Occupational exposure to rubber dust and fumes presents a significant challenge in industries where rubber processing is a common practice. Rubber fumes and dust are byproducts emerging during the processing of rubber materials. Fumes consist of minute particles and gases released when rubber undergoes heating, molding, or other processing methods. Conversely, rubber dust comprises airborne particles generated through cutting, grinding, or handling rubber materials.
Stringent legal standards, particularly the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations in the United Kingdom, dictate the need for organizations to assess and control exposure risks, provide thorough employee training, and implement protective measures. The UK exposure limits are set at 0.6 mg/m3 for fumes and 6 mg/m3 for dust.
Actions and adviceThe first step in the process is to carryout a risk assessment by identifying what rubber process activities are being carried out on your site.
Once the potential risk has been identified an assessment of exposure levels should be conducted by implementing an exposure testing regime in line with HSG173. The measured exposure should then be compared with the workplace exposure levels (WEL's) as defined by the Health & Safety Executive. Any actions should then be taken to either reduce or control exposure as part of an ongoing monitoring regime.
How can we help?Our consultants are here to help you and can develop and implement monitoring strategies to indentify if maximum exposure limits are being exceeded with respect to rubber fume or process dust exposure in the workplace. Our team we will advise on appropriate measures to be taken to reduce the risk of exposure and ensure you comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations.
For further help call us on 0870 7019170 or email: sales@euroenvironmental.co.uk
2024-03-26
Occupational exposure to rubber dust and fumes presents a significant challenge in industries where rubber processing is a common practice. This blog aims to comprehensively address the nature of rubber fumes and dust, legal obligations for organizations, processes generating these particles, at-risk industries, exposure methods, associated health effects, and effective control measures.
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