above Workplace Exposure Standards?

Providing respiratory protection for workers is part of the duty of care of the employer in the modern industrial situation. In Australia, there are various state and commonwealth laws that mandate the use of controls to provide a safe workplace. Employers are required to use appropriate means to prevent health hazards to the workers. This includes measures like use of low toxicity materials, provision of engineering controls like extract ventilation and enclosures and, as a final resort, the use of personal protective equipment.

Through this webinar you will learn to get the most out of your respiratory protection equipment.

This webinar will cover:

• What is a respirator fit test?
• Why it is such a critical component of respiratory protection programs?
• Fit test methodologies and regulatory standards

Watch Webinar

Silica, a basic component of soil, sand and rock is one of the most widespread minerals on earth existing in both crystalline and amorphous form. The crystalline form, which is more of a health concern, can be found in many common construction and building materials including: sand, stone, cement, concrete, asphalt, brick, tile, grout, mortar and drywall. Crystalline silica can become airborne during sanding, crushing, cutting, drilling and chipping. These tiny particles can be easily inhaled and travel deep into your lungs, repeated and long-term exposures have been linked to Silicosis and Lung Cancer. Some deadly respiratory illnesses caused by work can take up to 20 years to develop.

Learn more:

Part 1: Science of Safety Podcast: Episode 5
Part 2: Science of Safety Podcast: Episode 6.

In the Science of Safety Podcast - Mark Reggers discusses the subject matter of asbestos with guest Linda Apthorpe. Linda is a Consultant Occupational Hygienist and Lecturer at the University of Wollongong.
Asbestos is an umbrella term for a group of fibrous silicate minerals found abundantly in nature. In the past, it was widely used in commercial applications and construction because its length and strength make it very heat resistant, great at insulating surfaces and easy to weave within other materials and products. Repeated and long-term exposure to asbestos has been directly linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma and other pulmonary issues. There is no safe level of exposure to asbestos fibres, it’s critical that you learn about the dangers of asbestos, where it can be found and how to manage it safely.

NOTE: The specific legislative requirements vary slightly between the states, territories and countries in Australia & New Zealand, so be sure to check your specific legislative requirements to ensure you are meeting your obligations.

Learn more:
Episode 11: Asbestos – What Is It and What Can It Do to You?