Grain dust, a byproduct of the harvesting, drying, handling, storage, and processing of barley, wheat, oats, maize, and rye, poses significant risks to those involved in the agricultural and related industries.
Individuals working in environments with elevated dust levels may experience respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure may lead to more severe conditions, including chronic bronchitis and farmer's lung. It is essential to be aware of these health risks and take proactive measures to prevent long-term consequences.
Stringent legal standards, particularly the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations in the United Kingdom, dictate the need for organisations to assess and control exposure risks, provide thorough employee training, and implement protective measures.
The UK exposure limits are set at 10 mg/m3 for grain dust, furthermore due to its sensitisation effects there is a requirement to reduce exposure to as low a reasonable practical (ALARP).
Actions and adviceThe first step in the process is to carryout a risk assessment by identifying what activities are being carried out on your site that may exposure workers to grain dust.
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 identify if maximum exposure limits are being exceeded with respect to grain dust 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
2024-04-01
Grain dust, a byproduct of the harvesting, drying, handling, storage, and processing of barley, wheat, oats, maize, and rye, poses significant risks to those involved in the agricultural and related industries. In this blog, we'll delve into the different types of grains that generate dust, the health effects associated with exposure, the UK EH40 exposure limit, classification as a sensitiser, industries commonly affected, and crucial control measures to mitigate exposure.
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