INTERPRETIVE GUIDELINES
Occupational Health, Safety and HSNO Tools
MAY 2015 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Dr. Michael Beasle National Poisons Centre Dr. Peter Cotton Senior Consultant, Medibank Health Solutions, Melbourne, Australia Prof. Philippa Gander Director, Sleep Wake Research Centre, Wellington Dr. Dianne Gardner Senior Lecturer, Psychology. Massey University, Albany. Hugh Norriss Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand Professor Grant Schofield AUT Peter Turner Optometrist Martin Gledhill National Radiation Laboratory Wayne Randall National Radiation Laboratory Dr. John Wallaart ACC Dr. Chris Walls Occupational Physician, Auckland
2 CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 3
How to use this booklet 4 Title annotations 5 Keeping this booklet up to date 5
01 LEGAL 6
1.1 The Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 7 1.2 The HSE Regulations 1995 9 1.3 Approved codes of practice 10 1.4 Guidelines 11 1.5 All practicable steps 11 1.6 Employee participation 13 1.7 The right to refuse dangerous work 13 1.8 Health and safety representatives 14 1.9 Public safety 14 1.10 Volunteers 15 1.11 When and how to notify Worksafe NZ 15 1.12 Employers’ records 16 1.13 Legal powers 17 1.14 Certificates of competency 17 1.15 Contractors 17 1.16 The Hazardous Substances and Noxious Organisms Act (HSNO) 1996 18
02 SAFETY TOOLS 19
2.1 Managing health and safety 20 2.2 General safety 24 2.3 Utility safety 44 2.4 Machinery 51 2.5 Plant and equipment 55 2.6 Personal protective equipment 60 2.7 Youth at work 68 2.8 Sector summaries 69 2.9 Serial killers 70 03 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH TOOLS 72
3.1 Occupational health in general 73 3.2 Monitoring 78 3.3 Clean air – respiratory health 87 3.4 Chemical safety 113 3.5 Work related musculoskeletal disorders 117 3.6 Ergonomics 129 3.7 Psychosocial factors 135 3.8 Physical environmental hazards 158 3.9 Occupational Diseases 171 3.10 Skin diseases and skin cancers 176 3.11 Other occupational health publications 178 3.12 Delayed killers, serial killers and cumulative harm 179
04 HSNO TOOLS 182
4.1 Introduction 183 4.2 Legislation 184 4.3 Compliance checklist 186 4.4 The nuts and bolts of the HSNO Act 187 4.5 Resources 197 4.6 A list of common toxic substances used by industry 198 4.7 Key definitions 198 4.8 Special notes 199
05 APPENDICES 201
5.1 References 202 5.2 Glossary 203 INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
This booklet: Many of Worksafe NZ’s guidelines and >> summarises the HSE Act Codes of Practice are highly detailed and technical. You may need to a specialist to >> outlines the scope of a number of Worksafe help understand and apply these details. NZ publications >> provides basic information about the topics The booklet does not cover Worksafe NZ’s publications about Forestry, Agriculture >> helps to inform decisions about further or Construction. actions that may be required in a workplace for health and safety and This guide applies to the Health and Safety >> refers readers to the original source of in Employment Act 1992 and the HSNO Act, the information. 1996. It does not cover the new workplace health and safety act. It will be amended Most of the entries are aides-memoir for to reflect it in due course. a specific Worksafe NZ publication.
A few entries cover material that is not referenced to a Worksafe NZ publication. These are included because they address long standing important gaps (eg human error, silos, radiation) or because new responsibilities have been assigned to Worksafe (gas safety, electrical safety).
3 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
HOW TO USE THIS BOOKLET >> Hazardous material and preventing fires or explosions The booklet carries one or two topics on each page. The pages are designed to be printed >> Stress or fatigue off – see the page numbers. >> Temperature
Each topic can be accessed by clicking its 5. GUIDANCE FOR INDIVIDUALS hyperlink on the four contents pages. 6. AN ALPHABETICAL LIST OF ALL References to publications may be accessed PUBLICATIONS by holding down the CTRL key and clicking on the links provided. These links were active 7. LEGAL FRAMEWORK at the time of publication. >> Introduction to the Health and Safety More information can be assessed through in Employment Act the Worksafe NZ Publications page at: >> Health and Safety in Employment Act www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- 1992 (HSE Act) guidance/all-guidance-alphabetical-listing?b_ >> Hazardous Substances and New start:int=300 Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO Act) On that page you will find: >> WorkSafe New Zealand – Prosecution 1. APPROVED CODES OF PRACTICE policy (ACOPS) 8. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & NEW 2. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ORGANISMS REGISTERS NEW ORGANISMS (HSNO) CODES OF PRACTICE 9. NATIONAL PROGRAMMES >> Safer forest harvesting 3. GUIDANCE BY INDUSTRY >> Safe use of machinery in manufacturing >> Adventure activities >> Preventing falls from height in >> Agriculture construction >> Construction and building maintenance >> Quad bike safety >> Forestry >> The Canterbury rebuild >> High hazard >> HSNO – automotive spray painting, >> Manufacturing boat building and metal finishing >> Hazardous Substances 10. HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING
4. GUIDANCE BY HAZARD TYPE >> Training for health and safety >> Asbestos representatives >> Bacteria, viruses & parasites >> Approved health and safety training >> Chemicals >> Timing of and application for leave >> Heights >> Entitlement to paid leave for training >> Machinery >> Funding of approved health and safety training >> Noise >> Related information >> OOS or manual handling
4 INTRODUCTION
TITLE ANNOTATIONS
Some titles are annotated to allow you to see quickly what publications are available in support of the topic. Eg:
Asbestos R, ACOP, W
This indicates that Asbestos has Regulations and an Approved Code of Practice associated with it plus a website where information about the topic is collected.
The full range of annotations, with their URLs, is below.
Australian and New Zealand Standards are not referenced in this way. See the end of each entry for these.
The annotations are:
SHORT FOR LOCATION
ACOP Approved Codes of Practice www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information-guidance/ approved-codes-of-practice-acops
AT Assessment Template As indicated at the end of the entry
B Booklet As indicated at the end of the entry
F Standard Worksafe NZ Forms www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/notifications-forms
GL Guideline Search with a keyword at: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/
HZA Hazard Alert Search with a keyword at: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/
IPG Industry Produced Guidelines As indicated at the end of the entry.
R Regulation See the government Legislation website at:
W Webpage As indicated at the end of the
KEEPING THIS BOOKLET UP TO DATE
It is hoped to revise this booklet from time to time. If an entry becomes obsolete or requires changes because Worksafe NZ publishes new material, for example, that will be posted on a Worksafe webpage at: worksafe.govt.nz
This icon denotes a serial killer. See pages 68 and 175.
5 01/
LEGAL
IN THIS SECTION: 1.1 The Health and Safety in 1.9 Public safety Employment Act 1992 1.10 Volunteers 1.2 The HSE Regulations 19951.11 When and how to notify 1.3 Approved codes of practice Worksafe NZ 1.4 Guidelines 1.12 Employers’ records 1.5 All practicable steps 1.13 Legal powers 1.6 Employee participation 1.14 Certificates of competency 1.7 The right to refuse 1.15 Contractors dangerous work 1.16 The Hazardous Substances 1.8 Health and safety and Noxious Organisms Act representatives (HSNO) 1996
6 SECTION 1.0 // LEGAL
1.1 THE HEALTH AND SAFETY –– without limitation, a situation described IN EMPLOYMENT ACT 1992 in subparagraph (i) resulting from physical or mental fatigue, drugs, 1.1.1 THE HEALTH AND SAFETY IN alcohol, traumatic shock, or another EMPLOYMENT ACT: temporary condition that affects a >> promotes excellence in health and safety person's behaviour management, in particular by encouraging >> Harm means illness, injury, or both; and employers to be systematic (s 5) includes physical or mental harm caused >> defines hazards and harm in a by work-related stress. (s 2). comprehensive way including harm caused by work-related stress and hazardous 1.1.3 WHAT ARE SIGNIFICANT HAZARDS personal behaviour (s 2) AND SERIOUS HARM?
>> imposes duties that require employers A significant hazard is one that can result and employees to take all practicable in serious harm. steps to prevent harm to people in or near >> Employers are required to assess each workplaces. (Employers’ duties ss 6–15. hazard they identify to find out if it is likely Duties of other parties ss 16–19) to result in serious harm. >> sets requirements that relate to the taking >> If it is, then it is a significant hazard and of all practicable steps to ensure health and employers are required to take the steps safety and to provide flexibility to cover outlined in ss7–10 of the HSE Act. different circumstances s2(a) >> encourages the health and safety of Serious harm is defined in a schedule to the volunteers (ss3(c)and 3(d)) HSE Act. >> requires employee participation in health In summary, any of the following conditions and safety and encourages good faith that amount to or result in permanent loss cooperation in places of work (s19(a)) of bodily function, or temporary severe loss >> provides a range of enforcement methods of bodily function: in response to failures (ss 39–44 and s 56). >> respiratory disease, noise-induced hearing loss, neurological disease, cancer, Source: The HSE Act, Regulations and dermatological disease, communicable Schedules can be downloaded from: disease, musculoskeletal disease, illness www.legislation.govt.nz/ caused by exposure to infected material, 1.1.2 WHAT ARE HAZARDS AND HARM? decompression sickness, poisoning, vision impairment, chemical or hot-metal burn Hazard – means of the eye, penetrating wound of the >> an activity, arrangement, circumstance, eye, bone fracture, laceration, crushing, event, occurrence, phenomenon, process, amputation of a body part situation, or substance (whether arising or >> burns requiring referral to a specialist caused within or outside a place of work) medical practitioner or specialist that is an actual or potential cause or outpatient clinic source of harm. A hazard includes: >> loss of consciousness from lack of oxygen –– a situation where a person's behaviour >> loss of consciousness, or acute illness may be an actual or potential cause requiring treatment by a registered medical or source of harm to the person or practitioner, from absorption, inhalation or another person ingestion of any substance
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>> any harm that causes the person harmed to 1.1.6 WHAT DOES THE HSE ACT REQUIRE be hospitalised for a period of 48 hours or OF EMPLOYEES? more commencing within seven days of the To cooperate with the employer regarding harm's occurrence (s 2 and Schedule I). health and safety and, specifically, to:
1.1.4 WHAT DOES THE HSE ACT REQUIRE >> use PPE provided OF EMPLOYERS? >> avoid harming oneself or any person
>> To take all practicable steps to ensure the Employees may refuse dangerous work safety of employees while at work. in certain circumstances. (s19) See:
>> To take all practicable steps to ensure www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- employees are not exposed to hazards guidance/all-guidance-items/keeping-safe-at- while at work, in their place of work, or work-a-guide-for-employees in the vicinity of their place of work. >> To be systematic in identifying hazards, 1.1.7 WHAT DOES THE HSE ACT REQUIRE to assess their significance and to use OF OTHER PEOPLE? a hierarchy of controls – eliminate, A person in control of a place of work (the isolate and minimise, in that order, owner, lessee, sublessee, occupier, or person when controlling them. in possession of the place of work or any part >> To provide information, training and of it; or the owner, lessee, sublessee, or bailee, supervision for employees. of any plant in the place of work) must take >> To involve employees in health and safety. all practicable steps to ensure that no hazard that is or arises in the place harms people in >> To take all practicable steps to protect the vicinity (including people in the vicinity for volunteer workers and people who are the purpose of recreation or leisure) or people not employees. who are lawfully at work in the place. >> To take all practicable steps to prevent harm to any person (ss6–19). Self employed people shall take all practicable steps to ensure that no action or inaction of See also: the self-employed person while at work harms www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- the self-employed person or any other person. guidance/all-guidance-items/getting-started/ employers-general-duties Principals are people who engage any person, other than an employee, to do work for gain or and: reward. Principals have to take all practicable www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/news/in- steps to ensure that no employee of a focus/pike-river/media-releases/guidelines- contractor or subcontractor or an individual, for-company-directors-on-their-health-and- nor a contractor or sub-contractor, is harmed safety-responsibilities while doing any work that the contractor was engaged for. See also 1.15. 1.1.5 WHAT ARE ‘ALL PRACTICABLE STEPS’? See: Many duties in the HSE Act are qualified by www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- the words ‘take all practicable step’ (APS). guidance/all-guidance-items/a-principals- See section 2(a) of the HSE Act and part 1.5 guide-to-contracting-to-meet-the-health-and- in this booklet and a Worksafe NZ fact sheet: safety-in-employment-act-1992-1
www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- People selling or supplying plant for use in a guidance/all-guidance-items/all-practicable- workplace referenced in the HSE Act s 18 (a) steps-pdf-fact-sheet which describes a range of duties for people who hire or sell plant for use by employees.
8 SECTION 1.0 // LEGAL
Hirers have a duty to find out if the hired item 1.1.9 WHAT DOES THE HSE ACT REQUIRE OF is for use in a workplace, its intended use and DEPARTMENTAL MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS? whether or not it is fit for purpose. The Secretary for Labour may appoint Sellers have a duty to make sure the plant is departmental medical practitioners. They have designed and made, and has been maintained, similar powers of entry to inspectors. Under so that it is safe for any known intended use certain circumstances they can require an or any use of that plant that the person could employee to undergo a medical examination, reasonably expect (ss 16–18 and 18 (a). and can suspend an employee from work (ss 34–38). 1.1.8 WHAT DOES THE HSE ACT REQUIRE OF HEALTH AND SAFETY INSPECTORS? 1.1.10 WHAT SHOULD HAPPEN IF THERE IS AN ACCIDENT IN A WORKPLACE? Inspectors’ duties are to help improve safety by providing information and education and If an accident occurs in a workplace it should to promote compliance with the HSE Act. be recorded by the employer. If an employee (ss 29–30) is harmed, the Secretary for Labour must be notified of the accident as soon as possible. Inspectors are also empowered to ascertain A written summary of the circumstances whether or not the HSE Act is being must be provided to the Secretary within complied with. seven days. Inspectors may enter a workplace at any Where a person is seriously harmed, the reasonable time to carry out these duties accident scene should not be interfered (s 31). They must prove their identity when with until an inspector has given permission. they do so (s 32) and they may take samples The only exceptions are to prevent further to assist with the investigation.(s 33). harm, to secure the scene from the public Inspectors may issue improvement notices or if serious property damage will occur. (ss39–40) and prohibition notices (ss 41–43), The Minister for Labour may direct that an using a prescribed format (s 42) and serving inquiry about any accident be held before them in a prescribed manner (ss 43–44). a District Court Judge. They may also issue infringement notices (ss 56 a-h). A Coroner may ask for a written report about a fatal accident. (ss25–28)
1.2 THE HSE REGULATIONS 1995
Regulations made under the HSE Act describe requirements that apply to specific work situations. Like the HSE Act, these regulations are enforceable. Breaches may result in prosecution and fines.
Regulations are made under the HSE Act to: >> set minimum standards for the management of specific hazards where other control measures are not always effective
9 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
>> deal with administrative matters provided >> first aid (See section 3.8) for in the Act including the appointment >> geothermal energy of inspectors >> lead processes >> elaborate on some general duties in the >> noxious substances HSE Act. >> spray coating. A regulation’s requirements are mandatory. Some regulations have also been made However, while regulations must be complied for administrative purposes. with, the overriding responsibility is to comply with the duties in the Act. This may mean These cover: taking further steps than only meeting the >> the appointment of inspectors regulations. >> forms for accident registers and reports
WHAT REGULATIONS ARE THERE? >> the setting of a levy to fund the administration of the HSE Act (ss 21–24). The HSE Regulations 1995 cover: >> facilities required for the safety and 1.3 APPROVED CODES health of employees OF PRACTICE >> precautions to be taken with some The Minister of Labour can direct that a Code particular hazards of Practice (ACOP) be developed, and also >> notification of hazardous construction issue a Code of Practice. Codes are statements and forestry work of preferred work practices or arrangements. >> certificates of competence for some The approval process is prescribed by the kinds of work HSE Act, which sets out how Gazette notices, >> young people in hazardous places of work consultation and subsequent approval by the >> agricultural workers' accommodation. Minister should occur.
In addition, there are Regulations on the The Act requires that copies of all ACOP are following specific hazards: available for the public to read and copy at >> mining each of the Worksafe NZ’s offices. A fee may >> pressure equipment, cranes, and passenger be charged. ropeways (see 5.1 SUBJECT MATTER OF ACOPS >> asbestos see the Occupational Health section) Section 20 (1) sets out the matters that may be covered by ACOP. They may be: >> Petroleum exploration/extraction (see the HSNO section) >> statements of preferred work practices or arrangements >> pipelines (see 7.6). >> regarding plant, protective clothing, Regulations that were passed under earlier or equipment legislation and the Factory and Commercial >> aims, arrangements, practices, or principles Premises Act have been retained for: for their design >> abrasive blasting >> arrangements, characteristics, components, >> amusement devices configurations, elements or states for >> electroplating their manufacture
10 SECTION 1.0 // LEGAL
>> statements of preferred characteristics for 1.4 GUIDELINES manufactured or processed substances used: – in connection with protective Guidelines are similar to ACOP in that they clothing or equipment; or otherwise used are statements of preferred or best practice. in connection with protecting people They are generally developed in consultation from hazards. with affected parties. However, they are not subject to the rigorous COMPLIANCE WITH ACOP process of notifying and consultation required ACOP are not legislation, but statements of for an ACOP, and it has often been said, preferred practice. They may be produced in therefore, that they are not admissible in Court as evidence of a means of compliance a court. with the Act. They do not necessarily provide However, the Evidence Act establishes the the only way of complying with the Act. principle that all relevant information is Failure to follow an ACOP is not an offence generally admissible. in itself. In a health and safety in employment matter If an employer did not follow an ACOP the the entire body of knowledge available is relevant questions would be: relevant to establishing if steps/controls are >> What did the employer do? or were practicable in the circumstances. >> Was it as good as the ACOP? Guidelines are admissible from both the defence and the prosecution. A court, due Enforceability of ACOPS is probably one of to the specific reference to ACOP in the HSE the most misunderstood aspects the HSE Act. Act, may tend to put a greater emphasis on An ACOP is a statement of preferred practice. an ACOP. If an employer does not follow it then the questions become what did they do and 1.5 ALL PRACTICABLE STEPS was it as effective as what is in the ACOP. Many duties in the HSE Act are qualified by If the answer was ‘yes’ to the latter question, the words 'take all practicable steps' (APS). then the employer has discharged their This phrase applies to: obligations. >> employers In considering any prosecution for a breach >> employees of a section of the Act or regulation, a court >> self-employed people may regard any ACOP that was in place at the >> people in control of workplaces. time of the alleged failure, and that is relevant to the charge (s 20()). ACOP are admissible in By definition, if something is practicable it court by either the prosecution or defence as is possible or capable of being done. evidence of good practice. The reliance placed The definition of APS makes it clear that the on them is a matter for the judge. (s20) decisions about what is to be done are to be See: taken ‘in the circumstances’, The HSE Act puts www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- it this way: ‘In this Act, in relation to achieving guidance/approved-codes-of-practice-acops any result in any circumstances, means all steps to achieve the result that it is reasonably practicable to take in the circumstances, having regard to the:
11 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
>> severity of injury or harm Any judgment of what was 'reasonably >> probability of injury or harm practicable' would be made taking common practice and knowledge throughout the >> hazard and ways to reduce, eliminate industry into account. or control it >> availability, effectiveness and cost of An employer could not claim that they did the safeguards.’ not know what to do if those hazards were widely known by others in their industry and THE CONCEPT OF RISK IS AN INTEGRAL safeguards were in place. PART OF THE HSE ACT The concept of knowledge of the safeguards In this manner, the definition of APS is objective and based on: introduces the concept of risk into the HSE >> industry standards and guidelines Act. It is often said that the HSE Act is not risk >> what a hypothetical reasonable employer based legislation because it does not use the would be expected to know in the term ‘risk’. circumstances. This is incorrect. It is not what any given employer might know. Although the word is not used, the concept is The concept of 'reasonableness' is based clearly there, given that risk is usually stated to on a hypothetical 'reasonable person' and be the product of likelihood and consequence. the way that he or she might behave in a Risk = likelihood x consequence. particular situation.
In requiring employers to assess the It is based on the values of the society significance of each hazard identified (s 7(c), of the day and, in the end, will involve a the Act (as does case law) makes it clear value judgment. that risk is a key element in decision-making There is no legal definition of how a about the steps that should be taken to reasonable person would behave and the control a hazard. final decision would be determined on the BALANCING RISK AND PREVENTION particular facts of each situation.
In taking APS, what is known about the The level of care considered reasonable by risk is balanced against the overall cost and today's standards could be considerably feasibility of the safeguards necessary to higher than in the past. avert the harm it may cause. What is reasonable will change as new The cost has to do with the expense and methods and new machines are developed and inconvenience of putting safeguards in place with changing ideas of justice and increasing measured against the consequences of failing concern with safety in the community. to do so. It is not a measure of whether the The employers' position can be summarised employer can afford to put the necessary in the following way: safeguards in place. >> The overall test is what a reasonable and Employers would be expected to incur greater prudent employer would do after thinking expense and inconvenience where risks could positively about the safety of his or her result in serious injuries from time-to-time, or employees, in light of what he or she knows against those which could result in frequent or ought to know. injuries even though they may be less serious.
12 SECTION 1.0 // LEGAL
>> Where there is a recognised practice By providing support for health and safety which has been followed for a long time in representatives and committees, an employer similar circumstances without mishap, the shows that their employees' contributions are employer may follow that practice, unless important in creating a productive, safe and in the light of common sense or newer healthy workplace. knowledge it is clearly bad. With willing, motivated and educated >> Where there is developing knowledge, the employees who actively participate in health employer must make an effort to keep up and safety, an employer can more easily fulfil with it and not be too slow to apply it. their own responsibilities. (s19(a)–19(i) and >> Where the employer has greater than Schedule 1(a)). average knowledge of the risks, he or she See: may therefore be obliged to take more www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- than the average or standard precautions. guidance/all-guidance-items/employee- See: participation-systems-pdf-fact-sheet www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/all-practicable- 1.7 THE RIGHT TO REFUSE steps-pdf-fact-sheet DANGEROUS WORK
Employees have the right to refuse dangerous 1.6 EMPLOYEE PARTICIPATION work in certain circumstances. Employees and other people who face The employee must believe that the work the hazards of a job often have valuable is likely to cause serious harm. knowledge and experience about workplace health and safety, and the motivation to The employee must have reasonable grounds improve it. for the belief and must try to resolve the matter with the employer. In recognition, the HSE Act requires employee consultation and participation in managing Reasonable grounds are deemed to exist health and safety. This involvement is if a health and safety representative advises consistent with the good faith provisions the employee that the work may cause of the Employment Relations Act 2000. serious harm.
Participation, whether through health and The employee can be directed to other safety representatives, committees, or other work by the employer. s 28(a) mechanisms, provides an opportunity for employees to think constructively about health and safety, contribute ideas for improvement, engage in problem solving, and work as a team in implementing good work practices.
Participation enables people to take responsibility for their own health and safety. Creating motivation and commitment, and developing skills and capabilities can be valuable for the business.
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1.8 HEALTH AND SAFETY If there are fewer than 30 employees and a REPRESENTATIVES system is required, the employees, together with any union, must elect at least one health WHEN IS A HEALTH AND SAFETY and safety representative. REPRESENTATIVE NEEDED? If there are more than 30 employees, then A workplace needs to have a health and safety there must be an election for: representative when: >> at least one health and safety >> a representative has been agreed to as representative to act independently; or part of a system of employee participation >> up to five health and safety representatives >> if after six months, an employer of more to be members of a health and safety than 30 employees has not agreed on and committee. implemented a system of participation, then the default system requires employees If there is a committee, health and safety to hold an election for representatives by representatives must make up at least half secret ballot, or else requires their employer of the committee. to hold the election on their behalf. WHAT CAN A HEALTH AND SAFETY An agreed system may appoint health and REPRESENTATIVE DO? safety representatives by a range of means, as Employers must provide reasonable long as there is agreement in good faith on the opportunities for employees to participate method and that those chosen represent the in health and safety. views of employees. Health and safety representatives may provide An agreed system may include other forms an employer with recommendations about of employee involvement and does not health and safety. Employers must adopt necessarily have to include health and safety these recommendations or provide a written representatives. response.
THE DEFAULT SYSTEM Employers must allow health and safety Employers, employees and unions should representatives leave to attend training. co-operate in good faith to agree to an Trained health and safety representatives employee participation system that best may issue hazard notices (ss 19(a)–19(i) suits each workplace. and s 46(a).
The HSE Act gives parties six months to See: agree on a system that starts: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- >> when the employer first employs guidance/all-guidance-items/getting-started/ 30 employees health-and-safety-representatives >> an employee requests an employee participation system. 1.9 PUBLIC SAFETY
A mediator from Worksafe NZ can help There is no single agency responsible for, and work through any issues of disagreement. no single law covering, public safety because of the variety of activity that people can be If parties can't agree, the HSE Act sets out engaged in for work, recreation and living. a system that will apply to the workplace. The system differs depending on the size of the workplace.
14 SECTION 1.0 // LEGAL
The purpose of the HSE Act is to promote 1.11 WHEN AND HOW TO the prevention of harm to people at work, NOTIFY WORKSAFE NZ and other people in places of work or in the Some things must be notified to Worksafe NZ. vicinity of places of work. There are two main There is a form in each case. See: ways that the HSE Act ensures public safety: >> it requires employers to take all practicable www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/notifications- steps to ensure that no action or inaction forms by an employee at work harms any person 1.11.1 AMUSEMENT DEVICES including a member of the public. >> it requires a person in charge of a An amusement device must be registered with workplace to take all practicable steps to Worksafe NZ and a permit must be obtained ensure that no hazard harms people in to operate it. An engineer is required to that workplace, or in the vicinity, including inspect the device as part of its registration. members of the public who are there for There are three relevant forms for this process. recreation or pleasure. 1.11.2 ASBESTOS EXPOSURE >> anyone can contact the Worksafe NZ to notify the possibility of harm from work Any person who believes they have been activities, and Worksafe NZ can investigate. exposed to asbestos can notify Worksafe NZ.
1.11.3 HAZARDOUS WORK 1.10 VOLUNTEERS Certain types of work must be notified to the Volunteers are at risk when carrying out their Worksafe NZ as defined in the Health and work and, like employees, they need hazards Safety in Employment Regulations 1995: to be managed. When volunteers are doing 1. asbestos removal work for an employer or self-employed person regularly, and the work is an integral part of 2. any commercial logging operation or the business of the employer, the employer/ tree-felling operation self-employed person must, for safety, treat 3. any construction work including: the volunteer as if they were employees and protect them from harm. >> work where workers could fall 5m or more, excluding work on a two-storeyed Some voluntary activities not included: house, or work on a power or telephone >> fundraising line, or work carried out from a ladder >> assisting with sport or recreation only, or maintenance or repair work of >> helping schools outside their own premises a minor or routine nature >> providing care in your home. >> the erection or dismantling of scaffolds from which a person could fall 5m However, all voluntary work activity should or more be safe and those responsible for it are >> every excavation which is more than encouraged by the HSE Act to include hazard 1.5m deep and which is deeper than it management in their planning. (s 3(c) and 3(d) is wide at the top See: >> any form of tunnel or drive where www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- workers work underground, irrespective guidance/all-guidance-items/volunteers-pdf- of timbering or support fact-sheet
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>> excavations where the face is steeper When Worksafe NZ receives a NODS horizontal to vertical than 1:2 notification, it may assign a health and >> construction work where explosives safety inspector. The inspector with a are used or stored departmental medical practitioner will review the information and may interview the person >> work including diving, where who made the notification, and investigate the construction workers breathe air workplace. or any other compressed gas or gas that is under pressure Any link between the workplace and the health >> any construction work with asbestos of the affected person can then be assessed by the department medical practitioner. >> lifts of 500 kg or more with a vertical distance of 5 m or more carried out by mechanical means other than a mobile 1.12 EMPLOYERS’ RECORDS crane, excavator or forklift. Employers must keep an accident register. Details of every work related accident must 1.11.4 KNOWING ABOUT ENFORCEMENT be entered. ACTION This register must contain specific information. Any person wanting to know if enforcement action will be taken over an incident can ask An accident register is a tool to assist hazard Worksafe NZ (s 54). identification and control. There is no specified duration for keeping an accident register. 1.11.5 SERIOUS HARM When a work-related accident occurs that If serious harm occurs to an employee, harmed, or may have harmed any person, Worksafe NZ must be notified. the details must be recorded in the The details that should be provided when accident register. Worksafe NZ is notified can be found on The incident must be investigated by an a form (s 25). employer to determine if it arose from a significant hazard that may cause future harm. 1.11.6 OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES The information required in an accident The Notifiable Occupational Disease System register and the format for a hazard (NODS) is a voluntary system used to notify investigation can be downloaded from Worksafe NZ of a health problem that may the Worksafe NZ forms page at: have been caused by work. Anyone can make a notification by completing a NODS form www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/notifications- and returning it to their nearest office of forms Worksafe NZ. As part of an investigation, the accident A NODS notification helps protect the health register should be checked for any similar of all persons in a workplace because it: accidents in the past. >> highlights a workplace activity that may If a hazard that caused an accident has been have caused harm eliminated, or controls put in place that would >> assists an affected individual make a recurrence unlikely, then there is no value in retaining the record and it may be >> ensures other employees receive medical discarded. (s 25) screening and treatment if necessary >> helps to prevent other employees being harmed.
16 SECTION 1.0 // LEGAL
1.13 LEGAL POWERS 1.14 CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY The HSE Act gives certain people specific powers. A certificate of some sort is often required to operate tools, plant or equipment or carry out 1.13.1 THE MINISTER FOR LABOUR certain tasks as part of health and safety.
The Minister for Labour may: To use certain tools: >> direct that an Approved Code of Practice >> powder operated fasteners. (ACOP) be developed To carry out certain tasks: >> issue an ACOP >> occupational diving >> direct that a Commission of Inquiry be held. >> asbestos removal 1.13.2 THE SECRETARY FOR LABOUR >> erecting scaffolding.
The Secretary for Labour may: To operate certain equipment: >> appoint health and safety inspectors >> cranes >> appoint departmental medical practitioners >> forklift driving. >> issue Certificates of Competency >> recognise bodies to issue certificates 1.15 CONTRACTORS of registration, competence, design If people are contracted to do work, the verification and equipment inspection person contracting them has a responsibility (See PECPR Regulations section) to take all practicable steps to prevent harm >> appoint HSNO enforcement officers. to them, their employees or to other people. The entity issuing the tender must take an 1.13.3 HEALTH AND SAFETY INSPECTORS interest in their ability to provide for health Health and Safety Inspectors may: and safety on the job. This obligation cannot be contracted out. >> enter any workplace at a reasonable time >> take samples For principals this duty can be summarised by making sure the contractor can and does >> issue improvement notices do the work safely. >> issue prohibition notices >> issue infringement notices.
1.13.4 DEPARTMENTAL MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS
Departmental Medical Practitioners may: >> enter any workplace at a reasonable time >> require an employee to undergo a medical examination >> suspend an employee from work.
1.13.5 CORONERS
Coroners may require Worksafe NZ to provide a written report about a fatal accident.
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The practicable steps that might need to A good faith approach to these six activities be taken by a principal can vary greatly. requires that the principal and contractor communicate and cooperate appropriately. >> A demolition company – discovers the need for asbestos removal. A certified Avoiding putting workers in unsafe conditions remover is retained and the principal is key to safety. checks the performance. Even if a principal operates through an agent >> A farmer contracting a shearing gang or adviser, they have a duty to health and makes sure the shed, facilities and safety under the HSE Act. equipment they provide are safe, is Source: satisfied that the shearing contractor is www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- competent, that the crew is supervised guidance/all-guidance-items/health-and- properly and checks from time to time safety-in-contracting-situations that the work is being done safely.
For large contracts, a Department Guideline 1.16 THE HAZARDOUS suggests the following six steps: SUBSTANCES AND NOXIOUS >> Scope the work: determine the work ORGANISMS ACT (HSNO) 1996 required, identify hazards, their likely Administration and enforcement risks and control options. The HSNO Act is administered by the >> Pre-qualify contractors: assess the health Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). and safety capability of the contractors against the scale and significance of This Act is concerned with the effects of the hazards. chemicals and new organisms on human >> Negotiation of terms: health and safety health, property and the environment, information is an integral part of the tender including damage to communities of plants documentation (contract specification) and and animals within ecosystems. There are also a draft plan to address risks is an integral provisions for the protection of that which is requirement of a tender. of cultural significance to Maori. >> Award the contract: before the contract The EPA website is a good source of up-to- is awarded the principal is satisfied date HSNO information www.epa.govt.nz that the hazards of the job have been Enforcement of the HSNO Act is spread communicated to the contractor, and the over a number of agencies including the contractor’s plan to address the risks is Worksafe NZ. adequate. This health and safety plan is a key part of the contract. Worksafe NZ is responsible for HSNO compliance in places of work. (Go to the >> Monitor the contract: monitor and check HSNO section in this folder.) that the health and safety plan is being adhered to for the duration of the contract. See: >> Review: include health and safety in www.epa.govt.nz/Pages/default.aspx any review.
18 ??? // ??? 02/
SAFETY TOOLS
IN THIS SECTION: 2.1 Managing health and safety 2.2 General safety 2.3 Utility safety 2.4 Machinery 2.5 Plant and equipment 2.6 Personal protective equipment 2.7 Youth at work 2.8 Sector summaries 2.9 Serial killers
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2.1 MANAGING HEALTH When taken at face value, this definition AND SAFETY implies that the way things occur is fixed and cannot change. 2.1.1 HEALTH AND SAFETY SYSTEMS Another definition says: Being systematic about workplace health ‘a culture of prevention is the acquisition and safety is a requirement of the HSE Act. of the habits and mechanisms necessary The wording of the HSE Act suggests: so that the personal response when >> health and safety responsibilities are part confronting a risk (wherever it comes from) of the job for everyone is largely automatic. The responses are >> senior management is committed to health not the product of scientific or technical and safety in the work place – there is a discussions, but common responses written policy and it is followed belonging to the community and are >> health and safety is part of everyday coherent, essential behaviour.’ thinking and practice in the workplace The ‘automatic response’ response referred to >> hazards are actively identified: is valuable because it means everyone does >> as part of planned activities things the same way. However, a community >> after an incident will always be in a state of flux. This means that adjustments and alterations are necessary >> when any new information comes to light to risk responses as experience accumulates >> when anything new is planned and things change. >> seeking out information about workplace This definition of culture indicates that safety is an on-going activity updating our culture will be required as a >> hazard controls are reviewed regularly result of: >> accidents are reported and there is an >> experiences investigation and analysis after every >> incidents incident to prevent future incidents >> near hits >> information, training and supervision is provided >> activities that get new information >> visitors are registered and provision is >> discussions with safety specialists, made for their safety Unions and our trade organisations >> contractors’ health and safety performance >> feedback from staff is managed (See 1.14) >> case law >> emergency procedures are developed >> legislative changes and regularly tested. >> journal articles and >> spontaneous inspirations. 2.1.2 SAFETY CULTURE: AT, W This definition implies that safety responses Safety culture has been defined as: are open to evaluation and change; perhaps, ‘the way we do things round here’. in part, as the result of scientific and technical It is the collective practice shared by everyone discussions. in the workplace, as a reflection of what’s In practical terms, improving safety culture important for workplace health and safety. involves that a workplace understands:
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>> reporting practices – how well does a >> Routine violations – eg habitual deviations business know what’s happening? that have become a norm. Examples: >> risk awareness practices – how aware is assuming our work vehicle is safe instead the business of what can go wrong and of checking the operation of the tail and how badly? stop lights and indicators each morning. >> learning practices – how does the business >> Optimisation violations – eg corner cutting learn from mistakes and near misses1? and thrill seeking – getting the job done by available short cuts – driving as fast >> communication – how does the business as possible. ensure everyone is involved and engaged? >> Situational violations – eg “we can’t do >> practices for dealing with mistakes – is the this any other way” – Lifting 250kg window business fair when dealing with people frames into a building by hand. when something goes wrong? >> Exceptional violations – eg ‘There’s no Source: Worksafe NZ Safety Culture Page at: rule for this’ – we’ll do it any way we like. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/tools- >> Sabotage – eg cutting a hydraulic hose. resources/health-and-safety-workplace-kit/ safety-culture-snapshot UNWITTING ERRORS
Reference: Manual para el professor de Knowing that there are only three types of seguridad y salud en el trabajo’. Ministerio de unwitting error ought to make it more possible Trabajo y Inmigracion. INSHT. Barcelona. 2005. to prevent them. Google using: ‘Manual para el profesor de However, we first need to realise that we seguridad y salud en el trabajo’ have a choice on where we stand in regard to people who make errors. 2.1.3 HUMAN ERROR Errors at the personal level There are only four kinds of human error: Traditional safety programs tend to focus >> violations – witting on the person as the problem and respond >> mistakes – unwitting with solutions such as threats, punishments, >> slips and – unwitting redeployment and retraining. This approach >> lapses – unwitting. treats human errors as a moral issue and casts people who make errors as bad people. Of these, the last three should be considered the basic error types – as they indicate an Errors as a net effect of fallible people absence of intent rather than its presence. working in an imperfect system Experience has shown that the personal WITTING VIOLATIONS approach can improve things only so far. All the violations described below bring Advanced approaches to health and safety perpetrators and their workmates into acknowledge that human error is normal, but increased risk. They stem mainly from can be anticipated and prevented. Where such motivational factors and can only be approaches have been applied, incident rates understood in a social context. have decreased.
Attitude or culture change is required to address them. The category includes:
1 A near hit. Something nearly happened. eg ‘The falling brick nearly hit me.’ A falling brick that ‘nearly missed me’ implies a hit! There is something odd with the language here!
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These approaches view errors as a consequence, and that their genesis is the upstream factors that make errors possible as well as human failings.
When taking this approach, the work system can be designed with the aim of preventing human errors and minimizing consequences if they do occur. The interdisciplinary science of ergonomics (human factors) specializes in this type of design.
Examples of upstream factors The well known ‘Swiss Cheese’ model shows one categorisation of the sorts of upstream factors that can affect people at the front line: >> fallible decisions and latent failures >> management defects >> precursors of unsafe acts >> an unsafe act >> inadequate defences.
The diagram below tries to make these labels concrete – by showing how the neglect of upstream factors permitted, in this case, an assault to a caregiver, to occur.
2.1.4 HEALTH AND SAFETY AS PART OF NORMAL MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES – LOOKING UPSTREAM
Another categorization of upstream factors is based on research stemming from the use of the Tripod Beta approach to accident investigation in the oil industry. The research (sponsored by the Shell company) identified eleven common latent failures.
Note that only the last one is to do with traditional safety – the rest are the domain of normal management activities.
Assault
Tangible and Inadequate Client too strong for caregiver. defences intangible societal influences Caregiver fails to recognise warning signs. Unsafe act Caregiver told to supervise a client who s/he is not equipped to handle.
Precursors of Unsuitable person accepted as a caregiver. unsafe acts A mindset of client safety over caregiver morale prevails in the sector.
Management Supervision fails to require safety for caregivers. defects Analysis of incidents not fed back to training. Injured employees treated badly.
Resources not allocated to safety and health. Clients accepted Fallible decisions beyond the capacity of the organisation. No review of health Latent failures and safety performance.
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This commentary is not presented as a model >> Lack of on-the-spot engineering support to follow (though that might be appropriate in has means that the unexpected can no some settings). Rather it is an indication that a longer be catered for. company tried hard to get it right, (in the way >> The new schedule means I cannot re-stock implied) and succeeded in improving safety. these supermarket shelves unless I drive DESIGN: Takes account of human factors at 80kph between stores. so that operators are not placed in difficult Information about this aspect flowing situations. There is constant feedback from up to management makes it possible for the workface to designers. management to devise and authorise HARDWARE: To do with the materials used necessary changes. and the availability of tools and equipment. COMMUNICATIONS: If communications break PROCEDURES: Procedures that are down or are not used properly, people will really necessary are up to date, accurate, act on incomplete, unrevised or outdated comprehensible and available. Good knowledge. Mistakes are more likely. procedures will have been tested with front DEFENCES: The items above are all part of line operators and revised until performance good management. ‘Defences’ is the only item is error free. Procedures will require formal devoted solely to ‘safety’. revision at set time intervals, when departures from them are noticed or when plant changes 2.1.5 TRAINING GL, W have consequential changes. The ultimate aim Successful training for health and safety can of a procedure is to cease to exist. be assessed against the following criteria: ORGANISATION: Do front line staff know who Does the employee know how to: to tell when they see a danger? Are managers >> do the job or a particular task? aware of what goes on? Are they believed by >> identify the hazards in the job? the workforce? >> control hazards? TRAINING: See the entries at 1.5 and 1.6. >> report any faults? ERROR ENFORCING CONDITIONS: Are >> use the safety equipment workers expected to work in conditions which >> act in an emergency. are likely to increase the risk of error such as heat, cold, noise or time pressure? While these A good approach to training involves may be inevitable, people cannot perform explaining and demonstrating, and then heroically all the time. having the trainee explain and demonstrate against these criteria. HOUSEKEEPING: Poor housekeeping may reflect a wider malaise or a desire by Instructions for a particular job and task and management ‘not to know’. periodic follow-up are also helpful.
MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT: Firstly, the 2.1.6 TRAINING FOR HEALTH AND high level approach for the safe, whole of life SAFETY REPRESENTATIVES FAQ operation of the equipment in question. A list of organisations that provide Second, the performance of maintenance in training programmes for health and safety a way that acknowledges that it is error prone representatives (HSR) under the HSE Act. and a source of new and unexpected mistakes Some courses are only provided in the main and hazards. centres, while for others training can be INCOMPATIBLE GOALS: Front line realities are provided at any location. the starting point. For example:
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The timing of courses depends on demand. Adventure Shop is not the provider of an Adventure Activity and will not be required Generally about 16 representatives are needed to be registered. for each course. Bryan’s Bus Tours sells package tours that Courses are offered at three levels. For details, include transport and some adventure contact the organisations concerned. activities. Bryan’s Bus Tours pays the adventure activity providers and builds the 2.2 GENERAL SAFETY cost into the tour price. Bryan’s Bus Tours is 2.2.1 ADVENTURE TOURISM G, R, W, F not the provider of an Adventure Activity and
All adventure activities operators subject will not be required to be registered because to the Health and Safety in Employment it is acting as a booking agent and the (Adventure Activities) Regulations 2011 activities are delivered by other businesses. are required to pass a safety audit with The deadline for achieving registration was a recognised auditor before they can be 1 November 2014, beyond which date it is an registered by WorkSafe NZ . offence to provide an adventure activity if not registered to do so. WHO IS AN OPERATOR? Information on the Adventure Activities The regulations say an operator is a person scheme is available, including guidance to (whether an employer, a principal, or a self- help operators determine whether they are employed person) who provides an adventure subject to the regulations at: activity to a participant. ‘Provide’ is further defined as meaning where an adventure www.supportadventure.co.nz/ activity operator: and through the WorkSafe NZ NZ Registrar >> directly provides the activity in person; or (Adventure Activities). >> indirectly provides the activity through Queries can be referred to an employee or other person. [email protected] Booking agents are not considered to be people Operators must use an audit provider who indirectly provide adventure activities, so recognised by WorkSafe NZ. they are not covered by the regulations. An information factsheet on the Adventure Examples of who may be considered Activities scheme is available at: as an operator: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/about/what- Mount Arthur Cross Country Skiing contracts we-do/adventure-activities/for-operators/ skiing guides (rather than employees) to audit-and-regstration-factsheet take clients on cross country skiing trips. Mount Arthur Cross Country Skiing receives 2.2.2 AMUSEMENT DEVICES GL, F the payments from the clients and pays the Amusement devices are equipment with skiing guides. Mount A Cross Country Skiing is a means of propulsion primarily used for therefore an operator. entertainment. Clearly, they can harm people if Note: Using contractors does not absolve they are not designed and maintained properly. operators from obligations. Examples include fairground rides, some Angela’s Adventure Shop sells tickets to aspects of adventure tourism, indoor go karts customers on behalf of adventure activity and train rides. operators to do bungy jumps, guided Coin and slot rides are not included where canyoning trips and similar activities. Angela’s they meet the exemption criteria.
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Each amusement device must be certified >> employers can specify when breaks are taken, by an engineer, who must also prescribe a if employees and employers cannot agree on maintenance schedule. when and how long breaks should be
The operator must keep a log book of the >> that an employer is exempt from giving times of operation and the number of people breaks – when employees agree to given a ride. reasonable compensation or where the employer cannot reasonably give the The operator should be able to produce a employee rest and meal breaks certificate, a maintenance schedule and an >> that reasonable compensatory measures operations log book. are to be provided when an employer is Source: Guidance and forms exempt from the requirements to provide www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- breaks guidance/all-guidance-items/amusement- >> rest breaks must be paid devices-a-guide-for-owners-and-operators >> any other law that requires an employee Cross Reference: Page 15 to take rest and meal breaks takes priority over the rules in the Act.
Employees and employers can’t contract out of the right to rest and meal breaks – an employment agreement that required an employee to take no breaks, and did not provide compensatory measures, would exclude an employee’s entitlements and therefore have no effect. In other words, an employee either gets a break or a compensatory measure; the employer cannot fail to give either.
Tasman Heli Hike Further information about law changes to rest and meal break rules. 2.2.3 REST BREAKS FATIGUE AND PRODUCTIVITY Changes to the rest and meal break provisions in the Employment Relations Act (the ER Act) There are also additional reasons for rest seek to balance the importance of rest and meal breaks including: breaks with the need for breaks to be practical >> preventing an accumulation of fatigue for each workplace. The changes came into >> promoting morale and productivity. effect on March 6, 2015. They replaced strict For the optimum result, breaks need to be rules with a more general right for employees matched to the intensity of the work being to have rest and meal breaks to give them a undertaken, for example: reasonable opportunity to rest, eat, drink and deal with personal matters. The new provisions >> A person in a call centre may need short encourage employers and employees to frequent breaks to relieve the pressure of negotiate, in good faith, rest and meal breaks frequent, constant and demanding calls. that meet the legislation, without compromising >> Researchers may need a 10 minute break business continuity and flexibility. from looking down a microscope every 20 The changes say: minutes to relieve the effects of keeping still. Doing exercises in the break could be >> when employers can make reasonable advantageous. restrictions on rest and meal breaks
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>> Policy analysts may need a 20 minute Because of the cost involved, they are usually break after 2 hours concentrated effort. never inspected by bridge inspectors, and Taking a break before then might mean a landowners and users tend to have a ‘she’ll be significant interruption – which could mean right’ attitude. having to start from scratch again. Owners and users of bridges on private The specifications in the first part of this property place themselves and others at risk if section are legal minimums that address there is insufficient evaluation of the strength comfort and meal needs everywhere. and deficiencies of a bridge, the type of vehicles, loads and axle weight restrictions of Health and safety may be compromised in vehicles using the bridge, as well as the speed other specific situations because breaks are of vehicles on the bridge. not provided. A recent factsheet outlines the hazards and For example: the measures that should be taken to prevent >> Where fatigue can lead to harm (such as vehicles falling through them. Significant in driving or the operation of dangerous issues are to do with: machinery) employers have an obligation >> Design: The design of the bridge (smaller to take all practicable steps to ensure that vehicles accommodated only; no plans or fatigue is not likely to cause harm. inspection certificates; inadequate timbers, >> If an employee signals fatigue, s/he may even when treated; a cantilever over the need to be given a break. recommended 500mm.).
NAPPING >> Use: The use of the bridge (modern vehicles are larger and heavier and have Providing for naps is a current strategy in wider wheel bases). some occupations. >> Maintenance and inspection The weight- DETECTING IMPAIRMENT bearing capacity remains unknown, Employers are not responsible for factors inability of farmers/landowners/users to outside of work that impact on an employee's determine if a bridge is appropriate for the level of fatigue. But employers are required purpose of use. to take all the practicable steps to detect >> Inspection: Inspection and certification such factors when workplace safety may be has not been carried out; building permits affected. See section 2.12. not required for maintenance; costs
Cross Reference: 3.7.6 Page 151 of inspection and the lack of a formal compliance regime. 2.2.4 BRIDGES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY G Property owners can self – check as follows: Bridges and culverts on private property are 1. Check deck condition for rotten a risk if they are not inspected or maintained, boards, good drainage and grip or are used for purposes for which they are 2. Check the cantilever as above not suited. There have been multiple accidents causing death or serious harm. 3. Check coatings on steel structures
Many bridges on private property have 4. Check for deterioration of concrete no specified live load carrying capacity or 5. Check for decay in timber piles overweight ratings, and have few (or no) records of design and construction. 6. Check built-up debris in the river and bank erosion
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7. Check for impact damage by >> Noise. vehicles, especially to guardrails >> CA can blow particles into the skin and and handrails eyes. 8. Check that the approach to the >> CA air can enter the body through a break bridge is suitable in the skin. It can enter a blood vessel causing an embolism, which can be fatal. 9. Consider whether the structure of the bridge is suitable for types of Example: A worker received a small puncture vehicles accessing the bridge in the palm of his hand from a metal spike. 10. Check with any contractors using He used a compressed air gun to blow dirt the bridge about the weight of the and blood from his hand. The air enlarged the vehicle and load weights puncture and blew up his hand like a small balloon. He suffered severe pain and needed 11. Consider signage at the approach hospital treatment. to the bridge if restrictions are necessary such as: Safety with compressed air depends on: >> imposing a speed restriction >> design >> installation >> imposing vehicle gross weight and/or axle weight restrictions >> maintenance >> limiting the number of heavy >> operation. motor vehicles permitted on the No single New Zealand or Australian standard bridge at the same time covers all this list but several standards cover >> closing the bridge to heavy the individual parts of a system such as: motor vehicles and rerouting the >> cylinders heavy motor vehicles around a >> valves bypass eg via an adjacent bridge >> pressure regulators or through a stream. >> pressure gauges and Source: Refer to page 32 of the general >> hoses. guidance for farmers at: Installing a CA system is therefore a job for a www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- specialist company with technical knowledge guidance/all-guidance-items/farmers- about all these aspects of safety. managing-health-and-safety-a-guide-for- farmers/guide-for-farmers-pdf Assuming a CA installation has been properly installed, what else needs to be done to 2.2.5 COMPRESSED AIR ensure safety?
Compressed air (CA) is the fourth most Training and Supervision to ensure correct use important energy after electricity, oil and gas. of the equipment, and regular maintenance The sudden release of compressed air can checks. be equivalent to an explosion. EFFICIENCY CERTIFYING GROUP Unless it is handled properly compressed The Energy Efficiency and Conservation air may cause other types of harm: Authority (EECA) provides auditors to assess >> CA can cause dust to become airborne. the efficiency of CA installations. These >> A CA hose can whip around very auditors examine the design, installation forcefully if the end comes off, causing and maintenance but do not cover health injury and damage. and safety.
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Source: The EECA Business Page has a guideline about improving the energy efficiency of compressed air systems:
www.eecabusiness.govt.nz/resource/ improving-energy-efficiency-compressed-air- systems
2.2.6 CONFINED SPACES GL
A confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not usually a place of work. It may have a contaminated atmosphere or lack oxygen. It may have contents that could engulf workers or prevent their entry and exit. Examples: >> storage tanks >> tank cars >> process vessels >> boilers >> silos >> pits >> pipes >> sewers An entry permit must be signed by someone who is knowledgeable about the hazards of >> shafts the specific confined space. Hazards must be >> ducts identified by this person and the permit should >> shipboard spaces and dictate how the work is to be performed and >> tunnels. the safety measures required. These should include emergency evacuation techniques, Hazards of confined spaces include: communication with people on the inside and >> oxygen-deficient atmospheres what to monitor in the air: CO, CO2, H2S, O2. >> toxic atmospheres In detail: >> flammable or explosive atmospheres 1. Eliminate:Can the needed work be done >> engulfment — workers can be trapped without entry to the confined space?
or buried by dry bulk materials 2. Isolate: contaminants and moving parts. >> operation of moving parts such as augers Prevent accidental introduction of steam, or conveyor belts water, through piping, ducts, vents. >> uncontrolled introduction of steam, De-energise, lockout or tag-out machinery.
water etc 3. Clean and purge:the confined space if >> others including noise, extreme necessary. (Never use oxygen to purge a temperatures, manual handling and falls. confined space. This can create a fire and explosion hazard.). Controlling risks – A suitable person must take oversight.
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4. Test: the atmosphere for Source: Guidelines Safe Working in a Confined >> lack of oxygen Space at: >> toxic substances eg carbon monoxide, www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- hydrogen sulphide guidance/all-guidance-items/confined-spaces- >> combustible gases eg methane, planning-entry-and-working-safely-in-a- solvent vapours. confined-space
If possible do this without entering the Cross Reference: 3.3.5 Page 112, 2.2.23 Page 41, confined space. Welding Page 104
5. Ventilate: Ventilate the confined space 2.2.7 DRIVING AS PART OF WORK by using a fan, by blowing air in with a Employers must take all practicable steps compressor, or by opening more manhole to ensure that their employees are safe from covers or other entry or exit points. harm while they are working. 6. Select: appropriate breathing apparatus When driving occurs as part of work, ‘all if necessary. If the space can’t be practicable steps’ would include ensuring ventilated, or if the work will contaminate that any vehicle used for work purposes is: the atmosphere, a self-contained breathing apparatus or supplied-air respirator should >> roadworthy and warranted be used. >> insured
7. Select: personal protective and safety >> loaded and used only within its equipment (PPE). A safety helmet, gloves, specified capability hearing protectors, safety harness and >> a safety banner, if appropriate lifeline may be required. >> has a first aid kit.
8. Issue: a permit to work, as described in A vehicle should not be inappropriately loaded the reference below. so a driver's vision is impaired, or so that the 9. Standby person: Have a trained by person cargo could move and harm the driver. outside the confined space: Training and supervision to ensure employees >> to monitor the safety of the person who use a vehicle: working inside the confined space >> have the appropriate classes of >> to take action if an emergency arises driver's licence >> to ensure there is reliable >> are not suffering from fatigue, vision communication — by voice, radio, hand impairment or any other factor signals, hard-wired communication. >> comply with driving hours restrictions 10. Monitor atmospheres: Monitor and for heavy vehicles maintain control measures put in place >> comply with the conditions of their to ensure the atmosphere remains safe. driving licence 11. Emergency evacuation: Where necessary, >> have adequate time in which to complete have an evacuation plan and the necessary assignments equipment to get a worker out of the >> are physically capable of undertaking space quickly if anything goes wrong. assignments.
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Screening company drivers for sleep apnoea, Whether employees can be tested for drugs while not required by law, must be regarded in the workplace will depend on a variety as a responsible step, given the severe effects of factors: of this condition on daytime alertness. >> The industry and the type of work. Employers could also consider developing a >> Whether the employee's work directly safe driving policy based on the New Zealand impacts the safety of others. Transport Agency publication: Your Safe >> The level of hazards. Driving Policy. >> If an employee works in a safety sensitive Source: www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/your- area, shows signs of being affected by safe-driving-policy/ drugs, or has recently been involved in a workplace incident or near miss. 2.2.8 DRUG TESTING IPG Privacy considerations. Testing if employees have been taking drugs >> An employee's right to privacy in relation is a highly sensitive matter. to personal information under the Privacy The practice is covered in two guidelines: Act 1993 and common law indicates >> A New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS conduct over sample collection procedures, 4308:2008, Procedures for specimen the method of analysis, and the handling collection and the detection and of test results. Quantitation of drugs of abuse in urine. The effect on individual rights. >> How to introduce a drug testing regime >> Laws to consider may include the Human into a company is covered in International Rights Act 1993 and the New Zealand Labour Organisation (ILO) publication. Bill of Rights Act 1990. Even if those laws The first step in dealing with drug and alcohol do not make it unlawful for an employer problems in the workplace is to develop a to require an employee to undergo drug drug and alcohol policy. testing they may influence whether the The ILO Code of Practice on managing requirement is reasonable. alcohol and drug-related issues emphasises The details of the proposed testing policy. a preventive approach. It recommends a joint >> Random testing may be harder to justify assessment by employers and workers of than testing of specific employees for the effects of alcohol and drug use in specific purposes, for example in safety the specific setting and co-operation in critical operations. developing a written policy. The provisions of the employment agreement. The aims of the policy should be towards >> Prevention >> If an employment agreement gives an employer the right to require employees >> Education to undergo drug testing then, provided the >> Training provision in the agreement is reasonable >> Rehabilitation. and does not contravene the protections It is important to involve all employees. contained in any relevant laws, it is more The policy must be consistent and fair. likely that the employer will be able to require drug testing. Similarly, it will be There is no specific employment related difficult for an employer to introduce New Zealand law that deals with drug-testing drug testing if that right is not contained in the workplace. in the relevant employment agreement, unless the employee gives the employer informed consent. 30 SECTION 2.0 // SAFETY TOOLS
If an employer suspects that an employee is using drugs, it is advisable for both parties to try and resolve the issue by talking about the problem. If this is not successful either party may choose to seek mediation assistance through the Worksafe NZ. The Privacy Commission provides guidance on the application of the Privacy Act 1993.
Note: Dipstick tests.
If a ‘dipstick’ test has the following LEGISLATIVE APPLICATION characteristics: The Factories and Commercial Premises >> – 98% (ie 2% of identifications Specificity (First Aid) Regulations 1985 were repealed in are false positives). November 2008. Regulation 4(2)(d), read in >> Sensitivity – 95% (i.e 5% of drug users conjunction with Regulation 7 of the Health are not registered as such by the test). and Safety in Employment Regulations 1995 >> And the drug use rate of the population apply to First Aid. being screened is, say, 5%. GENERAL ASSESSMENT OF NEEDS the application of Bayes theorem indicates Exactly what’s needed in a workplace will that the rate of false accusations is in the depend on its circumstances. order of 30%! Some workplaces have greater risks of injury This is unacceptably high, and means that, and illness because of the work being done. until a more accurate follow up test is done, no conclusions should be drawn. These risks help decide the first aid requirements, because different first aid Source: www.ilo.org/global/publications/ may be needed for different activities. magazines-and-journals/world-of-work- magazine/articles/WCMS_082253/lang--en/ The Workplace First Aid Needs Assessment index.htm Checklist is at: www.business.govt.nz/ worksafe/tools-resources/health-and- See also: Plantation Forestry Code of safety-templates/workplace-first-aid-needs- Practice: Eliminating Drugs & Alcohol from the assessment-checklist-pdf Workplace. 2008, New Zealand Forest Owners Association Incorporated at: www.nzfoa.org.nz It helps identify what’s needed at a workplace for First Aid. 2.2.9 FIRST AID GL, AT, F The relevant circumstances include things like: There are three First Aid issues: >> the hazards in a workplace >> Suitably stocked first aid kits and facilities. >> dangerous chemicals >> An appropriate number of trained first >> the machinery used aiders. >> dangerous activities >> Information for employees about first >> the number of employees aid arrangements. >> how far away the workplace is from medical help.
31 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
NUMBERS OF FIRST AIDERS REQUIRED First aid kits need to be easily seen, readily Given varying circumstances, a precise ratio accessible to all employees and be unlocked of first aid personnel cannot be adopted in all wherever possible. They should be clearly workplaces. To determine the number needed, identified as first aid containers: the marking an assessment should be carried out of the used should be a white cross on a green risk factors in the workplace. background.
Small businesses can arrange to share Source: First Aid for Workplaces – qualified first aiders with neighbouring A Good Practice Guide at: businesses. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- The New Zealand Qualifications Authority guidance/all-guidance-items/first-aid-for- has a list of training providers. workplaces-a-good-practice-guide
UK HSE W DO I NEED A FIRST AID ROOM? 2.2.10 FLOORING – SLIP RESISTANCE First aid rooms aren’t required in every Injuries from slips, trips and falls are common. workplace. Employers in large workplaces These injuries have slippery floors as a should consider providing a first aid room major cause. Six factors for flooring slip given the higher likelihood of an accident. resistance are:
If access to medical facilities is difficult, or >> floor material where there are significant hazards in the >> contamination workplace, a first aid room may be indicated. >> environment >> use FIRST AID KITS >> behaviour Each employer must provide at least one full basic first aid kit in each place of work. >> footwear.
Where there are more than 50 employees, RISK ASSESSMENT an additional kit should be provided; and Slip resistance is measured by mechanical for every 50 employees thereafter, an devices. There are two main sorts: additional kit. >> The pendulum type portable skid There should be at least one first aid kit on resistance tester. Expertise is always each floor of a multi-level workplace. required for its use. Work vehicles should carry a first aid kit. >> Surface micro roughness testers – a hand First aid kits should be located: held meter useable by most people.
>> close to wash basins with hot and cold Product specifications:The slip resistance running water, soap, and clean towels. of flooring surfaces should be specified in If running water is not available saline the flooring product data. solution can be provided instead The slip resistance of certain flooring materials >> so that there is immediate access in areas can be significantly reduced once it is in of particular or special hazard. use. Data describing flooring material should report the results of accelerated wear tests.
The UK HSE Website caries a Slips Assessment Tool which can be downloaded from:
Source: www.hse.gov.uk/slips/
32 SECTION 2.0 // SAFETY TOOLS
2.2.11 WORKING AT HEIGHTS GL, W
A new guideline for working at heights was published in May 2012 after extensive consultation with industry partners. Briefly describing each section:
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT The Guideline is an ‘umbrella’ document that provides generic, non- industry-specific information about the principles of working safely at heights.
Factors contributing to injuries sustained from working at height include: >> lack of or inadequate planning and hazard assessment >> inadequate supervision >> insufficient training for the task being carried out >> incorrect protection or equipment choices >> incorrect use or set-up of equipment including personal protective equipment >> unwillingness to change the way a task is carried out when a safer alternative is identified >> suitable equipment being unavailable.
More injuries happen on residential building sites than any other workplace in the construction sector. In 2012 Worksafe NZ initiated a targeted harm reduction programme to prevent falls from heights.
33 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
SECTION 2: PURPOSE Factsheets: the following have been To help discharge HSE Act duties. developed to help keep safe when working at heights. They are: SECTION 3: SCOPE AND APPLICATION >> Planning a safe approach to working Applies wherever people can fall from a at height. height – and makes the point that the >> Selecting the right equipment for so-called 3 metre rule is – not a rule at all. working safely at height.
SECTION 4: WORK PLAN >> Short duration work at height. Advice on identifying hazards, assessing >> Edge protection. and controlling them, monitoring the and >> Temporary work platforms. documentation. There is a table about the >> Total restraint system. selection of work equipment. >> Safe working with ladders and stepladders.
SECTION 5: ELIMINATION CONTROLS >> Be safe working on roofs. Explores safer design (to eliminate work Sources: Best practice guidelines for working at heights), Using alternative construction at height in New Zealand at: methods and using tools and equipment www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- that will reduce work at heights. guidance/all-guidance-items/preventing-falls- from-height SECTION 6: ISOLATION AND MINIMISATION CONTROLS. THESE INCLUDE: There is a Worksafe NZ National Programme >> Scaffolding 2014 – 5 in this area.
>> Edge protection www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- >> Mechanical access plant guidance/national-programmes/preventing- >> Safety mesh falls-from-height-in-construction
>> Harness systems 2.2.12 HOME AS A WORKPLACE >> Temporary work platforms An employee working for an employer >> Catch platforms at home is covered by the HSE Act. >> Soft landing systems (SLSs) The principal or employer must take all >> Safety nets practicable steps to ensure that workers >> Fixed roof ladders and crawl boards in their own homes have a safe working >> Ladders, stepladders, and means of access. environment.
Many of these topics have been or are the For example, an employer should ensure subject of separate publications. Each topic that an appropriate computer workstation requires careful attention to detail and and equipment is provided and that the most are subject to Standards and Industry workstation is correctly adjusted. publications. The HSE Act excludes homeowners from responsibility when they employ a person – SECTION 7: OTHER HAZARDS (cleaner, builder, plumber) – to work in or That can impact on work at heights are at their home. also covered.
34 SECTION 2.0 // SAFETY TOOLS
A factsheet covers: 2.2.14 TEMPORARY IMPAIRMENT GL
>> working in another person’s home If a person is impaired he or she may pose >> employing people that work in other a workplace hazard. people’s home. Example: A scaffolder who has been up Source: Search with ‘home’ at: all night with a sick child is almost certainly unable to work safely. www.dol.govt.nz/workplace/knowledgebase/ healthandsafety Impairment may result from:
Cross References: 3.6.3 Page 131 >> fatigue (physical, mental or emotional) >> a family crisis 2.2.13 HOT WORK ON TANKS >> alcohol or drugs AND DRUMS B >> reactions after a workplace accident Many people have been injured or killed >> unresolved conflict with an employer while doing hot work on drums or tanks. >> medical treatment or medication These accidents follow a similar pattern and >> out of work events – examination, moving all could have been avoided if the proper house etc precautions had been taken. >> poor shift work patterns Advice from Worksafe NZ applies to hot work >> harassment or bullying. (welding, gas cutting, brazing or soldering) on any fuel tank, drum, container or pipe that has Employers must take all the practicable previously contained a combustible substance. steps to detect hazards and this applies to any impairment in employees which may Examples are fuel tanks and the familiar compromise safety. 200 litre (44 gallon) drum. Many employers are alert instinctively to The main problem is getting all the stuff that this issue. In a short guide on impairment, was in the drum out of it. Often, flammable Worksafe NZ suggested 13 questions might substances dissolved in a solvent remain be asked by employers, as laid out in the flammable (and ignite when heated) even checklist on the next page: though all the solvent has evaporated and the residue looks like a benign, solid tar. Note: Answering these questions may not be easy. There is no suggestion that the employer Reliable methods must be followed to empty must ask all these questions in every situation. a drum or tank of combustible substances. Clearly, some of them are private issues, and Source: Booklet at: would need to be asked sensitively. It may not www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- be appropriate to ask some of the questions. guidance/all-guidance-items/hot-work-on- Source: Booklet at: www.business.govt. tanks-and-drums nz/worksafe/information-guidance/pdf- documents-library/impairment.pdf
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CRITERION ASSESSMENT SCALE
WON'T USUALLY INCREASING NEED NEED ASSESSMENT FOR ASSESSMENT
1. How many hours did the Under 40 hours Increasing numbers employee work in the of hours past week?
2. What is the pattern of Regular 8-hour shifts Extended irregular the hours worked in the shifts past week?
3. Is the employee suffering Regular sleep of usual Disturbed or from acute sleep loss? day/night pattern and curtailed sleep length
4. Does the employee have No reason for sleep Hours worked a sleep debt? debt and personal circumstances make sleep depth likely
5. Is the employee required to No Sleep patterns are out work at a time that is out of of synchrony with the synchrony with the working employee's personal cycle of the employee's circadian rhythm circadian rhythm?
6. What events are currently None Life events pose occurring away from major problems work – is the employee experiencing life stressors?
7. How well has the employee Has coped well in Has not coped well coped in the past? the past in the past
8. Does the employee get Has had good Support networks support at work – and support in the past not evident at home?
9. What is the physical Medium Very low or very high intensity of the work?
10. Does the employee's Close fit between Obvious physical fitness match the fitness and discrepancies demands of the work? requirements
11. What are the mental and Medium Very low or very high emotional demands of the work?
12. Does the employee's mental/ Close fit Obvious emotional state match the discrepancies demands of the work?
13. Do environmental factors No influences Major influences pose an additional load?
36 SECTION 2.0 // SAFETY TOOLS
2.2.15 LOCKOUT PROCEDURES B consequences of major incidents involving
hazardous substances. Recent events include: Every year New Zealand workers are killed because machinery starts up unexpectedly. >> an explosion and fire at a Tamahere coolstore in 2008 Lockout is a process used to render machinery >> an explosion in a gas system at a paper inoperable. Lockout must be used when mill in 2008 there is any risk of injury to an employee working on the machinery if it might start >> An explosion in a 100 tonne bitumen tank moving, or be energized in any way. Lockout at Greymouth in 2009. applies to electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic and The Tamahere Incident in 2008 resulted in the mechanical systems and to any form of stored death of a senior fire officer, and major injuries energy. to six fire firefighters. The third incident There are five steps in a lockout: resulted in the death of a worker who had been welding on top of the tank. >> Identify the machinery or equipment to be locked out. None of these events would be regarded as occurring at a major hazard facility. >> Shut off the machinery or equipment and make sure all moving parts come to a Worksafe NZ published the Approved Code complete stop. Also ensure that the act of Practice for Managing Hazards to Prevent of shutting off equipment does not cause Major Industrial Accidents (the Approved a hazard to other workers. Code) in July 1994.
>> Activate the main energy-isolating device There has been no systematic assessment for each energy source. of sites that would meet the definition of >> Lock the energy-isolating device for a major hazard facility, and no assessment each energy source, and ensure all parts of the awareness of or adherence to the and attachments are secured against Approved Code. inadvertent movement. There is no agreed New Zealand definition of >> Test the lockout for effectiveness. a major hazard facility. In general terms it is an Source: Lockout – Safe Practices for Isolation industrial site that receives, stores, processes, of all Sources of Energy in Sawmills at: handles, forwards or disposes of significant volumes of hazardous substances. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/lockout-safe- Appendix 2 in the ACOP covers installations practices-for-isolation-of-all-sources-of- where it should be used: energy-in-sawmills >> explosives or flammables >> petrol refineries 2.2.16 MAJOR HAZARD FACILITIES ACOP >> pulp and paper mills In recent years, a number of very serious >> steel making incidents have occurred at major hazard >> chemical processes facilities overseas. There has been enormous damage to plant, people and communities >> tank farms and the environment has been put at risk. >> bulk LPG terminals The Parnell fumes emergency in 1973, and >> warehousing chemicals the ICI fire in 1984 drew attention to the >> manufacturing where chemicals stored under temperature and pressure.
37 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
Source: ACOP for Managing Hazards to This is because the load on a person handling Prevent Major Industrial Accidents at: an object depends on factors like the posture, the grip the person can get, the frequency www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- of the handling, the time it goes on for and guidance/all-guidance-items/acop-managing- the starting and ending heights of the lift. hazards-prevent-major-industrial-accidents Different people have different strengths 2.2.17 MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM and tolerances. The size and strength of the TEMPERATURES GL worker has a seeming relevance but providing tasks that any member of the workforce can No particular temperature above or below do obviously gives employers more flexibility. which work should stop is specified in any Young workers under 15 are restricted from Worksafe NZ publication. Many factors lifting loads that are likely to injure them. To determine how hot we feel so it would be assess the risks of lifting weights the employer misleading to give maximum or minimum and employee should consider four factors: temperatures based on air temperature alone. The factors include: >> Load – the muscle force applied by the worker – this may be the weight of the >> air temperature object handled. >> humidity >> Posture and workplace layout – the >> sun or other radiant heat sources postures adopted to lift the object and the >> the speed of air movement amount of moving required. >> the clothing being worn (ie PPE) >> Environment – the workplace, the >> how physically demanding the work is conditions slippery floors, walking up steps, >> the degree of worker acclimatisation the restricted space to work in, lighting and the frequency and length of rest breaks. ability to get a good grip on the object. >> Time and repetition – the amount of time Exposure to excessive heat can lead to heat that is spent doing the lifting – or the stress and heat exhaustion, fainting or rapidly number of repetitions of an action fatal heat stroke. Cold stress can occur too each day. and can also be rapidly fatal. Worksafe NZ has a comprehensive Code of Where work is being performed in extremes Practice about Manual Handling. It includes a of temperature, first aiders will require risk assessment tool that combines the factors special training. above into a single number. The control of Source: Guidelines for the Management of manual handling risks should be by mechanical Work in Extremes of Temperature at: means rather than training, as illustrated above.
www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Source: The Manual Handling ACOP at: guidance/all-guidance-items/temperature- www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidelines-for-the-management-of-work-in- guidance/all-guidance-items/manual-handling- extremes-of code-of-practice-for Cross Reference: 3.8 Pages 158-161 See also:
2.2.18 MAXIMUM WEIGHTS ACOP, W www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Maximum safe weights for safe lifting are not guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/oos- specified in any employment or health and manual-handling safety law. Cross Reference: 3.5.3 Page 119
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2.2.19 PERMIT TO WORK SYSTEMS Source: http://books.hse.gov. uk/hse/public/saleproduct. Permit to work (PTW) systems are: jsf?catalogueCode=9780717629435 >> formal, critical, rigorous, precise and carefully constructed 2.2.20 QUAD BIKES GL, W
>> paper or computer based New guidelines were published in February >> designed to communicate safety 2011. They suggest: essentials to everyone involved >> before you ride, ask yourself whether the >> for use in safety critical tasks and quad is the right vehicle for the job operations and >> ensure riders are trained and are >> in place over the whole time the task experienced enough for the job may affect safety. >> always wear a helmet (special types are Examples needing control by a PTW: available) >> most work on an oil platform/refinery >> recognise dangerous areas by establishing >> confined space entry ‘no-go zones’ >> gas cutting near flammable liquid storage >> don’t carry passengers >> electrical maintenance >> don’t let kids under 16 ride adult quad bikes >> maintenance on drilling rigs >> check the operating condition of the quad bike before you ride >> hot work on a pressure vessel >> maintained in a safe condition >> pipeline repair. >> keep within the manufacturer’s towing Essential features of a PTW are: or carrying limits >> clear identification of who may authorise >> only use attachments that are designed particular jobs (and any limits to their for and are compatible with the quad bike authority) >> don’t do tasks that interfere with safe >> who is responsible for specifying the riding precautions >> tell someone where you are going >> training and instruction including the >> avoid use while fatigued/stressed use and closure of permits for all who are affected >> restrict unauthorised access to the quad bike. >> monitoring and auditing to ensure the system works as intended Source: Guidelines for the safe use of >> clear identification of the types of work Quad bikes: considered hazardous www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- >> clear and standardised identification of guidance/all-guidance-items/guidelines-for- tasks, risk assessments, permitted task the-safe-use-of-quad-bikes duration and supplemental or simultaneous activity and control measures.
Specialist advice is required to set up, operate and review the operation of a permit to work system.
See also: Lock out procedures.
39 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
2.2.21 ROBBERY GL First aid should be provided to anyone who needs it. The premises should be secured, and RISK MANAGEMENT someone posted to admit emergency services A workplace should have clear policies for when they arrive. dealing with health and safety issues. Nothing should be touched, to preserve the Where there is a threat of robbery, policies scene. Witnesses should be asked to stay, pertaining to security should address: or their contact details taken. Those present >> risk assessment and mitigation should be discouraged from discussing the >> security of cash, valuables, and/or drugs event until they can be interviewed by the >> access, key control, opening and closing police. routines Staff could be called to provide evidence. >> training and supervision of staff on safety Victim support services and the police will measures provide support and inform witnesses about >> use/maintenance of security equipment risks and procedures. >> processes to be followed during and after PUBLIC RELATIONS a robbery, including staff support. A spokesperson should be nominated, and There should be regular auditing of the deliver only basic facts to minimise the distress policies and procedures. to victims. Victims should not be identified, and any release of information should be TRAINING AND EDUCATION checked with the police first. Safety and security procedures should be part Source: Guidelines at: www.business.govt.nz/ of any training. Staff should be aware of the worksafe/information-guidance/all-guidance- risk and trained to follow procedures in the items/robbery-guidelines-for-the-safety-of- event of a robbery. staff-from-the-threat-of A robbery can result in different reactions from different people. Employers, managers, 2.2.22 SIGNS FOR SAFETY supervisors and colleagues should be alert to The safety signs needed in a workplace the way their employees and colleagues react. depend on the type of workplace and the Appropriate support can greatly reduce hazards in it. They can draw attention to negative emotional effects. Group debriefing objects and situations affecting health and after the event can play an important part safety. in the recovery process, and individual Signs are essentially passive and do not counselling should be offered, but not forced. replace the need for systems or measures to control hazards. Safety signs do not replace OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE FOLLOWING A ROBBERY health and safety training. The police must be notified as soon as it is Safety signs should comply with NZS/AS safe to do so using the 111 service. The police 1319: 1994 Safety signs for the occupational will guide the caller through the information environment. This Standard distinguishes they need to provide. categories of safety sign:
40 SECTION 2.0 // SAFETY TOOLS
>> Regulatory signs: contain instructions, and a person enters to try to free it. If which if not complied with constitute an a person enters at the top they may offence at law or a breach of standing step on the material, find that there is a safety procedures, eg fire, naked flame void underneath, break through and be and smoking prohibited; head/hearing engulfed. If entering at the bottom, they protection must be worn. may find that material suddenly cascades >> Hazard signs: warning of hazards such as onto them. Either way, this is often fatal. fire risk, explosion risk, toxic hazard, forklift >> Suffocation:A person falls into the material hazard, electrical shock. and cannot get out. Some materials (grain, >> Emergency information signs: location of coal) have been likened to quicksand. facilities such as emergency exits, safety >> Oxygen deprivation: The material in the equipment, first aid facilities. silo (eg Silage) absorbs oxygen so that >> Fire signs: advising the location of fire when a person enters there is none to alarms and fire-fighting facilities. breath. Collapse is usually immediate and death is usually rapid. The standard provides detailed guidance >> Toxic gases: The stored material emits toxic about the design of different types of signs, gases. (eg Silage may emit methane, or and how and where they should be displayed. spoiling grain may emit carbon dioxide.) It recommends that explanation of the A person entering the silo is overcome. functions and meanings of safety signs Death is usually rapid. should be included in employee training >> Fire: Electrical faults, overheated bearings and induction programmes. and slipping belts can cause fires in silos. When a new sign is displayed, or the location Fires may also result from spontaneous of an existing sign changed, employees ignition of the material in the silo and can should be informed and the reasons for be more difficult to deal with. These may the change explained. occur, for example, in silage where the moisture content is low and/or air can get Safety equipment suppliers provide a range into the silo. of safety signs that comply with the Standard. >> Explosion: Flammable materials may Source: Standards referred to: www.business. create dust (eg grain, coal) which may govt.nz/worksafe/information-guidance/ become airborne. If there is enough in the all-guidance-items/hsno/hsno-guidance- atmosphere of the silo, a spark may ignite pages/signs-for-premises-storing-hazardous- it and cause an explosion. substances >> Falls: are common given that every silo 2.2.23 SILOS will have a ladder to its top.
>> Machinery: Augers pose obvious hazards Silos are large tanks used to store bulk themselves. Workers entering silos to materials like silage, grain, animal feed, milk free jammed or blocked augers are often powder, flour, coal, cement, wood chips, and engulfed or asphyxiated. PTO from tractors sand. Many deaths and injuries have occurred are often used to power augers and pose in silos because of: obvious hazards. >> Engulfment: Material cascades downwards >> Others entering to rescue the person may and engulfs a person. Often, this occurs also be overcome. when material in the silo stops flowing
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Dusts: Exposure to dusts in silos risks 2.2.25 SPACE REQUIREMENTS TO WORK IN respiratory disease. Frequent low exposures The floor space per person is one factor that risk an allergic reaction developing over time. may affect an employee's safety and sense of A single massive exposure could also produce well-being. Productivity can be compromised permanent symptoms. if people are too close together. Fumigants: Fumigants such as phosphine The costs of running a building (rent, power, added to silos pose obvious hazards. cleaning, maintenance etc) are usually very Overpressure: When a silo is filled by air much less than the cost of paying the people blowing the substance in through a hose who work in it. (Typically they are 10 times less.) (for example cement) overpressure can If each person in an office building such as develop. Explosions have occurred. Unisys House in Wellington (with about Source: WORKSAFE NZ has no Guidance 1200 employees): about silos. The Province of Ontario in >> works five minutes longer each day Canada has published a Guideline. It is at: >> makes fewer errors (five minutes worth) www.farmsafety.ca/public/manuals/silo-safety. >> works quicker (five minutes worth). pdf due to congenial facilities, the added value Cross References: 2.2.11 Page 33, is in the order of $2.25 million each year. 3.3.4 Page 107, 3.3.5 Page 112 Given these observations, employers should 2.24 SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS ensure that: Slips, trips and falls are a leading cause of >> employees are not grouped together so injuries. A large number of accidents occur closely that they cannot work in a safe and while handling goods or materials, and by healthy manner people falling, being hit by falling objects >> privacy is available for those badly affected or striking objects. by having lots of people around – eg Good housekeeping is probably the first the introverts among us who thrive on and most important prevention factor. opportunities for quiet reflection – people with autism Some good housekeeping practices: >> employees do not bump into each other, >> cleaning up spills immediately slip or trip, knock themselves on the >> mark wet/hazardous areas edges of desks or do not have safe >> keep walkways and aisles clear and free emergency exits. from clutter For most office work space requirements are >> secure mats, rugs and carpets that don't given in terms of two factors: (a) the ‘footprint’ lie flat and (b) the average floor area per occupant. >> keep working areas and walkways well lit. >> The ‘footprint’ is the rectangle described Slips, trips and falls may be prevented by by the person’s desk and floor space to changing or modifying surfaces that people work in. A value of between five and seven walk on (floors, steps, ramps) and/or by square metres is normally specified. selecting proper footwear. >> For the average floor area per occupant a Cross Reference: 2.2.10 Page 32 value of nine square metres per person is regarded as an absolute minimum – and this is for clerical work without computers.
42 SECTION 2.0 // SAFETY TOOLS
>> For work with computers, a value of Tyre fitters require extensive training and 12 square metres per person is regarded supervision until they are able to work safely. as an absolute minimum. Source: Health and Safety Guidelines for >> A target of 12 – 16 square metre per person Tyre Fitters at: is suggested for Government Head Offices www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- in New Zealand. guidance/all-guidance-items/tyre-fitters- >> Values for particular situations depend on health-and-safety-guidelines-for the nature of the work, hardware, storage, requirements for meetings and the extent 2.2.27 WORKING ALONE HSE UK W to which facilities are shared. What is ‘in’ Working alone means the normal contact with and ‘out’ in the determination of the overall other staff is not available. This may include floor space should be spelled out clearly. working in isolated areas on-site or off-site, Comment: Based on very extensive research either during or outside normal working hours. and as confirmed by a consensus of Specific instances are: experienced office designers, there is a clear, important tension in every office space design >> people working in kiosks, petrol stations, between two factors: workshops etc >> having people close enough together so >> people who work from home that good communication can occur and >> working outside normal hours >> providing spaces for high quality solo work. >> home based health care workers, social workers, rent and debt collectors People who try to short circuit this tension do so at their peril. The calculation stated earlier >> bus and taxi drivers shows the consequences of failure. >> agriculture and forestry workers
Cross Reference: 3.5.6 Page 125, 3.6.3 Page 131, >> trades and maintenance people. 3.6.5 Page 134 Working alone can pose special risks: >> entering and exiting the workplace 2.2.26 TYRE FITTING GL
>> manual handling of portable equipment, Tyre fitting poses four main hazards: machinery, tools >> compressed air (CA) >> chemical exposure >> heavy handling >> operating controls safely may require more >> exploding rims than one person >> noise. >> violence In 2001, Worksafe NZ and the Tyre Sector >> for the young, disabled or pregnant or published a detailed guideline on tyre safety. people with a medical condition The guideline describes hazard management >> communication in an emergency. for tyre fitters and their employers. Employers of lone workers should: The most common work related injury in the >> involve staff in risk assessments sector is to backs. >> review risk assessments as often as needed However, the Guideline is illustrated with >> check control measures are in place and many instances of severe injuries and fatalities review their effectiveness from time to time due to exploding tyres and the effects of >> provide backup or help if a risk assessment compressed air. shows it is required.
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Risk controls for lone workers may need In order of hazard priority: to be more comprehensive: >> Electrical shock hazards can exist in most >> controls may need to be upgraded for places of work. lone workers >> Electrical arc blast and flash hazards >> supervisors periodically visiting and are relevant to those working with large observing lone workers switchboards, motor control centres, large >> regular, planned contact between the battery banks and high voltage equipment. lone worker and the supervisor >> Electrical faults causing excessive heating >> special security measures leading to explosions and fires can be present in many places of work. >> provision of emergency alarms. >> Electricity as an ignition source in Some lone working is not acceptable: potentially explosive atmospheres for >> working in a high risk confined space example: cool store facilities, paint spray >> in some situations when working with booths and mines. electricity. Electric shock can also cause injuries of Emergency responses may need to be more an indirect or secondary nature, where fully developed if people working alone are involuntary muscle reactions can cause to be kept safe. bruises, bone fractures, and even death resulting from collisions or falls. In some cases, More thorough training may be indicated by injuries caused by electric shock can be a the risk assessment and lone workers in some contributory cause of delayed fatalities. situations may need first aid training. Direct contact is the most common cause Source: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg73.pdf of electrical fatalities. This involves people making direct contact with live metal through 2.3 UTILITY SAFETY the equipment, tools and machinery they 2.3.1 ELECTRICAL SAFETY are using. These types of hazards can be
Electrical safety hazards exist in most transferred to others some distance away workplaces. The severity of these hazards if there is a metallic path to the same live varies widely, depending on the kind of metal conductor. workplace and environment, on electrical When electrical equipment is damaged or factors such as the voltage, the circumstances defective or electrically over-loaded, a serious and the physiological make-up of the people hazard may exist. Internal failures inside involved. electrical equipment often cause heating as
The information presented here will need to be electrical insulation breaks down. Overloaded supplemented with expert advice from time to electrical equipment can carry an increased time because of the wide range of workplaces. current causing an increase in resistive losses and appearing as heat. OVERVIEW People can be electrocuted, and suffer severe burn, blast and flash injuries, and be killed or seriously disabled by electrical accidents.
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This can lead to fires and explosions from 13. Surface run power cords and cables across the resulting arcs. vehicle or access ways.
>> Sustained internal arcs in large oil 14. Extension cord used to supply an filled transformers can lead to massive outdoor area. explosions and fire. 15. Power cord or cable near a source of heat. >> Extremely high-energy arcs in high voltage 16. Worn, or damaged, or repaired power switchyards can generate massive blast cords or cables. forces and heat waves, and damage to equipment, causing fragmented metal to 17. Working near electrical conductors fly in all directions. assumed but not proven to be >> Low-energy arcs can cause explosions disconnected. in atmospheres that contain flammable 18. Absence of control over electrical isolation. gases, vapours, or combustible dusts. STORED ENERGY The following lists present electrical hazards sorted by type. 19. Capacitors: disconnected but not discharged. CONTACT WITH LIVE CONDUCTORS 20. Generators: motor isolated but 1. Drilling through walls where there are rotor spinning. power cables. EARTH POTENTIAL RISE HAZARDS – 2. Trenching or excavation near buried UNSAFE CONTACT VOLTAGES power cables. 21. Incorrect positioning of earth points 3. Working on a live circuit. during high voltage maintenance.
4. Working near live power lines. 22. Insufficient earthing applied during 5. In a high voltage switchyard, the slew maintenance at high fault level sites. control of a crane left unlocked during 23. Inadequately rated earthing equipment levelling using outriggers. used for maintenance.
6. No earthing of metal enclosure. 24. Absence of safety plan and procedures 7. Safety earth applied to a live circuit. for high voltage maintenance work.
8. Climbing into a live high voltage 25. Wet conditions and/or damp location. equipment bay. EXCESSIVE HEAT (Both 7 and 8 usually result from 26. Under-rated circuits, cables, cords, an operator’s disorientation). switchgear and appliances for actual load. 9. Untested or poorly maintained 27. Incorrect over-sized fuse used. electrical equipment. 28. Gradual breakdown of insulation. 10. Incorrectly wired electric cords and appliances. 29. Poor connections.
11. Electric cords connected in series. 30. Blocked or ineffective cooling systems.
12. Electric cords used to drag equipment or appliances.
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SOURCES OF IGNITION IN EXPLOSIVE ‘A zone at a worksite within which the voltage ATMOSPHERES differences between conductive parts, which 31. Electrical sparking. can be contacted by an employee, remain below hazardous levels in the event of 32. Hot surfaces. any inadvertent livening of any part INDUCTION of the equipment.’ 33. Induction from parallel circuits. Source: An electrical safety study guide developed by the Los Alamos Laboratories is 34. Transformer neutral not earthed. at: www.lanl.gov/safety/electrical/docs/elec_ 35. Cable sheath tail not earthed. hazard_awareness_study_guide.pdf
ARC FLASH 2.3.2 OVERHEAD POWER LINES
36. High voltage installations. Overhead power lines carry high voltage electricity. Contact is often fatal. Anyone who HAZARD TYPE: ARC BLAST operates mobile mechanical plant including 37. High voltage installations. a crane, a loader, an excavator, drilling or pile driving equipment needs to take time to focus STATIC ELECTRICITY on what is above them by planning and using 38. Build up of charge on surfaces as one or more of the following safety measures: a result of contact and friction with >> safety observers another surface. >> height restrictions on vehicles and plant 39. Wind and dust on isolated objects. >> ground level barriers 40. High voltage bus bars, line conductors. >> ground level barriers plus rigid goal posts 41. Build up on hoses and equipment handling >> diversion or de-energisation of power lines. oils, flammable and combustible liquids. SITE SPECIFIC SAFETY PLAN EARTH POTENTIAL RISE (EPR) Before any planning for a new site starts, a This refers to the voltage rise on exposed visit should assess any hazard posed by power metal structures and equipment when current lines. The higher the voltage in the power from an electrical fault flows through it to the line, the greater the safe approach distance ground on its return path to the power source. required. Electricity can flash over to an object If a person makes contact between different or person without actual contact. parts of the return path then a voltage across the parts of the body making contact occurs, and this is referred to as a ‘contact voltage’.
If the magnitude of contact voltages are not controlled by the use of safety earths and equipotential bonding, then electrocution can occur.
Equipotential bonding is defined in the Safety Manual – Electricity Industry as:
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The minimum safe approach distance for The safe distances increase significantly mobile plant near overhead lines is specified in with increases in voltage and span length. NZECP 34: 2001 New Zealand Electrical Code For voltages higher than those in the table of Practice for Electrical Safety Distances. in the column opposite, consult NZECP 34 This Code requires that the distance between or contact the line owner to ascertain the any live overhead electric line and any part relevant safe working distances. of mobile plant or its load shall be at least Always consult the line owner if you are in any four metres, unless the operator has received doubt in regard to achieving compliance with written consent from the overhead electric line NZECP 34. owner allowing a reduced distance. Safe working distances. Where mobile plant is likely to be used near power lines, a warning notice (pictured) must CIRCUIT MAX MIN. MIN. be displayed in a conspicuous place as near VOLTAGE SPAN DISTANCE DISTANCE as practicable to the operator’s position. (KV) LENGTH BENEATH, TO THE SIDE (M) NORMAL NORMAL CONDITIONS CONDITIONS CRITICAL SAFETY FACTORS (M) (M) Check every time for the location of power < 1 50 4 3.5 lines before moving equipment, loading or 1 – 11 80 5.5 5 unloading vehicles, stacking tall or long loads and scaffolding. 11 – 33 125 7 8.5
Take particular care: 33 – 110 125 7.5 9.5 >> with all cranes and excavators 110 – 220 125 8.5 11 >> when dumping material using lift tray < 33 250 8 12 trucks and 33 – 110 250 8.5 12.5
>> fastening loads while standing on the 110 – 220 250 10 14 top of the load. 275 & 250 10 11 Do not work on top of a vehicle near 350 kV d.c. power lines. <33 375 9.5 20.5 WARNING 33 – 110 375 10 21 110 – 220 375 11 22.5 KEEP CLEAR OF 275 & 375 10.5 18 OVERHEAD ELECTRIC LINES 350 kV Unless permission of the owner of the electric line has been d.c. obtained, the distance between any overhead electric line and any part of this vehicle, equipment or load shall not encroach within 4 METRES of any conductor. See also: the Worksafe Publication Electrical
This is a requirement of the Electricity Regulations. Safety on Construction and Demolition sites. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/fact-sheet- SAFE WORKING DISTANCE TO BUILDINGS, electrical-safety-on-construction-and- SCAFFOLDING AND OTHER STRUCTURES demolition-sites No person is allowed to erect any building, scaffolding, or other structure at a distance Where you need to work at a distance closer in any direction from power line conductors than specified, the power line owner should of less than that shown in the table. be approached to have:
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>> the line removed or diverted The exceptions are: >> the power disconnected or >> if there is a danger of direct contact with >> the conductors insulated to provide added the power line protection along with a specified safe >> a fire starts approach distance. >> it is unlikely that anyone else will knows what has happened EXCAVATION AND CONSTRUCTION NEAR POWER SUPPORTS >> in these circumstances it may be necessary to leave the vehicle. Except with the prior written consent of the pole or stay wire owner, no building or similar When leaving the vehicle: structure shall be erected closer to power >> do not touch the vehicle and the ground supports than: at the same time >> jump off the vehicle so that no part of CIRCUIT VOLTAGE POLE TOWER the body is touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time 11kV to 33kV 2m 6m >> do not return to the vehicle. 33kV to 66kV 6m 9m NZECP 34: 2001 New Zealand > 66kV 8m 12m Source: Electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Except with the prior written consent of Safety Distances. the pole or stay wire owner, no person shall Bulletins at: the Worksafe NZ Home page. interfere with any land where the work: >> Is at a greater depth than 300mm 2.3.3 TESTING AND TAGGING POWER within 2.2m. CORDS AND APPLIANCES >> Is at a greater depth than 750mm The standard that applies in New Zealand is within 2.2m and 5m. AS/NZS 3760 In-service inspection and testing >> Creates an unstable batter of electrical equipment. (sloping sided hole). The Standard indicates: Spoil or other material is not to be deposited >> the frequency of testing given the type of under or near power lines, as this will reduce environment the power cord or appliance the safe distance to the conductor. is being used in >> the tests that need to be completed. CONTACT WITH POWER LINES When a vehicle comes into contact with The standard AS/NZS 3012 Electrical a power line, there is a high risk of serious Installations – Construction and Demolition injury or even fatal shock. Sites gives the requirements for testing and tagging appliances at construction If the vehicle being driven contacts power and demolition sites. lines, it is best for the driver to remain where they are until the power has been switched off. 2.3.4 INSTALLING UNDER-FLOOR Most rural power lines have an automatic reset INSTALLATION HZA (auto-reclose) which turns the power back Workers installing insulation under floors are on after a trip. This can fail so lines should be at risk of electric shock – for example if they assumed to be live. use a stapler and hit a power cable.
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2.3.5 GAS SAFETY IONISING RADIATION
Compressed gases are subject to the Ionising radiation is generated by radioactive Hazardous Substances and New Organisms materials, X-ray tubes, and particle Act 1996 and the Hazardous Substances accelerators. It is not detected by human (Compressed Gases) Regulations 2004. senses. Geiger counters are required to that are administered by the Environment detect radiation. Protection Authority (EPA) at: Ionising radiation has many practical uses www.epa.govt.nz in medicine, research, construction, and other areas. Refer to the HSNO section of this booklet for further information. Exposure to ionising radiation causes damage to living tissue, resulting in skin burns and 2.3.6 RADIATION SAFETY radiation sickness. In low doses it can cause ‘Radiation’ is defined as ‘a process in which cancer, tumours and genetic damage. In high energetic particles or waves travel through doses it can be fatal. a medium or space’. The field is split broadly OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE into two types: Radiation sources are used to measure density >> Ionizing radiation: So called because the and moisture content and, in some cases, to energy of the radiation is enough to ‘ionise’ analyse the components of various materials materials which means removing electrons found in industry. from atoms. >> Non ionising radiation: This form of Ionising radiation is used in the following radiation is mostly called electromagnetic settings: radiation (EMR) and refers to microwave >> Pulp and paper and timber industry: for radiation, visible light, lasers and infrared measuring the density of various liquids in radiation. The term is also applied to the pipelines, the levels of materials in digester low frequency electric and magnetic columns, the basis weight of paper, the fields found around cables and equipment density of manufactured board and the carrying mains electricity, although strictly density of green lumber. these are not a form of radiation. >> Steel industry: measuring the level of In both cases the energy radiates outwards molten steel in billet moulds, the control of in straight lines from the source. the zinc coating on steel plate, the density and mass of ironsand in pipelines and inline analysis of iron ore slurries. >> Civil Engineering: measuring the density and moisture content of base course in roading construction, and the density of asphalt. >> Mining: measuring density and ash content of coal.
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>> Oil and gas industry: gamma and neutron NON IONISING RADIATION sources are used to determine the density Non-ionising radiation (NIR) refers to (porosity) and hydrogen content of the any type of electromagnetic radiation or geological formations penetrated by the electromagnetic fields that do not carry well. Measurement of the hydrogen content enough energy to ionise atoms or molecules. can differentiate between oil, gas and Ultra-violet, visible light, and radiowaves water in the geological formations. are all NIR. Effects on the body vary widely, >> Food and drink industry: the detection depending on exactly what type of NIR a of foreign bodies in food, for example person is exposed to. the presence of stones amongst nuts for Ultraviolet radiation can cause photochemical chocolate manufacture; the detection of reactions which term can produce sunburn under filled cans in the brewing industry. and over many years may lead to skin cancer. >> Customs: x-ray sources are used to High exposures to Infra-red, microwaves check imported and exported goods for and radiowaves can cause heating. Lower prohibited items and substances. frequencies of radiowaves, and low frequency >> MAF: x-rays check for illegal material electric and magnetic fields, induce electrical in incoming passenger baggage and currents in the body. incoming mail. There is a range of standards and guidelines >> Agricultural sector: ionising radiation which recommend exposure limits for helps irrigation scheduling in orchards non-ionising radiations in order to ensure and vineyards. occupational health and safety. These include: >> Electronics industry: x-rays check circuit >> International Commission on Non- boards for faulty soldered joints. Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) >> Industrial radiography: checking the recommendations for ultra-violet radiation integrity of welds and structures. and low frequency electric and magnetic fields www.icnirp.org( ) PROTECTION >> NZS 2211.1 2004 Laser Safety Three principles apply: >> NZS 2772.1 1999 Radio-frequency Fields >> Time – reduce the time of exposure as far Part 1: – Maximum exposure levels 3 kHz – as possible. 300 GHz. >> Distance – keep as far away from the source as possible. Occupational exposures could occur in the following settings: >> Shielding – place something in front of the source to absorb the radiation. >> Radiofrequency (RF) plastic welders – the operator normally sits close to a powerful Example: source of RF fields. When x-rays are used to check welds >> UV lamps for sterilising and in some on pipelines, the energy of the X-rays is printing processes are very powerful. kept as low as possible, exposure time is >> Welding arcs – UV radiation. minimised and people stand far away. Recent >> Industrial lasers used for cutting; any laser advances using electronic detectors, instead in Class 3B or Class 4 should be carefully of photographic film, mean that exposure controlled to avoid injury. strengths and times can be shortened greatly.
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The National Radiation Laboratory (NRL) The guide covers: can provide advice on protection measures. >> types of machinery hazard Source: The National Radiation Laboratory. >> types of guard www.health.govt.nz/our-work/radiation-safety >> training and responsibilities >> isolation and lock out. 2.4 MACHINERY 2.4.1 STATIONARY COMPACTORS GL
Stationary compactors compress any kind of waste material to make better use of landfill and reduce transport costs. Several people have died from using stationary compactors. An Worksafe NZ guideline was published in 1999. It covers the crushing and shearing hazards that result from using the compactor and the bin lifter.
The guidelines require: SAFETY OF MACHINERY >> design and installation This standard AS 4024.1–2006 provides >> guarding comprehensive information for best practice >> operation and location of controls and is the principal design reference >> fail to safety (if there is a failure the for complying with the law. Designers, machine reverts to a safe state) manufacturers, suppliers and employers who use this standard are likely to be able >> appropriate operating and maintenance to demonstrate that they have taken all including lockout procedures practicable steps. >> training for operators The standard describes the basic principles >> regular inspections of conducting risk assessments including: >> limiting access safety signage. a. Risk analysis: Source: Stationary Compactors: Safety >> determining the limits of the machinery Requirements – New Zealand Guidelines for Refuse Collection, Processing and Disposal >> hazard identification Equipment at: >> risk estimation. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/ b. Risk assessment: information-guidance/all-guidance-items/ Relies on judgmental decisions using stationary-compactors-safety-requirements- systematic, qualitative and quantitative new-zealand-guidelines-for-refuse-collection- methods. These include a variety of ways processing-and-disposal-equipment of identifying hazards and assessing risks:
2.4.2 MACHINE GUARDING GL, W >> preliminary hazard analysis >> what-if method Moving machinery poses obvious hazards of injury. Worksafe NZ published a guideline >> failure mode and effects analysis in 1995 that lists nearly 40 types of hazard >> fault simulation for control systems associated with moving machinery. >> method for a systematic analysis of risks
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>> fault tree analysis >> when foreseeable human mistakes are >> DELPHI technique made during the intended use of the machine as a whole. >> hazard and operability study. The risk assessment might lead to different Safeguards selected must be appropriate risk levels, so it is necessary to establish the for the application in terms of: safety level to be adopted in proportion to >> probability of defeat or circumvention the risk. >> severity of harm The standard defines the classes of safety >> hindrance to the execution of the related parts according to the following required task. parameters: Operating procedures for the machinery >> severity of injury (reversible, must match the ability of personnel who use irreversible, fatal) it, and the user must be sufficiently informed >> rrequency and duration of exposure about risks. to the danger If PPE is recommended the need for it and >> possibility of avoiding danger. the training requirements for its use must The standard also defines the behaviour of be adequately described. the safety related parts of the control system Documentation about risk assessment in the event of a failure. The category is the must demonstrate the procedure that has classification of the safety related parts of been followed, and the results that have the machinery (SRPCS) in respect to their been achieved. resistance to faults and behaviour in fault condition. Fault is the inability to perform DESIGN PRINCIPLES a required function. This part of the standard covers the The categories range from Category B and elimination of hazards and reduction of Category 1–4, where Category 4 has the risks through design. Firstly, the design of highest standard of safety requirements. the controls, interlocks and guarding must Safety-related parts shall be designed so: ensure a system that fails to a safe state. >> A single fault in any of these parts does The management of the safety-related parts not lead to loss of the safety function. of the control systems includes design >> The single fault is detected at or before validation, the design of controls, interlocks the next demand upon the safety function. and guarding, emergency stop design, and If this is not possible, then an accumulation the prevention of unexpected start-up. of faults shall not lead to loss of the The standard specifies categories and safety function. describes the characteristics of their safety The designer must declare all the safety functions, including programmable systems relevant faults that were considered during for all machinery and for related protective the design, those not considered and the devices. ‘Safety’ here refers to: measures employed to allow exclusion, >> intended use the parameters relevant to reliability (and >> foreseeable misuse technology used. The design of the SRPCS >> when faults occur shall be validated. Performance of the SRPCS should be assessable by a third party.
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ERGONOMICS PRINCIPLES For some special machinery other protective The revision of the standard in 2006 includes measures, such as automatic safety restraint a new section on ergonomics. It provides to prevent gravity fall or anti-free fall device, information about how to use human body may be necessary. measurements and anthropometric data Source: Guidelines for guarding principles to calculate correct safety distances, sizes and general safety for machinery at: of guards and permissible openings. The www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- positioning of displays, control actuators guidance/all-guidance-items/safe-use-of- and signals, indication marking and actuation machinery are also explained. See also the webpage for the Worksafe NZ See: National Programme in this area for 2014–5: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/ergonomics-of- guidance/national-programmes/safe-use-of- machine-guarding machinery-in-manufacturing
MACHINERY LOCKOUT, ISOLATION Refer also to AS4024.1202–2006, Clause 4.11.10 AND ENERGY DISSIPATION During maintenance, a safeguard may have 2.4.3 GUARDING TRANSMISSIONS GL to be removed. A transmission includes: Where there is large machinery or plant, >> shafts maintenance personnel may have to enter >> wheels the machine or plant out of sight of other >> drums persons. A serious accident could occur if someone turns on the machine. Therefore >> pulleys formal, written lockout procedures must be >> gearing developed. (See section 3.13) >> chains, couplings and clutches
These formal written lockout procedures >> ropes, or other device which transfers must include machine specific procedures for power from a prime mover to a driven shutdown and re-energising equipment plus machine. training for affected employees. They must Transmission machinery must be securely be followed during servicing or maintenance, fenced. If it is in a position that makes it to avoid the unexpected start up of the ‘safe’ it does not need to be fenced. ‘Safe by machinery or the release of stored energy. position’ might mean that the transmission Opening or removing guards. The standard is high overhead, for example. sets out the steps to be taken when it is This is only maintained while nobody essential to open or remove the guard approaches the transmission for maintenance, whiles still retaining some movement of cleaning or lubrication. the dangerous parts of the machinery. This may be required during setting, Secure fencing means that there is no longer teaching, process changeover, fault–finding, a reasonable risk of injury, even when a worker cleaning or maintenance. is careless or inattentive.
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Guards must be substantial and fixed securely >> trapped key interlocks. in position. Openings in guards are permissible Further details and requirements are in so long as a person cannot reach the the standards series AS4024.1–2006. transmission. Inspection panels should not be removable. Source: Guidance notes for Electrical Interlocking for Safety in Industrial Guards may allow lubrication points to be Processes at: accessed. If it is not possible to do this and prevent access to the transmission, then www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- lubrication must be carried out with the guidance/all-guidance-items/electrical- machine at rest. interlocking-for-safety-in-industrial-processes- guidance-notes-for Source: Guidelines about guarding farm machinery and transmissions at: 2.4.5 WOODWORKING MACHINERY GL
www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- This 1995 guideline has detailed information guidance/all-guidance-items/safe-use-of- about the safety of a variety of woodworking tractors-on-farms equipment:
2.4.4 ELECTRICAL INTERLOCKING GN 1. Saws:
When a machine that can harm people >> log breakdown saws is operating it will need to be guarded. >> breast benches This includes: >> frame saws power presses, moulding machines, bottle >> band saws filling stations, and stamping machines. >> edgers The guards that prevent access will need >> circular saws to be opened or moved aside to unload the >> narrow blade band saws. work pieces and products. 2. Planers, shapers and sanders: When this happens the dangerous motion of the machine needs to automatically >> planing machines stop moving. >> vertical spindle moulding machines
Electrical interlocking can achieve this. >> mortising machines >> routing machines The guideline outlines the basic principles of electrical interlocking. It includes how the >> sanding machines. electrical components used must still produce A general section covers power tools, long a safe state if and when they fail. hair, loose clothing, cleaning and maintenance, The types of interlock covered in the guideline: training and supervision, responsibilities and machinery integrity, isolation and lockout. >> normally closed switch operated by a cam >> snap action switches Source: Guidelines for the safe use of woodworking machinery at: >> switch position monitoring >> emergency stop controls www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/getting-started/ >> micro-switches safety-around-machinery >> magnetic switches See also the Worksafe NZ general guideline >> proximity switches about machinery Safety: >> optical detection systems
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www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Regulations 5–6 refer to the ability of the guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/machinery Secretary for Labour to grant exemptions to controllers, designers, manufacturers and 2.5 PLANT AND EQUIPMENT suppliers and to equipment. The Secretary may impose conditions on the exemption. 2.5.1 THE PECPR REGULATIONS 1999 R For example, irrigation systems, that carry The PECPR regulations (“peckper”) apply to: water under pressure, have been exempted.
>> pressure equipment (timber treatment Regulation 7 makes it clear that the HSE pressure vessels, boilers) Act 1992 also applies and may impose >> cranes additional duties. >> passenger ropeways The PECPR PART 1 CONTROLLERS’ DUTIES regulations outline the way in which safety is provided for and a series of Codes apply The term ‘controller’ means a person who the framework to is the owner, lessee, sublessee, or bailee of equipment in a place of work (not being a >> boilers home occupied by the person). >> pressure equipment other than boilers The controller’s duties are explained in detail >> cranes in the regulations: >> passenger ropeways. >> Information (Regulation 8) needs to be The regulations have seven preliminary supplied (a) information about operating sections, six parts and two schedules. the equipment safely and (b) information Definitions are covered in Schedule I and establishing compliance with the reading the entire Schedule is recommended. requirements relating to design, design To see what is covered and what is not verification, manufacture, and fabrication covered, look at Schedule 2. Car engines and inspection. The information must be kept animal powered machinery are exempt. at the workplace where the equipment is What the design verifiers and inspectors have located and must be readily available. to do must be specified by the designer. >> Accident notification (Regulation 9) Notify the Secretary of accidents and provide a PRELIMINARY SECTIONS written report within seven days. Regulations 1–4 of the PECPR regulations >> Operation (Regulation 10) The equipment describe the title, interpretation and define must be operated safely, within its limits the meaning of ‘controller’ and ‘equipment’. and maintained in a safe condition. It must have a current certificate of inspection. KEY PROCESS OF THE PECPR REGULATIONS: >> Repairs and alterations (Regulation 11) repairs and alterations are done according >> design for safety to the PECPR Regulations. >> designs are checked by a design verifier >> manufacture to be safe PART 2 UNSAFE EQUIPMENT >> inspection to ensure that it has been Certain requirements pertain to equipment manufactured to be safe that is or becomes unsafe: >> supported by documents >> Employees must look out for equipment >> operated safely and there is adequate and if it becomes unsafe, notify the information to allow that. controller (Regulation 12).
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>> Investigate (Regulation 13). If the controller >> If fabrication inspection requirements are becomes aware that the equipment may be specified in the design, that the inspection unsafe, they must investigate the nature of is carried out by an equipment inspector the problem, the level of expertise required holding an appropriate qualification and to deal with it and the degree of harm likely at the inspection points specified by the to arise. If the equipment is deemed unsafe designer. it must be withdrawn from service, marked >> An equipment inspector who carries as unsafe, recorded, retuned to service only out an inspection prepares and hands when the controller is satisfied it is safe, over a report. repairs alterations and adjustments are >> If designed overseas, the design was in done in accordance with the regulations, accordance with the equivalent of the and a record is kept of the testing required. New Zealand Regulations. >> Notify a fault to the designer and Suppliers must take all practicable steps manufacturer if the controller believes a to ensure that (Regulation 20): type fault has occurred (Regulation 14). >> the manufacturer complied with >> The manufacturer determines if there Regulation 19. is a type fault and if so to withdraw the equipment. (Regulation 15). When importing equipment manufactured overseas ensure: PART 3 DESIGNERS, MANUFACTURERS –– it has been designed, design verified, AND SUPPLIERS manufactured, and inspected to Regulations 16–17 indicate that the HSE standards that are equivalent to those Regulations 1995 apply and that the Secretary imposed by regulations 18 and 19 and of Labour can designate certain documents as –– it has not already exceeded its relevant standards. designated design life. Designers must (Regulation 18): Regulation 21 covers the provision of >> Design equipment so it is safe – and specify information about the safe use of the its hazard level, its design life, its design equipment and the certifications required. verification requirements, its manufacturing requirements and its fabrication inspection PART 4 ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS: requirements, taking into account the >> The Secretary for Labour can acknowledge New Zealand seismic environment. documents as standards (Regulation 22).
Manufacturers must ensure that >> The Secretary can grant recognition to (Regulation 19): inspection bodies and qualification issuing >> If the equipment was designed in bodies (Regulation 23). New Zealand, the designer complied >> Functions and recognition of Inspection with the regulations; the equipment is bodies (Regulations 24–25). manufactured according to the verified >> The functions of design verifiers and design any material alterations are checked equipment inspectors (Regulations 26–27). with the designer first and if necessary, >> When a Controller is deemed to have an verified by a design verifier. acceptable quality management system (Regulation 28).
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>> The functions and recognition of Refer to a specialist for further advice. qualification issuing agencies Source: Approved Code of Practice for the (Regulation 29). Design, Safe Operation, Maintenance and Source: Health and Safety in Employment Servicing of Boilers at: (Pressure Equipment, Cranes, and Passenger www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Ropeways) Regulations 1999 at: guidance/all-guidance-items/acop-boilers www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/ public/1999/0128/latest/DLM284452. 2.5.3 PRESSURE EQUIPMENT ACOP html?search=ts_regulation_ (OTHER THAN BOILERS) pressure+equipment_resel&p=1&sr=1 The Pressure Equipment (Excluding Boilers) – Approved Code of Practice applies the ACOP 2.5.2 BOILERS framework of the PECPR Regulations 1999 Raising steam has been part of the industrial to compressors, fired heaters, gas turbines, and commercial scene since the early 1800’s. piping components, pressure fittings, pressure It is a highly developed, mature technology. piping, pressure vessels, pumps, steam engines and steam turbines. Of all Worksafe NZ’s ACOPs, this is probably the most complex because of the complexity Pressure fittings are: of the equipment used, its safety critical >> fittings which are to contain gases or nature and the technical safeguards required liquids at pressures above 50kPa or steam to prevent boilers malfunctioning. >> fittings like pressure gauges, safety devices, The use of ‘private’ language is extensive – valves and other items require to ensure mastering the vocabulary is difficult. the safety of the overall installation. No glossary could cover it all. Pressure piping is: Most users of this COP will be people whose >> an assembly of piping components which working life revolves around boilers. conveys fluid or transmits a fluid pressure Boiler malfunctions are uncommon. for gases or liquids at pressures over 50kPa However, as the Code states: or steam >> pressure relief valves Overheating as a result of low water is the most common cause of boiler damage or >> supports for pressure piping required explosions, usually a result of the malfunction to maintain safety. of the automatic controls. Source: The Approved Code of Practice for The main reasons for these incidents has Pressure Equipment (excluding boilers) is been shown to be: undergoing revision. It is at: >> build-up of scale www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- >> inadequate supervision guidance/all-guidance-items/acop-pressure- equipment-excluding-boilers >> isolation of float control chambers and safety controls >> lack of maintenance of controls and alarms and >> lack of testing of controls and alarms.
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2.5.4 CRANES ACOP >> Sections 4–9 cover requirements for:
The Approved Code of Practice for Cranes is >> people operating or working with cranes now in its third edition. >> designers
It covers the design, manufacture, supply, >> design Verifiers inspection, certification, operation, >> manufacturers maintenance, alteration and repair of a variety >> suppliers and importers of cranes. >> functions of equipment inspectors and The ACOP supports the requirements of inspection bodies the PECPR Regulations 1999 and the HSE >> sections 10–18 provide detailed safety Regulations 1995. information about the various types The ACOP covers all types of crane, including of crane. monorails and equipment used as a crane, and Source: Approved Code of Practice for crane-lifted platforms. Cranes at:
It also covers the following equipment when www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- being used as a crane: guidance/all-guidance-items/acop-cranes >> forklift trucks 2.5.5 PASSENGER ROPEWAYS ACOP >> material handlers >> tele-handlers This 1998 Code, in 122 pages, covers several sorts of aerial and surface ropeways. These are >> earthmoving and forestry equipment. almost entirely to do with skiing operations: There is an eight page glossary that is Aerial Ropeways: a helpful starting place for this topic >> fixed grip chairlifts The Regulations cover: >> detachable chair lifts >> the duties of controllers regarding >> gondola lifts information about the equipment, accident notification and its safe operation and repair >> jig back tramways. >> what should happens if equipment Surface ropeways: becomes unsafe >> t-bar lifts >> duties of designers, manufacturers >> platter lifts and suppliers >> rope tows. >> the inspection and certification regime Three stages are covered by the Code: >> certification requirements. >> design and construction (design, design Section three of the ACOP covers the approval, manufacturing, erection, day–to-day operation of the crane: commissioning) >> routine checking >> maintenance and inspection >> inspection and certification >> day to day operation. >> alterations and repairs The Code reflects the PECPR Regulations, >> maintenance in its Section 2. >> accident notification The Code is in eight sections: >> designated design life >> Section 3: General technical requirements.
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>> Section 4: Chair Lifts/Gondolas. Trainers may be registered, but this is >> Section 5: T-Bar/Platter lifts. not mandatory. >> Section 6: Surface ropeways with Maintenance of forklifts and any attached intermediate supports. equipment must be carried out.
>> Section 7: Surface ropeways without After an operator has a certificate from a intermediate supports. training course, their employer is required >> Section 8: Reversible aerial passenger to issue a certificate from the company ropeways. authorising the operator to operate a forklift.
To elaborate further would reproduce the Source: The Approved Code of Practice for long lists of topics covered in the Code. Training Operators and Instructors of Powered Industrial Lift Trucks at: www.business.govt.nz/ Source: Approved Code of Practice for worksafe/information-guidance/all-guidance- Passenger Ropeways in New Zealand at: items/acop-forklifts www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/acop-passenger- 2.5.7 PIPELINES R, GL ropeways A pipeline generally carries a hazardous substance (gas or liquid) over long distances, 2.5.6 FORKLIFT SAFETY ACOP generally under pressure. The potential for The Approved Code of Practice for harm is obvious. Training Operators and Instructors of The guidelines for the safe operation of Powered Industrial Lift Trucks covers pipelines follow the outline of the HSE forklift operator training. (Pipelines) Regulations 1999. They require It is also suitable for training the operators of: a Certificate of Fitness for a pipeline to be >> order pickers issued by a certifying authority recognised >> side loaders by the Secretary for Labour.
>> reach trucks BASIC DUTIES: >> pallet trucks The owner of the pipeline is required to have a >> platform trucks certificate before the pipeline can be operated. >> straddle trucks and carriers The Certifying Authority must: >> lateral stacking trucks >> inspect the pipeline and the associated >> tele-handlers (when used with forklift equipment like attachments). >> issue a Certificate of Fitness
Forklift operators must have a certificate >> impose limitations when the pipeline no from attending an instruction course. longer complies with the certificate >> ensure the certification is in accordance The course instructors must also meet certain with an acceptable Code or Standard. criteria that is described in the ACOP. >> specify the expiry date which is a maximum A standard syllabus for the training course is of five years. prescribed in the ACOP, and employers must provide additional training if needed (for If the pipeline goes beyond its expiry date, example, if the forklift has any attachments). sustains damage, shows signs of deterioration, is modified or replaced, the Certifying Authority can impose conditions and limitations on its operation.
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GUIDELINES FOR A CERTIFICATE OF >> Maintenance – Pipeline integrity; Inspection FITNESS FOR HIGH-PRESSURE GAS AND and assessment; Coatings maintenance; LIQUIDS TRANSMISSION PIPELINES Pipewall defect assessment; Cathodic These guidelines cover existing and protection system Inspection; Pressure new pipelines. control and protective equipment; Pig Trap maintenance; Casing maintenance; For existing pipelines the certification Pipeline repairs. requirements are: >> Mitigation of corrosion – Rate of >> what a pipeline is (based on what it is degradation; Internal and external carrying and where it is) and what it is not. corrosion prevention; External anti- The latter includes domestic gas supply, corrosion Coatings. offshore pipelines and water pipes >> suggests a range of standards the Pipeline Source: Guidelines for a Certificate of could conform to Fitness for High-Pressure Gas and Liquids Transmission Pipelines at: >> design review >> construction verification www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/transmission- >> pressure testing pipelines-guidelines-for-a-certificate-of- >> operation review fitness-for-high-pressure-gas-and-liquids >> maintenance review >> pump stations 2.6 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE >> safety systems review. EQUIPMENT
For new pipelines: 2.6.1 GENERAL INTRODUCTION
>> Design – threat assessment; design Personal protective equipment (PPE) is process; the route; security from generally an expensive, undesirable option, interference; control and management; to be used only when essential. materials to be used; stations. Controlling hazards at the source through >> Construction – Safety plan for the elimination and isolation must, by law, be construction phase; survey; Component explored first. handling; Inspection; Making bends; Wearing PPE is often unpleasant (this applies Weld quality; other joints; System controls; particularly to respiratory protection) and location; Trench Construction; Installation expensive due to the cleaning, maintenance in the trench; etc. and replacement required to maintain PPE >> Inspection, testing, commissioning – in a functional and effective condition. Inspection and test plan procedures; To be effective most PPE must be: Pressure testing; Records; Commissioning. >> selected to fit properly >> Operation – Normal operating procedures; Safety and Operating plan; Emergency >> fitted correctly Plans; Venting and purging procedures; >> supported by training Changes in operating conditions; >> regularly cleaned, maintained and replaced. Operations reviews.
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2.6.2 HARD HATS Source: Hard hats should comply with the relevant standard: A/NZS: 1801:1997. Hard hats are designed to protect against shock and penetration (things dropping), 2.6.3 GOGGLES AND FACE SHIELDS but also electricity and a degree of heat. Eye protection comes in many varieties They work by holding the outer shell of the (goggles, glasses and face shields) and should hat away from the head by at least 25–32mm be selected for the task and context. which provides a zone into which the shell can move and decelerate before the head is struck. Goggles, glasses and face shields are designed to protect against: Hard hats should be replaced when: >> ultraviolet radiation (glasses, welding >> they show any signs of damage (crack, shields) hole, melting) >> glare to prevent ocular fatigue >> after a severe enough knock >> glare from artificial light to improve vision >> after prolonged exposure to sunlight for in low light example being stored on the rear shelf >> glare from water and shiny surfaces in a car (polarising sunglasses) >> after contact with certain chemicals – paint >> infrared radiation when working with thinners, some paints, solvent marker pens hot metals >> when the surface begins to fade, chalk >> enhance contrast in low light or craze >> splashes >> if the harness can’t be replaced. >> chemicals The integrity of the harness is crucial to safety. >> wind. Therefore, the harness should be replaced if it frays, cracks or breaks. Three categories of impact resistance are prescribed: Training is needed to make sure employees understand this and can adjust the strap for >> low intensity (hammering and chipping) a secure fit. >> medium intensity (when using a grinder)
Wear may be accelerated if the hard hat is >> high intensity (grinding wheel flies apart). treated casually. For example throwing it into Face shields prevent the most common eye a car boot may cause damage if it contacts injury that occurs when a grinding wheel sharp points. disintegrates. Goggles are not suitable. Chin straps are required when an employee If there is any doubt about the level of works at a height. A hard hat falling and hitting protection required, or what equipment someone would be an irony! to select, a specialist should be consulted. Source: Refer to the AS/NZS 1337 and 1336 series.
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2.6.4 REFLECTIVE VESTS
There are numerous anecdotes about loose fitting reflective vests being caught on things. While the majority of these incidents are probably benign, they signal the potential for a major problem.
If a vest was caught on a critical control while an operator was getting into the seat in a backhoe, for example, the operator’s reaction time might not be quick enough to prevent the control being actuated and the resulting uncontrolled action causing damage.
Source: AS/NZS 1906.4: 2010.
2.6.5 GLOVES
Gloves can give good protection or can make things worse for hand health. The latter will occur when chemicals, water or grit get inside the glove.
Floppy gloves are dangerous near machinery, for obvious reasons.
The AS/NZ Standard 2161.3:2005 provides for gloves to protect against: >> abrasions >> blade cuts >> tears and >> punctures.
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The table helps inform how to select gloves before consulting a manufacturer’s catalogue.
PROTECTION AGAINST … STATUS SELECTION CORRECT USE COMMENT
Mechanical Useful Should be Few gloves Loose fitting or abrasion and cuts. selected to protect against frayed gloves may fit well. mechanical be dangerous near abrasion and machinery. chemicals.
Chemicals – Solid, Gloves should The need to Correct donning Few gloves will resist liquid, solvents, be used only as select a glove and doffing a mixture of chemicals. toxic chemicals. a last resort1. material that is required Replacement frequency will resist the to prevent may make the cost penetration of contamination prohibitive*2. the chemical is of the glove clear. Specialist interior. advice will be needed.
Heat and cold Insulation can often be applied to the items that are Holes can lead to to be handled. The handling time and the temperature immediate danger of the handled objects will determine the insulation from hot items. properties required
Water Wet hands inside gloves (without any additional chemical exposure) can lead to serious skin effects.
Vibration Efficacy Padding may make them suitable Extra muscle forces questionable only for gripping vibrating tools needed when using gloves (up to 30% increase) may make them more tiring to use.
Infection control A standard A variety may be required to protect against latex sensitivity – hygiene Which is a serious issue. practice.
Mixed reasons Very few gloves will protect against mechanical abrasion and chemicals. Double gloving may be the only solution.
COMMENTS 1. Gloves can worsen skin effects when chemicals penetrate them.
2. The frequency of replacement required for effective protection can be very high.
3. Check the glove’s performance as it is being worn. If the wearer is allergic to the glove material or to any substances that get trapped in it, the choice will need to be re-thought.
ALL DAY USE OF GLOVES Expecting users to wear gloves all day may be unrealistic as trapped sweat may lead to problems. While many gloves are permeable to moisture, the capacity to transfer water may be exceeded if the duration of wearing, the work rate, or the handling of hot objects are excessive.
Source: AS/NZ Standard 2161.3:2005
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2.6.6 SAFETY BOOTS AND SHOES
Safety footwear should be chosen after an analysis of the protection required.
The standard indicates that safety boots and shoes can provide protection against: >> falling, cutting and rolling objects >> chemicals, heat and molten metals and cold >> penetration of sole or uppers >> water >> friction or pressure blistering >> fuel oil >> explosions and electricity >> slipping.
The manufacturer’s data sheet should indicate the protection an item offers and the item should carry this information in the form of a letter, as designated in AS/NZS 2210.1 – 2010.
Source: Refer to the AS/NZS 2210 standard series. For protection against cuts from chainsaws, see ISO 17249:2004 : Safety footwear with resistance to chain saw cutting.
2.6.7 RESPIRATORY PROTECTION GL
Respiratory protection is to either protect the lungs against toxic contaminants or provide clean air and/or oxygen where there is none. Although they are all called ‘respirators’, these two purposes require different types of device. There are three basic types: air purifying respirators (APR), supplied air respirators (SAR) and self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Respiratory Protection Table
TYPE TO PROTECT DUSTS, FUMES, MISTS GASES AND SOLVENT LACK OF AND FIBRES VAPOURS OXYGEN AGAINST
Particulate Three levels of protection Not suitable, though are available: P1, P2 and some models are Respirator Air purifying P3. See below, Note 1 designed to protect filter type against both. Not respirators Gas Not suitable, though Cartridges are available Suitable APR some models are for different gases. Respirator designed to protect See below Note 2. against both
Supplied Air High level of protection High level of protection – Suitable SAR Respirator – may be overkill may be overkill
Self Contained High level of protection High level of protection – Suitable SCBA Breathing – may be overkill may be overkill Apparatus
NOTE 1: P1 filters: for mechanically generated dusts from sanding, grinding, mining, etc
P2 filters: for thermally generated contaminants in smelting or welding, where metallic fumes produced.
P3 filters: high-efficiency filters used with a full face piece, which permits a very effective seal on the face to prevent highly toxic or irritant contaminants leaking into the respirator. This type of device is used when handling highly toxic dusts or powders, like organophosphate insecticides and radionuclides.
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NOTE 2: An APR may consist of: Cartridges are available for P2 and P3 >> papier-mâché type mask respirators for: >> half face-piece mask 1. organic vapours >> full face-piece mask 2. acid gases – chlorine, hydrogen sulphide >> head covering. hydrogen cyanide and sulphur dioxide The order of these masks as listed is 3. combinations of 1 and 2 how they differ in their ability to provide a tight seal to the face and as a result the 4. ammonia protection provided. 5. nitrous oxide 2. Supplied Air Respirators (SAR) 6. highly volatile pesticides An air line delivers clean air from outside 7. mercury the contaminated area to a respirator worn 8. volatile solvents. on the face.
1. Air Purifying Respirators (APR) 3. Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) These are filtering devices that remove one of the following: Compressed air bottles are worn on the user’s >> dusts back and a hose feeds the air to a mask held on the face. >> gases
>> organic vapours SELECTING, FIT TESTING AND TRAINING >> solvents. Using respirators properly requires discipline in: >> selecting the right one for the task >> selecting the right size for the person’s face >> fit testing – to see that a proper seal can be obtained between the face of the wearer >> training – including the wearer knowing how to put on and remove the respirator >> cleaning, maintaining and storing Disposable respirator (for Half-face respirator low to medium dust levels) (for low to medium the respirator. dust levels) CAUTION – NEED FOR MEDICAL ASSESSMENTS For the reasons below, people who must use a respirator routinely must be given the opportunity for a full medical assessment, particularly if the work being performed requires any effort: >> impaired lung function Full-face respirator Full-face powered (for medium dust levels respirator (for very high >> susceptible to asthma or people with facial dust levels) hair/ beards)
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>> heart disease or anaemia >> how to adjust and fit the HP >> epilepsy >> how to clean and disinfect the HP and >> glasses or contact lenses can restrict the any maintenance requirements types of respirator that can be worn >> the consequences of not wearing the >> claustrophobia. HP even for a few minutes each day.
Face structure or facial hair may prevent a Employees should wear HP before entering good seal. If this is the case, carefully taken noisy areas. Break time in quiet areas will be decisions about whether or not the employee needed when HP must be taken off. can continue in the work will be required. SAFE USE OF HEARING PROTECTION Sources: Guideline: A Guide to Respiratory Damaged or worn ear protectors are ineffective. Protection at: Earmuff cushions should be replaced when they www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- are worn out (6 monthly). When the clamping guidance/all-guidance-items/respiratory- force diminishes it is time to replace the whole protection-a-guide-to protector (Usually 12 months).
HP needs to be cleaned, and stored properly 2.6.8 HEARING PROTECTION GL to retain its effectiveness. It may also need to Reduction of noise at its source is preferred. be disinfected between uses or users. In all situations hearing protection (HP) Additional Note: should be regarded as a last resort and may be ineffective in many situations. Only where Not wearing HP for part of the day reduces noise cannot be eliminated or isolated should its effectiveness markedly. HP be used. >> Removing a 30db protector for five minutes in six hours is the same as if the SELECTION hearing protector was only able to give 18 HP will be required whenever a person is dB protection. exposed to: >> If the seal against the skin is poor, for >> an average noise level of over 85 decibels example if the worker is wearing glasses, (dB) for eight hours or the protection provided may drop by >> a peak noise level of 140 dB. several dB. Different classes of HP are available, and the >> Earplugs have to be fitted properly or they class selected must protect against the level don’t work. of noise, as follows: >> Overprotection (using the next class up) may result in unacceptable interference CLASS 1 2 3 4 5 with regular communication. Highest 90 95 100 105 110 noise level >> Stereo headphones only increase noise exposure.
NOTES: Source: Selection and Use of Hearing Either earmuffs or earplugs are acceptable, as Protectors at: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/ long as they are chosen from the right class. information-guidance/all-guidance-items/ Employees using HP must be informed about: hearing-protectors-selection-and-use-of
Refer to the AS/NZS 1269/1270 series refer.
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2.6.9 PPE AND THE LABOUR HIRE SECTOR G If this option is taken the hiring agency needs to ensure that the equipment is appropriate, THE LABOUR HIRE AGENCY fits properly, that the temporary worker knows The Labour Hire agency is responsible for how to use it, it is clean and maintained. providing, making accessible to and ensuring that temporary workers use personal It is unlawful for the hiring agency to protective clothing and equipment. discriminate on the grounds that a temporary worker has chosen or not chosen to provide This is required when it is not practicable to their own protective clothing. eliminate or isolate a significant hazard to which the temp. continues to be exposed [s 10(2)]. It is also unlawful to create an impression that providing their own protective clothing The hiring agency should obtain information is a precondition of employment. Temporary from the client about the hazards and workers who choose to provide their own control mechanisms in the client’s workplace protective clothing relieve the hiring agency to confirm: of the responsibility to supply that protective >> that it is not practicable to eliminate or clothing. The hiring agency continues to isolate one or more significant hazards have other obligations in this situation: >> that the temporary worker may be exposed >> Demonstrate that the temporary worker to this significant hazard(s) chose to provide their own protective >> the likelihood that harm to the temporary clothing without any coercion or worker can be minimised by providing inducement from the agency. protective clothing and equipment >> Be satisfied that the protective clothing >> the type of protective clothing and provided by the temporary worker is equipment required. suitable for the purpose.
The Act imposes a duty on employers to >> The temporary worker can change their provide, make accessible to and ensure the mind, after giving the agency reasonable use by the employees of suitable clothing notice, and choose that the agency and equipment to protect them from harm. provides the protective clothing. (s10(2)(b) >> The Agency remains responsible for providing PPE. This dispensation applies Under section 10(3), an employer does not only to protective clothing. comply with that duty by simply paying an allowance or extra salary or by requiring the >> The agency remains responsible for employees to provide their own protective ensuring the temporary worker uses the clothing as a precondition of employment. protective clothing.
The agency is responsible for determining the Source: Guideline for the On-Hire industry at: need to provide or make accessible protective www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- clothing and equipment. guidance/all-guidance-items/on-hire-industry- health-and-safety-guidelines-for-the THE TEMPORARY WORKER: The HSE Act acknowledges that the temporary worker may genuinely prefer their own protective clothing for reasons of comfort or convenience.
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2.7 YOUTH AT WORK The protective gear supplied must be appropriate to the hazard and must fit 2.7.1 CHILDREN IN THE WORKPLACE correctly. Family members may visit businesses and Students must also be instructed in its staff may ask if it’s possible for their children correct use. to come into work during school holidays or on work experience. If PPE is provided it must be appropriately sanitised after use so that it doesn’t become Children visiting workplaces must be safe. a health hazard. Consider restricting them to a safe area where there are no hazards. Any hazards should be CHILDREN ON FARMS clearly explained to your staff and the children. Farms are unique environments where families work, live and play. This is not found on such a WORK EXPERIENCE large scale in any other industry or workplace. Many schools and training facilities value opportunities for students to gain hands-on It raises unique challenges that other business experience. In such cases students must be operators don’t have. treated as if they were employees. Farm owners and operators should already That includes explaining what hazards exist, have identified existing hazards. how they are controlled, actively managing The hazards for children are different in the work experience to avoid any exposure view of a child’s size, strength, perspective to significant hazards, and providing any and judgement. necessary PPE. Devising hazard controls must therefore Schools and training facilities may provide include how this could affect children. some PPE or meet all or part of the cost. The Apart from listing the hazards on a farm and PPE need not be new, but must be effective. telling children about them, the way in which Disposable items such as earplugs and dust children are engaged with the issue should masks must not be reused. be considered.
Options: >> Have no go areas because some areas on farms are simply too dangerous for children to be regardless of what instruction may have been given. >> Get the kids involved in safety ‘eye spy’. >> Discuss things with them. >> Get kids to make safety posters. >> Spend time training them by showing and then getting them to show you how to do tasks safely. >> Listen to children. >> Instead of a ‘treasure hunt’, have a ‘hazard hunt’.
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2.8 SECTOR SUMMARIES to standards given in a series of Australian Standards or NZQA Unit Standards. 2.8.1 OCCUPATIONAL DIVING GL, F Some types of occupational diving have Occupational diving can occur in a variety a range of certification. For example, of categories: construction divers may be certificated to >> construction perform work only to 30 metres and any >> aquaculture deeper requires further training.
>> scientific As well as describing certification and medical >> film/photography clearance, the Guideline for Occupational >> recreational Diving describes: >> tourism. >> the safe conduct of diving >> requirements for the provision of a Diving is a physically demanding activity, recompression chamber often conducted in remote locations and under difficult conditions. >> diving at increased altitude >> travel to altitude following diving Occupational divers must, therefore, be physically and mentally strong and healthy. >> skin diving >> highly technical diving Occupational diving involves breathing gas under increased pressures and there are >> tourism diving. specific medical requirements. Source: Guidelines for Occupational Diving, Providers of training for divers must advise 2004 at: prospective students of the need for diving www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- professionals in New Zealand to hold a guidance/all-guidance-items/guidelines-for- Certificate of Competence. Before starting occupational-diving entry level training, prospective students intending on a career as a diver must obtain 2.8.2 PETROLEUM an occupational diver medical clearance from Health and Safety regarding petroleum can the Diving Hyperbaric Medicine Services be divided into the two sections of exploration in Auckland. (drilling) and extraction (production).
Details of the requirements for a medical These activities are carried out in both certificate and how to apply are in a Guideline. onshore and offshore environments Medical certificates must be renewed every throughout New Zealand. 12 months. A Certificate of Competence is issued by Worksafe NZ. It is valid for five High Risk activities include: years provided the diver is medically fit to >> Drilling Installations, drill ships or semi- dive. It can only be issued if there is a medical submersible drilling rigs. certificate that is less than six months old. An >> Offshore floating installations (FPSOs) application form is provided in the Guideline. some 40 kilometres from land.
Each category of occupational diving requires >> Fixed installations attached to the sea bed. a Certificate of Competence. The certificate is >> Onshore production stations for gas and issued only with evidence of adequate training liquid processing.
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PETROLEUM HAZARDS: 2.9 SERIAL KILLERS >> highly flammable A number of topics in this section must be >> usually released in vapour (gas) or liquid seen as serial killers. This means that a death at high pressure or serious injury occurs from time to time. The >> vapours are often vented or flared frequency of the fatalities is not usually very >> heat radiation high (perhaps about one every 2 to 5 years, >> usually produced in large quantities with the exception of Quad bikes) but the point is that they occur regularly and for the >> uncontrolled release will allow contact same set of causes. with sources of ignition >> can be explosive 1. Confined spaces
>> gas can form large clouds before ignition A person enters a confined space which lacks prior to explosion. oxygen or where the air is contaminated or toxic. The person collapses. Other people may OFFSHORE INSTALLATIONS rush in to rescue the person and collapse. As Offshore installations are required to prepare many as six people have died in this way in an installation safety case in which the single instances. The prior identification of operation is described, hazards are identified confined spaces, checking they are safe and and control measures are documented. and a safe system of work are required. For more information refer to the HSNO booklet in this folder. 2. Working at heights A person falls due to lack of appropriate fall ONSHORE INSTALLATIONS protection. Worksafe has a Guideline. These installations can vary from a drilling installation or rig to a highly complex gas 3. Hot work on tanks and drums treatment plant refining petroleum into other A person welds or heats a metal tank or drum. petrochemicals. Refer to the HSNO booklet It explodes and the person is killed or maimed. in this folder. Usually this happens because it is thought that all the flammable substances have been removed from the tank/drum when they have not. Often a waxy solid has remained and emitted explosive substances when heated. A Worksafe guideline refers.
4. Lockouts
People die when machinery starts up unexpectedly because it has not been locked out (isolated) correctly. Correct procedures properly supervised are required, as described in a Worksafe Guideline.
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5. Quad bikes
Quad bikes are responsible for more than a few deaths every 5 years.
6. Silos
Silos are dangerous for the reasons set out earlier. Typically, a person enters the silo to be engulfed or to collapse from lack of oxygen.
7. Tyre fitting.
A person fitting a tyre onto a truck rim omits to put the tyre/rim assembly into a safety cage. The tyre ring is flung off the rim as the tyre inflates – perhaps due to incorrect fitting, and a person is killed.
These deaths and serious injuries may occur for a variety of reasons: >> Information: It seems that, as new people move into the workforce (a school leaver begins work as a tyre fitter for example), there is a failure to inform, educate and warn. >> Vigilance: Eg A confined space is not identified as such. >> Short cuts: Eg A person thinks that they do not need to take the precautions or that they do not have enough time to take them. >> Diligence: Procedures are not adhered to carefully enough. (A short cut is taken, but in ignorance.) >> Ignorance: The hazards are not appreciated. >> Pricing: A contract for work has been offered and accepted. It has not included enough to cover the time and equipment needed to provide for safety and health.
More serial killers are listed in the next section on Occupational Health.
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OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH TOOLS
IN THIS SECTION: 3.1 Occupational health 3.8 Physical environmental in general hazards 3.2 Monitoring 3.9 Occupational Diseases 3.3 Clean air – respiratory health3.10 Skin diseases and skin 3.4 Chemical safety cancers 3.5 Work related 3.11 Other occupational health musculoskeletal disorders publications 3.6 Ergonomics 3.12 Delayed killers, serial killers and cumulative harm 3.7 Psychosocial factors
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3.1 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN GENERAL 3.1.1 PROMOTING OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PRACTICE
TYPE OF PROBLEM EXAMPLES CAUSES
An acute physical injury A person loses a finger in an Maintenance not done unguarded machine Cleaning omissions A person slips on a wet floor.
An occupational disease which Solvent neuro-toxicity. Lack of control of solvent is attributable to a workplace vapour at source Lepto-spirosis. exposure Lack of engineering controls and use of PPE
A common disease, a fraction The percentage of heart disease, Work pressures of which is attributable to depression or musculo-skeletal No sense of personal control workplace experiences disorders attributable to workplace experiences Low support at work
Relationships etc
Occupational health poses a slightly different set of challenges compared to safety. To appreciate why, realize that there are three broad sorts of work related health and safety problems:
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DEALS WITH THE SECOND AND THIRD CATEGORIES The term ‘psychosocial’ (a definition is just below, but see also section 6 of this booklet), is used for the third category.
COMPARING INJURY AND OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE Occupational injury is often very dramatic – something happens suddenly, there is blood and noise and a clear cause such as a spinning circular saw or an electric arc flash. The affected person usually gets lots of sympathy, even if they made a mistake.
Occupational illness is not usually dramatic. There are frequently no visible signs and even an occupational physician may miss evidence. An example is solvent induced neurotoxicity where signs resulting from solvent absorption may be interpreted as a personality disorder.
The causative agent is frequently invisible and may not be considered as a factor in the person’s demise or condition.
Worst of all there is often little empathy in co-workers and possibly the opposite. An example is the isolation of a person that may result from workplace bullying.
Harassment may occur when fellow employees can’t ‘see’ any reason for lost productivity. They may get a cold shoulder from the employer and an ACC claim is often denied.
LONG TERM AND LATENCY Occupational health poses the issue of latency – where a disease develops some time after exposure. Examples are asbestosis and mesothelioma (two lung diseases related to asbestos exposure which have a long latency), and occupational asthma and allergic reactions – which have a shorter latency.
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PERSONAL FACTORS The aide-memoir on pages 72 and 73 Personal factors can play a role in disease sets out this classification. It is one way of development. Examples: systematizing thought about occupational health. An A3 version of this tool is posted >> in a timber treatment plant a person will along with this booklet. be more at risk if they are in the habit of touching their mouth with their hands 3.1.3 RISK ASSESSMENT >> a welder keeping his/her head in the The Aide-Memoir makes no mention of risk welding plume assessment. That is the employer’s business. >> a loader out at a sawmill does not use the roller stand provided. RISK ASSESSMENT – CLEAN AIR (SECTION 3) Toxic effects will depend on: PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS >> the nature of the air contaminant What does this term mean? If ‘Psycho’ means >> its concentration in the air Mind and ‘Social’ refers to Society we have ‘mind in society’. This reflects the idea that >> routes of entry (skin, mouth, breathing) how we behave towards each other can >> the frequency and length of exposure be important in determining outcomes. >> the organs it may target This idea is, of course, as old as history. >> its half life in the body and Clear demonstrations of the importance of >> individual susceptibility. psychosocial factors are found in Sections 5 and 7 in this booklet. Eg: For these reasons, assessing risk can be >> Managing acute low back pain – where very complicated. psychosocial factors are the most Reference to an industrial hygiene consultant important barriers to recovery. How will often be required early on. Air monitoring, managers behave towards affected people a carefully taken history, observation of can speed the return to work. the process and toxicological input may >> Stress – where congenial relationships can all be required. moderate the effects of work pressure. RISK ASSESSMENT – ERGONOMICS >> Bullying – all about the quality of (SECTIONS 5 & 6) workplace relationships. For manual handling tasks, see the Manual Being alert to these issues will help with Handling Hazard Assessment record in the occupational health practice. ACOP for Manual Handling at:
3.1.2 GENERAL OCCUPATIONAL www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- HEALTH AIDE-MEMOIR AT guidance/all-guidance-items/manual-handling- code-of-practice-for Hazards to health can be categorised: >> Chemical – Clean air. When repetitive actions need to be assessed, seek advice from an Ergonomist, >> Ergonomics. Occupational Therapist or Occupational Health >> Physical. Physiotherapist. There is a list of certified >> Noise, Vibration, Heat and Cold. Ergonomists on the New Zealand Ergonomics >> Biological. Society Website: www.ergonomics.org.nz >> Contagious and Infectious Diseases, Skin Diseases. >> Psychosocial.
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GENERAL OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AIDE-MEMOIR
TOPIC KEY OBSERVABLE POSSIBLE HARMS CONTROLS
1. Clean air • Smells • Lung/throat – diseases Eliminate the substance and/ Chemical • Unsealed Containers • Eye – irritation or isolate the process. exposures • Skin – problems • Dusts Control contaminants as to the lungs, • Head or body – • Spills close as possible to the eyes and skin. dizziness, headache, source with local exhaust Explosives nausea. ventilation. Flammables Which apply? Toxics Minimise exposure by use Rapidly fatal Corrosives of ventilation, enclosed Slow acting booths, personal protective Oxidisers Allergic response equipment (PPE), damping Ecotoxics with water, work practices In each case any toxic and techniques. effect will depend on the substance (eg toxicity, Provide information and etc), its concentration in training. the air (eg volatility) the Spill control length and frequency of exposure (eg four hours Labelling – Storage – every day) and the route Disposal. of entry (lungs, skin or mouth).
2. Ergonomics High force actions, Discomfort, pain and Adopt the twofold approach actions and Awkward postures. injury from: Acute low of prevent serious back postures Repeated actions, back pain (ALBP); injuries (SBI) AND manage No task rotation. No Specific back injuries acute low back pain (ALBP). breaks, low task variety, (SBI); Gradual process For Gradual Process Injuries fixed postures injuries (GPI (GPI), Consider the 7 contributory factors. A prime cause is muscles held tight for long periods without a break. Reduce muscle tension as described in Section 5.3
3. Noise Can’t hear a normal • Noise-induced hearing • Control noise at source. conversation at one loss • Isolate noise sources. metre. • Safety concerns through • Provide information and poor communication training • Use PPE as a last resort.
4. Vibration Felt in hands, feet or • Hand-arm vibration • Eliminate through selection body. syndrome. of equipment, maintenance. Goes with noise. • Whole-body vibration • Isolate with vibration syndrome isolators or • Minimise with damping and working techniques.
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TOPIC KEY OBSERVABLE POSSIBLE HARMS CONTROLS
5. Heat and Facial appearance, • Heat stroke • Be aware of the 6 factors Cold Sweating, irritation • Cold stress that affect feelings of Shivering warmth and cold. See 8.2 and 8.3 • Have specially trained First Aiders for hot work and make sure rapid access to treatment is pre-planned. • Be alert to locations and settings where these can occur. • Seek specialist advice from a hygienist if, after reading the information in section 8, a solution can’t be found.
6. Infectious Signs appropriate to • Leptospirosis* Continual attention to strict and the disease • Hepatitis# hygiene; Contagious • Tuberculosis# Obtain specialist advice Diseases • Scabies# from DMP • Campylobacter* For the topics marked # Worksafe NZ has advice. • HIV/AIDS# • Legionella* • Orf#
7. Skin Skin lesions, redness. Irritant or allergic contact • Remove from work Diseases dermatitis. Urticaria, Skin • Prevent contact cancer. • Reduce frequency and duration of exposure • Use gloves – (choose carefully, they can make things worse) • Avoid skin trauma, excessive heat/humidity, cold and chapping • Use safe work habits • Clean hands with the mildest possible cleansers • Use a different chemical.
8. Psycho- Fatigue and Depression, Anxiety, Stress: People tend social consequences, Cardiovascular disease, to respond to positive Stress eg: increased errors, Raised blood pressure, stress (challenges) with Violence irritability, poor Stroke engagement, persistence, Bullying concentration, reserving judgement and emotional distress. humour. Negative stress (a ‘Stress’ visible on threat) is characterised by faces. Isolation and tendencies towards delay, withdrawal. avoidance and thoughts about leaving. Bullying: Cannot flourish in environments of openness, dialogue, treating people as people. Violence: Many guidelines exist.
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RISK ASSESSMENT – PSYCHOSOCIAL 2. A guide to hand-arm vibration. (SECTION 7) These are free at: www.operc.com/bs_ 1. Stress: Questionnaires are available itemdetails.asp?type=pub&prod=45 to assess experiences and risks. and: www.operc.com/bs_itemdetails. 2. Bullying: When people are asked if: asp?type=pub&prod=37 >> they have been bullied RISK ASSESSMENT – HEAT AND COLD >> if they have seen bullying in their (SECTION 8) workplace or Heat and Cold stress: The WBGT and ECT >> if they have been the target of methods as outlined and referenced at 8.2 negative acts (say 2 or more each and 8.3 respectively should be used. week for 6 months). RISK ASSESSMENT – INFECTIOUS AND SKIN the responses show a pattern of: DISEASES (SECTION 9)
Direct question 4% Seek the advice of the appropriate specialist Others bullied 8% doctors or occupational physician. Negative acts 20% 3.1.4 THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PANELS In other words, how a question is asked will Worksafe NZ has five Occupational Health affect the result. However, it is possible to Panels, typically comprised of 3 – 4 people question staff about Stress and Bullying using with special expertise. They exist to advise questionnaires and obtain useful results, Worksafe NZ and to review cases of disease as long as their interpretation and use is investigated by Inspectors using the appropriate. For both topics, questionnaires Notification of Occupational Disease should be administered by people who have (NODS) system. had experience so that reliable interpretations are made. The Panels are: >> Asbestos and Occupational RISK ASSESSMENT – NOISE (SECTION 8) Respiratory Panel. A Preliminary Noise Survey (as set out in >> Chemical and Solvent Panel. the Noise Code) may indicate the need for >> Musculoskeletal Panel. a Detailed Noise Survey (DNS). Reference to an Industrial Hygiene consultant or noise >> Psychosocial Panel. specialist will be required for a DNS. >> Physical Hazards Panel. See Section 8.6. 3.1.5 KEY PRINCIPLES FOR RISK ASSESSMENT – VIBRATION (SECTION 8) CONTROLLING HAZARDS
Assessing risks of vibration by measurement Here are some brief summaries about is increasing in New Zealand but Worksafe prevention principles: NZ does not have advice on this topic. AIR CONTAMINATION An alternative approach to physical measurements for both hand arm and whole >> Eliminate the contaminant. body vibration is set out in the publications >> Substitute it with something less toxic. of the Off Highway Plant and Equipment >> Isolate the process. Research Centre (OPERC) in the UK: >> Use administrative controls. 1. Traffic Light Scheme for Managing the >> Control emissions at source (using Risks from Hand-arm Vibration and local exhaust ventilation).
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>> Monitor environmental exposures Embarrass bullying out of an organisation by to significant hazards. (a) creating an environment where it cannot >> Monitor personal health. flourish and (b) improving relationships between people. >> Provide information and training. The Worksafe NZ Stress page: MUSCULOSKELETAL www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Distinguish between acute low back pain guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/stress- and serious back injuries. fatigue Make sure employees know how to self treat The 2014 Bullying Guideline is at: for acute low back pain – and what to expect from their GP. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/bullying- Specific Aims for preventing back problems: guidelines Low back pain:
Aim to prevent acute low back pain getting 3.2 MONITORING worse, using the ACC material on 3.2.1 EXPOSURE MONITORING psychosocial flags. Clean air is necessary for a healthy life. Serious Back Injuires: A difficulty arises when the extent to which Aim to prevent serious back injuries workplace air is contaminated is not known. happening, using the ACOP for Manual For example, in a motor garage – can engines Handling. be run safely inside or should exhausts be Consider all 7 of the contributory factors fitted to the tailpipes of the cars being set out in Section 5.2 worked on?
When preventing gradual process injuries In these sorts of situations, air monitoring can happening (overuse disorders) also focus on supply answers as part of a risk assessment. preventing prolonged muscle tension. See Monitoring is carried out for different Section 5.3. contaminants with different equipment: >> Inhalable and respirable dusts: A variety W PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS of pumps and collecting heads and filters Think as much about adding good things are used. to work as removing bad things. >> Chemical exposures: Absorbent tubes and Take reports of stress at face value and badge samplers are used as well as direct investigate in good faith. reading instruments (PID, Gas meters). >> Biological exposures – bacteria and fungi – Find out what category of work the person both viable and non-viable (dead or alive). is doing. Tailor prevention to the category. >> Specific contaminants: Many types of There are 3 ways to control stress: dedicated monitor exist. >> Make work healthy. >> Improve the fit between the person DUSTS and the job & vice versa Inhalable dust: Definition: Particulate that is >> Stress management – the least hazardous when deposited anywhere in the preferred option. respiratory tract. The sampling definition of the inhalable fraction is a sampling device
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that has 50% efficiency at capturing particles Chemical sampling can also be done using of 100uM aerodynamic diameter. direct reading instruments.
Inhalable dust is normally eliminated via the Reference to the NIOSH/OSHA/HSE/EPA mucociliary escalator2. compendium of analytical methods needs to be made owing to the variety of methods Respirable dust: Definition: Particulate that available and the specificity required for is hazardous when deposited in the gas- different substances. exchange region of the lungs. The sampling definition of the respirable fraction is a www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2003-154/ sampling device that has 50% efficiency Sample applications: at capturing particles of 4.25uM >> Ammonia can be sampled using a glass aerodynamic diameter. tube containing silica gel treated with These particles will penetrate to the deepest sulphuric acid – or by using a direct reading parts of the lungs and can have toxic effects meter. over a long time. Silica dust is an example. >> For methyl bromide, (the fumigant) two Respirable dust must be measured using a petroleum charcoal tubes, of 400 mg and cyclone sampling head with the air flowing 200 mg are used, (preceded by a drying at a set rate and the dust collected on a tube containing sodium sulphate in humid suitable filter. environments).
CYCLONE FILTER HEAD >> A direct reading meter can often be used. Dust can be collected on a variety of BIOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTS filters, depending on what is being sampled, A particulate filter treated with agar (and a other contaminants in the air and the normal pump) or an agar plate attached to a analytical method. specialised sampling pump is used. Standard For example, if the level of lead in air is being culture methods can then be used to measure measured, the dust is collected on a filter the concentration. that is soluble in acid Sample applications: The air in an office Sample applications: building is sampled for moulds and bacteria. >> the air in a foundry is sampled for silica SPECIFIC CONTAMINANTS >> the air in a leadlight window manufacturers’ workshop is sampled for lead. A large variety of purpose built meters exist to measure specific air contaminants. Examples CHEMICALS are: hydrogen sulphide, carbon monoxide, Chemicals in the workplace air can be oxygen, carbon dioxide, ammonia and ozone. sampled by drawing air through glass tubes Sample applications: 2 – 10 mm in diameter containing an absorbent >> to signal low oxygen levels in a material such as activated carbon or silica confined space gel. Sometimes the gel is impregnated >> to signal an explosive atmosphere. with a chemical to increase the efficiency of the absorption.
2 This term refers to fine hairs (cilia) that line the respiratory tract and which beat in concert in such a way as to move the mucous that is secreted in the lungs upwards – for it to be spat out or swallowed. It serves two functions: to keep the lower respiratory tract sterile, and to prevent mucus accumulation in the lungs.
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3.2.2 WARNING The feasibility of limiting exposure varies from substance to substance and in practice this may All but the simplest sampling is beyond the restrict the safety factor that can be realised. capacity of most Health and Safety Advisors. Note: Regardless of the WES, it is important Employers should refer to specialist consultants to take all reasonable steps to reduce the with appropriate laboratory backup. concentration of airborne substances to the Exposure monitoring results can be compared lowest practicable level. with workplace exposure standards, but Source: Guideline: Workplace Exposure specialist advice should be consulted to Standards at: ensure the interpretation is correct. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- GL 3.2.3 WORKPLACE EXPOSURE STANDARDS guidance/all-guidance-items/workplace- Workplace exposure standards (WES) refer exposure-standards-and-biological-exposure- to concentrations of airborne substances and indices represent levels to which it is believed nearly 3.2.4 BIOLOGICAL MONITORING AND all workers may be exposed to repeatedly BIOLOGICAL EXPOSURE INDICES (BEI) GL day-after-day without adverse effect. Biological monitoring — the measurement WES are guidelines for those involved in of a substance (or its metabolites) in body occupational health practice. Their use fluids such as urine or blood — provides a by untrained persons for determining complementary approach to air monitoring ‘compliance’ is not recommended. for the estimation of exposure to workplace Compliance with the WES does not guarantee contaminants. protection from discomfort or ill-health A Biological Exposure Index (BEI) is defined outcomes for all workers. The range of as follows: individual susceptibility is wide and it is possible that workers will experience problems >> If a worker’s inhalation exposure is equal from exposure to substances at levels below to the WES, and he/she is engaged in the WES. moderate work, then the BEI represents the expected level of the biological It is inevitable that some WES will be lowered determinant. in the future. In most cases, the BEI has been derived WES should not be used to differentiate from the observed relationship between the between exposure levels that are safe measured exposure and the biological level, or unsafe. The relationship between two but in some instances the relationship between exposure standards cannot be used as a the biological level and the potential health measure of relative toxicity. effects has been approached more directly.
Some WES are designed to prevent the Results from biological determination development of ill health after long- term may reflect: exposure; others to reduce the possibility >> very recent acute exposure of acute effects. >> the average exposure over the last Chemicals may enter the body by inhalation, few day(s), or ingestion or skin absorption. Inhalation is the >> long-term cumulative exposure most important route. >> the halflife of the substance in the body.
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The BEIs assume that the exposure has been Quantitative interpretation of biological reasonably steady and that an 8-hour day, monitoring results is often difficult. The 5-day week has been worked. Extrapolation quality of the information may be improved to other exposures can be made but only if measurements are obtained from several with a clear understanding of the relationship workers with similar exposure, or from serial between the absorption, metabolism, and determinations the same worker. Before doing elimination of the substance in question. biological monitoring, it is essential to get background information, including data Biological monitoring has been widely used to on the pharmacokinetics of the substance monitor the uptake of cumulative toxins (eg and interferences. lead, mercury, organophosphate insecticides). Source: Workplace Exposure Standards at: It also may be employed effectively where www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- there is a significant potential for increased guidance/all-guidance-items/workplace- uptake as a result of skin absorption, increased exposure-standards-and-biological-exposure- respiratory rate, or exposure outside of indices the workplace. Canterbury Health Laboratories, among Generally a BEI associated with only one assay others, carry out this monitoring and have a is given for exposure to each substance, even comprehensive booklet on the methods for though there may be several possible ways taking samples. Contact: of estimating exposure. Preference has been given to urinary assays over more invasive www.labnet.health.nz/resources/file/ blood tests but factors such as the stability admin/0908-Biological_Monitoring_for_ of the sample and the possibility of Health_Edition_3_August_2009.pdf interferences have also been considered. (Take care in interpreting the lab reports from BEIs exist for: CDHB. They are not well set out.)
acetone arsenic cadmium 3.2.5 PERSONAL HEALTH MONITORING
carbon chromium cobalt In this section Audiology and Lung Function monoxide Testing are discussed in some detail. For 2-ethoxy- fluorides hexane these two topics a lot of knowledge and ethanol precedent exists. lead mercury pentachlorophenol Monitoring for these will normally take place phenol styrene trichloroethylene in a clinic and be performed by health staff. methyl methyl ethyl methyl isobutyl Vibration monitoring will be different for hand alcohol ketone (mek) ketone (mibk) arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and whole Organo- sodium fluoro- xylene body vibration (WBV). phosphates acetate (1080) Visual status monitoring will need to be For routine surveillance of exposure to performed by an Optometrist, preferably one some substances, biological monitoring may with expertise in Occupational Optometry. be preferred over air sampling. Eg: if the Monitoring for Skin Status, Sleep and substance has a long half-life in the body, the Impairment can be performed onsite, with monitoring will give a result that reflects an follow up by a GP, dermatologist or specialist integrated exposure. sleep clinic. Skin status, Visual Status, Sleep and Impairment are new inclusions, for the following reasons:
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>> Skin: Checking for skin diseases can 4. Chest x-ray and other radiology. prevent small problems becoming large. Chest x-rays are performed occasionally The discussion explores what to look for when clinically indicated. Eg Pneumonia, and the industries in which skin problems Asbestosis. They are ordered by a GP are most common. or Occupational medicine doctor.
>> Visual status: If a person can’t see Historically, chest x-rays were sometimes properly how can they do the job properly? performed as a screening test to detect early Ageing workers pose special problems. development of lung disease eg Asbestosis. >> Sleep: If a person has not slept well the This is not generally done now as it had a very night before, or has accumulated a sleep low pick-up rate and can cause lung damage. debt, their ability to work safely may For more details consult your DMP. be impaired. >> Impairment: This is the generalised case AUDIOLOGY of impairment leading to a person being Hearing surveillance has 3 aims: less able to work safely. 1. To identify people with hearing impairment or tinnitus and to prevent LUNG FUNCTION MONITORING further hearing loss. Monitoring lung function can be done with the following methods: 2. To monitor the effectiveness of noise control measures. >> Questionnaire. >> Peak flow meter. 3. To detect the need for an education programme. >> Spirometry. >> Chest x-ray. As with all types of biological monitoring, the person being tested must understand 1. A questionnaire is cheap and easy and the reasons for the monitoring, give their can be given as an initial screening tool by agreement and be informed of the results. It a health and safety representative. They is useful if the employee agrees to allow their will not be able to interpret the results manager to be informed of these results as they which will need referral to an Occupational need to be able to identify people at risk when Health Nurse or Occupational Physician. planning to control the risks in the workplace. 2. Peak flow meters measure the maximum The Audiogram rate of expired air. They are cheap, simple As with most biological monitoring, it is and easily carried, and can give useful important to obtain a ‘baseline’ by performing though limited information. They can an initial audiogram. This identifies any hearing provide an indication of both the amount loss present before the current employment of airway obstruction and any variability and allows a more accurate assessment of the of the obstruction over time. They can be effects of noise in the current workplace. used by an Occupational Health Nurse. After the initial audiogram: 3. Spirometry measures airflow and lung volumes, and is the preferred lung function 1. Audiograms should be performed test. A spirometer is more complicated regularly for all people working in an than a peak flow meter and requires environment which has an established moderate skill to operate. or suspected noise hazard.
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2. The baseline audiograms should be industries they have worked in and for how performed within 3 months of initial long in each. An attempt to identify the noise employment, after a period of at least levels at each task (eg was speech possible 16 hours quiet. This could follow a period without shouting? were the ears ringing at of absence from work or the wearing of the end of the day or week?) should be made high-grade hearing protectors to ensure and the control measures employed (PPE, that the exposure is no higher than engineering control, hearing surveillance) 75dB(A). The beginning of a shift is often should be assessed. Comment should be used to perform hearing surveillance. made concerning the degree and type of recreational noise exposure. 3. Audiograms should be repeated no further apart than 2-yearly. They should be done Results of the screening audiogram more frequently where: Audiometry should not be a stand-alone a. There is evidence of hearing loss. function but be part of an industry-based hearing conservation programme. In order b. New processes have been introduced to make the diagnosis of NIHL, the following which pose a greater noise hazard. are necessary: c. When requested by a specialist. 1. The shape of the hearing threshold 4. Ideally, audiograms should be performed curve should show a characteristic notch in specially designed booths to allow at 4–6 kHz, with a recovery at everyone to detect the faintest sounds high frequencies usually required. at the threshold of hearing. 2. A symmetrical loss is expected in each Audiograms should be carried out in an ear, or there should be an explanation environment where background noise is for asymmetry. Asymmetry could result less than the levels specified in AS/NZS from a hobby involving rifle shooting. 1269.4, 2005. Where ambient noise is If there is no convincing explanation greater than this, noise-excluding head for asymmetrical loss, referral to an sets or a testing booth should be used. otolaryngologist should be considered.
5. Technical equipment should meet 3. To notify Worksafe NZ, the audiogram standards and be calibrated regularly. must measure the magnitude of the hearing loss by noting the depth of the The Diagnosis of NIHL notch from an established baseline. Worksafe NZ [in common with international The criteria adopted for notification is that practice] has adopted pure tone the threshold at 4KHz is at least 30dB measurements to diagnose NIHL. This may Hearing Loss (HL) and is at least 15dB not reflect a person’s ability to communicate worse than the 2KHz threshold. in a workplace – which is often the most serious effect of NIHL. The following criteria Loss of Recovery above 6kHz have been chosen to make the diagnosis as It is usual for the audiogram to show a straight-forward and reproducible as possible. recovery in both ears for frequencies above Occupational History 6 kHz. If this recovery is not present, the diagnosis of NIHL should be reconsidered. There should be a clear history of sustained Many severe cases of NIHL do not show this exposure to loud noise at work. The recovery (sometimes this recovery is absent practitioner should ask the person what
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because of tinnitus) and NODS will accept HEALTH MONITORING FOR VISUAL STATUS a case without high-frequency recovery, Introduction accompanied by an explanatory note by Poor vision performance affects safety and a referring or reviewing specialist. productivity and can accelerate fatigue at Notification the workplace.
Worksafe NZ will accept notification without Visual performance can be assessed in many further validation from otolaryngologists, ways. Reading letters on a chart to measure occupational physicians or other health Visual Acuity (VA) is the most familiar test. professionals who have undertaken and However, stereoscopic [three dimensional] passed the National Audiology Centre’s 2-day VA is very important for precision tasks such hearing conservation introductory course. as crane operation, hairdressing, driving a forklift and flying. HEALTH MONITORING FOR VIBRATION DISEASE To see a task clearly, the eyes must be kept still. This means that the muscles in the upper 1. Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) trunk and neck, the face, the forehead and Information and training for at-risk employees around the eyes are involved in the visual task. should emphasise that this problem can be Tension can occur in all of these and result career limiting. The symptoms and signs need in fatigue. This 'straining' to see can lead to to be explained along with comprehensive headaches, sore, tired eyes and distraction prevention measures so that employees from the task. may self report to the employer. A full assessment of visual performance The employer needs to be proactive in therefore needs to take into account all the personal health monitoring where there is needs of the visual task, including loads vibration exposure – which by definition placed on the muscles of the face, head, neck won’t have been eliminated or isolated. and upper body. This task is best done by An Occupational Health Nurse could perform an optometrist specialising in eye safety and this monitoring on site. If signs of vibration visual ergonomics. disease are found, referral to a specialist Colour coding in signage, cabling and physician is required. signaling requires a high level of colour 2. Whole Body Vibration (WBV) perception. This performance factor is more likely to be deficient in males and will be of Monitoring should comprise asking workers relevance to electricians (cable coding) and about back problems and their possible people doing spraycoating (colour matching). relation to to driving vehicles such as forklifts or in mining operations. Using a questionnaire Visual Standards & Performance every 6 months is a good idea – such as the A distinction must be made between the one on page 49 of the ACOP for Manual 'Visual Standards' required for functional Handling at: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/ vision in the workplace and the 'Visual information-guidance/all-guidance-items/ Performance' of the workforce to be achieved manual-handling-code-of-practice-for to meet the standards. For example, NZ Police requires Police Officers to achieve high visual standards under conditions of low luminance to ensure safe driving at night in adverse
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weather. Similar standards can be developed The majority is irritant dermatitis but for any industry (eg: road transport, aviation, a significant portion is allergic contact microscopy), using tests of visual acuity, dermatitis. This is more difficult to control stereoscopic visual acuity. Note that many once developed and the focus should be other tests of vision are available for on the prevention of contact with strong specific purposes. allergens.
Workstations The appearance of the dermatitis may provide At workstations (eg: computer workstations, few clues as to its cause, and whether or not reception areas, cabinet making, laboratory it is a contact dermatitis or another condition work), near vision requirements are the most may be difficult to ascertain, so a careful important. Few people will reach the age of assessment is important. 45yrs before requiring a visual correction Dermatitis (eczema) is usually described as (glasses or contacts) for close work. The being erythematous (rose coloured patches) demographic of an aging population is and scaly (which may be well or poorly important when considering visual health circumscribed) looking like eczema. Vesicles schemes for the workplace. (tiny sacs containing fluid) are common on the hands although the dermatitis may sometimes be ‘weepy’ rather than vesicular. There may be superficial or deep fissures.
Fungal infections show powdery scaling on the palm.
Psoriasis Often involves pustules or silvery scale but not generally vesicles. It can affect the scalp, extensor surfaces of the elbows and knees and nails which would be unusual for atopic eczema which affects the flexor surfaces of the elbows and knees. The visual demands of screen based tasks are well documented. However there is Photoallergy and Contact Urticaria are no evidence of harm to vision caused by also possible reactions. Their location and computer use. Investigation of computer appearance can be more specific, but it is not workplaces and assessment of employee always possible to distinguish them from these complaints shows that symptoms can be factors alone. attributed to: Referral to a GP or specialist is required in >> uncorrected vision all cases. >> postural compromise Note: A culture of respect for the skin and a >> ventilation and air conditioning high index of suspicion for work relatedness >> poor illumination. when problems appear will be part of a sensible safety culture. Cross Reference: 3.8.5 Page 162 Cross Reference: 3.10 Page 176 HEALTH MONITORING FOR SKIN INTEGRITY Contact dermatitis accounts for at least 60% HEALTH MONITORING FOR SLEEP QUALITY of occupational dermatoses, which, in turn, If a person has not slept well the night before is responsible for 40 – 70% of all or has a sleep debt (several nights with occupationally acquired illness. inadequate sleep) the person may be impaired
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and thus not able to perform a task safely Impairment may result from: or properly. >> Fatigue (physical, mental or emotional). Therefore it is in the interests of everyone >> Reactions after an accident. to promote good sleep. Sleep, along with >> Unresolved conflict. nutrition and exercise, is one of the three >> Medical treatment or medication. foundations of health – and generally requires >> Harassment or bullying. more promotion. >> A family crisis. This is not trivial. A 2004 Australian project >> Alcohol or drugs. put the cost of poor sleep and sleep disorders to the Australian economy at 1.4% of GDP. >> Out of work events – examination, moving house etc. This was mainly due to the costs of workplace >> Poor shiftwork patterns. accidents and road crashes. Another study of 2003 concluded that 120 Australian lives Employers are required to take all the lost through road crashes could have been practicable steps open to them to detect prevented if fatigue from poor sleep had hazards and this applies to impairment in been addressed. employees which may compromise safety.
Advice about sleeping well is mature and Many employers are alert instinctively to validated. Googling with a search term such this issue. as ‘sleep hygiene’ will produce relevant In a short guide on impairment, Worksafe NZ information. made the suggestion that 13 questions might At an individual level, it may be difficult for be asked by employers (see page 35): an employer to detect sleep problems. >> How many hours have been worked in Given the emergencies and exigencies of life, the past week? it may be inappropriate to try to find out. >> What is the pattern of the hours worked?
On the other hand, where an employee is >> Is there acute sleep loss? performing safety critical tasks, an employer >> Is there a sleep debt? should take all the practicable steps open to >> Are nights being worked? him/her to find out if an employee is impaired. >> Are there life stresses away from work (See the full discussion on ‘Impairment’ for the employee? at 2.5.7.) >> What coping ability has the employee On a population scale, having people well shown in the past? rested is a likely economic benefit. >> What support at home is there for this Source: See, for example, the advice at the employee? University of Maryland Sleep Disorders Centre: >> What is the physical, mental and emotional www.umm.edu/sleep/sleep_hyg.htm intensity of the work? >> What is the employees’ physical, mental Cross Reference: 3.7.6 Page 151 and emotional fitness? MONITORING FOR GENERAL IMPAIRMENT >> What environmental factors may impinge If a person is impaired he or she may pose on fatigue? a workplace hazard. Putting the answers to the questions together Example: A scaffolder who has been up all in a specific situation to get a conclusion won’t night with a sick child at a hospital is probably always be easy. unsafe to work safely.
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Note specifically that there is no suggestion Workplace safety and health is the responsibility that the employer must ask all these questions of the employer. All that’s been said so far in every situation. Clearly, some of them are applies equally to employers and their advisors. private issues, and would need to be asked Clean air is included to raise awareness sensitively. Further, it may simply not be and to emphasise that exposure to appropriate to ask some of them. hazardous substances – including those The guide discusses aspects of this situation that cause allergic reactions – is an ongoing – that many factors are outside the employer’s important problem. control and the employee’s control – what The topics are presented without prioritisation to do if the employee does not recognise due to the scant information on which to the hazard s/he is causing and – if there is assign priorities: ongoing impairment. >> some are potentially rapidly fatal but Source: Pamphlet. Search with ‘Impairment’ occur infrequently at the Worksafe NZ Health and Safety >> some are slow acting but have more Publications page: frequent exposures and some www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- >> some create an allergic response guidance/pdf-documents-library/impairment. with time. pdf A. CONTROLLING AIR CONTAMINANTS 3.3 CLEAN AIR – 1. Eliminate the substance or process RESPIRATORY HEALTH producing the contaminant. GENERAL Substituting hazardous materials with non- This section is about workplace air contamination. or less-hazardous ones, by automation with The safety of employees relies, in part, enclosure or outsourcing can mean: on being informed about these hazards >> good relations with regional councils and alertness, intuition and experience in >> complaints from neighbours are eliminated identifying their presence to an employer. >> the need for monitoring is eliminated Key points are: (see point 4 below) >> alertness to the possibility of air contamination >> on-going costs for personal monitoring >> recognition of possible types of contamination and assessment are eliminated in different employment settings >> the need for protective equipment and >> knowing basic risk assessment and training is eliminated control measures and >> clean-up is easier >> knowing what to do when knowledge >> fire hazard and, maybe, insurance costs runs out. are reduced
Points 1 and 2 rely on being informed and >> HSNO commitments are reduced. personal abilities. Point 3 is covered (in part) 2. Isolate the process in this aide mémoire. Point 4 requires referral to a specialist. This can be achieved by automation and enclosed ventilation, using a booth, or isolating the person (eg in an airtight cab or control room).
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3. Minimise exposure
Exposure to hazardous processes or substances which are not eliminated or isolated must be minimised by the use of ventilation, booths, PPE, damping with water, work practices and techniques.
4. General air ventilation
Eg: fan in the roof/open doors. This is adequate for some situations (eg piggeries) but is wasteful and totally ineffective for airborne exposures from most industrial processes (eg spray-coating and welding).
5. Control at source
Contaminant control at source means ensuring the escape of contaminant to the atmosphere is minimised. This can be achieved with eg: >> local exhaust ventilation (see following section) >> keeping lids on containers >> automatic dispensing methods.
Controlling at source results in: >> better control over airborne contaminants – reduced employee exposure >> energy efficiency – local extraction ventilation saves on power costs (as less air needs to be moved) >> loss control – by evaporation of costly thinners and solvents, >> lower ACC and sick leave liabilities.
6. Monitor exposure to significant hazards
If the employer judges that serious harm may result from exposure to any chemical and the exposure cannot be eliminated or isolated, then: >> the employer must monitor employees’ exposure and >> if there is a method for doing so employers must (after getting their informed consent) monitor employees’ health in relation to the chemical exposure (See section 2.4).
Types of air contaminants
TYPE WHAT IT IS EXAMPLES
Dust Tiny bits of solid material Wood dust in cabinet making or a craft woodworker suspended in the air. using rimu; flour in a bakery; mould dust from bird droppings or compost.
Mist Tiny droplets of liquid suspended Acid mist at an electroplating shop; water spray near in the air. an air-conditioning unit.
Fume Extremely fine metallic particles Metal fume in a foundry or from welding process. originating from a hot process.
Vapour Gas from an evaporating liquid. Paint thinners during spray-coating; solvents from recently LOSP-treated timber; fibreglassing.
Gas Carbon monoxide from the use of petrol-powered forklift used in a confined space. Methane from anaerobic decay of organic matter in a silo.
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7. Personal protective equipment 2. Local exhaust ventilation (LEV)
Is not a cheap option: LEV systems capture contaminants as close >> it is usually uncomfortable to wear as possible to their source (with a hood) and convey the contaminant through ducting >> compliance is poor with the contaminated air being discharged >> training about when to use it will be through a stack [chimney] via a scrubbing needed system (eg dust bag, bag house >> PPE needs to be selected and fitted or electrostatic precipitator). correctly (using a fit test) LEV is the preferred option, as it reduces the >> it must be maintained and replaced as it release of contaminants into the workplace wears out and the potential for exposure. LEV systems >> it must also be worn, which is frequently require specialist engineering knowledge uncomfortable! in design, fabrication, installation, evaluation and maintenance. 8. Information to employees LEV systems should capture the contaminant. Provide clear information to employees about This is a matter of hood design and placement. the hazards of what they are using and doing It must be positioned so that it draws with it, what is happening to control clean air contaminant away from the worker. (Smoke hazards and what their responsibilities are. tubes are very good for showing how well a B. INDUSTRIAL VENTILATION hood captures a contaminant.)
Industrial ventilation means the use of supply The velocity of air needed at the hood face will and exhaust ventilation to control emissions, depend on the type of contaminant and how exposures, and chemical hazards in the it is produced, eg metal particles produced workplace. Traditionally, air-conditioning from grinding are thrown out at high speed has been used to control temperature, therefore require a high velocity to be dragged humidity and odours. This more of a Building into the exhaust hood. Certification matter. Deciding on the right air velocity and the type Industrial ventilation is in 2 main types: of hood to use should be done by a specialist eg a hygienist or ventilation engineer. It is 1. Dilution ventilation usually cheaper and easier to design the Where air is blown into a space to dilute ventilation right in the first place than it is to contaminants and force them outside. try and fix an ineffective ventilation system This might be visible as a large fan on the (that in the mean time may be providing little ceiling of a factory. This approach used by or no protection for workers). itself is quite inadequate in many situations. Refer to a specialist when: This type of ventilation is not energy efficient >> the capture is inadequate – ie flow rates for controlling specific industrial processes or hood position do not appear to capture being carried out in a factory. This is because contaminants the amount of air required to dilute the >> the hood appears to be badly designed contaminants, compared to the size of the >> the LEV system leaks (dust or contaminant room, is so great that it uses a lot of power. deposition on or around the ductwork) Dilution ventilation must never be used to >> filters ‘appear’ to be overloaded. control toxic substances eg some solvents, welding fume, spray-coating vapour. Control at source is required.
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C. COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS settings. It may occur in tanks, silos or unused rooms. In all cases vapours/gases are best MYTH 1: controlled at the source ie ventilation at the ‘They have ventilation so it’s all under control’ machine/task and since people generally don’t Ask yourself/your client: work at floor level this means it should be >> Is it working, is it used, can it do the job? placed at working height. >> When is it used, does it have sufficient Reference: The Gold Standard is: Industrial capture velocity? Ventilation: A Manual of Recommended >> Is it controlling at source? Practice (26th edition). American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists at: >> Is it maintained (records)? >> Are filters changed? www.acgih.org >> Is any contaminant escaping though leaks 3.3.1 DUSTS in ducting/hood? ASBESTOS ACOP, GL, W >> Is the contaminant being taken away from the operator rather than towards their What is the problem? breathing zone (eg for hot processes, Asbestos can cause serious lung diseases such as welding, the rising plume will (asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma) and invade the breathing zone if the hood cancers in other parts of the body. is above the welder)? Asbestos is found in brake and clutch linings and in building products formerly used in MYTH 2: New Zealand, including asbestos cement 'There’s a filter so it’s all OK!’ cladding, textured ceiling coatings, thermal A good example of futility is the ventilation insulation around pipes and boilers, and system used in nail bars. fire-protective linings on structural steel (limpet asbestos). Typically, a slot or grid in the table where clients rest their hands is exhausted through a Asbestos exposure can occur during building tube and charcoal filter. Given the amount of demolition, floor sanding and work on brake solvent in the air (which can’t all be completely linings in car repair. captured by this arrangement) the charcoal Problem assessment filters will need changing so frequently as to Laboratory analysis will be required to make the cost prohibitive. confirm asbestos in suspicious materials.
MYTH 3: Environmental monitoring is required ‘The vapour/gas is heavier than air so during removal. therefore the ventilation should be placed near the ground’
The biggest myth in the book!
The only time a vapour/gas collects in a pool at floor level is when there are completely still conditions and very high concentrations (higher than a person could work in) ie no drafts, no doors/windows open, no thermal gradients, no machines moving to create air currents or people moving around and no LEV. This situation is very rare in most industrial
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The Asbestos Regulations The Christchurch earthquakes Work with asbestos is regulated under the The Christchurch earthquakes have led Health and Safety in Employment (Asbestos) to new interest because of the presence of Regulations 1998. These Regulations specify fibres in so many of the demolition sites. particular tasks that must be notified to As a result, new material has been presented WorkSafe NZ before work begins. on the WorkSafe NZ Asbestos page at: The tasks must be carried out by a person www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- holding a certificate of competence, or by guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/asbestos someone under the direct supervision of 1. A new removal guideline has been a person holding a certificate. published. Control measures 2. Fact sheets have been developed about: The Regulations also specify controls that apply to anyone working with asbestos. >> where asbestos is likely to be found >> personal protective equipment Where contact with asbestos-containing products cannot be avoided, then all >> work exposure standards and practicable steps must be taken to monitoring. minimise exposure. 3. The scheme for certifying asbestos This may be achieved by: removalists has been strengthened. >> Ensuring that effective steps are taken Source: A revision of the Asbestos Removal to stop or limit the release of asbestos Guideline was published by the New Zealand fibres into the air. Demolition and Asbestos Association in >> Ensuring that sound work practices are March 2011. See: used to avoid the spread of asbestos www.demolition-asbestos.co.nz/ contamination on clothing and footwear Asbestos exposure and disease: (wearing disposable outer clothing is Notes for Medical Practitioners at: recommended). >> Using dust extraction where the generation www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- of fibres from a process cannot be avoided. guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/asbestos >> Appropriate protective clothing including LEAD GL, MOH GL respiratory protection. The main exposures are in foundries, paint Health surveillance stripping, leadlight fabrication and sundry It is essential to monitor employees who casting (fishing sinkers). carry out restricted work with asbestos. What is the problem? A Departmental Medical Practitioner may Airborne lead dust can cause lead poisoning. require any person undertaking work with Ingestion is also significant. asbestos to have a medical examination. Problem assessment Employees who may have been exposed Exposure measurements can indicate the to asbestos are also invited to enter their concentration of lead in the breathing zone. names and appropriate exposure details WES = 0.1 mg/m3. in the Asbestos Exposure Register administered by WorkSafe NZ.
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Biological monitoring indicates the level of Source: Guidelines for the Medical Surveillance lead absorption and is required when people of Lead Workers at: www.business.govt.nz/ are exposed to lead routinely. Lead in blood worksafe/information-guidance/all-guidance- – 1.5 mol/l in red blood cells. Lead in urine – items/guidelines-for-the-medical-surveillance- 0.72 mol/l action level. of-lead-workers-2nd-edition
Control measures Ministry of Health Repainting Lead-Based Generic control measures include: Paint:
Foundries: Lead paint can contaminate ferrous www.health.govt.nz/your-health/healthy- metals. Brass scrap contains lead. Gas cutting/ living/environmental-health/hazardous- gouging and furnace heat may produce lead substances/lead-based-paint-and-lead- fume. For control, use enclosed processes and poisoning local exhaust ventilation where possible. PPE SILICA should consist of the items below plus the appropriate lead fume respirator. Foundries, abrasive blasting, quarries mines, road making, concrete cutting. Paint stripping: Sanding or removal of paint from old houses with a blowtorch can produce What is the problem? lead dust and fume. Identify lead in paint Silica dust can be present in the settings with a test kit from a paint shop (Google: listed due to the use of sand or when rock is ‘lead test kit’.). crushed. Continued exposure can produce serious lung disease. Use a wet process where possible but prevent lead leaching into garden soil as it could cause Problem assessment sickness in children or pets. Employers should carry out air sampling Use PPE as below. Take care to prevent to assess the level of risk. Analysis of solid secondary exposure when taking clothing samples of parent rock or sand can show its off and laundering. silica content and may help to predict if air concentrations are likely to be hazardous. (eg boat keels, fishing Sundry casting: New Zealand sands are usually high in silica, sinkers): Avoid exposure to fume and dust but most sandblasting appears to be with with ventilation and PPE. silica-low or silica-free sand or glass beads. Avoid exposure to fume Leadlight windows: The WES for Silica is different for its different and dust with good ventilation and PPE. forms. The values are 0.1mg/m3 or 0.2mg/m3 Loading ammunition: Avoid exposure to for respirable or inhalable dust for cristobalite, dust with good ventilation and PPE. quartz, tridymite and tripoli. Consult Technicall for details. Personal protective equipment: Appropriate dust or fume respiratory protection; overalls; Control measures apron; gloves; hair covering. Do not expose Foundries anyone to dust when taking off or Substitution of silica-free sand may not be laundering PPE. possible. Instead, local exhaust ventilation, Hygiene: Strict attention to hand hygiene enclosure of processes and the informed and other hygiene practices is required to use of personal protective equipment (PPE) prevent ingestion. should be undertaken.
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Wood can be contaminated by microorganisms including fungi or microbial products (eg endotoxins) which may cause other lung reactions. There is a potential for dust explosions.
Note: WES for Softwood Dust:
The WES-TWA for eight hour shifts for softwood dust has been reduced from 5mg/m3 to 2mg/m3. The WES-TWA for 12 hour shifts is also 2mg/m3. The 12 hour WES-TWA will be reviewed as data Abrasive blasting supporting the development of a 12 hour Substitution by silica-free alternatives is widely WES becomes available. practised. Properly designed booths and PPE Problem assessment should be used. Furniture manufacturing and joinery have high Quarries, mines, road making dust exposures. Assess by air sampling and >> process isolation comparison with the WES. Use a Tyndal Lamp to indicate the efficiency of controls. >> positively pressurise vehicle cabs and process control rooms Control measures >> water damping where possible Recent investigations show that dust >> use of PPE when outside exposures follow certain operations. >> adequate dilution ventilation. >> Avoid the indiscriminate use of compressed air to remove dust. Concrete cutting >> Isolate fine dust producing processes. Use of wet processes. In confined spaces – damp dust before sweeping up. >> General housekeeping. >> Appropriately designed hoods and WOOD DUST extraction devices mounted directly What is the problem? onto individual powered equipment. The most serious concern relates to the risk >> Capture of dust as close as possible of cancers of the nose (adenocarcinoma) and to the source of emission. sinuses (ethmoid), which have been observed >> Adequate PPE for high-risk tasks. historically with exposures to hardwoods >> Remove dust from flat surfaces. (beech, walnut, oak, mahogany, maple). >> Regular maintenance of ventilation The risk from soft woods is considered much systems. less, but should not be entirely discounted.
Some wood dusts can cause allergic 3.3.2 GASES & VAPOURS respiratory disease (eg asthma, sinusitis, CARBON MONOXIDE alveolitis), and/or or allergic dermatitis. What is the problem? Implicated components include resin acids (plicatic, abietic and pimaric acids) rosins Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly poison. (colophony) and terpenes (pinenes and It is colourless, non-irritating and odourless. carenes). Over 10% of survivors are left with a brain injury.
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The traditional view of carbon monoxide An electric-powered forklift should be used poisoning is the production of carboxy- instead. If this isn’t possible, or if carts and haemoglobin preventing access of oxygen trolleys can’t be used: to cells. This gives an incomplete picture >> develop a policy on the use of forklifts of the toxicology. Evidence as to best and associated hazards treatment is still unclear, so prevention >> inform, train and supervise staff and is of great importance. monitor their health Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most >> restrict use in poorly ventilated or confined common industrial poisoning and occurs from areas – turn them off when not working the use of things like forklifts and concrete >> tune engines regularly and test for carbon cutting saws and compressors in buildings monoxide emissions or semi-enclosed spaces such as garages or >> install carbon monoxide alarms on forklifts construction spaces. It can be deadly even or in buildings. Inform supervisors or when ventilation appears adequate. managers immediately if they sound. Problem assessment Catalytic Converters: These can reduce Carbon monoxide can only be detected by carbon monoxide by 70 to 90 percent, but instruments. CO monitors – both ‘personal’ they do not eliminate the danger. They’re not and ‘general air’ – are available but should effective until the forklifts’ engine has been only be used to signal the need to immediately running for about 10 minutes so short term exit a confined area. running can void the alarm. Control measures Carbon Monoxide and Hirers and >> elimination of fuel-powered motors in Sellers of equipment confined spaces Companies hiring or selling forklifts have a >> placement of fuel-powered motors outside responsibility to make sure that customers buildings (and away from air intakes) have the information they need to choose the >> using alternatives to fuel combustion right forklift for their environment. They are to heat water legally required to advise on the hazards of >> using electric rather than petrol carbon monoxide. powered tools Legal obligations >> ventilation Section 18A of the Health and Safety in >> learn the symptoms of carbon monoxide Employment Act 1992 requires hirers and poisoning: headache, nausea, weakness, sellers of forklifts to find out: dizziness, visual disturbance and loss of >> what the forklift will be used for consciousness >> where it will be used. >> where fuel powered vehicles and tools Hirers and sellers must take all practicable are used – tuning the engine to minimise steps to make sure that the forklift is safe for exhaust emissions of CO its intended purpose or other reasonable use – >> looking out for workmates. either by design, manufacture or maintenance. Carbon Monoxide and Forklifts Customers should be advised about the Fuel-powered forklift should not be used hazards of carbon monoxide if the intended in a confined space such as a cool store. use of the forklift suggests a hazard exists.
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What should forklift hirers or sellers appear on the fingers, back of the hands, do to advise customers? wrists, forearms and parts of the body that A short notice, either given directly to the are in contact with clothes. This may occur customer or placed inside the forklift can help after years of exposure. achieve legal obligations to inform customers WES: The WES-Ceiling remains at 1ppm. about CO hazards. WES-TWA for eight hour and 12-hour shifts Source: Fact sheets at: have been introduced. They are 0.5ppm and 0.33 ppm respectively. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/carbon- Minimising employee exposure monoxide-factsheet-invisible-and-deadly Formaldehyde should be handled in the workplace as an occupational carcinogen. FORMALDEHYDE Exposure should be limited to as few Background employees as possible, and workplace Formaldehyde is a colourless, flammable exposure levels minimised. gas with a strong, pungent odour. It is Exposure monitoring sold mainly as an aqueous solution called Initial and routine exposure monitoring formalin, which is 37% to 50% formaldehyde should be carried out determine the extent by weight. Formaldehyde is used to produce of employee exposure and to ensure that synthetic resins such as urea- and phenol- controls are effective. formaldehyde resins – used primarily as adhesives when making particle-board, Controlling employee exposure fibreboard, and plywood. Embalming fluids There are four basic methods of limiting contain formaldehyde and its use is common employee exposure to formaldehyde. in pathology labs. 1. Product substitution Health effects The substitution of an alternative (safe) The International Agency for Research material with a lower potential risk is an on Cancer (IARC) has recently declared important method for reducing exposure. formaldehyde a human carcinogen.
The first signs or symptoms (concentrations 2. Contaminant controls 0.1–5 ppm) are burning eyes, tearing and The most effective control is at the source of irritation to the upper respiratory tract. contamination by enclosure of the operation Higher exposures (10–20 ppm) may produce and local exhaust ventilation. coughing, tightening in the chest, a sense of pressure in the head, and heart palpitations. 3. Employee isolation Exposures at 50–100 ppm or more can cause If feasible, employees may be isolated from serious injury such as collection of fluid in the direct contact with the work environment by lungs, inflammation of the lungs or death. the use of automated equipment operated by Dermatitis due to formaldehyde solutions personnel in a closed control booth or room. or formaldehyde resins is well recognised. After a few days’ exposure, a worker may 4. Personal protective equipment develop a sudden inflammation of the skin The use of PPE is permissible. However, this of the eyelids, face, neck, scrotum, and flexor is only during the period necessary to install surfaces of the arms. The reaction may also engineering controls where which work
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practice controls have proven ineffective: More severe effects can include chemical >> for maintenance pneumonitis. Such a high exposure can cause immediate sensitisation, resulting in >> for operations which require entry into occupational asthma. tanks or closed vessels >> in emergencies. A series of smaller exposures over weeks, months and years may lead to wheezing, Proper maintenance procedures, good coughing, shortness of breath or a tight chest, housekeeping in the work area, and employee which are symptoms of asthma. education are all vital. Employees should be informed as to the nature of the hazard, Contact dermatitis may occur from skin its control, and appropriate personal contact with un-reacted isocyanates. hygiene procedures. Exposure to isocyanates may occur via: Medical surveillance >> Inhalation of the vapour – especially from Health effects such as upper respiratory the very volatile toluene diisocyanate irritation or dermatitis should alert (TDI) class. management that unacceptable exposure >> Inhalation of airborne droplets from to formaldehyde is occurring. A medical spraying or spray painting. surveillance programme should be made >> Inhalation of dust while handling pure available. In addition, skin protection should be methylene bisphenyl isocyanate (MDI). stressed in the workplace to keep the number Isocyanates can react violently with alkalis of new cases of dermatitis to a minimum. and acids: eg sodium hydroxide and ammonia. Source: IARC Press release at: They also react slowly with water and this can www.iarc.fr/en/media-centre/pr/2004/pr153. result in a dangerous build-up of pressure in html closed containers. Problem assessment ISOCYANATES ACOP, GL Employers should carry out air sampling to Isocyanates are chemicals used in: assess the risk. An exception is in spray booths >> the production of polyurethane foams where operators are wearing a full face airline eg foam mattresses and rigid foams in respirator (as exposure outside the mask chairs etc would be expected to be above the exposure >> paint and lacquers in motor vehicle repair standards). – in 2-pack paints in which isocyanate Where a ventilated spray booth is used, the hardener or activator is added to a airflow in the booth can be measured and pigmented or clear base compared to the New Zealand Standard 4114 >> some adhesives. (see reference). Pre-employment lung function What is the problem? testing is recommended and annual lung function testing and medical exam is required. A single, high exposure to isocyanate vapour, aerosol or dust may cause immediate effects Controls such as irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, As always, the first steps in control should be resulting in coughing and a dry throat. substitution and elimination, isolation then minimization including:
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>> LEV for spray painting Long-term exposure can damage the nervous >> ventilated booths system resulting in: >> not removing the visor or hood before >> lack of concentration ventilation clears the spray booth or mist >> memory loss >> not removing the respirator before leaving >> blunting of mental skills the booth >> depression. >> safe cleaning practices eg of spray guns Skin: Solvent contact with skin often causes good housekeeping drying, cracking, reddening and soreness. It >> appropriate PPE and training. increases the absorption of solvents and skin The Isocyanate Code of Practice requires air infection. Dermatitis caused by solvent use testing where TDI and MDI are used. may last a long time, even when solvent use ceases. Source: ACOP for the Safe Use of Isocyanates: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Lungs: Many solvent vapours irritate the lining guidance/all-guidance-items/acop-isocyanates of the respiratory tract, affecting the nose, throat and lungs. Some solvents in some Isocyanates – Guidelines for the Health settings may cause an asthma-like attack. surveillance of workers at: Eyes: Solvent vapours or liquids may cause www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- eye irritation. This is usually reversible and guidance/all-guidance-items/isocyanates- permanent damage is rare. Solvent splashes to guidelines-for-the-health-surveillance-of the eyes are dangerous – treat immediately.
SOLVENTS GL Reducing solvent exposure Organic solvents (eg toluene, acetone and Employers must provide adequate ventilation. white spirits) and products containing solvents Other ways to reduce exposure are: are used in many workplaces. >> using other products Solvents can enter the body through the lungs, >> using a less volatile solvent the skin or by being swallowed. >> using a less toxic solvent People react differently to solvents. Not all >> using less solvent have the same effects. These may disappear >> keeping containers sealed once solvent work stops, but long-term or high exposure increases the risk of permanent >> cleaning up spills immediately neurotoxic damage. >> placing solvent-contaminated rags in a sealed bin. Common effects: PPE: If exposure to solvents cannot be avoided Headaches Weakness Forgetfulness a correctly fitted and selected respirator and Nausea Irritability/ Giddiness cartridge must be used. mood changes Source: Practical Guidelines for the Safe Use
Abnormal Damage to Drowsiness of Organic Solvents at: tiredness skin and eyes www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Balance guidance/all-guidance-items/organic-solvents- disturbance practical-guidelines-for-the-safe-use-of
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Diagnostic Criteria for Chronic Organic Solvent The preparation of items for plating can pose Neurotoxicity at: hazards. Vapour degreasing or acid pickling will require their own controls. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/chronic-organic- Source: Safe use of chemicals in solvent-neurotoxicity-diagnostic-criteria electroplating at:
www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- 3.3.3 PROCESSES guidance/all-guidance-items/chemicals-in- ELECTROPLATING GL electroplating-and-related-industries Electroplating poses well known risks of toxic chemical exposure. Lungs, eyes and skin are FIBREGLASSING IPG at special risk. Exposures can be direct, for What is the problem? example to the chemicals used in the various Exposure to airborne solvents (styrene different processes while mixing solutions, or and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). indirect, for example to chromic acid mist that may be generated during chrome plating. The potential for exposure to a wide variety of other chemicals: resins and hardeners; The full range of HSNO controls will apply. catalysts and initiators; fibres and reinforcers; Approved handlers will be required. mould release agents; fillers and pigments; In view of the possible consequences, inhibitors; and promoters and accelerators. discipline is required throughout all stages All may enter the body via the respiratory of the electroplating process to ensure that tract or the skin. chemicals are handled properly. Special attention will be needed for: Dust exposure may also be a problem. >> dispensing/mixing of plating solutions Problem assessment >> control of mists Exposure to solvent vapours in this industry >> drip control for plated items when removed causes a lot of ill health. The problem from the bath should be treated as potentially serious. Air monitoring is appropriate only where >> control of chemicals to waste. processes are constant. Biological monitoring Properly designed local exhaust ventilation will is possible. be required to control emissions of mists from Control measures plating tanks. Owing to the corrosive nature of chromic acid mist, the ventilation system will Control air contaminants at source: need constructing from appropriate materials >> local exhaust ventilation and will require periodic inspection. >> ventilated booths
PPE will be required, with all the implications >> low-emission guns for selection, care, maintenance and >> work behaviours replacement. Facilities for hygiene, including >> housekeeping practices + PPE. changing and showering facilities, will be required plus strict personal hygiene. Source: Code of Practice published in 2012 by Worksafe NZ and the Personal health monitoring will be needed New Zealand Composites Association at: www. if exposure monitoring shows that air composites.org.nz/ contaminants are present.
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FIBREGLASS INSULATION GL Methyl Bromide: What is the problem? Methyl bromide effects include nausea, Fibreglass insulation may irritate the eyes vomiting, headache, dizziness, slurred speech, and skin. Some people are more sensitive unsteadiness (which can persist for days) and than others. High concentrations of fibres neurological effects. in the air may cause irritation of the upper Decisions have been made to make it respiratory tract. compulsory to recapture the gaseous fumigant Synthetic mineral fibres (SMF) donot appear methyl bromide rather than release it to to cause cancer as does asbestos. atmosphere (in 10 years time). Recommended alternatives include metam sodium, dazomet, The publication referenced below has more and chloropicrin. Sulfuryl fluoride has also information. It covers the manufacturing, been used in the USA. handling and use of SMF in sections about: Handling of imported goods fumigated >> appropriate work methods offshore has concerned port authorities and >> PPE and protective clothing private consumers. Methyl bromide can react >> hygiene measures. with sulphur-containing materials (eg wool, Source: Synthetic Mineral Fibres – Health and furs, feathers and leather where sulphur is Safety Guidelines for the Selection and Safe added during tanning) to produce volatile Handling of at: smelly sulphur compounds. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Another problem is the gas being absorbed guidance/all-guidance-items/synthetic- by cargo and then rereleased when the mineral-fibres-health-and-safety-guidelines- cargo is taken out of a container, particularly for-the-selection-and-safe-handling-of immediately upon opening. Such brief relatively low exposures may cause mild FUMIGATION IPG to moderately acute symptoms, but more What is the problem? severe respiratory or neurological effects are possible with high acute and/or regular Very toxic gases, solids and liquids can be long-term exposures. used. Processes are generally well regulated, but even short-term low exposures may cause Transport and stacking of fumigated symptoms and considerable concern. containers may be hazardous.
Soil injection techniques (eg in fruit farming) are reputed to be safe, but studies suggest that levels under tarpaulins can take longer than the recommended minimum waiting period of 48 hours to fall below 5 ppm.
Outside export/import fumigation, methyl bromide is only allowed to be used to eradicate potato wort at residential properties. It is not allowed on fruit farms.
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Magtoxin: >> Appropriate signage for fumigated areas. Magnesium phosphide. It and similar >> Precautionary monitoring if air levels substances (eg aluminium and zinc unknown but potentially significant. phosphides) react with water and acids to >> Methyl bromide application requires air form phosphine, a toxic gas with a garlic, monitoring. The method used to calculate fish-like odour. These are used in the TELs must be in accordance with the preservation of stored grain (eg in grain EPA document ‘Guide to methyl bromide elevators and ships). These often involve fumigations’. confined environments. On contact with >> Wear adequate respiratory protective moisture in grains, phosphine is generated equipment, especially when opening or along with metal hydroxides. entering containers. Phosphine: >> Ensure containers are sealed as well as This has an auto-ignition temperature of possible check for leaks if suspected. about 40ºC, and when dry can ignite at room >> Suitable protective clothing (methyl temperature due to impurities. Aluminium bromide can permeate many materials). and magnesium phosphide containers may >> Education on phosphine explosion risk; flash on opening. Many formulations contain especially if mixed with water or in ammonium carbamate or similar, which confined spaces. liberates ammonia and carbon dioxide, >> Know poisoning symptoms. reducing the explosive hazard substantially. Reference: The Pest Management Association Chloropicrin of New Zealand has a Code of Practice that Now prohibited in methyl bromide. is available to members only. It has been However, chloropicrin can be used on its approved by the NZ New Zealand EPA own as a fumigant or in other formulations. (the former ERMA). See www.pmanz.co.nz Exposure monitoring PESTICIDE APPLICATION FACT SHEET Do not rely on odour as a warning. Levels should be assessed using direct reading What is the problem? instruments that read down to 0.05ppm. Rodenticides (designed to kill mammals) are generally the most hazardous group Results should be compared with the of pesticides. Careful handling is required WES-TWA (5 ppm) and the tolerable exposure with concentrated formulations (eg cyanide limits (TEL) under HSNO which are: pastes). Repetitive exposures to some >> 1 hour TEL of 1ppm insecticides (eg organo-phosphates) >> 24 hour TEL of 0.333ppm can cause initially silent but gradually >> annual TEL of 0.0013ppm. developing poisoning.
There is limited correlation between blood Initial preparation (eg mixing of concentrates) (inorganic) bromine levels and symptoms, and and subsequent cleanup can involve high no BEI, but blood and/or urine levels are being exposures, and protective equipment must investigated as biological monitoring tools. always be worn. For some, skin can be a significant source of absorption, and clothing Control measures worn in hot weather is often insufficiently >> Use the EPA approved code of practice protective. Dermatitis may occur even with for fumigations. relatively low toxicity products.
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Problem assessment >> Extra precautions with specific Air levels of mists and vapours during spraying hazardousactivities (eg mixing concentrate, are seldom measured. However, the spray fine droplet spraying of volatile methods employed, the amount of pesticide constituents) or conditions (excessive heat, used, the quality of personal protective wind, dust generation). equipment and work practices can provide >> Adequate respirator selection, fit testing, circumstantial evidence. cleaning, storage, maintenance and replacement. Monitoring >> Adequate protective clothing, impervious Some blood or urine tests exist. Most often where necessary. blood acetylcholine-esterase monitoring is done for regular users of organophosphates >> Biological monitoring programme where but is less useful for carbamates. Tests are also required (eg blood cholinesterase for those available for 1080; paraquat; 2,4-D and some organophosphate users who work with others. Inadvertent ingestion is also a risk, and sprays more than 30 hours per month). safe, child proof storage practices are required. >> Secure storage of concentrates (lockable area). Control measures >> Adequate cleaning and segregation of >> Education, including availability of MSDS boots and clothes (leave at work). and training in safe use. These should include the importance of reading labels Source: Organophosphates – Fact sheet at: as different precautions are needed for www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/ different products, depending on the information-guidance/all-guidance- indicated level of hazard. items/organophosphates-factsheet/ organophosphates-factsheet-html
SPRAYCOATING IPG What is the problem? Spray painting results in exposure to hazardous substances including:
paints polyisocyanates powders
Resins solvents degreasers
dusts glues lacquers
surface paint removers rust preparation converters products and removers
Other hazards include: >> plant >> electricity >> paint injection into skin (S 8.8) >> noise >> airless spray guns
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>> manual handling Exclusion zone/confined space >> fire and explosion. A spray-painting exclusion zone should be established according to AS/NZS 2430.3.9 Health effects can include: 1997: Classification of hazardous area: Part 1. >> occupational asthma Spray-painting in a confined space must be >> allergic dermatitis carried out as per AS 2865: 2001 Safe working >> lung cancer in a confined space.
>> painter’s syndrome or solvent Spray booth/mixing room ventilation neurotoxicity (from long-term exposure The ventilation system should provide an to organic solvents) optimum, continuous, uniform and evenly >> damage to the reproductive systems, distributed supply of airflow throughout the kidney and liver. spray-painting area and mixing room to the Short-term effects can include: exhaust outlets and eliminate pockets of still air in the booth. Where spray-painting is >> irritant contact dermatitis carried out in a building or structure other >> burns to the skin and eyes than a spray booth or confined space, it should >> vomiting and diarrhoea be of open construction or a mechanical >> irritation to nose, throat, lungs exhaust system should be used to prevent the >> headache, dizziness, nausea and fatigue. build up of flammable or toxic fumes.
Problem assessment Spray-painting guns Risk assessment involves working out the level High-volume-low-pressure (HVLP) spray guns of risk from each hazard in the spray-painting are recommended over conventional gravity process. Questions such as the following or siphon-feed guns because HVLP guns cut should be asked: How long is the person paint over-spray concentrations in half. HVLP exposed? How great is the exposure? What guns transfer paint more efficiently and can harm might occur and how severe could it be? reduce paint usage.
Control measures Respiratory protection Spray Booths Even the best precautions do not completely eliminate overspray from the air workers Spray-painting must be carried out in a spray breathing zone. Personal respiratory protective booth unless, because of its shape, size or equipment is also recommended. weight, it is impractical to do so, for infrequent spraying of heavy or bulky equipment, or References: The NZ EPA have released minor operations such as spotting or touching guidance on the HSNO aspects of up. The spray-booth must be designed, spraycoating for panelbeaters at: constructed, installed and maintained in www.epa.govt.nz/Publications/Working_ accordance with AS/NZS 4114.1:2003 – Design, safely_with_hazardous_substances_in_your_ construction and testing of spray-booths; and collision_repair_workshop.pdf AS/NZS 4114.2:2003 Selection, installation and Standards maintenance of spray-booths. NZS/AS 1715:1994, AS/NZS 1716: 2003 and NZS/AS 1716:1991 refer to respiratory protection.
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TIMBER TREATMENT IPG, GL Control measures
What is the problem? >> filleting the stack of timber after treatment Timber is treated with chemicals to kill insects for airflow and fungi to maintain the quality or life of the >> adequate off-gassing time timber. A variety of chemicals and methods >> assessment of solvent residues at the are used: point of use and consequent precautions. >> CCA (copper, chrome, arsenic). eg additional drying time in open air, >> Boron salt preservatives. general air ventilation etc >> LOSP – usually tributyl tin oxide (TBTO) >> use of organic solvent respirators in white sprits. >> when LOSP-treated timber is used in a confined space (eg at a closed-in The different methods and chemicals used house at a residential site) it must be present different exposure hazards. substantially solvent-free first Problem assessment >> provision of information on chemical Exposure monitoring will depend on what preservative products (including safety chemicals were used in the treatment and data sheets) where exposure is being assessed. Monitoring >> detailed technical advice from the should be discussed with an occupational Building Industry Association. hygienist. Ecology: Tributyl tin compounds are Employee health surveillance may be ecologically toxic. Eg their use for anti-fouling necessary, particularly where minimisation for ships hulls is banned. is used to control exposure. The surveillance required will depend on the chemicals used Other control measures: and should be discussed with a Departmental >> substitution Medical Practitioner. >> specially designed plant LOSP treated timber hazards: >> ventilation LOSP treatment presents special hazards >> personal hygiene associated with the solvents used and the >> PPE preservative tributyl tin oxide (TBTO). >> housekeeping Tributyl tin oxide is a potent skin irritant >> training and an extreme eye irritant, so skin and eye >> medical surveillance HSNO controls protection must be worn until the timber has are applicable. dried adequately. References: Best Practice Guideline for The solvents can off-gas for some time the Safe Use of Timber Preservatives & after treatment. Typical solvent in air levels Antisapstain Chemicals: New Zealand Timber and the flammability hazard are unknown. Preservation Council Inc. 2005. See: If adequate drying time is not given at the point of treatment, the plastic-wrapped timber www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- can give off enough vapour when unwrapped guidance/all-guidance-items/timber- to cause problems eg for employees in a truss preservatives-and-antisapstain-chemicals- and frame plant or a builder working in semi- best-practice-guideline-for-the-safe-use-of confined areas.
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ARSENIC Source: Working with Timber Treatment What is the problem? Chemicals: Timber treatment (eg with CCA) and its www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- downstream use may cause exposure to guidance/all-guidance-items/timber- arsenic and other chemicals. preservatives-and-antisapstain-chemicals- best-practice-guideline-for-the-safe-use-of Problem assessment
Environmental measurements can indicate the WELDING GL
concentration of arsenic in the breathing zone. The common processes are: Biological monitoring involves urine testing for inorganic arsenic plus its organic metabolites >> Gas – brazing, oxyacetylene. (dimethyl arsenic and methyl arsenic acids), >> Electric: while abstaining from seafood for a few days –– manual metal arc (MMA) prior to testing(!) This is best done at the end –– metal inert gas (MIG) of a shift at the end of the week. The BEI is –– tungsten inert gas (TIG) 100 g/L. (~1.3 mol/l). –– submerged arc welding (SAW). Control measures Airborne contaminants include: Timber treatment: >> integrity of the process/plant >> Dusts and Fumes – eg metal fumes, flux dusts and fumes. Some areextremely >> adherence to operating procedures toxic, eg cadmium and beryllium – implied elimination of contact with (deaths have occurred within 4 hours chemicals of uncontrolled exposure). >> drip-free exit from pressure vessels >> Products of combustion – eg nitrogen >> subsequent handling of wet timber requires oxides (lungs), carbon monoxide waterproof gloves, overalls and aprons. (systemic), carbon dioxide (asphyxiant). Subsequent usage >> Others – eg inert gases (from shielding >> Sawing of treated timber may cause gas), the toxic ozone and the highly airborne dust but the risk is time toxic phosgene. dependent – significant only if it goes on long enough. >> Other mechanical, powered working of timber – risks unknown. >> Prudent avoidance – wearing gloves and dust masks when sawing, routing and planing. >> Hand hygiene.
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Risk assessment 6. Work practices: keeping the head away See the Table on the next page. from the rising plume of dust/fume.
If welding is being done at a workstation in 7. Personal protective equipment: eg UV an assembly line then air monitoring and visor, face shields (which may need to be appropriate analysis will give a good indication air-supplied for extended periods of work), of exposure to fume/dust. gloves, overalls and aprons. Specialised help in selection and fitting is advised. A Tyndal Lamp will show dust plumes. Confined spaces Welding may occur in the open or in a Confined spaces increase hazard levels. workshop (eg construction site – ship fabrication – erection of steel structures etc) Phosgene Risk assessment is harder there. Phosgene can be produced when chlorinated Controls solvents are heated. This may occur when steel is not properly cleaned after degreasing. 1. Substitution of welding rods: some welding rods emit much less fume than Other hazards others. Seek advice from the supplier. Ultraviolet light; electrical hazards; hot metal 2. Current control: follow preferred work particles; flammable gases; compressed gases; practices. Keep the current to the noise; heat stress; manual handling. minimum to minimize emissions. Source: Welding booklet and other tools at:
3. Flame optimisation: following safe www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- work practices reduces emission of guidance/all-guidance-items/welding-health- contaminants such as carbon monoxide. and-safety-in
4. Local exhaust ventilation: fixed extraction Reference: TN7. Health & Safety in Welding hoods can be provided for assembly line (2004). From the Welding Technical work but portable ‘vacuum cleaner’ type Institute of Australia. The WTIA also publish extraction flexible, ducted extraction comprehensive Fume Minimisation Guidelines. systems will be needed where welding See: www.wtia.com.au is carried out in many locations. Cross Reference: 2.2.6 Page 28, 2.3 Page 44, 5. General air ventilation: Build-up of welding 3.5.4 Page 120 fumes can be unpleasant but can be avoided by open doors and adequate ceiling extraction. There must be enough air changes per hour and no ‘dead spots’.
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Welding Fume Control Table: Add the three weightings obtained from the Tables 1–3 to find out the control actions needed from Table 4.
1. PROCESS WEIGHTING FACTOR 2. FUME CONSTITUENT WEIGHTING
PROCESS WEIGHT FUME GROUP WEIGHT
Submerged arc welding (remote); 0 A: Iron, aluminium, tin, titanium with 0 laser cutting and welding; micro < 5% of group B or C < 0.05% of plasma; Gas cutting (remote group D. operations). B: Copper, magnesium, manganese, 10 Submerged arc welding (manual); 2 molybdenum, silver, tungsten, zinc. submerged arc welding (multi arcs). Flux fumes such as fluorides, rosin, phosphoric acid, zinc chloride and Brazing (manual operation); TIG 4 boric acid. (manual operations); gas welding and cutting (manual); silver soldering C Barium, chromium, cobalt, lead, 20 (manual); resistance spot welding nickel, ozone, vanadium, phosgene, (manual); plasma cutting (under organic fume. water table); plasma arc welding; D Beryllium, Cadmium. 55 MIG (remote operation); resistance seam welding (remote operation); electroslag welding. 3. WORK LOCATION WEIGHTING
MIG (hand held); MMAW; Resistance 7 LOCATION WEIGHT seam welding (manual operation); thermit welding; electrogas welding. Outdoors 0
Arc cutting; plasma arc gouging; air 9 Open 12 arc gouging; flux cored arc welding Limited 16 (manual and remote operation). Confined 24 Plasma arc cutting 15
Example: TIG Welding is carried out on manganese 4. CONTROL REQUIREMENTS steel in a confined space. SUM CONTROL REQUIREMENTS The weighting factors are 4 + 10 + 24. < 9 or 9 Natural Ventilation The total of 38 indicates that local exhaust ventilation is required. > 9 to 21 Mechanical ventilation
Note: The approach taken in the Control Table > 21 to 54 Local exhaust ventilation on this page is an example of ‘Control Banding’. > 54 Local exhaust ventilation and respiratory protection.
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3.3.4 BIOLOGICAL The worker will often be very aware of the area of the worksite or of the substance which OCCUPATIONAL ASTHMAGENS GL makes their problem worse. Most people with asthma have irritable, swollen air passages, partly blocked with Advice for people with asthma too much sticky mucus. This narrowing of Talk with their GP or occupational health the air passages leads to the symptoms of nurse if something at work is causing asthma wheeze, breathlessness and cough. Work and or is making it worse. They will: non-work factors can cause this narrowing >> ask what substances or processes are or make it worse: present at work >> dusts and fumes (at work and home, >> ask if symptoms worsen during each shift eg: cigarette smoke) or over the shift period >> exercise >> ask if there is any improvement away >> cold air. from work
People with asthma in the workplace may >> teach how to use a peak flow meter. notice a number of symptoms including: In New Zealand the substances or processes >> either a dry cough or one that produces recognised as likely to cause asthma sputum. Often people whose asthma is problems are: caused or made worse by work will notice >> working with chemicals such as isocyanates the cough predominantly at night (TDI, MDI, two-pot paints and glues, >> shortness of breath or chest tightness foam manufacture, etc) epoxy resins and and wheezing. wood dust.
All of these symptoms may improve when Common industries include spray painting, the person is away from work. boat building and working with wood.
Allergic reactions to substances used at work Problem dusts include: such as TDI (toluene diisocyanate), or western >> western red cedar red cedar can cause asthma. Minute amounts >> some particle-boards (building and may be involved. joinery industries) The person may become ‘sensitised’ to the >> metal fumes or dusts (aluminium substance after weeks, months or years of smelting, welding) exposure with no ill effect. Sometimes the >> dusts from organic materials such as reaction develops hours after exposure, flour (bakers) animals (veterinarians) and which can make the workplace factor difficult insects. to identify. According to information found at the Other people develop irritant asthma for the address cited, about one out of every six adult first time after a very heavy single exposure asthmatics has asthma that is either caused to an airway irritant in the workplace such or made worse by workplace exposures. See: as welding fume or an irritant gas such as www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/lung/toolkit/ sulphur dioxide. asthmagens.htm Pre-existing asthma may be made worse The US Association of Occupational and by dusts or fumes, and in this case the Environmental Clinics has a downloadable self symptoms tend to follow the exposure closely. paced learning module. See: www.aoec.org
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Occupations at Risk of Asthma
WORKERS AT RISK AGENTS WORKERS AT RISK AGENTS
Animal handlers Animal urine, dander Machinists Tool setters Metal working fluids, oil mists
Bakers Enzymes, flour/grain Office workers Cleaning materials, dust/mites dusts, moulds
Carpenters Acrylate, amines, Pharmaceutical workers Cephalosporins, diisocyanates, epoxy pancreatin, papain, Sawmill resins, wood dusts pepsin, psyllium
Cleaners Cleaning materials, Photographers Complex amines Janitors dusts, moulds
Day care providers Cleaning materials, Plastics Anhydrides, dusts, latex (natural), diisocyanates Rubber moulds
Electronics workers Amines, colophony, Seafood Crabs, prawns metals, soldering flux
Farmers Animal urine, grain Teachers Cleaning materials, dusts, mites, insects dusts, moulds
Hairdressers Henna, persulfate Textile workers Dyes, gums
Health care workers Formaldehyde, Welders Welding fumes glutaraldehyde, latex, methyldopa, penicillin,
Laboratory workers Animal urine, dander, feathers, enzymes, formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde insects, latex
Source: Guideline: Asthma – A Guide to the Management of Occupational at:
www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information-guidance/all-guidance-items/asthma-a-guide-to- the-management-of-cccupational
BIRD DROPPINGS ACOP Bird droppings, left behind by large numbers of roosting birds, may be found by employees during: >> construction work >> maintenance work >> work in roof spaces >> demolition work.
They can cause very serious disease. The most serious risks are from organisms that grow in the droppings, feathers and nesting debris. External parasites may also become a problem when infested birds leave them behind. They can invade buildings and bite or irritate people’s skin.
Possible diseases: >> bacterial – eg e-coli, salmonella, listeriosis, campylobacter, psittacosis >> fungal – eg histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, candidiasis >> viral – eg meningitis, Newcastle disease >> parasitic/protozoal – eg toxoplasmosis, trichomoniasis.
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The bacteria and parasites can be: Legionella can grow on wet surfaces of the >> breathed in cooling units that are part of some building air-conditioning systems and other industrial >> ingested by eating contaminated food or by cooling equipment. It can also grow in pools of >> ingested by eating with dirty hands. water, and its growth is more rapid the higher Infection is most likely, however, when dust the temperature of the water. It will not grow containing massive amounts of the bacteria in water over 60 degrees C. or parasites is inhaled. In certain circumstances, legionella can The risk of disease is greatly increased for become airborne and be ejected out of a people with weakened resistance: cooling tower or scrubber in water droplets. >> antibiotic therapy The airborne bacteria can be dispersed by the wind to affect members of the public outside a >> skin damage – through injury or surgery building, or be captured by poorly positioned >> chronic disease. air intakes of an air-conditioning system. Source: Demolition Code at: Some people are more at risk than others. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Adults over the age of 50, smokers, people guidance/all-guidance-items/best-practice- prone to lung disease and other people with guidelines-for-demolition-in-new-zealand/ low immunity are particularly vulnerable. multipagedocument_all_pages Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious and outbreaks are localised. In New Zealand, LEGIONNAIRES DISEASE HB, DBH GL,MOH GL Legionnaires’ disease is a notifiable disease Introduction under the Health Act 1956. This means that Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection a doctor is required to notify the medical (a type of pneumonia) that can be either mild officer of health at the Public Health Service or severe enough to cause death. In its mild if he/she suspects a patient suffers from, or form, it is called ‘Pontiac fever’. The disease is diagnosed with, Legionnaires’ disease. got its name in 1976 when an outbreak of The actions needed to prevent the growth pneumonia occurred in people at an American of the bacteria are relatively simple. Legion Convention. Comprehensive Codes of Practice (eg the Legionnaires’ disease is caused by a bacteria New Zealand Guidelines for the Control of called Legionella. It is treated with antibiotics. Legionellosis and the more recent New South The bacteria are usually found in water Wales Code of Practice for the Control of and soils, depending on the species. Legionnaires’ Disease and Standards describe the design, operation and maintenance and In New Zealand: monitoring of air-conditioning systems. >> Legionella pneumophila is the most Preventing Legionnaires’ disease common cause – and is connected with is more likely if: hot water systems and cooling towers. >> a design of cooling tower that minimises >> Legionella longbeachae is the next most the opportunity for the bacteria to grow common and is found in soils, compost, on wet surfaces is chosen and potting mixes. >> water handling systems are kept clean >> the water is treated with chemicals
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>> the approach outlined in AS/NZS 3666.3 release tiny, lightweight spores which travel for monitoring water quality and through the air, and can be inhaled. interpreting the results is used. This Adverse health effects standard also lists the actions that should Everyone is exposed to mould spores without be taken when these results indicate an noticeable harm. increase of microbial growth in the water. But they can cause health problems when Practical actions they are inhaled in large numbers. These observations mean that there are some clear responsibilities for: Symptoms that exposed people report include: >> owners and operators of buildings with mechanical ventilation systems >> respiratory problems – wheezing and shortness of breath >> operators of cooling plant or equipment >> nasal and sinus congestion >> some employers. >> eye irritation (burning, watery or Source: A Comprehensive Health Bulletin that reddened eyes) elaborates on all these matters and includes >> dry, hacking cough separate suggestions for actions by building owners, and employers, is at: >> nose or throat irritation >> skin rashes or irritation. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/all-guidance-items/prevention- People with pre-existing asthma are at greater of-legionnaires-disease-employers- risk, as even a relatively small number of responsibilities spores may trigger an asthma attack. Similarly, those with weakened immune systems, the References: For responsibilities under the elderly and infants are more at risk. Building Act refer to: the Department of Building and Housing: www.dbh.govt.nz, A special danger in particular Certain types of moulds, such as Stachybotrys www.building.dbh.govt.nz/bcupdate-article-28 chartarum, can produce compounds called mycotoxins that have toxic properties. The Ministry of Health Guideline at: The key cause – dampness www.health.govt.nz/publication/ Excessive indoor humidity resulting in water communicable-disease-control-manual-2012 vapour condensation on walls from plumbing MOULDS AND LEAKY BUILDINGS GL FROM BRANZ leaks, spills from showering or bathing and water leaking through foundations or roofs What are moulds? – all will promote mould growth. Preventing Moulds, along with mushrooms and yeasts, mould growth is, in principle, a straightforward are fungi, which are simple, microscopic matter of keeping things dry. organisms. They are present everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Clean-up procedures Dealing with mould is, in principle, simple: To grow they need a food source (any organic material such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt), >> removing mouldy materials moisture and a place to grow. They don’t >> cleaning/drying mouldy areas. need light to grow. When they reproduce they
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Use of biocides >> farmer’s lung Don’t use bleach or other biocodes, except >> Legionnaires disease. in specific circumstances. Problem assessment Personal Precautions Assessing the risk is difficult. Some people Use respiratory protection when dealing with may develop a disease while others may not. moulds. A respirator with particulate filter(s) Different people may take differing lengths (P1 minimum) is required for spores. Protective of time to become reactive to the airborne clothing that is easily cleaned or discarded, contaminants. and rubber or other suitable gloves should be worn. Any activity which could create airborne dusts, spores and liquid aerosols can lead Source: There is comprehensive advice from to exposure: BRANZ at: >> disturbing mushroom compost www.weathertight.org.nz/fixing-leaky- producing, bagging, using potting mix buildings/remediation-detailing-solutions/ >> removing animal droppings remediation-details-mould/ >> handling flapping chickens ORGANIC DUSTS >> feeding-out mouldy hay Allergic respiratory responses >> seed dressing Organic dusts include vegetable and animal >> cleaning grain silos bio-aerosols such as: >> repairing leaky buildings. >> bark and mulch Control measures >> mouldy hay The primary aim is to reduce airborne >> animal dander (dandruff!) contaminant levels. >> grain dust >> With waste material, dampening before >> silage disturbing, but this would not be >> potting mix appropriate for some products like seeds. >> animal droppings >> In confined spaces (eg silos) avoiding >> urine spray/aerosolised faeces. entry by using other work practices is the preferred option. Appropriate protocols for Generally, health effects come from exposure confined space entry must be developed to these plus pollen, fungi, fungal spores, and adhered to if entry is essential. mycotoxins, bacteria, endotoxins3 and >> Technical innovation which isolates the dust from livestock – skin, hair, feathers worker from the source, such as not needing and excrement. to enter silos or seed cleaning plant. Exposure can cause serious lung diseases Personal protection is, as always, the last and from the allergic response. least effective option. The diseases are known by names like: Cross Reference: 2.2.23 Page 41 >> organic dust toxic syndrome >> occupational asthma
3 Mycotoxins – toxins produced by fungi. Endotoxins – toxins from bacteria.
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3.3.5 CONFINED SPACES ACOP FROM QUEENSLAND Control measures
OXYGEN DEPLETION >> Confirmation of adequate oxygen in
the atmosphere before entry. People entering a confined space may collapse and die if there is insufficient oxygen in the >> Emergency rescue arrangements if the space to support life. Normal air has about oxygen content in the confined space 21% oxygen and adverse health effects may can drop. be noticed if oxygen levels fall below 19%. >> Wearing personal ‘low oxygen’ alarms.
Effects may vary from person to person, >> Wearing an emergency oxygen supply but at levels of between 8–12% oxygen, pack – that allows a limited time for exiting rapid loss of consciousness and death can the confined space. occur, unless the person is removed from HYDROGEN SULPHIDE the space and resuscitated. Reduced oxygen concentrations initially cause increased What is the problem breathing and heart rates, muscle in- This is a very toxic gas (like cyanide) and coordination, emotional changes, and fatigue. can cause rapid ‘knockdown’ and death. More severe conditions can cause nausea, Hydrogen sulphide is a potential hazard in vomiting, loss of consciousness, convulsions, tanneries, tanning abattoirs, mining, metal respiratory collapse and death. processing, the brewing and fishing industries, Examples of confined spaces are offal pits, oil drilling or refining and the chemical, pulp iron-walled compartments (eg ships where and paper industries. rusting removes oxygen) feed silos and Other sources include industrial waste, sewers. Sewers can also be a source of H2S. facilities for domestic animals, sewers, natural
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an inert gas, but and volcanic gas, and some hot springs may displace oxygen in confined spaces and (including the Rotorua thermal region). because it is widely encountered in industry, Confined spaces can increase accumulation
CO2 has been assigned a WES. and be rapidly fatal.
High levels of these gases can cause more At low levels, complaints relate to odour, rapid depressed consciousness than does eye or respiratory tract irritation, nausea a simple lack of oxygen. They should also and headache. be tested for in situations where they might Exposure at around 250 ppm for a minute or be present. more can result in severe breathing depression, Serial collapse fluid in the lungs, depressed circulation, and Often the rescuers of a person who has seizures. Rapid unconsciousness and fatalities collapsed in a tank or pit also die because can occur at over 700 ppm. they rush in without adequate protection. The odour (of rotten eggs) can be detected Problem assessment at low levels (under 1 ppm) though in some people it is not recognised until 1 to 10 ppm. Identify, in advance, confined spaces where oxygen depletion may occur. Before entering Olfactory fatigue (i.e it can’t be smelled a confined space, the atmosphere must be any longer) occurs at about 50 ppm, and checked with a meter. can develop within 10 minutes at about 100 ppm. This has obvious serious consequences
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because prolonged exposure can occur if the CARBON MONOXIDE disappearance of odour is mistaken for the What is the problem? dissipation of the gas. Carbon monoxide in a confined space Problem assessment is a potent source of harm
Hazardous situations include opening doors An example is the use of concrete cutting of pelt processing drums, which has resulted saws inside buildings. in collapse, coma, and convulsions. Mixing of See the section above at 3.2 sodium, calcium or other sulfides with acidic solutions can generate the gas. Agitation of Cross Reference: 2.2.6 Page 28 solutions containing hydrogen sulfide may Note: Australian Standard AS 2865:2009 dramatically increase its air level. Confined Spaces is accepted as the current Meters are available that indicate hydrogen state of knowledge on confined space sulphide concentrations in the air. Often these entry work. combine a ‘low oxygen’ warning feature. See also the Queensland Confined Space Control measures ACOP at:
>> Confirmation of the atmosphere before www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/construction/ entry to areas of known or suspected workplace-hazards/confined-spaces hazard including confined spaces such as manure pits and sewers. 3.4 CHEMICAL SAFETY >> Where levels are elevated or unknown, 3.4.1 A GENERAL APPROACH EPA GL use air supply respirators (NOT air purifying), with sufficient supply – taking PART A – THE HSNO TOOLBOX into account the time required for exiting Chemical safety for small businesses confined spaces. is covered at the website: >> Wear personal alarms. www.hazardoussubstances.govt.nz/ >> Provide emergency rescue arrangements It suggests five steps to safety: if a prior risk assessment shows that the 1. Prepare an inventory of the chemicals hydrogen sulphide levels in a confined on site space can rise. 2. Assess their risks and apply controls >> Do not attempt initial rescue unless wearing adequate respiratory protection. 3. Use and store hazardous substances safely Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) 4. get ready for an emergency is indicated for poorly ventilated, enclosed areas and/or when the gas concentration 5. Key HSNO Controls is unknown. A positive pressure airline respirator is satisfactory under other circumstances.
Rescuers should have secure escape routes, safety harnesses and lines, and be observed by other (similarly protected) personnel, outside the area.
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A toolbox may be ordered from this site. Pictorially it looks like this:
Emergency flipchart This is a 21 page flipchart that covers all aspects of emergency management. It has two functions – (1) for use in training and (2) as a source of readily available information if there is an emergency.
There is space on it to: >> Write down contact information needed in an emergency >> Evacuation locations >> What to do in a fire, spill, LPG leak, >> How to do CPR and apply First Aid >> If there is a civil disaster >> Emergency equipment – type and locations >> People responsibilities and plan testing >> Incident reporting
Your practical Guide The Guide provides reference information about each point made in the 5 Steps to Safety. The first step is to prepare an inventory of all of the hazardous substances at your workplace.
Workbook The Workbook gives you instructions for completing an inventory on an inventory form. The form is set up so that you will record all of the information needed to use the HSNO Calculator.
Animated safety videos Five on line videos present an introduction and then cover (1) Long term damage, (2) Read the label, (3) Use right containers and (4) Storage.
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HSNO Calculator Next – ask what is the overall Risk? Multiply The HSNO Calculator helps work out what the two ratings (S x L). key HSNO controls are needed based on the This will give an idea of the urgency and hazardous substances you use and store. To nature of controls that will be needed. use the HSNO Calculator you must complete Special Caution: a hazardous substances inventory for all of the substances you used and store, using the HSNO deals with chemicals being held Workbook. Once your inventory is complete, securely and individually in containers. It does enter the details into the calculator to work not deal so well with what happens when out what key HSNO controls you need in chemicals are used in workplaces. Some place. questions illustrate: >> What happens when chemicals are mixed If you use chemicals in your workplace, the together? information in section C of this booklet will help you understand more about using and >> How quickly do they decay or change (if at storing them safely. all) when emitted into the workplace air? >> How do they enter the body? PART B – PRACTICAL ADVICE ABOUT >> What toxic effects do they have – do they CHEMICAL USE IN WORKPLACES target specific body organs? 1. Name the chemical (use the Workbook >> How long do they last in the body? referred to above) >> What exposure monitoring and biological >> What do we use it for? monitoring is required? >> Who uses it? You may need a specialist, such as an >> Where is it stored? industrial hygienist, to help you answer >> How much is there? questions like these. >> What form is it in? (Gas, liquid, 3. Decide how the hazards posed by the gel, solid, powder) chemical will be controlled (Use the >> What container is it in? HSNO Calculator referred to above)
2. Determine the risk it poses Determine the overall strategy from Eliminate, What are the hazards for this chemical: Isolate, or Minimise. Decide the specific controls that will be needed: >> explosive >> local exhaust ventilation >> flammable >> safety data sheet >> toxic >> protective safety equipment >> corrosive >> training >> oxidising >> secure storage >> ecotoxic? >> segregation Also ask – what will occur during the process? >> labelling Will new chemical substances be formed that require control? >> signage >> spill control Next, rate the Severity (S) of harm and its Likelihood (L) – each on scales of 1, 2 or 3. >> emergency response plan >> test certificates.
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4. Write down the actions required to putto reduce or eliminate danger and actions to be controls in place taken to restore control after an emergency.
Write down the actions needed to put any PART F – FIRE EXTINGUISHERS missing controls in place – what needs to Where explosive, flammable or oxidising be done, who is responsible for doing it, substances are held above the trigger deadlines etc. quantities listed in Schedule 3 of the HAEMR, PART C – THREE LEVELS OF EMERGENCY the number of fire extinguishers given in the MANAGEMENT Schedule must be provided. The level of management required depends on PART G – SIGNAGE the quantities of hazardous substances held. When the quantities of substances held exceed The levels are cumulative. the trigger quantities shown in Schedule 5 of >> Level 1: Information on labels. It must be the HSENR, signs are required. EPA has an clear so people know about the substance additional ‘Quick Guide on Signage’. and what to do in an emergency. >> Level 2: Documentation such as SDS, so PART H – EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANS people can work out what to do in an Schedule 4 of the HSEMR sets out trigger emergency advance. Fire extinguishers will quantities that will require Emergency also be required. Response Plans (ERP).
>> Level 3: Signage, Plans and secondary An ERP must identify all likely emergencies containment. that will occur. It must: >> Describe what to do in an emergency. PART D – LABELLING >> Identify who is responsible for these actions. If the amount of substance present exceeds the trigger quantities, it must be labelled for >> List contact details. emergency management and this must be >> Identify the location and purpose of available in 10 seconds. materials needed in an emergency.
Suppliers or sellers must ensure the >> Provide information on the EM decision information is provided and the person in making process and sequence of charge at the workplace must ensure it ER actions. continues to be met. >> Identify any additional fire-fighting equipment or facilities (e.g shower) required. The trigger quantities are listed in Schedule 1 of the Hazardous Substances (Emergency >> ERPs must be tested every 12 months. Management) Regulations (HSEMR) at: PART I – SECONDARY CONTAINMENT www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/ Schedule 4 of the HSEMR also sets out public/2001/0123/latest/DLM44203.html trigger quantities that will require Secondary EPA has an additional ‘Quick Guide on Labelling’. Containment.
Source: PART E – SAFETY DATA SHEETS Basic website for Chemical Safety: Safety Data Sheets must be held on site if the www.hazardoussubstances.govt.nz/ trigger quantities listed in Schedule 2 of the HSEMR for level 2 are exceeded. They must be Worksafe new Zealand point of entry. available within 10 minutes. They must provide www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- information about emergency preparations, any guidance/all-guidance-items/hsno/hsno- special training or equipment needed, actions guidance-pages/emergency-management
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3.5 WORK RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS 3.5.1 ACUTE LOW BACK PAIN AND SERIOUS BACK INJURIES ACC DPI PROGRAMME. ACOP
To appreciate the Worksafe NZ approach to preventing work related back problems, first recognise that there are differences between acute low back pain (ALBP) and serious back injuries (SBI). a. Acute Low Back Pain:
This is what can happen when we bend down to tie up a shoelace – a sudden pain in the low back. ALBP is spontaneous and hard to prevent. However, we know exactly what to do to help ALBP get better quickly*. The employer role is to react properly once it occurs, concentrating on psychosocial factors in the workplace. b. Serious Back Injuries:
Fractures, severe disc problems and co-morbidity. In theory these are ‘easy’ to prevent by applying the Manual Handling ACOP.
Differences between Acute low back pain and Serious back injury
ACUTE LOW BACK PAIN SPECIFIC BACK INJURIES
Causation Poorly understood Readily identifiable causes
Pathology Rare Trauma often detectable
Prevention Difficult ‘Easy’ to prevent, as causes are well known:
>> heavy handling/high forces >> sustained and repeated awkward posture or movements >> slips, trips, falls and loss of balance >> exposure to whole-body vibration >> road crashes >> combination of above.
Management Most ALBP gets better quickly. Difficult
Psychosocial factors Important in the continuance Less important of pain
Prevention focus Secondary – stop it getting worse Primary – stop it happening at all
Costs 90% of all back claims Responsible for more than 10% of costs.
Employer role Use the Manual Handling ACOP to assess risks and find controls.
Notes: Psychosocial factors are the main barrier to preventing ALBP get better quickly.
They include things like these: >> a person believes that they can’t return to work while any pain remains >> a person ‘catastrophises’
* Bed rest, two days at most. Pain relief to the maximum dose. Resume normal movements and activities as soon as possible.
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>> there is a negative reaction from the Two Caveats: employer and maybe the supervisor and workmates. Unpleasant things are said. A. One shot fixes can work: >> spouses/partners are dismissive or over- That is not to say that one shot fixes cannot protective(!). work, they can. For example:
>> Computer users with neck discomfort 3.5.2 DISCOMFORT, PAIN AND INJURY ACC GL often get relief when given a footrest. This approach to Discomfort, Pain and Injury >> Discomfort in bindery operators (DPI) developed by ACC covers: disappeared with task rotation. >> acute low back pain B. Missing a key facet may prevent >> serious back injuries resolution: >> gradual process injuries. The generality of the 7 factor approach Worksafe NZ suggests it is best to think may suggest that making good on several about seven contributory factors that can factors may make up for factors that cannot influence DPI: be made good. This may be the case >> individual but should not be regarded as a rule. >> psychosocial For example:
>> work organisation >> Discomfort is unlikely to be prevented >> work layout/awkward postures for all fish filleters or poultry processors >> task invariability if the task rate is too great. >> load/forceful movements Experienced workstation assessors can >> environmental. provide appropriate advice.
THE SEVEN CONTRIBUTORY FACTORS
Individual Psychosocial 1. Individual Factors factors factors a. Things a person can’t change about Environmental Work the way they are: issues Discomfort, organisation Pain and Injury >> height, dexterity, strength
Load/Forceful Work layout/ b. Relevant things a person can change movements Awkward Task posture to some extent about the way they are: invariability >> exercise, sleep, food, breathing, fitness.
2. Psychosocial Factors The ACC DPI Approach The way a person reacts in and to their This approach acknowledges that one-shot social environment and its influences on fixes like ‘training how to lift’, ‘adjusting their behaviour. It is, however, a two way thing. workstations’ or ‘reducing force requirements’ The way a person reacts to pain will depend, often do not work when that’s all that is done. in part, on the way family, colleagues and management react.
Detail: >> Stress in section 7.2 of this booklet.
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>> Guidelines for Management of Some 6. Load/Forceful Movements Common Musculoskeletal Disorders. ACC The muscle forces a person has to use to get Publication 1038. Go to www.acc.co.nz and a job done. Detail: look at the Worksafe NZ/ search with the publication number ‘1038’. ACC Code of Practice for Manual Handling. 3. Work Organisation 7. Environmental Factors How work is arranged, delegated and carried The conditions of lighting, heat, cold, humidity, out – the timing of work, how much is air speed, airborne contaminants and noise expected, the discretion available in: that work takes place in. See section 8 of this a. how to do tasks and booklet. b. the order in which they are done. Further detail about each topic can be Detail: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/ found at: www.acc.co.nz/preventing- information-guidance/guidance-by-hazard- injuries/at-work/workplace-health-issues/ type/stress-fatigue PI00082?promospotip
In particular, see Table 1.2 of the Guideline: 3.5.3 DISCOMFORT, PAIN AND INJURY, Healthy Work: Managing stress and fatigue A PERSON CENTRED APPROACH GL in the workplace for ideas on making This approach is complementary to the one work healthy. just described and focuses wholly on the 4. Work Layout/Awkward Postures person. It takes the view that prolonged muscle tension is a sensible thing to look The way work is set up and the positions for and alleviate when addressing gradual people have to adopt to do it. This is process injuries. the traditional, physical ergonomics or ‘Fit Reach and See’. The approach is implicit in the above, but this section tries to make clear the various guises For example: of muscle tension. >> A short person has to hold their shoulders high because the bench where they fillet HOLDING MUSCLES TENSE fish is not height adjustable. >> Poor workstation design (eg: shoulders >> An older person has to lean forward to see need to be raised). a computer screen because their eyesight >> Inappropriate pace and organisation of is not what it was and visual correction is work (eg: no breaks, no task variation). not used. >> Environmental factors, (eg: sunlight through Detail: See section 6: Workstation Design, a window dazzles a person and causes them Office Chairs, Visual Display Units, Hand-tools to move their head to avoid it). and Sit-Stand Seats in this booklet. Also refer >> Physical demands of the task (eg: force and to the Code of Practice for Manual Handling at: repetition requirements). www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/oos- REPEATEDLY MAKING FORCEFUL OR JERKY MOVEMENTS manual-handling >> Not enough recovery time between 5. Task Invariability repeated actions – eg a person raises the How much a task changes over time. arm to hold a component in place as it For example: is soldered. This takes 10 seconds, There is a pause of only 3 seconds in the arm >> doing the same task all day without elevation as another component is grasped. job rotation.
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>> The task is beyond anyones’ capability: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- i.e the force and repetition too great guidance/all-guidance-items/pocket- for anyone. ergonomist-keyboard-clerical-or-industrial- retail-1 Some numerical limits are available against which force and repetition requirements can Version 1 Clerical/Keyboard be assessed. See page 122. Version 2 Industrial/Retail.
REACTING TO SOCIAL STRESSORS 3.5.4 MANUAL HANDLING ACOP
The way people react to the whole sum of There is a joint Worksafe NZ – ACC Code the factors at work (physical, environmental, of Practice for Manual Handling. This entry psychosocial, personal etc) and maybe also describes its scope and presents the essentials at home. of the risk assessment procedure.
PEOPLE DRIVING THEMSELVES HARD The Code takes the following approach: For various reasons to do with personality,
2. Was a desire to perform or unawareness of early 3. Was 1. Identify hazardous Yes the risk score MH Hazards MH present? warning signs, people work themselves too > 10? hard. This tendency is exploitable.
No Yes Solutions: Review regularly >> workstation design
4. Assess the >> task rate, breaks, pauses and task variation 6. Review 5. Control contributory and evaluate the hazards >> optimise holding time in relation to factors recovery time >> force reduction These steps are laid out in a manual handling >> relaxation training hazard control record on pages 46 – 49 of the ACOP. >> working technique training.
Sources: Worksafe NZ Produced a prevention 1. Identify MH hazards guideline in 1992 The Code suggests that company records,
www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- consultation with employees and observation guidance/all-guidance-items/occupational- of tasks will reveal tasks that involve manual overuse-syndrome-oos-guidelines-for- handling.
prevention-and-management 2. Identify hazardous MH
And a series of work evaluation checklists The next step is to see if each task could www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- involve hazardous manual handling. guidance/all-guidance-items/occupational- Ask if the task involves any of the following: overuse-syndrome-oos-checklists-for-the- >> twisted, stooped, awkward, evaluation-of-work asymmetrical postures
The ‘Pocket Ergonomists’ are in two versions >> fixed, sustained, rigid, prolonged postures and allow a person to self diagnose the causes >> unvaried, repetitive movements of aches and pains. >> sudden, uncontrolled or jerky motions
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>> handling/reaching away from the body e. Calculate the Overall Risk Score
>> using high or sustained force Find the overall risk score by adding the >> handling heavy/awkward loads load, posture and environment scores and >> whole body or upper limb vibration multiplying their sum by the time score: >> handling for too long without a break. (A+B+C) x T = Overall risk score.
If the answer is yes to any one of these, then Risk assessment: go on with the remaining steps, else review The risk score can be compared with guidance the situation from time to time. presented in a table: 3. Find the risk score >> <10: DPI risk is low. Monitor the contributory factors. This occurs in 5 parts by assigning a score to four features of the task and adding them up. >> 11–24: DPI is possible. Investigate all the Reference to the risk assessment method on contributory factors. page 46 of the Code will be required to get >> 25–49: DPI is possible even for fit, the numerical scores. trained people. Address all the relevant contributory factors. a. Load score: >> 50+: DPI is likely. Avoid the task and The load score is the muscle force applied re-design the workplace urgently. by the worker. It may be the weight of the object handled or the forces applied See questions 7–11 of the manual handling may need to be measured with a spring hazard control record. balance or a force gauge – or an estimate 4. Assess the contributory factors made. If several people do the task, the score should reflect the ability of the If the risk score is over 10, the next step is least able. to assess the ‘contributory factors’. They are set out at question 12 on pages 46 and 47 b. Posture and workplace layout score: of the Code under the 5 headings below. Observe the postures adopted. Take an They identify factors in a manual handling average value if necessary or use numbers task that, if controlled, can reduce its risk. between the ones shown. The 5 headings are:
c. Work conditions and environment >> Load score >> Environment
Observe the space to work, obstacles, >> People lighting, flooring etc >> Task
d. Time score: >> Management.
Find the time score from the greatest 5. Control Hazards of either the number of repetitions of This section of the Code (questions 13 – 18) the task or the time spent doing it during sets out an approach to assessing the risk of the shift. each contributory factor, writing suggestions on how to control it and the cost and impact of each control. An action plan template is presented at question 14.
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Questions 15 – 17 deal with the monitoring that 3.5.5 GRADUAL PROCESS INJURIES
might be required for employees exposed to These are also known as ‘RSI’ and ‘Overuse manual handling. Disorders’ (OOS), Work related upper limb 6. Review and evaluate disorders (WRULD), Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD) and many other names. Question 18 suggests ways of reviewing the effectiveness of control measures. They include: 1. Localised inflammations: TRAINING >> tendonitis The Code makes suggestions about training for manual handling tasks. This does not >> tenosynovitis focus on technique but rather on altering >> epicondylitis the different aspects of the task so that it >> bursitis. can be carried out safely. 2. Entrapment syndromes: WHAT IS THERE TO BE GAINED? >> carpal tunnel syndrome On page 12 the Code suggests what is >> ulnar or radial nerve compression. to be gained by its application: 3. Pain syndromes: >> Removing risk factors for serious back >> myofascial pain syndromes injuries from manual handling tasks may >> fibromyalgia. reduce the incidence, delay the onset, or reduce the severity of an episode of acute The table on the next page reports the work- low back pain. relatedness of some of these conditions.
>> Preventing recurrent attacks of acute Reference: Musculoskeletal Disorders and low back pain will prevent more serious Workplace Factors – A Critical Review of persistent conditions from developing. Epidemiologic Evidence for Work-Related >> Controlling the hazards posed by manual Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Neck, handling tasks, with the intention of Upper Extremity, and Low Back. NIOSH 1997, bringing them within the reach of everyone See: www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/97-141/ in an organisation (including people with a disability or with acute low back pain) makes a lot of economic sense to employers.
Source: Code of Practice for Manual Handling at: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/ information-guidance/guidance-by-hazard- type/oos-manual-handling
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Work relatedness of Gradual Process Injuries – by body part
STRONG EVIDENCE INSUFFICIENT EVIDENCE OF EVIDENCE EVIDENCE NO EFFECT +++ ++ +/0
Neck and Neck/shoulder
Repetition
Force
Posture
Vibration
Shoulder
Posture
Force
Repetition
Vibration
Elbow
Repetition
Force
Posture
Combination
Hand/wrist Carpal tunnel syndrome
Repetition
Force
Posture
Vibration
Combination
Tendinitis
Repetition
Force
Posture
Combination
Hand-arm vibration syndrome
Vibration
Back
Lifting/forceful movement
Awkward posture
Heavy physical work
Whole body vibration
Static work posture
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Causative factors – by general focus Prevention focus for Gradual Process Injuries
The table below suggests how important some PRIMARY SECONDARY of the seven factors are in the causation of PREVENTION PREVENTION gradual process injuries, and thus the possible Localised More Important, relative merits of focusing on them when inflammations amenable though less so attempting prevention. to primary than for pain prevention syndromes CONDITIONS CAUSATIVE FACTORS Entrapment More Important, Localised (a) evidence – repetition syndromes amenable though less so inflammations (work organization and/or to primary than for pain task invariability), force and prevention syndromes posture are risk factors (RF) Pain Amenable Psychosocial (b) strong evidence – Syndromes to primary factors are combinations of repetition, prevention likely to force and posture are RF. be strong Entrapment (a) evidence – highly barriers to syndromes repetitive work (through work recovery organization and/or task invariability) or in combination with other factors and forceful work and hand wrist vibration These comments result from the averaged are RF. findings about large groups of people. (b) strong evidence – combinations of force and Each situation will be different and will need repetition or force and posture evaluation on its own merits. are RF. References: Pain Likely that few statements Syndromes can be made, except that 1. Musculoskeletal Disorders and individual factors and Workplace Factors – A Critical Review of psychosocial factors may play Epidemiologic Evidence for Work-Related a more important role. Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Neck, The next table reports on the best timing of Upper Extremity, and Low Back. NIOSH prevention measures. 1997, See: www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/97- 141/
2. Musculoskeletal disorders and the workplace. Panel on MSD and the workplace: Commission on behavioural sciences and education: National Research Council and Institute of Medicine. National Academy Press. Washington 2001. See www.nap.edu
Cross Reference: 3.5.1 Page 117
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3.5.6 ASSESSING THE RISKS WHEN TASKS For example, chickens pass on a conveyor INVOLVE REPEATED MOTIONS every 12 seconds and an operator must spend 7 of those reaching up to mid chest height and There are many ways of assessing risks of forward with the hands to de-gut them. The tasks that require repetitive movements. operator says the work is moderately forceful. However, ‘repetition’ is misleading. It is not Drawing a line up vertically from 12 seconds the moving muscles only that develop on the cycle time line to the ‘moderate’ curve, problems – but also the one that are held then going across horizontally to the holding tense. A computer user’s fingers move quickly, time line gives you about 7 seconds allowable but problems typically occur in the muscles holding. in the top of the forearm, ie those which hold the wrist up and are in constant tension. For this task, the recovery of 5 seconds time may be adequate. (That conclusion should be The pictures show some ways in which tempered in that all phenomena in nature are muscles can be held tight. If you see any of normally distributed.) these in a task, it is not hard to work out which muscles are held tense. For a person (short, female) who had to reach up or forward more, however, the force These pictures are not exhaustive. requirement might be reported as high – and One way of estimating risk for a repetitive thus unacceptable. task is to time the task for several cycles and The next page shows the UK HSE method measure the holding time and the cycle time. which takes another common approach to This also gives the recovery time available. risk assessment. It is called ART (Assessment Ask the worker to see if the muscle force is of Repetitive Tasks) and is based on an light, moderate or heavy. examination of each body part in turn. The graph below will allow you to see if the This chart prompts the consideration of recovery time is adequate. different aspects of the way the body is used, assigns a score to each, adds the scores and 30 Light (30% MVC) then uses the total to indicate the severity of the risk. 20 Moderate (50% MVC) The ART approach asks about:
10 >> arm movements Heavy Seconds Holding Seconds (80% MVC) >> forces applied (strength x frequency)
20 40 60 80 >> postures of the neck, back, arm, wrist Cycle time in seconds and hands >> breaks in the work Suzanne H. Rodgers, A functional job evaluation >> the work pace technique, in Ergonomics, edited by J.S. Moore and A. Garg, Occupational Medicine: State of the Art >> other factors Reviews. 7(4):679-711, 1992. >> the work duration.
These imply scores in 12 boxes. You add these together and multiply by the duration factor (for each arm, separately).
125 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS 1 1 2 2 6 8 2 4 0 0 0 Right G A R 1 2 0 Left x 0.5 x 0.75 x 1 x 1.5 G A A R R G A R G A R Exposure score Exposure = D4 Duration x 2 to less than 4 hours less 2 to 8 hours 4 to than 8 hours More Less than 2 hours Less Less than 1 hour of than 1 hour of Less work continuous than 2 hours of less 1 to work continuous than 3 hours of less 2 to work continuous than 4 hours of less 3 to work continuous hours of continuous 4 or more work keep up with to cult diffi Never the work keep to cult Sometimes diffi up with the work keep up with to cult diffi Often the work present No factors present 1 factor present factors 2 or more Additional factors D - Additional STAGE Task score Task = D1 Breaks D2 Work pace D3 Other factors D4 Duration D3 + 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 D2 Right + G A R G A R G A R 1 1 2 2 2 4 0 0 0 D1 Left A A G R G R G A R A R A R G G Additional factors D Additional STAGE + C5 + C4 + C3 + Pinch or wide fi nger grip for nger grip Pinch or wide fi than half of the time more Almost neutral Almost part of the time Bent or twisted than more Bent or twisted half of the time neutral Almost or sideways Bent forward, part of the time twisted or sideways Bent forward, than half the time more twisted the body or close to Elbow the arm is supported the from away raised Elbow body part of the time the from away raised Elbow than half of the body more time neutral/straight Almost part of the Bent or deviated time than more Bent or deviated half of the time grip grip or no awkward Power for nger grip Pinch or wide fi part of the time Awkward postures C - Awkward STAGE C2 + C1 Posture score C Posture STAGE + C1 Head/neck posture C2 Back posture C3 Arm posture C4 Wrist posture C5 Hand/ nger grip fi 3 3 6 6 0 0 0 B 1-4 6-12 Right G A R G A R G A R 3 3 6 6 0 0 0 1-4 6-12 Left G A R G A R G A R Force score B Force STAGE + A2 (eg some (eg + (eg regular regular (eg A1 Infrequent Infrequent movement) intermittent Frequent with some pauses) movement almost (eg frequent Very movement) continuous Similar motion patterns 10 times per minute repeated or less Similar motion patterns 20 times 11 to repeated per minute Similar motion patterns than 20 times more repeated per minute See grid on page 9 of the guide assessment See grid on page 9 of the guide assessment See grid on page 9 of the guide assessment Frequency / Repetition A - Frequency STAGE B - Force STAGE Frequency score A Frequency STAGE START Left hand Left A1 Arm movements A2 Repetition B Force Right hand
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The score is interpreted as follows: In 2003 ACC published a guideline4. Developments in equipment and techniques SCORE RISK ACTION mean that a more comprehensive guideline5 0 – 11 Low Consider the individual was published in 2012. It has the following circumstances 12 sections: 12 – 22 Med Further investigation needed 1. Policy and programme planning
22 + High Further investigations A moving and handling policy can help needed urgently ensure staff are trained, equipped and supported in methods of safe moving and As with the method described earlier, the handling techniques. assessor needs to talk with the people doing the tasks to decide what force levels are being 2. Risk Assessment exerted. There is a chart in the body of the This section shows how to assess the overall publication about that – with both the amount risk when a carer is required to move a specific of force exerted and time it is exerted for patient – taking into account the person being being incorporated. handled, psychosocial factors, the workplace A copy of the ART guide is needed to help layout, how work is arranged, tasks and interpret the scores. environmental factors.
As the method is somewhat subjective, 3. Moving and handling people different assessors will likely arrive at different This section of the guideline describes the scores. This is inevitable and does not mean techniques for handling patients that are that that one is wrong. are either acceptable or unacceptable. However, if different assessors can discuss results and refine their observations, it is to 4. Training be expected that the overall result will be Training by qualified trainers, operating within more reliable. a facility-wide, comprehensive programme A common use of methods like this is for under the control of a coordinator, is essential several assessors to arrive at agreed scores, before using patient handling equipment then alter the task and re-evaluate to see if (PHE) and the approved handling techniques. adequate change has occurred. Training should be provided to new High scores in the individual parts of the employees, existing staff as a refresher and/ assessment indicate obvious action points. or after an incident or near hit. The focus of training is the handling of people, but it should Source: Assessment of Repetitive Tasks of address the wider context: the upper limbs. www.hse.gov.uk/msd/uld/art/ >> organisation training 3.5.6 PATIENT HANDLING ACC GL >> equipment maintenance INTRODUCTION >> upgrading facilities Healthcare workers have one of the highest >> developing a culture of safety rates of musculoskeletal disorders of all >> communication occupational groups, mostly through moving >> monitoring and evaluation and handling people. >> audits.
4 New Zealand Patient Handling Guidelines. 5 Moving and Handling People – The NZ Guidelines 2012.
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Training should be evaluated. >> physical resources and equipment provided that reduce hazards 5. Equipment for moving/handling people >> supporting a health and safety office Many types of PHE exist including: or function. >> slide sheets 9. Bariatric patients >> transfer belts Bariatric (very heavy) patients pose special >> transfer boards risks. The Guideline covers their assessment >> hoists including mobile, standing under a series of headings. and ceiling. 10. Communication Proper maintenance is vital. A register should schedule and record PHE location, use and Communication is essential in the maintenance. implementation and delivery of an effective moving and handling plan. It informs 6. Facility design clients and staff about the programme Health facilities should be planned, designed and its purpose. and built with moving and handling people A key part of the plan is informing and in mind. New Zealand Standard 4121 and the education client and families about the Australian Health Facility Guidelines refer. programme. This helps the client to feel The latter is at: comfortable about it. Questions are http://healthfacilityguidelines.com.au/default. encouraged. aspx 11. Monitoring and evaluation 7. Upgrading facilities A core part of developing and maintaining Upgrading existing facilities is often the best an effective programme is the process of option to make existing work spaces safer. collecting information about how well the Examples are: activities and operations associated with >> installing ceiling tracking the programme are working. It is useful to remember that programmes tend to lose >> providing access for mobile hoists their effectiveness over time unless there are >> installing hand rails ongoing audits and monitoring. >> re-designing bathrooms and 12. Audits >> equipment storage areas. Audits are necessary to ensure the systems 8. Developing a culture of safety are working as intended. They should provide Developing a culture of safety can improve information that leads to improvements in workplace conditions and reduce accidents. the moving and handling programmes. It is determined by: Reference: The ACC Guide of 2012 is >> management policies and workplace called: Moving and Handling People: practices The New Zealand Guidelines 2012. It is at: >> effective organisation communication www.acc.co.nz/preventing-injuries/at-work/ >> incident reporting system industry-specific-safety/moving-and-handling- >> staff involvement in safety reviews people-nz-guidelines/index.htm and decisions
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3.6 ERGONOMICS >> How should instructional texts be designed? 3.6.1 INTRODUCTION >> What is the best colour for emergency This section presents a brief overview vehicles, in terms of collision reduction? of Ergonomics. >> How should a training programme for In brief, Ergonomics seeks to put human agricultural workers who need to spot characteristics at the centre when things noxious weeds be designed? and systems are designed. >> How should the lighting in a kiwifruit packing line be arranged to optimise ATION AN ANIS D JO RG B human performance? O DE K ENVIRO S R ICAL NM IG O YS EN N W PH T Putting human characteristics at the centre R WORKSP IDE AC W E requires discipline – and the avoidance of WO NAL RKS O PA RS C putting human nature at the centre. E AND E P T MA EN C M H P SK I I TA S N This is touched on in the outer ring of the U E Q S diagram at the left, work organization and job E PEOPLE design, which is a difficult part of ergonomics. It is often referred to as the ‘psychosocial’ domain and implies as its main focus of attention the way people interact with each other.
The diagram also illustrates the overlap of ergonomics with the disciplines of Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Psychology. Good design is the desired outcome of Ergonomics. In the remainder of this section, some practical details about sitting and standing at work, This requires the integration of many aspects using computers safely, hand tool design and of a situation into a final product or service, industrial workstation design are presented. and means that the design is usually harder than the ergonomics. Source: Worksafe NZ has no information about Ergonomics per se. Ergonomics is or has been applied to the design of things in well known settings: 3.6.2 SITTING AND STANDING AT WORK R
>> the re-design of Henry Ford’s car Prolonged standing or sitting are both assembly line – to make human effort undesirable. A choice between the two needs more effective and less tiring to be given in many sorts of work. >> computer and supermarket workstations Discomfort and fatigue both accompany >> hand tools prolonged sitting and standing. Therefore, >> aircraft cockpits. if a choice is not provided, a decrease in
However, it has a much wider range of effectiveness must be expected in workers application than most people know, as such as: illustrated by: >> bank tellers >> How should printed, public use forms be >> postal sorting workers designed so people can use them easily? >> some parts of health care >> shop assistants >> laundry staff.
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Word of mouth has it that retail practice EVIDENCE OF EFFECTS OF SITTING regards sitting shop assistants as AND STANDING ‘unprofessional’ or that they cannot be Significant health effects have been shown ‘customer responsive’. to occur after prolonged standing and There is a need for shop assistants to: prolonged sitting. >> be vigilant for shoplifting There is good evidence that standing all day >> be at the same eye-height as customers poses a significantly increased risk for varicose for clear communication veins. There is evidence that prolonged sitting may pose a small risk for DVT and PE. >> be active in re-stocking shelves and keeping displays neat. However, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that sedentary behavior is a distinct However, the rejection of any sitting is poorly risk for diabetes, weight, heart disease and informed, illegal and un-conducive to health some cancers, and that this risk appears to be and productive work overall. independent of time spent doing moderate SITTING ON AIRCRAFT FLIGHTS and/or vigorous physical activity. Sitting for prolonged periods on aircraft is These diseases are among the most significant thought to have a slightly increased risk of of all causes of morbidity and mortality, venous thromboembolism – referring to both so there is a very likely a large public health deep vein thrombosis (DVT – or the process effect as a result. This points to the need to by which a blood clot forms in a vein) and break up time sitting with time spent standing pulmonary embolism (PE – when the blood or moving. clot travels to the lungs). LEGAL Note that airline passengers are virtually The intent of the HSE Regulations 1995 confined to a seat for the duration of a flight (Regulations 5(2), d and e) are to provide but office workers who ‘sit all day’ rarely do so. relief from the effects of constant standing. STANDING ALL DAY They state: The plight of shop assistants (usually female) >> where the work is of such a nature that it who have to stand all day has been the focus is reasonable for employees to perform it of concern in past times. For example, in the while seated, facilities for sitting 1870’s and 1880’s it was taken that this was >> (e) where the work is of such a nature unhealthy to the extent that, in 1880, the that it is not reasonable for employees Lancet in the UK launched a campaign against to perform it while seated, facilities for this ‘cruelty to women’. Wearing high heels sitting that enable employees to take any will, of course, make the effects of prolonged reasonable opportunity for rest that may standing worse. occur in the course of the work.
In the 1930’s the UK Government wrote a They do not imply that people need to be requirement for seats for workers into the able to sit down all day or take a sitting break Factories Act and, from 1946, New Zealand whenever they wish. legislation has had a similar requirement. Studies in industry show that people with Concerns named include: a choice seem not to choose to sit all day. >> varicose veins and circulatory problems Workers using 900mm high benches in one >> leg and back pain factory, for example, chose to use a sit-stand >> difficulties in pregnancy. seat (see below) for between 25 and 40% of the day, for certain tasks.
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TALL CHAIRS/STOOLS >> provide sit/stand workstations Sitting on a tall stool without a backrest or >> encourage staff to walk and talk, rather footrest is worse than standing. For tall stools: than sitting to communicate or using email >> seat height should be adjustable or phones >> the seat should have a backrest, ideally >> encourage staff to take breaks that height adjustable involve movement. >> bench top supports should not interfere Source: HSE Regulations. with the thighs Reference: Schofield G, Quigley R, and Brown >> adequate knee room R. Agencies for Nutrition Action, 2009. Does >> a foot rest is essential. sedentary behaviour contribute to chronic disease or chronic disease risk in adults? Without support for the feet and lumbar spine, discomfort and fatigue will develop See: www.ana.org.nz quickly when sitting on a tall chair. 3.6.3 SAFE COMPUTER USE ACC GL
SIT STAND SEATS Safe use of computer workstations comprises Sit-stand seats are a good alternative to tall a surprising amount of detail, reflecting the chairs. The main feature of the posture when constancy of the work, the static nature of the using one is that the hip angle (the trunk tasks and the intense concentration that can – thigh angle) is open. This means that a occur during them. backrest is not required. The open posture: The current definitive guidelines are in the 100 >> relieves tension in the erector spinae and page booklet published by ACC in November gluteus maximus muscles 2010. It replaces the previous ACOP. Sections >> tends to promote the correct shape of in the guidelines are: the lumbar spine and reduce pressure What can go wrong during computer use: in the intervertebral discs >> physical discomfort >> all without needing a backrest. >> visual discomfort The reduction in stature should be less than >> stress 20 percent of normal standing height, in which case users will be able sit while working >> fatigue. at a bench, as long as knee space is OK – The guidelines then present the DPI model and retail assistants would be able to scan (See section 5.2) as a model of the causation for shoplifters. of these things.
Note that sit stand seats and tall chairs can get Control of hazards – is covered under in the way when people get off them. If they six headings: clutter the space available to move around in 1. Organising work they may be unsuitable for some locations (eg: bank tellers). 2. The work environment 3. Postures and practices MOVING AT WORK 4. Furniture and equipment A recent New Zealand report suggests: >> acknowledge sedentary behavior as a 5. Computer hardware
workplace health and productivity issue 6. Education and training.
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Details are given as follows: Source: Guidelines for using computers – preventing and managing discomfort, pain 1. Organising work and injury. ACC 5637 at: The way work is structured and organized. www.acc.co.nz/search-results/ A variety of tasks, discretion in work index.htm?ssUserText= scheduling and how to complete tasks, guidelines+for+using+computers feedback on performance, control over priority, pace and procedure – are all regarded 3.6.4 HAND TOOLS as healthy. Hand tool selection is influenced by: 2. The work environment >> the type of grip used to hold the tool This section covers working space, workstation (power grip or pinch grip) location, lighting and décor, atmospheric conditions, noise and housekeeping – over Pinch grip 10 sides of A4.
3. Postures and practices
The way people use and hold their bodies can Power Grip affect the development of discomfort. 6 sides of A4.
4. Furniture and equipment
The design of Desks, Chairs, Footrests, Document holders and Telephone headsets is covered – in considerable detail – on 17 sides of A4. >> the force applied to it – high force requires 5. Computer hardware a handle diameter of 32–50 mm and a handle length longer than the palm width This section covers computer screens, screen >> the position of tool use placement, multiple screens, keyboards, pointing devices (mouse) handrests and >> the height of the work laptops, again in considerable but highly >> the repetitiveness of the work -power tools relevant detail – on 17 sides of A4 may be needed for repetitive work.
6. Education and training Critical features of hand tool design are: >> handle diameter – Suggestions for training courses are made. one-handled tools: 32–50 mm power grip; 6–12 mm pinch grip; The Guideline concludes with short handle length – 100–120 mm for high force sections on: tasks, tool weight – a tool suspender may >> managing health issues once they occur be needed >> health monitoring >> two-handled tools: in addition consider >> FAQ. the handle separation and trap points.
There is a glossary and a bibliography.
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Bent-handled pliers are a good idea if they are 3. Tool selection can affect shoulder posture. used in an appropriate position. Use of a short shank screwdriver is indicated here. A bent handled plier and a wrist in HAMMERS a healthy neutral position. >> handle diameter 32–50 mm >> length at least 100–150 mm >> non-slip coating material. Inappropriate use of a straight DOUBLE-HANDLED TOOLS USED handled plier. The wrist remains FOR POWER TASKS highly flexed. Double-handled tool openings need to be A bent handled neither too small nor too great. They should plier should have been used. also be spring loaded.
This also shows >> grip span = 50 mm minimum and 90 mm the inappropriate maximum use of a bent handled plier. >> no sharp edges >> no finger grooves >> spring-loaded >> no pinch points GENERAL TOOL SUGGESTIONS >> can the tool be used while keeping 1. Avoid the following actions: wrists straight? >> a bent wrist when using a tool >> is the handle 100–150 mm long? >> repeated rotation of the forearm – a powered tool may be required >> working with raised shoulders or elbows held out – alterations in the work height may be needed.
2. Provide the tool with: >> comfortable, soft, non-slip handles >> for two-handed tools: spring-opening DOUBLE-HANDLED TOOLS FOR >> for powered tools: large triggers PRECISION TASKS (at least three fingers) >> grip span = 25 mm min and 75 mm max >> avoid pinch points, sharp edges, >> no sharp edges finger grooves. >> no finger grooves >> spring-loaded >> no pinch points >> can the tool be used while keeping wrists straight?
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LARGE SCREWDRIVERS 3.6.5 INDUSTRIAL WORKSTATION DESIGN
>> no finger grooves When people stand at a bench to work, >> grippy surfaces this series of suggestions may be useful. >> diameter 32–50 mm WORKSTATION HEIGHT >> length 100–150 mm >> Provide a height that suits the height >> is the shank the right length? of the person and the type of work.
PRECISION SCREWDRIVERS >> diameter 6–13 mm >> repeated use of a small screwdriver like the one shown here may cause damage to the palm.
POSTURES
SCRAPERS >> neutral postures – joints at the mid point of their range of action >> handle diameter 32–50 mm, no finger grooves or sharp edges >> work close to the body, as shown >> can the tool be used while keeping >> avoid leaning forward or twisting the trunk wrists straight? >> have both feet on the floor – with equal weight borne on each SAWS >> provide for a variety of postures. >> diameter 32–50 mm >> no finger grooves or sharp edges >> can the tool be used while keeping wrists straight?
HACKSAWS >> no finger grooves or sharp edges.
Reference: A Guide to Selecting Non- Powered Hand Tools, NIOSH. Cincinnati. DHSS publication 2004–164. (The pictures were taken from this publication.) See:
www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2004-164/default. MOVEMENTS AND EFFORT html >> avoid sudden, jerky and forceful See also: Ergonomic Tools in our Time. Ed: movements (eg using the hand like Lindqvist B., and Power Tool Ergonomics. a hammer) Ed. Skoksberg L. Atlas Copco 1986 and >> provide breaks that compensate for periods 2007 respectively. of high or sustained muscular effort.
Cross reference: next section 3.6.5
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ANTHROPOMETRY (BODY SIZES) is treated. This can stem from what we feel >> if different people are to use the and think about another person. workstation it should be adjustable Demonstrations of the importance of to suit the majority. psychosocial factors are found in several sections in this booklet. eg: SITTING >> Acute low back pain – (Section 5.1) where >> high stools are difficult to get comfortable psychosocial factors are described as the on – they need a firm backrest and a most important barriers to recovery Ie: footrest How managers and colleagues behave >> alternate sitting with standing if this towards and speak to an injured person is possible. is very important in the success of their return to work. STANDING >> Section 5.2 includes comments on both >> provide a leg rest 80 – 100 mm high psychosocial factors and work organisation to put one leg up on as risk factors for overuse disorders. >> perching stools are good for providing >> Bullying – This is really all about the quality relief for standing of workplace relationships. >> foot pedals should not be operated by standing workers unless they are WHY ARE PSYCHOSOCIAL carefully designed. FACTORS IMPORTANT? In being about how people hold themselves WORKSTATION DESIGN towards each other, they are perhaps the key >> avoid forward reaching too far underlying factor in determining health and >> provide a sloping work surface safety outcomes.
>> provide adequate legroom In the first part of this section, summaries >> provide clear vision of work items. of the results of landmark studies from the psychosocial research literature are presented. Reference: Clark T. S and Corlett E. N. The Ergonomics of Workspaces and They are to do with the effects of workplace Machines: A design Manual. 2nd. Edition. factors on: CRC Press. 1995. >> premature death >> heart disease 3.7 PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS >> clinical depression 3.7.1 INTRODUCTION >> health, generally WHAT ARE PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS? >> having a ‘bad’ boss If ‘Psycho’ means Mind and ‘Social’ refers >> justice at work to Society we have ‘mind in society’. >> drinking The term reflects the idea that how we >> sickness absence. react to events and how we behave towards each other can be important THE WHITEHALL STUDIES AND in determining outcomes. PREMATURE DEATH The ‘Whitehall Study’ now in its second phase, This idea is as old as history. involves many thousands of public servants. Note that behaviour can include what is said, The data being gathered is specific to each what body language says and how a person person in the study. The study therefore offers
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advantages over studies based on group KARASEK AND THEORELL – HEART DISEASE 6 averages at a single moment in time . In what became a landmark study, Karasek The key result of the initial Whitehall Study and Theorell and their team selected 1600 men at random from the 40 – 64 year age group in the Swedish workforce and, for four 3.5 years, followed the rate at which the men developed symptoms of heart disease. If one of the men developed two (of four) symptoms Premature death of heart disease in the 4 years, that was a hit. rate in 40–64 year At the same time they questioned the men to old males see how they rated the control in their work 1 (called decision latitude) and its psychological demands (workload).
Karasek and Theorell presented the results 1 2 3 4 5 6 of the number of hits in each segment of a Administrative Grade graph of control versus demand, as the figure Pause a moment and decide if the senior below illustrates. administrators or the clerical/manual workers die prematurely more often. You will note that no men scored a hit where work was ‘best’ – low demands and high The figure shows the stunning finding that control. Where work was ‘worst’, (the highest emerged in 1970: There is a huge difference demands and the lowest control), 20% of the in the rate of premature death between top men developed symptoms of heart disease.
people and bottom people. Who did you That is one fifth of the sub-group! pick as 3.5 times more likely to die prematurely, the senior administrators This compared with about 3.5% where work or the clerical/manual workers? had the highest demands, but high control or lowest control but reasonable demands. The finding is unequivocal: people at the bottom do worse. It’s the clerical and manual Results of Karasek and Theorell’s workers who have the higher death rate. original research
Summary conclusions of this part of the 20 Whitehall Studies are: Lowest Control >> Something operates powerfully to Medium Control 15 influence health, and is correlated with Highest Control hierarchy per se.
>> It operates on a middle class of people 10 and its effects arelarge . >> For both animals and humans, being near 5 the bottom of the social ladder produces worse health outcomes than being near the top. This cannot be explained solely 0 by diet, workload and lifestyle, which Lowest Demand Highest Demand were controlled for in the analysis.
6 Why are some people healthy and others not? The determinants of health of populations. Eds. Evans R G, Barer M L, Marmor T R. Aldine de Gruyter, New York. 1994.
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These findings, like those of the Whitehall FROM THE DUNEDIN MULTIDISCIPLINARY study, understandably took the world of work BIRTH COHORT STUDY7 research by storm. We tested the influence of work stress on Because of the disparity between 3.5% and diagnosed depression and anxiety in young 20%, Karasek and Theorell thought that a working adults. synergistic effect between demands and Participants are enrolled in the Dunedin Study, control was operating – ie the presence a 1972–73 longitudinal birth cohort assessed of both made things not only worse but most recently in 2004–2005, at age 32. much worse. Work stress (psychological and physical This same pattern was repeated in several job demands, decision latitude, low social studies of males and females for a number support,) was ascertained by interview. Major of different aspects of health: depression and generalized anxiety disorder >> depression were ascertained using the Diagnostic >> alcoholism Interview Schedule and according to DSM-IV.
>> accidents to/from work Participants exposed to high psychological >> attempted suicide job demands (excessive workload, extreme >> gastro intestinal upset time pressures) had a twofold risk of major depression or generalized anxiety disorder >> musculoskeletal disorders. compared to those with low job demands. KARASEK AND THEORELL – DEPRESSION Analyses ruled out the possibility that the association between work stress and disorder Later, Karasek and Theorell did the same resulted from study members’ socioeconomic type of study, but this time with support position, a personality tendency to report alongside demand and control as influences negatively, or a history of psychiatric disorder to be investigated. prior to labor-market entry. Prevalence of Depression, as found Prospective longitudinal analyses showed that by Karasek and Theorell high-demand jobs were associated with the % OF PEOPLE DECISION LATITUDE onset of new depression and anxiety disorder REPORTING in individuals without any pre-job history of High Medium Low SIGNIFICANT diagnosis or treatment for either disorder. DEPRESSION Work stress appears to precipitate SUPPORT Hi Low Hi Low Hi Low diagnosable depression and anxiety in Psychological Low 9 17 10 19 23 32 previously-healthy young workers. Demand Med 6 13 12 22 28 6 EFFORT REWARD IMBALANCE High 9 15 8 25 27 41 AND POOR HEALTH Support meant things like: This theoretical approach is focused on the >> if I have a problem, there is help and advice notion of social reciprocity, a fundamental of how to fix it or interpersonal behavior and an 'evolutionary old' grammar of reciprocal social exchange. >> people cover for me when I’m absent >> when relationships have turned bad, there has been help to get them back on track.
7 Psychological Medicine. Volume 37 /Issue 08 /August 2007, pp 1119–1129. Work stress precipitates depression and anxiety in young, working women and men. Maria Melchior, Avshalom Casp, Barry J. Milne, Andrea Danese, Richie Poulton and Terrie E. Moffitt.
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Effort-Reward Imbalance Both higher effort–money ratio and higher The model of effort-reward imbalance (ERI) over-commitment significantly correlated claims that failed reciprocity in terms of high with the depressive state. efforts spent and low rewards received is These findings suggest that in addition to likely to elicit recurrent negative emotions effort–money ratio, over-commitment at work and sustained stress responses. Conversely, is an especially important issue that may positive emotions evoked by appropriate be able to be managed in health promotion social rewards promote well-being, health and services for nurses in general hospitals. survival. Reflecting these results, low status, self esteem and money were reported by IN A STUDY TO SEE HOW GERMAN WHO as being ‘harmful to health’8. TEACHERS REACTED TO AN INTERVENTION BASED ON ERI10 – wage, salary – esteem “We developed a manual-based psychological – promotion/security group program aimed at teachers and
demands/ focussing on their professional relationships. obligations The intervention comprised ten sessions over REWARD a 10-month period. The aim of the program was to strengthen teachers’ health. EFFORT motivation We investigated whether the effects of our (‘overcommitment’) intervention, during which the MBI and ERI
motivation were applied, result in general alleviation (‘overcommitment’) of occupational stress experienced by IMBALANCE MAINTAINED teachers. This is a randomized controlled trial. – if no alternative choice available All teachers (N = 2,484) of two school types – if accepted for strategic reasons – if motivational pattern present (overcommitment) (grammar schools and secondary modern schools) in 3 districts of south-western Germany were invited to take part in IN A RESULT FROM JAPAN ABOUT EFFORT-REWARD-IMBALANCE9 our program. To examine relationships between effort– All teachers declaring their interest (N = 337) reward imbalance (ERI) and depression in the intervention were included in the and anxiety in nurses of a Japanese project. They were randomly assigned to general hospital. either the intervention group (N = 171) or to the control group (N = 166). A self-report survey was conducted among 406 nurses. Work stress was measured using a We found that teachers who participated in Japanese version of the ERI scale. Depression at least 50% of the program benefited from and anxiety were assessed by an item of the this short intervention. QOL-26. Logistic regression analysis was used Significant improvement was achieved on to determine the independent contribution of the two MBI scales, Emotional Exhaustion the effort–reward ratios or overcommitment and Personal Accomplishment, as well as to the depressive state. on the ERI subscale Appreciation.
8 The Solid Facts. Eds. Wilkinson R and Marmot M. WHO 2nd Edition. 2003. 9 Effort-Reward Imbalance and Depressive State in Nurses. Kikuchi, Y., Nakaya, M., Ikeda, M., Narita, K. and Nishi, M. Occup. Med. 60.3. pp231 – 233. 2010. 10 Burnout and effort resward imbalance in a sample of 949 german teacgers. Unterbrink, T., et. Al. Int. Arch. Environ. Health. 2007. 80. Pp 433 – 441.
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Teachers’ occupational stress level may interactional and total organisational justice, be decreased by taking part in a short heavy drinking ( 210 g of absolute alcohol manual-based psychological group per week) and other psychosocial factors intervention that focuses on more effective were determined by means of questionnaire handling of interpersonal problems in school.” in 2000–2001 (phase 1) and 2004 (phase 2). Multilevel logistic regression analyses taking BLOOD PRESSURE FROM A BAD BOSS into account the hierarchical structure of In what became a landmark study Wagner, the data were conducted and adjustments Fieldman and Hussey11 compared the blood were made for sex, age, socio-economic pressures of nurses as they worked for two status, marital status, baseline heavy drinking, supervisors, one perceived as ‘good’ vs psychological distress and other psychosocial another ‘not so good’. risk factors such as job strain and effort/ reward imbalance. The resulting differences in blood pressure were significant, to the point that inclusion After adjustments, participants who reported of the advice ‘have a good boss’ in standard low procedural justice at phase 1 were suggestions about avoiding heart disease approximately 1.2 times more likely to be was warranted. heavy drinkers at phase 2 compared with their counterparts reporting high justice. Low JUSTICE AT WORK AND INCREASED perceived justice in interpersonal treatment CHD RISK12 and low perceived total organisational justice A prospective study of 506 males and 3,570 were associated with increased prevalence females measured the perceived justice in of heavy drinking only in the model adjusted (supervisory practices and absenteeism due for sociodemographics. to illness and self-reported health. This is the first longitudinal study to show that The rates of absence due to sickness among low procedural justice is weakly associated those perceiving low justice were 1.2 to 1.9 with an increased likelihood of heavy drinking. times higher than among those perceiving high justice. These associations remained SICKNESS ABSENCE14 significant even after statistical adjustment As part of the Whitehall II study, 6,442 for behavioral risks, workload, job control, male British civil servants were asked and social support. to rate supervisory practices (perceived justice at work) and were followed for HEAVY DRINKING13 cardiovascular events. To investigate whether low perceived Those employees who perceived their organisational injustice predicts heavy drinking. supervisors treated them fairly had 30% lower Data from a prospective occupational cohort CHD incidents after adjustment for other study, the 10-Town Study, on 15 290 Finnish known coronary risk factors. public sector local government employees nested in 2432 work units, were used. Non-drinkers were excluded. Procedural,
11 Wagner, N., Feldman, G. & Hussy, T. (2003). The effect of ambulatory blood pressure of working under favourably and unfavourably perceived supervisors. Occupational Environmental Medicine, 60, 468–474. 12 Elovainio, M. et al., 2002. Organizational Justice: Evidence of a New Psychosocial Predictor of Health American Journal of Public Health, 92, 105–108. 13 Anne Kouvonen, Mika Kivimäki, Marko Elovainio, Ari Väänänen, Roberto De Vogli, Tarja Heponiemi, Anne Linna, Jaana Pentti, Jussi Vahtera. Low organisational justice and heavy drinking: a prospective cohort study. Occup Environ Med 2008; 65: pp 44–50.
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ENTRIES IN THIS SECTION SUMMARISING THE 2003 HEALTHY In this section 7 topics are covered: WORK GUIDELINE Chapter 1: Make work healthy Stress Chapter 1 is a narrative about workplace stress. >> Key Worksafe NZ advice and key It lists the things people say are stressful prevention points. (Table 1.1). Table 1.2 suggests things for Bullying employers and employees to consider re the >> Key Worksafe NZ advice and key development of healthy work, based on prevention points. the idea that adding ‘good things’ to work is as necessary as ‘taking bad things out’. Violence to caregivers Tables 7.1–7.3 are tools to promote dialogue >> Outlines the actions suggested in the about that. joint Counties Manukau DHB and Worksafe NZ Guideline. The elements of healthy work cited are: >> a balance of effort and rest Fatigue and Shiftwork >> variety of tasks >> Outlines the 2007 Worksafe NZ Guideline. >> a sense of personal control Work hours and breaks >> mechanisms exist to address poor >> Makes summary observations that workplace relationships address FAQ. >> there is good communication Mental health at work >> workplace hierarchies promote confidence >> Makes the point that mentally ill people >> collaboration are often productive. >> a healthy and safe workplace Older people at work >> good change management >> Myths and reality. >> there are appropriate rewards
3.7.2 STRESS GL, W >> the workplace is supportive >> opportunities for personal progress. This section about the Worksafe NZ advice is in two parts. Chapter 2: Take reports of ‘stress’ seriously
First, the Stress Guideline of 2003 Outlines a process for responding to reports is summarized, of stress.
Second, the advice in a revised, summary Chapter 3: Deal with stressors as with pamphlet developed in 2009 is presented. any other workplace hazard (The revision is based on significant research Chapter 3 refers to 4 categories of work. findings since 2003.) The 4th category is work that is intrinsically stressful – because it is emotionally draining or repugnant or where work requires intense, prolonged concentration.
14 Kivimaki, M. et al., 2005. Justice at Work and Reduced Risk of Coronary Heart Disease Among Employees: The Whitehall Study. Archives of Internal Medicine, 165, 2245–2251.
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Where work is Category Four, harm is THE 2009 PAMPHLET – ‘MORALE, foreseeable and employers should assume that DISTRESS AND HEALTHY WORK’ intrinsic stressors will need to be controlled, This entry summarises key points from see Tables 7.4–7.6 of the Guide. Apply the reseach findings reported since 2003. standard approach of eliminate, isolate and minimise to control hazards. 1. Challenge and threat
Chapter 4: Prevention There are two sorts of stress: Chapter 4 suggests that stress management >> challenging and threatening. is a waste – the evidence is that money is Where work leads to concrete, achievable best spent on developing management and worthwhile goals, we almost always rise competencies. to the occasion, even with severe challenges It also outlines the three approaches and difficulties. We mostly cope with to managing workplace distress: urgent deadlines, work overload and poor relationships – if there is a return to 'normal' >> Primary (make work healthy). in a reasonable time. Challenges are then >> (improve the fit between Secondary ‘opportunities to win’. the person and the job). But, when a 'stressful' situation is ongoing >> Tertiary mopping up after (stress and or severe it can cause mental or physical management). illness In these extremes the Health and Safety Limits to Employer actions in Employment Act 1992 Act requires the According to paragraph 83 of the Gilbert situation to be managed. Appeal Judgment employers: Where work poses threats (opportunities to >> are not required to ‘cocoon employers from loose) people tend towards emotion focused stress and upset’ or to be the ‘guarantors coping. This is the unpleasant sort of stress. of health and safety’ When we face a threat we tend to avoid it >> are required to take the steps that are and delay dealing with it, to have negative reasonably practicable in relation to known thoughts, and to think of leaving. Of course, and foreseeable risks. this spurs a lot of people into taking creative and productive action to turn the threat into Creating healthy work is a shared a challenge. Threats can include: responsibility that needs co-operation and accommodation between employers and >> something a person thinks they can’t employees to succeed. cope with >> a challenge – that can’t be met with the Source: Stress Guideline: Healthy Work – resources available Managing Stress and Fatigue in the Workplace (2003) at: >> bullying. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- 2. Morale and Distress guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/stress- Morale and distress are precise words. Their use fatigue is more likely to result in precise ways to make use of opportunities and deal with problems.
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Morale 3. Agreement about the significance Morale can exist alongside distress and can of stressors is low help us ride over it, but only so far. Key idea: Removing stressors will not Morale comes when we feel a sense automatically make things better. This is of purpose in our work, where there is because people can view stressors positively enthusiasm, a supportive team climate, when and negatively. work is interesting and rewarding and where >> Some staff find 'difficult customers' a realistic challenges exist. challenge (they are good at turning them Challenges or 'opportunities to win' motivate into satisfied customers). Others can't us to accomplish.This is a good kind of 'stress'. cope at all. When morale is high, we get on with the job >> Some people are challenged by a task and persist it is finished. Positive thoughts, that others give up on. optimism, self-restraint and humour are also >> Some people prefer to work alone. Others present, and we get on well with others. like contact with lots of people every day.
We tend to cope with challenges by seeking There seems to be agreement about just two concrete help for specific, well defined aspects of work. purposes – task focused coping. >> Work overload is toxic. Nobody finds it Morale seeps downwards, so it is the a challenge. CEO’s responsibility. >> Nobody reports negatively when they Distress master a challenge.
Distress may result from a threat at This idea gives employers two things work but is more likely to result from to do immediately: organizational experiences. >> identify work overload and Distress and low morale come from two >> provide challenges that staff say are main sources: worthwhile. >> work experiences – things like: physically, It also means that when identifying stressors, mentally or emotionally demanding work, employers need to talk with staff first before little control over how the job doing anything about them. If this step is >> the organisational climate: poor feedback omitted, something may be removed from about performance; unfairness; being a person’s job that they think is valuable. ignored etc. Thanks to Dr. Dianne Gardner, Senior Lecturer, Consistently, people say that the second of Massey University, Auckland for the ideas in these the ‘bureaucracy and red tape', causes part 3. more difficulties than the first. This applies to everyone, senior executives as well as front STRESS PREVENTION line staff. Briefly, employers can: Thanks to Dr. Peter Cotton, Senior Consultant, >> take steps to make work healthy Medibank Health Solutions, Melbourne, >> build morale Australia, for the ideas in part 2. >> ask what category of work staff are doing http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1080/000 >> identify stressors, talk with staff first and 50060310001707117/abstract then deal with them
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>> support staff appropriately 3. Find out what category of work >> take reports of stress seriously. staff are doing Identify the category of work that employees 1. Make Work Healthy are doing: Use the tools in the Guideline: Healthy Work: 1. Healthy work – stimulating, enjoyable and Managing Stress and Fatigue in the Workplace rewarding though not necessarily without to promote healthy work (See Tables 1.2 and difficulties – contains genuine challenges. 7.1). Look for ways to increase job satisfaction. 2. Stress is self induced – employees 2. Build morale contribute to their own difficulties by Morale seeps downwards, so it is the CEO’s not asking for help, refusing reasonable responsibility. Find out views on: change or saying 'yes' when they should say 'no'. >> fairness/consistency >> leadership/direction 3. Work is badly organised. Work is free of the stressors in Category 4 – but is >> appraisal, feedback organised so that a number of people >> rewards and goal clarity. find it hard to cope with. If problems are found, leadership development 4. Work that is intrinsically stressful is key. Research indicates that money is (eg some health care, social work with better spent on this compared to 'stress children) or needs intense prolonged management'. effort or has high consequences of error The UK Health and Safety Executive (eg air traffic control). researched the matter extensively and Employers should assume that, if category identified the key behaviours that managers 4 work is identified, it will pose a risk of can deploy to make work more enjoyable. harm and that they will need to implement Summarising their findings, the named implement controls. the four areas of opportunity for manager competency: There are three general approaches to preventing stress: 1. Respectful and responsible: managing emotions and having integrity. >> Primary: Make work healthy – remove stressors – acknowledge, appreciate and 2. Managing and communicating existing reward staff contributions. and future work. >> Secondary: Improve the fit between the 3. Reasoning/managing difficult situations. person and the job through selection, 4. Managing the individual within the team. training, feedback and the application of ergonomics. Three competencies were regarded as >> Tertiary: Helping affected people – so most important: called 'stress management'. >> communication Note: There is no evidence that ‘stress >> proactive workload management management’ has any effect on anything other >> participative approach. than a short increase in personal reports of well-being.
Tailor control measures to suit the category. See the Worksafe NZ website.
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4. Identify stressors, talk with staff, 3.7.3 BULLYING GL
and then deal with them. FEATURES OF THE NEW ZEALAND Ask staff or use aquestionnaire to identify BULLYING LANDSCAPE. stressors. The results need to be discussed Before discussing Worksafe NZ’s publication with employees, otherwise something may be about bullying, here is a list of common themes: removed from a person's work that they find 1. The top ‘work content’ bullying behaviour challenging, interesting and/or stimulating. named in the HSE research is ‘giving too Look out specifically for work overload. much work’. (From Table 1 in the WorkSafe Everyone regards it as toxic. Bullying Guideline.) Note:
Provide, as far as possible, opportunities a. The first item on the DOL list of Healthy for employees to win – to master something Work (Table 1.2, published in 2003) is they see as a challenge. ‘A balance of effort and rest’.
5. Support staff appropriately b. The top 3 management competencies named in the HSE research are: (a) Distinguish between the stressors people say Communication, (b) Negotiating are challenging (an opportunity to win) or workloads and (c) a Participative threatening (an opportunity to lose). If people approach. are struggling in these situations, appropriate support is needed: c. Dianne Gardner found in her research about stress that there was general >> Challenges. Give practical help eg enough agreement about only two stressors: resources and help to overcome specific difficulties. >> work overload is toxic. >> Threats. Give emotional support. >> nobody complains about a challenge met and mastered. 6. Take reports of stress seriously and These observations indicate the investiage in good faith. importance of work overload – in both Investigate reports of stress at face value. stress and bullying. See the six-step approach in section 2 of the 2. Mostly, all the person wants … is for Guideline. the (bullying) behaviour … to stop. Employers don’t have to agree with employees, (An observation by MBIE Mediators.) but they should investigate in good faith. 3. The bully stays, the bullied person has Source: The Worksafe Stress/Fatigue page at: to leave.
www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- 4. Mediation may make things worse. guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/stress- We are not in a position to quantify fatigue this statement, but it is clear that mediation needs to be withheld in some HSE Management Competencies: circumstances, most specifically when www.hse.gov.uk/stress/mcit.htm there is a power imbalance.
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5. HR Departments often fail people who Bullying is not limited to managers picking turn to them for help with a bullying on staff. It can exist between colleagues. problem. In a recent survey, Dianne Employees, collectively or individually, can Gardner analysed the 300 worst cases of bully their manager (usually by withholding bullying. She found a theme common for cooperation). these people: “after I reported the bullying Behaviours of two types may occur: to HR, I subsequently felt a sense of >> personal attacks (things like “put downs”, massive betrayal”. spreading malicious rumours and failing 6. The person who makes an allegation of to give credit) and bullying may be seen as a bully by their >> task related (things like giving too much co workers. work and withholding information). 7. It is an issue to do with my ‘management Bullying is not: style’ – this is often used as an explanation >> harassment when people react badly to a manager. Likewise, the phrase ‘tough management’. >> discrimination >> workplace violence 8. Measuring the extent of bullying in a business is problematic. >> management activities like performance assessment, discipline or transfer >> workplace conflict.
There may be crossover and elements of bullying in any of these. However, addressing bullying by the legal mechanisms used for any of these will likely mean failure to resolve the issue.
Why is it the employer’s business? Bullying can have serious consequences. An example is a person who leaves an organisation because s/he cannot cope any KEY ADVICE more. Productivity, creativity and enjoyment Worksafe NZ suggests that, when dealing with of work can suffer. bullying, a focus on behaviour is appropriate. Recognising Bullying Bullying is defined in New Zealand as: Employee reluctance to report and the Repeated, unreasonable behaviour directed fear of isolation or reprisals may mean towards a worker or a group of workers, that distressing behaviour is reported. Further, creates a risk to health and safety. an organisation’s norms may allow bullying If the behaviour is not all of the following – to flourish: it cannot be bullying. >> The work outputs required may be beyond >> unreasonable anyone’s capability – only employees ‘in the know’ understand the shortcuts. >> repeated >> Swearing is ‘OK’. >> health endangering. One clear suggestion that bullying may be happening is a string of resignations.
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Surveys may be needed to reveal the extent making use of staff diversity. An organisation of unwanted behaviour. Experienced people that can tackle problems and challenges is brought in for the purpose may need to carry likely to promote openness and minimise the them out. sort of undesirable behaviours that let bullying thrive. What if trust is lacking? If employees are uncomfortable approaching Table 3 and Table 4 on pp 35 and 36 of the employers at any level, they should seek Worksafe NZ Bullying Guideline help identify advice from a Union or the health and safety and address factors that allow bullying to representative. flourish, and suggests ways to prevent it from thriving. What happens if discussions fail? Build managers who are leaders If an employee or employer feels that discussions have failed, they can seek advice Many studies show the advantages of and the services available, by contacting competent management. For example: Worksafe NZ on 0800 20 90 20. This is a free >> it can reduce absenteeism service and is available to both employers and >> an key determinant of job satisfaction employees and can lead to: is a person’s immediate manager. >> mediation The United Kingdom Health and Safety >> investigation as a health and safety Executive (HSE UK) research showed that complaint. when managers behaved as in the table, stress and bullying were less evident. KEY PREVENTION POINTS Under the HSE Act employers have to identify CATEGORY DETAILS and control hazards that could harm their 1. Be >> Show integrity. staff. This includes hazards from undesirable respectful and >> Manage emotions. behaviours. responsible. >> Have a considerate Bullying has serious consequences for approach. individuals, workplaces, relationships and 2. Manage and >> Manage work proactively. productivity. communicate >> Have good problem-solving existing and skills. Here are summaries of the parts of the recently future work. >> Participate with and published Guideline that deal with prevention. empower others.
Positive workplace relationships between 3. Use good >> Manage conflict. management, staff, unions and other groups reasoning >> Use the organisation’s to manage resources. are vital to organisational success and the difficult >> Take responsibility for wellbeing of staff. situations. resolving issues.
A distinctly different approach to workplace 4. Manage >> Be personally accessible. relationships is one of the five key attributes the individual >> Be sociable. within the common to organisations that have achieved >> Use empathetic team. engagement. successful workplace partnerships.
For tools to help develop positive workplace The 66 competencies which resulted from relationships, see Workplace partnership. this research are grouped into the four areas in the table. For more on the research and Any organisation that hopes to survive in the all 66 competencies identified, see: commercial world must be open to problem- What are the management standards for solving and change. This means encouraging work-related stress? ideas and creativity across the business, and
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Leadership, Culture, Codes of conduct, >> provide a framework for achieving the Values and Vision vision and increasing the effectiveness Large and small businesses alike need to of the organisation give leadership training to help managers >> help clarify work-life and how people effectively. Smaller businesses can access fit into the big picture leadership courses through their local >> create an environment that promotes employers’ association or chamber of job satisfaction and meaningful work commerce. >> differentiate one organisation from another. Management competencies can be evaluated Adopting a values approach can be difficult, as above. High-quality leadership is a strong as explained on page 145. key to changing an organisation’s culture. When expectations for work and behaviour Creating an environment that builds good are clearly demonstrated by management, relationships prevents bullying. This is much there’s less chance of undesirable behaviour easier than dealing with bullying once it occurs. from staff. Recognising diversity means understanding See ‘Infozone: Business essentials’ for more how people’s differences can bring different information on employment relations and strengths. health and safety in business, as well as links to For more information see the ‘Equal templates, examples and other practical tools. Employment Opportunities (EEO) Trust’.
Any workplace needs clear statements on Fostering a shared sense of purpose for expected conduct, core values, vision and staff is another way to develop a culture that purpose, and employees should be consulted builds relationships and prevents bullying. with and involved in their development. It can be understood by staff and external A ‘vision statement’ gives the direction and stakeholders alike. desired result for an organisation. EDUCATION Organisational behaviours can be supported Educating staff about bullying behaviours through a range of policies and practices such and their consequences is important because: as codes of conduct: “an agreement on rules >> they become more aware of their roles of behaviour for a group or organisation” and responsibilities such as: >> they become more aware of what bullying >> the expected behaviours, rules, practices is and isn’t and responsibilities for people, groups and the organisation >> perpetrators can become more conscious of their behaviour, how it may be perceived, >> the consequences for not following the and the possible consequences of their code of conduct actions, and be deterred from bullying >> what is considered serious misconduct. >> they are made aware of the consequences Some organisations think of their values as of malicious, frivolous, or troublesome the ‘guiding beacon’ that directs its growth complaints and development. Others describe them as >> it can promote cultural change and a philosophically integral to how they work and healthy and safe workplace do business. Defining workplace values can: >> they’re encouraged to take responsible >> provide a framework for how staff treat action against bullying behaviours each other and customers >> they become aware of other people’s working styles.
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A DESIGNATED CONTACT PERSON They should know what to expect and what Workplaces, especially larger ones, should will happen after they have made a report. designate and train a contact person to Staff should know: receive complaints about bullying. >> how to record instances of the This is useful when a person’s manager unreasonable behaviour is the alleged bully. >> how to know if is it bullying or not, The contact person will be the first port of or something else call for people with a bullying problem and, >> how to report initially, they can simply discuss percpeptions >> what to expect after they have and give advice and support. made a report >> that all reports will be taken as complaints, TRY TO KEEP THINGS LOW KEY whether or not the staff member intends Employers and employees should seek low them to be informal or informal. key responses and solutions to distressing behaviour when it is in its infancy. Responding to reports: The key factors managers need to work through when dealing This is not to deny the possible severity with complaints are: of bullying, but to allow the best chance for things to work out well. This is because 1. Get the facts. using the word ‘bullying’ at the outset may: >> get clear descriptions of the behaviour >> set everyone on edge and the incident, and being able to describe it >> polarise a situation >> listen and gather the information >> cause defensive reactions and outrage in an unbiased, empathetic and >> lead to the formation of cliques and respectful way >> cast a legal slant over the issue. >> understand the issues and what’s All of these may lead to organisational and needed to resolve them. personal harm. Case studies indicate that the 2. Does it fit the definition of bullying, potential for both types of harm is severe. or is it something else?
USE LANGUAGE CAREFULLY 3. Decide on an effective course of action, The word ‘bullying’ should be a conclusion. tailoring your responses to the seriousness of the issue. It should not be used in an allegation. 4. Get the parties to agree to resolve If it is bullying, that will emerge spontaneously. the issues.
RESPONDING TO REPORTS OF BULLYING 5. Stop any potential retaliation. If you receive a complaint about bullying 6. Re-check you prevention measures. take it seriously and be impartial. Follow your internal processes if you have them. If an employee takes an informal approach to dealing with bullying, it doesn’t absolve Consider an informal response first before the employer from their duty to deal with taking more formal approaches (see below). the undesirable behaviour. All reporting methods should be known to staff.
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Deciding how serious the issue is: Your judgement will be needed to interpret the seriousness of the issue in the specific situation you face. The guideline has extensive advice and a flowchart.
Response options: There are a number of response options. Where possible, low key and informal solutions should be attempted: >> low key solutions >> mediation >> informal, direct approach >> formal investigation process. >> informal resolution process
All these plus explanatory flowcharts are covered in the guidline.
Source: The Worksafe NZ Stress and Bullying page. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information-guidance/all-guidance-items/bullying-guidelines
3.7.4 VALUES – TWO SPECIFIC PROBLEMS
Values, according to Shalom Schwartz: >> are concepts or beliefs >> guide the selection of behaviour >> pertain to desirable end states >> are ordered by relative importance. >> transcend specific situations
Schwartz appears to be the most widely quoted values researcher.
Schwartz’s values construct: Ten universal values are in a natural tension
Openness to change Self transcendence
Self-direction Stimulation Creativity, Exciting life Freedom
Universalism Hedonism Social Justice, Pleasure Equality
Achievement Benevolence Success, Helpfulness Ambition Tradition Humility Power Authority, Conformity Wealth Obedience Security Social Order
Self enhancement Conservation
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This figure seems to be found (in NZ in 2014) and feel so. If staff feel unsafe it is likely to in most discussions of values, for example. affect morale, with the implied consequences.
After analysis of results in 20 countries, 2. Take all the reasonable and practicable Schwartz listed all the values that were steps available to prevent harm reported by the subjects in his studies and, Practicable steps that can be taken include: reduced them to ten categories. >> Client information: Current information These, he said, were universal. about each client/patient should be He placed them round a circle – to demonstrate available and care plans should address that they are in an internal tension. issues of violence, if needed.
If Schwartz’s values are, indeed, universal >> Facility design: Provide safe interview/ (with the additional implication of ‘complete’) assessment rooms; Consider lighting, then fostering all these values, and sustaining space, noise, thermal comfort and the implied tensions, is required for an security. organisation to do well. >> Selection of staff:Identify people who are suitable for the work; training/ This raises the questions of how to deal with experience; immune status and the tensions caused by: background. >> these values being themselves in an >> Relationships: Permit care of clients/ internal tension and patients only if within organisation’s >> personal value preferences. capabilities. Negotiate realistic People‘s values tend to be determined by expectations with stakeholders. their motivations. For example, some people >> Job design: Match employee skills prefer an exciting life with lots of stimulation to client/patient needs. Rotate staff, while others work for social justice. These provide a variety of tasks, use buddying tendencies appear to be inbuilt. and provide feedback on performance. So it is safe to say that an organisation that >> Security and emergencies: Provide adopts a selection of these values (rather safety glass and walls where needed; than acknowleding them all), will likely: use security equipment (CCTV, mirrors, >> get lopsided somehow and cameras, safe rooms). >> some of the people in it will be >> Staff numbers:Have enough people disenfranchised. to do the work in a healthy and safe manner. 3.7.5 VIOLENCE TO CAREGIVERS GL >> Behaviour management: Establish This section refers to the joint Counties that violence is unacceptable and Manukau DHB – Worksafe NZ publication: preventable. Managing the Risk of Workplace Violence to 3. Provide information and training Healthcare and Community Service Providers. Provide information and training. Induction 1. Take a comprehensive approach to and ongoing training will be needed about health and safety management both general and specific hazards and at all levels so that shared expectations may This should be a given – based on the idea be developed and implemented. For all that it will be impossible to provide high staff, general training should be about: quality client/patient care unless staff are safe
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>> orientation to the work, the environment 3.7.6 FATIGUE/SHIFTWORK GL HSAT and management PRINCIPLES >> health and safety policies, procedures The Guideline about shiftwork is based and obligations on 12 principles: >> skill in the use and interpretation >> Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining of patient care plans and restoring full physical and mental >> calming and restraint training functioning, and is the only way of >> self-defence, where appropriate. providing recovery from fatigue >> Specific training can be given: (especially for the brain). >> ability to identify violent situations >> Stimulants, such as coffee, can provide only limited, short-term relief from the >> the capacity of event appraisal, coping effects of fatigue. and problem solving >> ability to deal with people with different needs and backgrounds.
4. Monitor staff health
If significant hazards remain, monitor staff exposures and health and safety in relation to them. Monitoring should include apprehension about the prospect of a violent assault, if that is necessary. There should be feedback to management about instances of violence to caregivers.
5. Provide first aid and rehabilitation
Provide first-aid after injuries, and rehabilitation plans if people are off work.
Trained first-aiders should be available. Developing a rehabilitation plan may require specialist assistance.
6. Assign responsibilities
Assign management, employee, patient and family responsibilities. This is part >> Fatigue leads to physical and mental of establishing a violence-free culture. impairment. >> Shift work (particularly night work) can Source: The Guideline is at: be a significant contributor to fatigue. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- >> Human alertness and capability vary guidance/all-guidance-items/violence-at- with the time of day. work-a-guide-for-employers-and-employees- >> People are programmed to be awake on-dealing-with during the day and asleep at night. Cross Reference: 2.2.21 Page 40, 2.2.27 Page 43 >> The ability to fall asleep easily varies with the time of day.
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>> How much time people need to recover Software exists for this purpose, but other from fatigue depends on the time of day. methods can be used. >> Sleep loss is cumulative. 4. Risk management >> Strategies exist to minimise fatigue and Identify fatigue hazards and avoid doing risky promote sleep. tasks when people are tired. >> Preventing workplace fatigue requires cooperation and accommodation. 5. Training and education
>> Various strategies are available for Provide information, training and supervision managing shift work to minimise fatigue. to employees doing shiftwork. The Guideline suggests five areas of activity 1. Shiftwork and 2. Review the 6. Monitoring and evaluation for Employers,Fatigue Policy as the diagramhours summarises: of work Monitor employee reactions to shiftwork.
Communication Evaluate shiftworking arrangements as an Effective Shiftwork and 3. Risk Commitment Fatigue Management Management Consultation integral part of shiftwork management.
SOME KEY MESSAGES AND TOOLS
5. Monitoring 4. Training and and Evaluation Education 1. Comprehensive and broad approach
Shiftwork management should take a 1. Communication and Commitment comprehensive and broad approach.
Shiftwork can have major effects on long Looking for the perfect roster is a ‘wild goose and short term health and productivity. chase’ – the wrong place to start. All parties need to commit to making the 2. Balancing shiftwork system work well. A system of shiftworking is a balancing of 2. Policies interests that will require accommodation Corporate and operational polices: and flexibility from all parties.
>> A corporate policy shows intent. 3. Success
>> An operational policy shows how Features of successful shiftworking the system will operate. systems include:
3. Review the hours of work >> Accountability — a person has specific respons-ibility for shift-work Management should provide enough management. people to do the work safely. >> Promote consultative decision making, >> The fatigue consequences of the including workers and management. shift working arrangements should >> Shift the locus of control towards be assessed. workers and shift teams as far as >> The actual hours of work should also possible, once ground rules are be assessed. established. The differences between the planned and >> Provide an appropriate induction actual hours of work can be informative. to shift-work.
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>> Provide education and training. 3.7.7 STATEMENTS ON HOURS OF WORK >> Include partners and families in AND BREAKS IN WORK consultation and education. 1. Hours of work
4. Designing rosters Sleep deprivation lasting 24 hours has a Standard suggestions exist for the design measurable effect on performance. The same of shift rosters. level of impairment occurs after 17–19 awake hours as having a blood alcohol level at the 5. Risk assessment legal limit for driving.
The risks posed by hazards need to be Working days more than about 55–60 hours identified and placed in priority order. per week over an extended period is likely
Hazardous tasks need to be performed to lead to significant health effects. at times of least risk. Extending a working week from 65 to 70 hours (ie by 5 hours) will have more of an 6. Training impact than extending it by the same amount There are tools in Worksafe NZ’s guideline of time but from 40–45 hours. about training and the evaluation of employee Hours-of-work limits for day work will be knowledge on the hazards of shiftwork. From different from those for night work. the results of its use, a training programme to address gaps can be developed. Night work Shiftworkers lose, on average, 1 to 1.5 hours 7. Employee reaction sleep each 24 hour period, resulting in a sleep Employee reactions to shiftwork should be debt of six hours after four nights. This means monitored to detect impairment and longer significant consequences for health and safety. term health effects. Working nights and extended hours interact. Systems of shiftwork will never be perfect, Effects will be greater than the sum of the parts. but they can be improved – through Extended hours and night work monitoring and evaluation. Sleep deprivation, with long hours of work Source: Managing Shiftwork to Minimise over a prolonged period of time (approx.- Workplace Fatigue. Worksafe NZ. imately 12 months) has both a short-term Wellington. 2007. impact on performance and, in the long term, www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- will lead to cardiovascular, mental health, guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/stress- behavioural and productivity losses. fatigue Opportunities for recuperation Reference: www.princeton.edu/~ota In the long term the average sleep period
And search the 1991 publications to view: required for continued health and alertness is between 7 and 9 hours. Biological Rhythms: Implications for the Worker. September 1991). A minimum of six hours of consecutive sleep in a 24-hour period is the minimum needed Cross Reference: 2.2.14 Page 35 to keep alert for the next 24 hours, but assumes a zero sleep debt.
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It is likely that people who extend this regime dimensional picture of the airspace they more than 2 or 3 days will begin to make are controlling at the start of each period significant mistakes. of work. Doing this 4 times a day, with 90 minute spells at the task is deemed the The length of the break required to sleep most effective balance. well depends on: >> Policy analysts may need a 20 minute >> the time the person spends getting break after 2 hours concentrated effort. to and from work Taking a break before then might mean a >> the time they take to eat, get ready significant interruption – which could mean to sleep, toilet and dress having to start from scratch again. >> social needs. The specifications in section 3.3 of the Safety Two consecutive full nights sleep, with a Tools Booklet are legal minimums that address normal day pattern, is required after 3–4 comfort and meal needs everywhere. However, nights’ work for full recovery. health and safety may be compromised in Source: Compiled from a variety of papers. other specific situations because breaks are not provided. 2. Breaks during work For example: Providing breaks within the working period >> Where fatigue can lead to harm (such as allows the restoration of alertness and the in driving or the operation of dangerous relief of boredom & monotony. machinery) employers have an obligation Fatigue and Productivity to take all practicable steps to ensure that Beyond the needs legislated for there are fatigue is not likely to cause harm. additional reasons for breaks: >> If an employee signals fatigue, s/he may >> to prevent fatigue accumulating need a spell. >> to promote morale. Napping
People can't generally go on performing at a Providing for naps is a current strategy high level without breaks of some sort. For the in some occupations. optimum result, breaks need to be matched 3.7.8 MENTAL DISORDERS AT WORK to the intensity of the work, for example: >> A person in a call centre may need short This section is included to make the frequent breaks to relieve the pressure of points that mentally ill people can often frequent, constant and demanding calls. be highly productive and that a person without symptoms of mental ill health is >> Microscopists may need a 5 minute break not necessarily flourishing. from looking down a microscope every 20 minutes – to relieve the effects of 1. Key advice keeping still. A very dated approach to mental health >> Air traffic controllers have a demanding is that a person is mentally ill or not. mental task with extremely high consequences of error. The most difficult part of their work is obtaining a three Person is well Person is ill
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More correctly, mental health is often seen as Our place on this spectrum is not fixed during a simple continuum running from no mental life and most of us will move in and out of all illness though to a severe mental illness. four quadrants.
Approaches in the workplace can be initiated Few signs and symptoms Many signs and symptoms to increase mental wellbeing (see 5 ways to of mental ill-health of mental ill-health wellbeing below).
The assumption here is that if if a person is not Understanding mental illness diagnosed with a mental illness then they must Courses for workplaces about Mental Health be mentally healthy. are available. Their aims are to help people However, optimal mental health and wellbeing in workplaces become familiar with the (sometimes this combination is called principles of assisting people with the flourishing) is more than the absence of a following disorders: mental illness. >> depression Flourishing is experienced as a combination >> phobias. of things like: >> anxiety disorders >> positive emotions >> psychosis >> engagement and interest >> schizophrenia >> meaning and purpose to life >> addictions >> optimism, resilience, vitality >> bipolar disorder. >> self determination. Source: See, for example: Mental Health 101 at: >> positive relationships. www.mh101.co.nz
So, people can flourish even if they are and Mental Health First Aid at: diagnosed with a mental illness. https://mhfa.com.au/ The next model of total mental health shows the spectrum of mental health states that can 2. A Maori Model: exist in employees. The Four Cornerstones model – Te Whare Tapa Wha – the Four Faces of Life – draws Flourishing Few signs and symptoms attention to the importance of the cultural of mental ill-health Many signs and symptoms setting in which people live. It is in settings like of mental ill-health Languishing these that mental illness occurs. For further information, see: www.maorihealth.govt.nz/ Employees who do not have a mental illness, moh.nsf/pagesma/445. Te Whare Tapa Wha – but have low levels of wellbeing (bottom left The Four Cornerstones. quadrant) will tend to struggle in life and have poorer physical health.
People in the upper right quadrant will be diagnosed with a mental illness, but can still live healthy positive lives, and may be very productive.
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Te Whare Tapa Wha – The Four Cornerstones
Te Taha Hinengaro Te Taha Tinana
>> The capacity to communicate, to think and to >> The capacity for physical growth and feel mind and body are inseparable. development. >> Thoughts, feelings and emotions are integral >> Good physical health is required for optimal components of the body and soul. development. How we see ourselves in the universe, our Our physical ‘being’ supports our essence and interaction with that which is uniquely Māori and shelters us from the external environment. For the perception that others have of us. Māori the physical dimension is just one aspect of health and well-being and cannot be separated from the aspect of mind, spirit and family.
Te Taha Wairua Te Taha Whanau
>> The capacity for faith and wider communication. >> The capacity to belong, to care and to share Health is related to unseen and unspoken where individuals are part of wider social systems. energies. >> Whānau provides us with the strength to be who >> The spiritual essence of a person is their life we are. This is the link to our ancestors, our ties force. This determines us as individuals and with the past, the present and the future. as a collective, who and what we are, where Understanding the importance of whānau and we have come from and where we are going. how whānau (family) can contribute to illness A traditional Māori analysis of physical and assist in curing illness is fundamental to manifestations of illness will focus on the wairua understanding Māori health issues. or spirit, to determine whether damage here could be a contributing factor.
3. Promoting well-being Wellbeing can be promoted:
This section is included to make the point Clear indications based on high quality that the quality of work can affect mental research indicate how individuals may improve health adversely. their own sense of wellbeing.
Mental health is holistic The picture to the right refers to the theme Mental health exists in all of us and changes of the 2012 Mental Health Week presented by over time, and can be understood differently the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. depending on the cultural context. As well For further information see: as being associated with mental illness, www.mentalhealth.org.nz/home/ways-to- mental health (when experienced positively) wellbeing/ underpins a productive, happy and healthy life. This is derived from the work of the new Employability economic foundation (sic) in the UK. See: Therefore, it should not be assumed that These websites make concrete, specific and a person with a mental illness will be tested suggestions about increasing people’s unproductive. Common and historical enjoyment of life and work. experience tells us that people with mental disorders can make significant contributions.
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Healthy work: There is clear evidence that ‘good’ work can promote flourishing and diminish symptoms of mental ill health. This is the reason Worksafe NZ suggests that employers and employees make efforts to add good things to work.
Unhealthy work: There is evidence the other way – that ‘bad’ work can adversely affect health.
>> A recent New Zealand study concluded that increased work pressure was linked to an increased prevalence of depression. >> A recent Australian study concluded that some jobs with poor psychosocial attributes are no better than 3.7.9 THE AGEING WORKFORCE unemployment, and may have more OLDER WORKERS ARE NEEDED adverse effects on mental health. By 2020 one in four of New Zealand labour This emphasizes that employers and force is expected to be older than 55 years employees should be careful in identifying of age. At the same time, demand for skilled work pressure or work overload and seeking labour is growing. This means older people will ways to eliminate or alleviate it. be increasingly important in the workforce.
Potential Benefits OLDER WORKERS ARE ASSETS Increases in mental wellbeing are associated Older workers can bring many gains to with a wide range of social, economic and the workplace, such as: health benefits. Someone with high levels of >> a strong work ethic mental wellbeing will also be less at risk of developing common mental disorders such >> fewer workplace accidents as depression, which is now one of the most >> more stability in work teams prevalent illnesses in Western society. >> customer service that reflects >> The cost to the Australian economy of their experience depression in one year is in the order of >> less short term sick leave $12 billion, while the lifetime cost for the >> retention of skills and knowledge. 2007 population is $213 billion. Getting the best from older workers requires >> 6% of these costs were attributed to consideration of their needs, aspirations job strain. and expectations. >> Interventions exist to reduce job strain and are effective. ADAPTING WORKPLACES
Promoting high levels of mental wellbeing in As the age profile of a workplace changes, the workplace and society will result in less providing a safe, healthy and stimulating work sickness and absenteeism, improved social environment for older workers should take relationships, better problem solving and three main specific aspects: higher levels of creativity.
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>> Flexibility in employment arrangements – 3.8 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL like providing scheduling choices to allow HAZARDS for part-time work, catering for caring responsibilities or avoiding night work. 3.8.1 SIX FACTORS THAT AFFECT FEELINGS OF WARMTH >> Suitable ergonomics – such as good lighting, control of noise, and minimizing 1. Air temperature or eliminating heavy lifting. How hot or cold the air around us is. It is what >> Upskilling opportunities – make sure that we measure with a thermometer. It will have a all workers, regardless of age, have access direct warming or cooling effect on a person. to staff development and training. In situations with a high radiant heat level (eg a foundry), air temperature alone is not a good MYTHS ABOUT OLDER WORKERS indicator of the thermal environment. Many employers appreciate having older members in their teams, but negative and 2. Humidity stereotypes persist. Here are a few: The moisture content of the air. The warmer Myth 1: Older workers can’t or won’t learn new the air, the more moisture it is able to carry. skills. Reality: Older workers can take longer High humidity tends to make people feel to absorb new material, but their better study hotter than low humidity. (This is because a habits and experience lower training costs. person’s sweat will not evaporate and cool the person as the air is already moisture Myth 2: Older workers are not flexible or saturated.) Cold air has a lower moisture adaptable. Reality: Older workers are just as content, so humidity is not a factor in cold adaptable but they are more likely to ask why environments, except that mist, rain or wet changes are being brought in. clothing can cause a decrease in insulating Myth 3: Older workers have more accidents. characteristics. Reality: Not true. Older workers work smarter, take fewer risks and have lower accident rates. 3. Radiant heat Is emitted from hot objects. Radiant heat will Myth 4: Older workers are less productive. in time heat the air, but people will absorb Reality: Productivity is not a function of age. heat directly far more quickly. Radiant heat will Mature workers produce high quality work affect people anywhere there is direct sunlight, which can result in significant cost savings or where a person is close to a process that for employers. Stories abound of highly emits heat. committed older workers preventing costly
mistakes. 4. Air speed
Myth 5: Older workers take more sick days In most situations air movement will cool than younger workers. Reality: Attendance a person. This will provide some relief to records are better for older workers. people in hot environments heat, but extra Myth 6: Older workers are more expensive. chill to people in the cold. Reality: Older workers tend to stay in a job 5. Physical activity longer than younger workers. Subsequently, less needs to be spent on their recruitment. Will increase the generation of heat in the body. In a cold environment, physical activity can help to warm a person. In a warm or hot
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environment, physical activity can increase breathing, severe muscle cramps, the load of heat on a person. A high level of confusion, cold, clammy skin and physical activity on a hot day can place a cessation of perspiration.Health conditions worker at risk of heat strain. associated with exposure to heat. >> Dehydration: The main signs of this are not 6. Clothing passing urine and changes to mental state Aids or prevents heat transfer from our bodies and personality. to the surrounding environment. In a cold >> Heat syncope: Fainting – results from a environment, a person should wear clothing drop in blood pressure during prolonged that will prevent as much heat transfer as standing or sitting in heat. possible. Ideal clothing in a hot environment >> Heat rashes: 3 types occur and may be will allow a worker to freely dissipate heat. made worse by 2⁰ infections. RISK ASSESSMENT >> Prickly heat (most common) occurs where Hot environments: To assess the heat load clothing is restricted. on a person use the WBGT Index – the wet >> Heat cramps: Occur in muscles when the bulb – globe thermometer index. salt balance is disturbed. Alleviate by rest, drinking water, and salt intake. Cold environments: To find out the effect of the combination of air temperature, wind >> Heat exhaustion: Linked to depletion of speed and physical activity, consult tables 6 body fluids and electrolytes. and 7 on pages 52 and 53 of the Guideline >> Heat stroke: Least common but most referenced to obtain a measure called serious. It causes central nervous system ‘equivalent chill temperature’ or ECT. effects (convulsions, mania or coma, dilated pupils and a hot, dry skin). In both cases consult a hygienist. Rapid treatment is essential. Source: Heat Strain and Cold Strain: Guidelines for the Management of Work in Extremes of WHEN ARE THESE LIKELY TO OCCUR? Temperature at: The more the person works hard, is exposed www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- to high air temperatures, high humidity, guidance/all-guidance-items/temperature- high levels of radiant heat and wears heavy guidelines-for-the-management-of-work-in- clothing, the more likely these symptoms are. extremes-of/temperat.pdf HOW CAN HEAT STRAIN BE PREVENTED? 3.8.2 HEAT STRAIN GL >> lowering the air temperature, humidity
and radiant temperature PROGRESSION OF SYMPTOMS IN RESPONSE TO EXPOSURE TO HEAT >> increase the air speed >> Mental: Irritation, anger, aggression, (fans, ventilation systems) depression. >> control activity timing (time of day, >> Physical: Sweating, increased heart rate. take breaks, spell the work) >> Early symptoms: Headaches, muscle >> wear sunhat, suitable clothing – loose cramps, changes in pulse and breathing and thin but covering skin rate, weakness, heavy perspiration, prickly >> replace water lost through sweat heat, feeling faint, reduced performance. >> shield radiant heat sources >> Later symptoms: Severe headaches, >> work in the shade – provide shade shelters increased irregularity in pulse and >> use administrative controls (job rotation).
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Treatment. Heat stroke can be rapidly fatal. TEMP. (°C) SYMPTOMS
Where planning for work in hot environments, 25 Ventricular fibrillation may occur a first-aider with special knowledge of heat spontaneously conditions will be required – in anticipation 24 Pulmonary oedema of emergencies. 22–21 Maximum risk of ventricular Source: Heat Strain and Cold Strain: Guidelines fibrillation
for the Management of Work in Extremes of 20 Cardiac standstill Temperature at: 18 Lowest accidental hypothermia www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- victim to recover guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/ 17 Brain waves stop temperature 9 Lowest recovery temperature Cross Reference: 2.2.17 Page 38 >> Frostbite: Occurs when blood circulation 8.3 COLD STRAIN GL ceases due to frozen skin/tissues. Patchy
skin inflammation and slight pain ranging PROGRESSION OF SYMPTOMS IN COLD to painless tissue damage; and the skin >> Mental: Alertness reduced. becomes prone to infection and gangrene. >> Physical: Sensitivity and dexterity of >> Trench foot: Occurs when feet are exposed fingers reduced. to long periods of immersion in. >> Frost nip: Blanching of fingers, toes, ears, cheeks and nose. >> Water: damage to nerve and muscle tissues.
Progression of cold strain symptoms and signs >> Hypothermia: The culmination of a set of experiences leading through sensations of TEMP. (°C) SYMPTOMS cold, shivering, pain in exposed parts of 37.5 Normal core (rectal) temperature the body, increasing numbness, decreasing
37 Normal oral temperature pain, weakness and drowsiness, cessation of shivering, diminished consciousness and 36 Metabolic rate increases to compensate for heat loss dilated pupils.
35 Maximum shivering PREVENTION STRATEGIES 34 Victim conscious and responsive, Monitoring: with normal blood pressure Use a suitable thermometer where the 33 Severe hypothermia from here air temperature may drop below 16°C. 31–32 Consciousness clouded, blood In workplaces where the temperature is pressure difficult to get, pupils below freezing (0°CECT), and/or the speed dilated of air movement is greater than 2 m/sec, 30–29 Progressive loss of consciousness, the temperature should be monitored at muscular rigidity increases, pulse least every 4 hours. and blood pressure difficult to obtain, respiratory rate decreases Emergency procedures 28 Ventricular fibrillation possible Provide for an adequate first aid response.
27 Voluntary motion stops; pupils non- Preventing cold strain reactive to light; reflexes absent For continuous work in low temperatures, 26 Victim seldom conscious heated warming shelters, such as cabins and rest rooms, should be provided. The
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level of activity should not be great enough Head covering: to produce excessive sweating. If excessive A head covering, such as a woollen cap or a sweating is likely to occur, or it involves hard hat with a thermal liner, should be worn working in the wet, facilities should be in cold environments, as over 50% of heat loss available for changing, or for drying clothes is through the head. and footwear. Work environment: Shield workers from drafts and winds. GENERAL SAFE WORK PRACTICES
Equipment design: >> Do not allow bare skin to come into contact with cold surfaces below -7°C, especially Metal handles and bars should be thermally surfaces made of materials that are good insulated. Tools and equipment should be conductors of heat, eg metals. designed so that they can be operated without removing gloves. >> Do not allow bare skin to come into contact with evaporative liquids, eg petrol, cleaning Clothing: fluids, alcohol. Wear protective clothing where work is >> Do not stay still for a long time. done at temperatures below 4°C wind chill >> Do not consume alcohol. temperature. Select clothing to suit the temperature, the nature of the work, and >> For warming purposes, supply hot the activity level. Clothing in multiple layers non-alcoholic drinks. Limit caffeine is better than a single thick layer. consumption as it increases urine production and blood circulation – In wet conditions: both increase the loss of body heat. Outer layers of clothing should be >> Restrict tobacco consumption. water repellent. >> Eat adequate food frequently. In windy conditions: >> Drink plenty of water to rehydrate. Wear clothing designed to prevent >> In refrigerated rooms, keep air speed wind penetration. < 1 m/sec where possible. Hand protection: >> All work in cold conditions should be under If fine work needs to be performed with the constant observation (through a buddy bare hands for more than 10–20 minutes system or supervision). at temperatures below 16°C, take special >> New employees and workers should not precautions to keep the hands warm, for be required to work full-time in the cold example, by providing warm air blowers and until they have become accustomed to insulated handles on tools. If fine manual the conditions and the personal protective dexterity is not required, gloves should be clothing they need to wear. worn for: >> Apply lip balm and moisturising lotions >> sedentary work in temperatures to prevent lesions. less than 10°C. >> Maintain a high level of fitness. >> light work – less than 4°C. >> If a worker cannot be adequately protected >> moderate work – less than -7°C. from the effects of cold, then work must >> below -170C, wear mittens. be suspended, or work regimes modified, to remove the risk of harm. Footwear: Felt-lined, rubber-bottomed, leather-topped Cross Reference: 2.2.17 Page 38 boots with removable thermal insoles are best suited for work in cold environments.
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3.8.4 THERMAL COMFORT GL Source: Health Bulletin at:
Thermal comfort is a condition of the mind www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- which expresses satisfaction with the thermal guidance/all-guidance-items/temperature- environment. Thermal discomfort is the in-places-of-work-what-you-need-to-know- uncomfortable place between an environment about/temp-s.pdf that is ideal and one that will cause harm (through heat stress or cold stress). 3.8.5 WORKPLACE LIGHTING INTRODUCTION Thermal discomfort: This may not cause an immediate safety or health problem but may Worksafe NZ has rudimentary advice only affect morale, and lead to feelings of tiredness on lighting. There is a rationale for this and irritability which may lead to reduced – workplace lighting quickly gets highly production. As thermal discomfort increases, technical and convoluted. the line between safe and unsafe conditions This summary tries to touch on why – and becomes more and more blurred. Judgment attempts to explain why consulting an will be needed to decide when conditions established lighting engineer is worthwhile. become unsafe. Apart from aesthetic considerations, Conditions in which most people will be (for mood and morale) excellent lighting thermally comfortable can assist workplaces as follows:
CONDITION SUMMER VALUE WINTER >> Not enough light on tasks means VALUE employees can be expected to complete Air temperature 19–24 18–22 them more slowly. (°C) 16–21 16–19 >> Safety and ease of mobility can be (active work) (active compromised by non uniform or low work) light levels. Relative 40–70% >> Where colour discrimination is important, humidity having the right lamp will enhance task Air speed 0.1–0.2 m/s, no performance. draughts up to 0.5 m/s (active >> Where the three dimensional aspects of work) tasks are important having an appropriate
Radiant heat No direct vector/scalar ratio (see below) in the exposure to a lighting will enhance task performance radiant heat by improving modelling. source >> Reflections compromise task performance. Clothing Light clothing Winter clothing >> Glare causes poor task performance and discomfort. In buildings, thermal discomfort may occur >> For inspection tasks the choices of lamp G, when a ventilation system is not able to luminaire G and luminaire location can provide enough heating in winter, or cooling make a big difference in task performance. in summer when sunshine through large >> Well-designed lighting can make spaces windows adds a large heat load or where appear more congenial and create there is low air movement. positive moods.
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ROUGH GUIDE TO THE AMOUNT OF LIGHT Making the four corrections: The AS/NZS 1608: Pt. 1 suggests the following 1. The task is difficult + 200 lux = 500 lux illuminancesG as a rough guide. 2. Task lasts 30 min per day – 200 lux = 300 lux CATEGORY LUX EXAMPLE 3. Errors = high + 200 lux = 500 lux Movement and 40 Corridors, 4. Normal vision no correction = 500 lux orientation walkways Final result: 500 Lux Rough 80 Locker room, intermittent loading bays Note that measuring lighting levels at only one Simple tasks 160 Staff canteens, time of the day and for a particular weather casting concrete condition is invalid if the daylight contribution Ordinary tasks 240 Food can vary, for example if the sun is shining preparation directly through the window causing glare. Moderately 320 – 400 Office tasks, fine difficult tasks woodwork HOWEVER, THERE IS MORE TO LIGHTING THAN JUST GETTING THE AMOUNT ‘RIGHT’ Difficult tasks 600 Proofreading It is important to have enough light on Very difficult 800 Fine inspection, tasks retouching paint the scene.
Extremely 1200 Hand tailoring Equally important are: difficult >> the type of lamp (the colour of the Exceptionally 1600 Watchmaking light produced) difficult >> the type of luminaire (the way light is The Standard, however, states a Standard distributed) and its location in the space Service Illuminance (SSI) for many tasks. to be lit >> the décor (its colour, pattern and intensity This is a starting point, and the Standard must be regarded as part of the lighting then goes on to explain how to derive the design) actual illuminance needed by applying four correction factors to do with: >> control of daylight – window location and curtaining >> the difficulty of the task >> the people – age, visual status >> how long it goes on for >> discomfort or disability glare >> the consequences of errors >> lighting directionality. >> the visual status of workers.
LIGHTING AND SAFETY CALCULATING THE AMOUNT OF LIGHT A uniform distribution of light is needed Eg What illuminance should be provided for safety and to reduce visual fatigue. for the task of pouring molten gold into an (eg there should not be big contrasts intricate casting? in the amount of light in a space). Assume the task lasts for 30 minutes each day, Stairs, ladders, aisles, passageways, exits the operators have normal vision and the SSI and outside areas all need to be adequately is 300 lux. and uniformly lit.
Intrinsically safe fittings should be used where flammable substances are present.
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Fluorescent lighting with moving/rotating >> directed light – eg from a spotlight machinery can cause difficulties because >> omnidirectional light eg from the sun of the stroboscopic effect. on a cloudy day.
LAMPS An example of highly shadowed lighting A lamp is a light-emitting device (bulb, Directed light. The result of spotlighting. fluorescent tube, metal halide etc) Different Light flowing in one direction only. lamps are suitable for different purposes because of their: >> brightness >> colour >> cost to install >> cost to run >> dimmability >> heat output >> energy efficiency >> colour rendering ability. An example of bland, directionless lighting LUMINAIRES This is light that flows equally every which way. A luminaire is the combination of a lamp and its mounting and light control surfaces This sort of light occurs on a cloudy day. (eg a flush-mounted or a pendant fluorescent It is bland. It illuminates all parts of an object or an up-lighter). equally but, without shadows, tends to Selecting the right type of luminaire, putting obscure its three dimensional aspects. them in the right place on the ceiling (or hanging them below it) and maintaining them by regular cleaning and re-lamping is required to produce long lasting, good lighting.
Trying to light an area with the wrong luminaire is an exercise in futility.
DIRECTIONALITY OF LIGHTING. MODELLING AND THE VECTOR-SCALAR RATIO There needs to be a mix of directed light and omnidirectional light to reveal the three- dimensional (3-D) nature of objects, spaces, people and faces. This is required for safety, ease of use and clear communication.
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An example of good modelling GLARE A mix of both types produces the best result Glare may be direct or indirect. by faithfully modeling what is being lit. Direct glare may be from: >> a brightly illuminated wall in the direct line of vision >> the sun coming in a window in the line of view or >> the sun while driving >> a poorly positioned spotlight.
This is often called disability glare – all the examples above make the task more difficult.
Indirect glare occurs when there is reflected The 3 dimensional nature of this space is light which obscures the task. It does not clearly revealed. necessarily cause discomfort – and a person Modeling is important in such tasks as: may not be aware of it. >> face to face communication Even indirect glare from typing paper reduces >> when driving a forklift in the narrow aisles contrast and where low contrast acuity is of a warehouse reduced for the aging eye, visibility may be >> when operating a crane on a building site compromised. >> hairdressing. A simple test for indirect glare is to place a mirror over the task. If a source of illumination DÉCOR can be seen in the mirror there is a problem. Walls and ceilings all emit light by reflection It can be resolved by altering the position of – so the decor is part of the lighting system. the light source or by relocating or rotating Colour also influences mood. the work surface until the glare is reflected Reflective light surfaces (which implies light in an unharmful direction. or pastel colours) make for lighter spaces and will save money. To reduce reflections, use LIGHTING FOR AGING EYES dark colours. Lighting standards do not consider the aging eye well. A rule of thumb is: DAYLIGHT CONTROL >> At 50 yrs of age the employee will require Sunlight entering windows can cause glare or twice the amount of light they would have reflections in computer screens, an increased needed as a teenager heat load and can increase light levels much >> At 60 years – 3 times beyond the tolerable. >> At 80 years – 10 times! Appropriate window treatments to control Obviously, ambient lighting conditions cannot daylight will be required. be elevated to these higher levels without Given the wide variety of curtaining available, compromising energy budgets so, for aging there is a lot of detail in this topic, so seek employees, task lighting must be considered. specialist advice.
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The provision of local lighting is a task for a The Society of Light and Lighting specialist. Providing a desk lamp ‘off the shelf’ handbook at: is likely not to meet the needs of the user. www.cibse.org/Knowledge/CIBSE-LG/SLL- Lighting-Handbook SUMMARY This section has tried to convince employers This is a definitive reference. Although costly, that they should quickly refer to a qualified it is well written and illustrated – and probably lighting engineer at an early stage. This is more easily assimilated than the standards because good lighting design considers all of: referred to. >> the amount of light needed for the GLOSSARY particular task >> Lamp – a light emitting device. >> how safety is influenced by lighting >> Luminaire – the lamp and the housing used to >> the importance of modelling, when hold it in place and its light control surfaces. it is important >> Illuminance – the amount of light falling >> what lamp to use on a surface. >> which luminaire to select Cross Reference: Page 84 >> where to put the luminaires >> how often to clean luminaires and 8.6 NOISE ACOP
re-lamp them Excessive noise exposure can cause Noise >> how to control daylight Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). >> how the décor influences lighting Noise-induced hearing loss is a permanent >> control of glare condition of the inner ear characterised by >> aging eyes loss of hearing ability, particularly in the voice >> local lighting, if required recognition range. >> installation cost Noise-induced hearing loss is a major cause of >> running costs disability and compensation in New Zealand. >> benefits of good lighting – The extent of noise-induced hearing loss as described above. (NIHL) depends on the intensity of the noise, its duration and its frequency (or pitch). Put Some employers may be interested in simply, the more time a person’s ears are providing high quality lighting in order to exposed to excessive noise, the greater the promote both a congenial ambience and degree of hearing loss. More time equals more productivity. They may decide that this acoustic energy and hence more damage. The is worthwhile financially, in spite of the damage that results is irreversible, and the extra cost. effectiveness of treatment is very limited.
REFERENCES Some individuals are more sensitive to noise AS/NZS Publications: The 1680 series than others and will lose hearing more readily [1997, 2006 and 2008] refers. through noise exposure. The large variations in susceptibility means that the exposure limits The publications page of the Chartered set out in the regulations are therefore not Institute of Building Services Engineers guaranteed to remove all risk of noise-induced website at www.cibse.org hearing loss.
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Regulation 11 of the Health and Safety in Employment regulations requires employers to take all practicable steps to ensure that no employee is exposed to noise above either/both of the following:
An average of 85 decibels over 8 hours (A-weighted measurement);
A peak level of 140 decibels (un-weighted measurement).
Notes: >> This standard also applies if the worker is wearing hearing protection. >> Just because someone is exposed to noise above 85 decibels for a short period during a shift does not mean their exposure exceeds the 8 hour standard. This is because the 8 hour standard is based on average exposure. >> The standard for people working onger shifts than 8 hours is less than 85 dB(A) average. For a 12 hour shift the Standard is 83 dB(A).
Preliminary noise measurement can be carried out by any person with no special training in noise however this is only a very basic assessment. The noise code of practice provides guidance on this type of assessment. A detailed assessment to determine if: noise control, hearing protection or audiometry is required should be done by a competent person using specialised monitoring equipment.
Source:
Approved Code of Practice for the Management of Noise in the Workplace at: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information-guidance/guidance-by-hazard-type/noise
The table on the next page summarises the Code.
Health and Safety in Employment Regulations, 1995. Section 11
Cross Reference: Page 82
A summary of the ACOP for Noise
KEY PRINCIPLES KEY ACTIONS KEY TOOLS AND REFERENCES
Provide a safe Take all practical steps to ensure that See the Approved Code of Practice place of work no employee is exposed to noise in for the Management of Noise in the excess of the exposure limits. Workplace – section 2.2 ‘Providing a Safe Place of Work’.
Identify noise Carry out a preliminary noise survey This does not need to be done by a hazards to identify possible noise hazards. If ‘competent’ person. See the Approved present, assess their significance. Code of Practice for the Management of Noise in the Workplace – section 3 ‘Preliminary Noise Surveys’.
Assess their Every 5 years – arrange for a detailed This must be done by a ‘competent’ significance noise survey to be carried out to assess person. See the Approved Code of the significance of noise hazards. Practice for the Management of Noise in the Workplace – section 4 ‘Detailed Surveys–Assessing Noise Hazards”.
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KEY PRINCIPLES KEY ACTIONS KEY TOOLS AND REFERENCES
Control significant If practicable, eliminate noise at source. See the Approved Code of Practice hazards by If not, isolate noise source. Provide for the Management of Noise in the elimination, hearing protectors when noise hazards Workplace – section 7 ‘Reducing Noise isolation, or can’t be eliminated or isolated, and in the Workplace’. See the Approved minimisation while work is being carried out to Code of Practice for the Management control noise at source. Also monitor of Noise in the Workplace – section 6 exposures to noise. ‘Reducing Noise Exposure With Hearing Protectors’.
Monitor the health Arrange for hearing tests (audiometry) This must be done by a ‘competent’ of employees to be carried out on all employees who person. WorkSafe NZ must be notified work in an area with hazardous noise – if an employee has a hearing loss that when an employee starts work, and at meets the ACoP’s criteria. See the intervals of no longer than 12 months Approved Code of Practice for the thereafter. Management of Noise in the Workplace – section 7 ‘Monitoring the Health Effects of Noise’.
Provide Provide information/training/ See the Approved Code of Practice information, supervision to employees – on noise for the Management of Noise in the training and hazards – the safe use of plant and – Workplace – section 8 ‘Training and supervision the safe use of hearing protectors. Education’.
3.8.7 VIBRATION
INTRODUCTION This entry refers to advice on the UK Health and Safety Executive website.
The advice posted there imposes legal requirements on employers in the UK. These, of course, are not enforceable in New Zealand. However, section 6 of the NZ Act imposes a general duty to prevent harm. Following the UK approach would be one way of meeting that duty.
It has been observed that vibration disease will be less likely in the warmer climate of New Zealand compared to the UK. While that might be true it will not mean that problems won’t occur. The comment does not apply to whole body vibration.
WHAT IS THE PROBLEM? Vibration white finger (VWF), hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and back pain are possible consequences of exposure to vibration.
HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME (HAVS) Vibration white finger, or Raynaud’s disease, is a disease of the hands in which the blood vessels in the fingers collapse due to repeated exposure to vibration. The skin and muscle tissue do not get the oxygen they need and eventually die. The process is hastened by exposure to cold.
Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a more advanced condition, and the entire hand or arm may be affected by exposure to vibration (typically from hand held powered tools or equipment). Early signs of HAVS are infrequent feelings of numbness and/or tingling in the fingers, hands, or arms, or numbness and whiteness in the tip of the finger when exposed to cold. As the disease progresses, a worker experiences more frequent attacks of numbness, tingling, and pain and finds it difficult to use his or her hands. A worker with advanced HAVS may be disabled for a long period of time.
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a disease that develops when the tendons in the carpal 2 tunnel in the hand press on the nerve that passes through it. The disease is associated Above the ELV with vibration exposure.
Between the HAZARD ID AEV the ELV Exposure occurs when using any powered Below the ELV Vibration magnitude m/s Vibration
hand tool or powered machinery. Examples 0 2 3 4 5 10 12 14 16 18 20 are given in the table on the next page. 0.5 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Exposure duration (hours) HAZARD ASSESSMENT – HAVS. A pamphlet on the HSE website: The risk of developing HAVS depends on the length of time the person is exposed for and >> Outlines the signs and symptoms of HAVS, the magnitude of the vibration. the effects on an employee’s ability to work, settings where HAVS occurs and the New Zealand has no exposure standards for sorts of tools that cause it. vibration. The Health and Safety Executive >> Discusses how to assess risks – asking (HSE) in the UK proposes exposure action employees about symptoms, getting data values (EAV) and exposure limit values (ELV). from tool manufacturers, measuring trigger See: time (how long the employee is actually www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg175.pdf exposed to the vibration) and measuring levels of vibration. WHAT IS THE EXPOSURE ACTION VALUE (EAV)? >> Suggests ways to estimate exposure without measuring vibrations levels. The EAV is a daily amount of vibration exposure above which it is suggested >> Gives a simple ‘points’ system for employers should take action to control estimating overall exposure. exposure. The greater the exposure level, the >> Discusses health surveillance. greater the risk and the more steps employers >> Suggests information and training. should take to reduce the risk. For hand-arm vibration the EAV is a daily exposure of 2.5 m/ CONTROL OF HAVS s2 A(8 hours). The pamphlet mentioned also discusses control measures such as: WHAT IS THE EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUE? >> other work methods – automation The exposure limit value (ELV) is the maximum >> equipment selection – use tools with amount of vibration an employee should be low vibration levels exposed to on any single day. For hand-arm vibration the ELV is 5 m/s2 A(8 hours). It >> purchasing policy represents a high risk above which employees >> workstation design – apply ergonomics should not be exposed. principles to minimise muscle loadings >> maintenance to reduce vibration. >> work schedules – limit exposures by planning, rotation etc >> clothing – provide warm gloves.
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Another booklet published by the UK HSE properly – maintain suspension systems. presents 50 case studies where hand arm >> Match vehicle seats to the vehicle when vibration was successfully controlled. See: they need replacement. Seek advice from www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg170.htm manufacturers. This booklet contains an extensive checklist >> Consider administrative controls – limiting for the control of vibration. the time of exposure.
>> identifying vibration problems >> Consider the specific needs of older and younger employees, people with back >> alter processes, installations and tasks problems and pregnant women. >> review tool integrity >> Health monitoring – see 2.5.3. >> tool maintenance requirements Driver: >> work schedules >> Drive slowly. >> operator usage >> Adjust the seat settings properly, – match >> operator protection the spring tension to the driver’s weight. >> health monitoring. >> Adjust the seat location seat for clear WHOLE BODY VIBRATION (WBV) lines of sight and ease of operation of foot/hand controls. WBV is transmitted through the seat or feet of employees who drive mobile machines over >> Get the seat repaired, if necessary. rough uneven surfaces. Large shocks and jolts >> Clean the windscreen. may cause health risks including back-pain. >> Adjust the mirrors properly.
HAZARD ASSESSMENT >> Keep to the designated smooth access-ways. For WBVthe HSE limits are different from those of HAVS: >> Match the speed of the vehicle to the road surface to avoid jolting. >> the daily exposure limit value (ELV) is 1.15 m/s2 A(8) >> Steer, brake, accelerate etc smoothly. >> the daily exposure action value (EAV) These suggestions are based on the idea that is 0.5 m/s2 A(8). a person who is sitting awkwardly, craning their neck to see through a clear patch When measuring WBV, accelerations in the of otherwise dirty glass, driving a poorly x, y and z directions will need to be made. maintained vehicle A method for the measurement is set out in on rough roads etc, will be more susceptible to Schedule 2 of the HSE publication ‘Whole- whole body vibration. body vibration, The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005: Guidance on MEASUREMENTS FOR HAVS AND WBV Regulations’. See: The equipment and expertise needed to books.hse.gov.uk/hse/public/saleproduct. perform monitoring for both HAVS and WBV jsf?catalogueCode=9780717661268 is available in New Zealand. Consult the Technical Section for details. Avoiding WBV in vehicles: – Employer: >> Select vehicles that are well-matched An alternative approach is to use published to the task. data about representative levels of vibration produced by powered hand tools. The >> Construct roads and keep them smooth table below is derived from New Zealand – eliminate potholes, ridges etc. measurements. >> Maintain vehicles – inflate the tyres
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Time of use limits for common A High-Pressure Injection Injury vibrating hand tools
TOOL DAILY EXPOSURE
Jigsaw, Router, Screwdriver, 8.0 Hr Planer, Nailer, Impact wrench, Drill
Disc sander, Chainsaw, Concrete 6.5 Hr saw, Weed eater, Post hole borer, grinder
Roller, Concrete vibrator 5.5 Hr
Plate compacter 2.5 Hr
Lawn mower 2.0 Hr
Whacker plates 1.5 Hr
Hammer drill 75 min Note the swelling and erythema (redness).
Breaker 60 min This illustration is relatively minor. It was about the least gruesome one available in a search Scabbler 18 min using Google Images!
Health monitoring Specifically required to The injury was incurred when a grease gun prevent the build up of signs of HAVS and accidentally discharged into a hand. WBV. See section 2.5.3. Source: 3.8.8 HIGH PRESSURE FLUIDS Access Emergency Medicine at: MEDICAL EMERGENCY http://accessemergencymedicine.mhmedical If a worker should happen to have high .com/content.aspx?bookid=693§ionid= pressure fluids injected under the skin or into 45915376&jumpsectionID=45917025& the body – it must be treated as a medical Resultclick=2 emergency and the person rushed to hospital Photo contributor: Richard Zienowicz, MD. immediately.
This holds even when the entry wound 3.9 OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES appears small and benign. The people 3.9.1 LEPTOSPIROSIS GL accompanying the person should try to ensure that a specialist with knowledge A Worksafe NZ guideline provides practical of this particular injury is consulted. suggestions for preventing leptospirosis.
The fluids most commonly involved are: Because leptospirosis is a serious illness and >> air potentially fatal, it is a 'significant hazard' >> water as defined by the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992. >> grease >> hydraulic fluid. Employers and other people in control of workplaces therefore have a responsibility to Grease guns, horseplay with compressed take all practicable steps to prevent workers air hoses and bursting hydraulic lines and suffering 'serious harm'. compressed air lines have all been implicated.
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The settings where people can be affected 3.9.2 HEPATITIS are anywhere the urine of infected animals Hepatitis is swelling and inflammation of the can contact people: liver. It is not a condition, but is often used >> farms – particularly dairy farmers to refer to a viral infection of the liver. There >> farm service workers are several forms – Hepatitis A, B and C are >> freezing works – meat workers common but others are possible. and meat inspectors In the occupational setting Hepatitis can be >> veterinarians caused by infections from viruses bacteria, >> forestry workers. or parasites.
The range of practicable steps includes: Hepatitis A is the least serious and mildest. The other hepatitis infections may become >> Vaccination can be effective in some chronic illnesses, but hepatitis A does not situations (dairy herds). become chronic. >> Preventing contact with urine as far as possible eg in milking sheds. Health care and sewerage workers and other settings where exposure to faeces >> Using PPE – gloves and face shields. can occur are places of risk. Prevention is >> Personal habits – wiping the mouth basically by hygiene. with the hands. >> Work practices. HEPATITIS A >> Engineering controls (guards). The hepatitis A virus is found mostly in the >> Many other practices are outlined for stools and blood of an infected person about different occupational settings in the 15 – 45 days before symptoms occur and 80 Page Guideline. It should be consulted during the first week of illness. as a first resort. Hepatitis A is transmitted by:
Source: The control of occupationally acquired >> eating or drinking food or water that has Leptospirosis. 2003. been contaminated by feces containing the hepatitis A virus (fruits, vegetables, www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- shellfish, ice, and water are common source guidance/all-guidance-items/leptospirosis- of the hepatitis A virus) the-control-of-occupationally-acquired/ leptospirosisguide.pdf >> contact with the stool or blood of a person who currently has the disease A more recent research report indicates >> a person with hepatitis A not washing questions remaining over the issue: his or her hands properly after going to Leptospirosis – Reducing the impact in the bathroom and touches other objects New Zealand workplaces. or food. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- Because not everyone has symptoms with guidance/all-guidance-items/leptospirosis hepatitis A infection, many more people are infected than are diagnosed or reported.
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Risk factors include: Hepatitis C has an acute and chronic form. >> living in a nursing home or Most people who are infected develop the rehabilitation center chronic form. Most people who were recently infected with hepatitis C do not have early >> working in a health care, food, or symptoms or develop symptoms only sewerage related industries. after years. >> Vaccination is possible. Prevention is by avoiding contact with HEPATITIS B blood or blood products whenever possible. Hepatitis B infection can be spread through Health care workers should follow designated having contact with the blood, semen, vaginal precautions when handling blood and fluids, and other body fluids of someone who bodily fluids. already has a hepatitis B infection. Infection 3.9.3 TUBERCULOSIS MOH GL can be spread occupationally through: >> Direct contact with blood in health Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious care settings. bacterial infection that involves the lungs, but may spread to other organs. TB is contracted >> Tattoo or acupuncture with unclean by breathing in air droplets from a cough or needles or instruments. sneeze of an infected person. This is called People who are at high risk, including health primary TB. care workers and those who live with someone Most people will recover from primary TB who has hepatitis B, should get the hepatitis without further evidence of the disease. B vaccine. The infection may stay dormant for years. Hepatitis B viruses cannot be spread by casual In some people it can reactivate. contact, such as holding hands, sharing eating Occupationally, the risk of contracting TB utensils or drinking glasses, breast-feeding, increases with frequent contact with people kissing, hugging, coughing, or sneezing. who have TB. Some cases are of bovine TB HEPATITIS C and have occurred in veterinarians and farmers in New Zealand. Hepatitis C is a viral disease that leads to swelling (inflammation) of the liver. It is caused People who have been exposed to TB by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Occupationally, should be skin tested immediately and have people who may be at risk for hepatitis C are a follow-up test at a later date, if the first those who: test is negative.
>> have regular contact with blood at work Prompt treatment is extremely important (for instance, as a health care worker) in controlling the spread of TB from those >> received a tattoo or acupuncture with who have active TB disease to those who contaminated instruments (the risk is have never been infected with TB. very low with licensed, commercial Some people are more susceptible such tattoo facilities) as people with HIV and silicosis. >> share personal items such as toothbrushes Ministry of Health Guidelines at: and razors with someone who has hepatitis Reference: www.moh.govt.nz/cd/tbcontrol C (less common).
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3.9.4 HIV/AIDS The symptoms are:
Health care workers should assume that the >> itching, especially at night blood and other body fluids from all patients >> rashes, especially between the fingers are potentially infectious. They should >> sores (abrasions) on the skin from therefore follow infection control precautions scratching and digging at all times. These precautions include: >> thin, pencil-mark lines on the skin. >> routinely using barriers (such as gloves Consult a physician for advice about and/or goggles) when anticipating contact treatment. with blood or body fluids >> immediately washing hands and other skin Prevention is through quick detection of surfaces after contact with blood or body any outbreaks, hygiene and preventing fluids, and the arrival of the mite in a facility through screening new entrants. >> carefully handling and disposing of sharp instruments during and after use. Source: An example of a Guideline is Guidelines for Managing Scabies in Aged Many percutaneous injuries, such as needle- Residential Care. www.waikatodhb.health.nz/ sticks and cuts, are related to sharps disposal. public-health-advice/a-z-of-public-health- Safety devices have been developed to help topics/s-u/scabies/ prevent needle-stick injuries. If used properly, these types of devices may reduce the risk 3.9.6 ORF of exposure to HIV. Orf is a virus infection of the skin contracted Although the most important strategy from sheep and goats. It is caused by the for reducing the risk of occupational HIV parapox virus, which infects mainly young transmission is to prevent occupational lambs and goats which contract the infection exposures, plans for post-exposure from each one another or possibly from management of health care personnel should persistence of the virus in pastures. Human be in place. lesions are caused by direct inoculation of infected material. 3.9.5 SCABIES Orf is not uncommon among sheep farmers, Scabies is an easily spread skin disease caused shearers, freezing workers, vets and farmers' by a very small species of mite. These mites wives or their children who bottle-feed lambs. burrow into the skin and deposit their eggs, forming a burrow that looks like a pencil mark. After an incubation period of 5 or 6 days a Eggs mature in 21 days. The itchy rash is an small, firm, red or reddish-blue lump enlarges allergic response to the mite. Scabies is spread to form a flat-topped, blood-tinged pustule by skin-to-skin contact with another person or blister. The fully developed lesion is usually who has scabies. 2 or 3 cm in diameter but may be as large as 5 cm. Scabies is found among people of all groups and ages. It is spread by direct contact with Patients whose immunity is reduced for some infected people, and less often by sharing reason may develop larger or unusual orf clothing or bedding. Outbreaks of scabies are lesions. Rarely, widespread small blisters more common in prisons, schools, nursing may occur, suggesting blood stream spread homes, nursing facilities, and child care centers. of the orf virus. Sometimes whole families are affected.
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No specific treatment is necessary in most Brucellosis – an infectious disease transmitted cases, as orf usually clears up by itself in about from animals – very rare now, but maybe 6 weeks. The lesion may be covered to prevent not extinct. contaminating the environment or other Cryptosporidiosis – infection of the small people, although person-to person spread intestine with a parasite that causes diarrhea. is very uncommon. Any secondary bacterial infection should be treated. Large lesions can Giardiasis – infection of the small intestine be removed by shave excision. caused by a microscopic organism. The source is drinking water contaminated with the urine 3.9.7 CAMPYLOBACTER AND of an animal. MISCELLANEOUS DIARRHEAL INFECTIONS Hydatids – no new cases for many years. Campylobacter jejuni and Salmonella species Histoplasmosis – The Histoplasma fungus are frequently found in the gastrointestinal grows as a mold in the soil, and infection tracts of cattle, sheep, pigs, dogs, cats, results from breathing in airborne particles. rodents, and most importantly, poultry. HSV (Herpes virus) – health care workers They are transmitted to humans by: would be most at risk a. Consumption of foods derived from an infected animal, or ingestion of food Lyme disease – Lyme disease is an infection contaminated by its faeces. caused by a bacteria transmitted from animals through tick bites. In New Zealand, cases b. In abattoirs – where strict attention to have only been reported in people that have personal hygiene is required to reduce recently travelled from an endemic area. the risk to an acceptable point. Ornithosis – Diseases transmitted to people These agents typically cause an acute from birds. gastroenteritis, though other effects can occur. Q Fever – Found in Northern Australia, Prevention requires strict hygiene practices, but probably not in New Zealand. including handwashing and appropriate protective clothing. Campylobacter can be Sporotrichosis – caused by a fungus found transmitted by droplet aerosol, so face masks in vegetation. Infection commonly occurs may be useful in some circumstances. Cleaners when the skin is broken while handling in hospitals and residential care for both older plant materials such as rosebushes, briars, and younger people are also at risk. or mulch-rich dirt. Streptococcus – eg in pig farmers 3.9.8 LEGIONELLA Tetanus – eg in farmers See page 109. Toxoplasmosis – Toxoplasmosis is found in 3.9.9 OTHER RARE OCCUPATIONAL people worldwide, and in many species of DISEASES animals and birds. Cats are the definitive Aspergillosis – caused by a fungus which is host of the parasite. commonly found growing on dead leaves, Tularemia – an infection common in wild stored grain, compost piles, or in other rodents that is passed to humans through decaying vegetation. contact with infected animal tissues or by ticks, biting flies, and mosquitoes.
Source: Dr Michael Beasley and Dr Chris Walls.
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3.10 SKIN DISEASES AND >> oxidants SKIN CANCERS >> oils >> reducing agents 3.10.1 SKIN DISEASES GL >> hygroscopic chemicals Contact dermatitis is of two kinds >> concentrated salt solutions >> irritant and >> low molecular weight plastics. >> allergic. CONTACT ALLERGIC DERMATITIS These account for 60% of occupational Over time, (often measured in years) dermatoses and from 40–70% of all an allergic response develops. The time occupationally-acquired illness! interval between the first exposure and the Sectors where exposure is common are: development of symptoms depends on: >> food handler/chef >> the chemical >> hairdresser/beautician >> the exposure conditions >> medical/dental/nurse/vets >> skin thickness >> agriculture/florist/gardener >> personal factors.
>> cleaning/laundry Skin damage increases the risk that an allergy >> painting will develop. Sites distant from initial contact >> mechanical/engineer may be affected eg when fingers carry the chemical to the face. >> printing/lithography >> construction. Some allergic dermatoses require the interaction of sunlight and a chemical Work-relatedness may be indicated by: – eg plants, lichens and sunscreens. >> particular tasks >> exposure to particular substances CONTACT URTICARIA >> its resolution when away from work. Redness and blistering at the site of contact with the chemical within an hour of exposure, CONTACT IRRITANT DERMATITIS and resolving within 24 hours. There are Contact irritant dermatitis occurs when immunological and non-immunological types. an irritant is applied to the skin: Causes are: >> in high enough concentration Non-immunologic: Peru balsam; Ethyl alcohol, >> over sufficient time and/or caterpillars, jellyfish and moths.
>> with sufficient frequency. Immunologic: Seafood, fruits, vegetables, It is made worse by gloves, heat, friction meat/blood, animal secretions, latex. and pre-existing disease. This form of Control of all forms of dermatitis: dermatitis usually occurs on the hand >> remove from work (if severe) or forearm. It is caused by: >> prevent contact or at least reduce its >> acids and alkalis frequency and the duration of exposure >> solvents >> choose gloves carefully – they can make >> detergents/soaps things worse if the chemical gets into >> abrasives them – through a cut or by penetrating >> enzymes the material
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>> avoid skin trauma >> Report dermatitis to the employer – if there >> avoid excessive heat/humidity is not an active programme of health monitoring already. >> avoid cold and chapping conditions
>> use safe work habits REFERENCE: >> clean hands with the mildest possible www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- cleansers – avoid solvent-soaked rags, guidance/all-guidance-items/skin-diseases-a- dry hands carefully. guide-to-occupational >> use a different chemical 3.10.3 ULTRAVIOLET (UV) EXPOSURES >> use non-rubber gloves Skin cancer is by far the most common cancer >> avoid using allergens. in New Zealand and ranks as one of the most Treatment: Refer to a specialist. expensive cancers, costing the health system Source: A Guide to Occupational Skin over $33 million p.a. Diseases: Skin cancer can come in three forms: www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- >> Melanoma (least common but most guidance/all-guidance-items/skin-diseases-a- dangerous) guide-to-occupational >> Basal cell carcinoma (most common Skin Cancer at: but least dangerous) >> Squamous cell carcinoma (Less common www.business.govt.nz/worksafe/information- but more dangerous that BCC) guidance/all-guidance-items/skin-cancer- melanoma Solar keratoses are also possible.
3.10.2 CEMENT DERMATITIS Photographs of each type are shown in various websites such as at: http://molemap.co.nz/ CEMENT DERMATITIS Our counterparts in Victoria, in Australia, are Handling wet cement – or even cement that convinced that UV exposures of construction has not cured properly – may, over time, lead workers are a real hazard and have promoted some people (10% according to the UK HSE) programmes to prevent exposure throughout to develop a form of dermatitis. This is due to the industry in that State. the alkalinity of the cement and contact with Given the intensity of UV radiation (UVR) in chromates that exist naturally in cement. New Zealand in summer, it is sensible to advise Cement dermatitis is very hard to treat. workers to protect themselves from the sun, Once a person is sensitised further exposure at least between early October and the end to chromates will cause symptoms. of March.
CONTROL There are three main strategies.
>> Prevent contact by using gloves – if other concrete handling methods won’t prevent contact. >> Wash hands – this implies that running water and adequate hand washing/drying facilities are needed on site.
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It is sensible for employees to check their 3.11 OTHER OCCUPATIONAL skin every few months especially the face, HEALTH PUBLICATIONS lips, ears, neck, shoulders, arms and hands. The following additional Occupational Health The following measures are advised: topics are covered in various WorkSafe NZ >> Increase the amount of shade available publications: in the workplace. >> ACOPS >> Wherever possible carry out work in the >> Composites – ACOP shade of trees or buildings, move jobs to >> Fibreglass – ACOP shade areas, use portable shade and/or erect permanent shade structures. >> Film Industry – ACOP >> Reschedule work: UV radiation is strongest >> Funeral Homes – ACOP from 11 am to 4 pm. If possible, schedule >> Libraries – voluntary ACOP outdoor work outside these times during >> Paint, printing inks and resins – ACOP the summer months. >> Photoengraving and Lithography – ACOP >> Rotate employees If possible, alternate >> Sulphur fires – ACOP employees between indoor and outdoor >> Guidelines tasks. >> Abrasive Blasting >> Personal protection: Cover as much skin as possible by wearing: >> Bitumen – safe use in roading –– sun protective clothing (UPF rating >> Collision Repair – a guide developed 50+) for example collared, long-sleeve by the Collision Repair Association shirts, trousers or long-sleeve overalls; >> There is also a guide about the certification –– legionnaire or broad-brimmed sunhats of collision repair shops (minimum 7cm brim) or hard hat brim >> Contaminated sites –General guide about attachments; clean up –– broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen >> Cytotoxic Drugs – safe handling (that comply with the AS/NZS2604); >> Demolition –a general guideline and a –– sunglasses (that comply with the pamphlet about dust control AS/NZS1067.1). Choose wraparound, >> Dental Therapy – Sector guide close-fitting sunglasses for the best >> Flooring – safe removal of asbestos protection. back vinyl flooring Source: www.sunsmart.com.au/
Downloads 27 and 28 on the ‘Sun Protection’ Information Sheets page.
www.sunsmart.co.nz
www.cancernz.org.nz
Thanks to Judith Galtry of the Cancer Society of New Zealand for reviewing this information.
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GENERAL GUIDANCE 3.12 DELAYED KILLERS, SERIAL >> 1080 – safety during aerial application KILLERS AND CUMULATIVE HARM >> Glutaraldehyde – general safe use In the Safety tools section several serial killers >> Hairdressing – General guide were presented. Here we present a similar list: >> Home based healthcare – Guideline 1. Delayed Killers >> Lead paint – removal These can result in death or very serious >> Metal Casting – general guidance harm several or many years after exposure: >> Mortuaries – general guideline Asbestos >> PCBs – general guidance The dangers of asbestos are too well known >> Printing to require further comment. >> Screen printing – general guide Silica >> Synthetic glass wool – general comment Acute silicosis is now rare but has the potential >> Synthetic mineral fibres -guideline to kill after several weeks or months exposure. >> Theatre and entertainment Industry – general guidance 2. Serial Killers >> Formaldehyde – paper about lowering the These can result in sudden death: WES Carbon Monoxide >> LPG – hazard alert after a couple were The dangers are well known. found dead in their bed Cold strain >> Methyl Bromide – paper about lowering the WES Rare in New Zealand, but the potential remains. >> Volcanic ash >> Wood dust– paper about lowering the Heat Strain WES for soft woods Rare in New Zealand, but the potential >> Work related disease – 2010 report remains. Hydrogen sulphide DISASTER RECOVERY – SEVERAL PUBLICATIONS: Hydrogen sulphide is extremely toxic and can also dull the sense of smell. >> Sewage contamination >> Hazardous substances Legionnaire’s disease >> Health issues Poor control of cooling tower hyiene can allow Legionella to grow and become >> Biological agents airborne. Deaths have resulted and are >> Personal protective equipment usually well publicised. >> Adverse weather conditions Oxygen deficiency >> Fatigue A particular danger of confined spaces. A breath or two of air with no oxygen in it can result in immediate collapse.
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Welding Timber Treatment Welding with certain rods (i.e those that Past exposure to some timber treatment contain cadmium) or of certain metals chemicals has resulted in severe illness (beryllium) can result in immediate death many years later. (i.e same day). Vibration 3. Serious harm, delayed or immediate Vibration disease can leave a person severely affected, permanently. Electroplating Poorly ventilated electroplating processes Welding can result in severe illnesses due to Exposure to uncontrolled welding fumes chromium exposure. can lead to poor lung function in later life.
Isocyanates Wood dust Isocyanates have the ability to affect lung Cancer can result from exposure to softwood function suddenly and permanently. A person and hardwood dusts, after sufficient exposure. may be left struggling for breath for decades. 4. Cumulative Harm Lead The items mentioned below can all result Lead poisoning has been well known in harm or serious harm after exposure has since antiquity. been going on for some time. (Weeks, Leptospirosis months or years may be required.)
For some people, Leptospirosis is extremely Prevention strategies for all these items are severe, with delayed effects lasting many well known. months or for years. Some people may be profoundly affected Noise and others less so, by identical circumstances. Noise induced deafness is extremely common. The statements made highlight the The psychological effects of not being able experiences of some people – and therefore to hear other people talking can be severe. point to future possibilities for other people. Organic dusts The comments do not report on average An allergic response may leave a person results – such as when large populations of unable to tolerate eny exposure. workers are surveyed at one point in time.
Solvents (Fibreglassing, Spraycoating, Bullying Boatbuilding, Collision repair) Bullying can have severe effects on individuals Solvent exposure can result in acute (and on company performance). Some temporary and permanent or prolonged people have had to leave work and have effects on mental function. A person may lost confidence for long periods. be labelled with a ‘personality disorder’. Computer use In past times, Health and Safety Inspectors never visited painters on Fridays! For some people, constant computer use can result in severe discomfort, injury and pain. This may compromise their future employment.
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Gradual Process njuries Repetitive work in various industries can leave people with discomfort, pain and injury.
Hand tools For some people who use specific hand tools regularly, severe pain has resulted when the tool has been poorly designed. Health and job performance are compromised.
Manual Handling An increased incidence of low back pain is associated with exposure to repeated heavy handling, especially when postures and movements are awkward. Some people have faced the rest of their life without a job because of the effects of uncontrolled manual handing tasks.
Skin Cancer The most common cancer.
Skin Diseases By far the most common of all occupational diseases and responsible for many people needing to change occupations.
Stress Stress (most specifically, the exposure to too much work in the form of constant pressure, constant demands and recurring deadlines) has been shown to result in increased rates of heart disease and mental illness.
Violence to Caregivers Caregivers report high rates of violence, both physical and verbal.
The results, in terms of decreased morale and compromised performance, are not well characterised.
Interestingly, the cumulative result of verbal violence may be more severe than that of physical.
181 04/
HSNO TOOLS
IN THIS SECTION: 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Legislation 4.3 Compliance checklist 4.4 The nuts and bolts of the HSNO Act 4.5 Resources 4.6 A list of common toxic substances used by industry 4.7 Key definitions 4.8 Special notes
182 SECTION 4.0 // HSNO TOOLS
4.1 INTRODUCTION Deciding HSNO Part 6 Applications to vary controls and approve items as follows: THE SCOPE OF THIS DOCUMENT >> Approving equipment for 'using' flammable This document applies to all Health and hazardous substances that meet criteria Safety compliance, enforcement and deemed to ensure safe design and investigations, activities, projects and operation – includes oil burners, LPG initiatives carried out by Worksafe NZ that vaporisers, fuel dispensers. involve hazardous substances covered by >> Approving compliance plans for stationary the HSNO and HSE Acts. container systems, secondary containment, and tank wagons that existed before the HSNO ACT AND THE HSE ACT commencement of the HSNO controls WorkSafe NZ’s HSNO activities are carried out for these cases. The compliance plan will under the umbrella of the Health and Safety either approve a period of time for the in Employment Act 1992. This is the WorkSafe items to be brought into compliance with NZ’s principal means for promoting health and new controls, or enable the item to be safety at work. maintained and operated to the standard The purposes of both the HSE and the to which it was originally approved for the HSNO Acts, while different, are remainder of its lifetime. complementary and mutually reinforcing: >> Approving a variation or waiver to the >> the HSE Act’s purpose is to prevent harm fire-fighting requirements for bulk tanks to all persons at work while according to criteria, such as isolation and significant separation from other places of >> the HSNO Act’s purpose is to protect the regular habitation. environment as well as the health and safety of people and communities by >> Approving disused underground fuel tanks preventing to remain underground where they can or managing the adverse effects of be rendered safe and it is impractical to hazardous substances. remove the tank, for example, removal would undermine adjacent buildings. WHO HAS WHAT ROLES? >> Approving reductions to the separation distance requirements of flammable 1. The EPA (Environmental Protection tanks, stores and use locations to the site Agency (EPA) boundary. The separation distance is set to >> administers the HSNO Act and protect people, places, and the environment >> gives approvals15 for hazardous in the case of a fire. The approval requires substances. considering the equivalence of protection provided by items such as the fire rating 2. Worksafe NZ of separating walls and the standard of fire >> Enforces the HSNO Act in workplaces protection systems. (See Table 1). >> Approving the extension of a location test >> Carries out the following functions certificate issued by a test certifier from on behalf of EPA. one year to up to three years based on evidence of quality management systems and compliance history.
15 An approval from the EPA is required before any hazardous substance can be imported, manufactured and/or used in New Zealand).
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>> Approving one-off compressed gas >> explosiveness cylinder imports that can be matched to >> flammability key elements of existing cylinder design >> oxidising capacity approvals. >> corrosiveness >> Approving inspection agencies to verify the >> toxicity manufacture of compressed gas cylinders to approved designs. >> ecotoxicity. >> Approving the extension of a stationary A substance is also hazardous if it generates container test certificate issued by a test a substance that has one or more of these certifier for a period of time as allowed listed hazardous properties when it comes for under cl. 93(2) based on evidence into contact with air or water. (This applies of quality management systems and to situations other than air or water where compliance history. the temperature or pressure has been >> Approving under Schedule 9, a artificially increased or decreased.) modification to the aggregate capacity limit for groups of stationary containers 4.2 LEGISLATION (clause 2), or a modification to the 42.1 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE maximum capacity limit for secondary HSE ACT AND THE HSNO ACT containment systems (clause 2A), or a variation to secondary containment WorkSafe NZ has a mandate to ensure capacity required under Hazardous HSE and HSNO compliance. Where the Substances (Emergency Management) compliance is related to harm from hazardous Regulations 2001 (clause 3) in accordance substances then, whether covered by HSNO with the criteria on those clauses. or not, the hierarchy of all practicable steps under HSE is the first consideration. >> Deciding applications to hold a controlled substance licence (explosives and When WorkSafe NZ looks at whether vertebrate toxic agents businesses are compliant with the HSNO Act, it looks for compliance with the controls >> Deciding applications for people to be a required by the Environmental Protection test certifier, or renew or extend their test Agency (EPA – the new name for the agency certifier approval. formerly known as ERMA). >> Providing advice on hazardous substances controls (0800 number and hsinfo inbox). However, note that there may be situations where the HSE Act’s hazard management >> Conducting audits and investigations of process requires an employer to eliminate test certifier performance. a particular hazardous substance as WHAT ARE HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES? a ‘significant hazard’, meaning that implementing the HSNO Act controls A substance is considered to be a ‘hazardous will not provide sufficient compliance. substance’ under HSNO when it has a level of hazard greater than the threshold(s) for one HSE warranted inspectors will know that or more of the following intrinsic properties: the various controls in the HSNO Act are, essentially, practicable steps. Thus, while a
184 SECTION 4.0 // HSNO TOOLS
site may be HSNO compliant for a particular Table 1. HSNO Act responsibilities hazardous substance, there may be a far safer AGENCY AREA OF ACTIVITY alternative to a substance or process. Worksafe Any place of work (as determined Thus the site will be compliant under HSNO, NZ under s3 of the HSE Act). but not necessarily under HSE. On the other Energy In, at, or around any distribution hand, where the compliance is related to harm Safety system, gas installation or gas from hazardous substances and where isolation appliance; Notification of gas or minimisation is being considered then HSNO and electricity accidents was transferred to the Worksafe NZ controls may provide ‘best practice.’ on 01/01/2009.
It is critical that Worksafe NZ Enforcement Land Any motor vehicle, road, Officers (EO) are confident in providing advice Transport rail vehicle or railway line. in this area as even Test Certifiers may not be NZ (Enforcement is normally carried out by the Commercial Vehicle able to provide the correct advice. Investigation Unit or SVIU of the Without fully understanding the nature of NZ Police.) the interrelatedness of the HSE and HSNO NZ Police Any motor vehicle, road, rail Acts, we are leaving the client exposed to vehicle or railway line. prosecution even though they may consider Civil Aircraft (from gangplank). themselves compliant. Aviation Authority
4.2.2 WHO ENFORCES THE HSNO Maritime Ships (from gangplank). ACT AND WHERE? NZ
The HSNO Act in the purest form, is Ministry of Where it is necessary to protect public health (not personal health, administered by the Ministry for the Health where the Health Act applies). Environment with power given to the Environmental Protection Authority or EPA Territorial In or on any premises in the Authorities district of the territorial authority (formerly called ERMA). other than those premises specified above, or in or on those As stated earlier in 2.1, if Employers meet the premises specified above where requirements of the HSNO Controls they may the function, power or duty is NOT meet the requirements of the HSE Act. transferred to them by another section 97 agency; In or on those It is intended protect the environment and premises specified above where health and safety of people and communities they are on those premises for by preventing or managing the adverse effects the purpose of enforcing the provisions of the RMA. (In this of hazardous substances and new organisms. case they will enter under a RMA WorkSafe NZ does not have jurisdiction in the warrant and not HSNO.) area of New Organisms. This aspect of the Act Regional In or on those premises specified is administered by MAF (Bio Security). Councils above if they are on those premises for the purpose of WorkSafe NZ is primarily concerned with the enforcing the provisions of the application of the legislation in places RMA, or in or on those premises of work. Other responsible agencies and specified above if the function, their jurisdictions are shown in Table 1. power or duty is transferred to them by another section 97 agency.
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Often Worksafe NZ officers may need to work EMERGENCY POWERS with one or more representatives of these The following powers are accorded to an agencies. There are occasions when Worksafe enforcement officer following their declaration NZ will lead an investigation that may involve of a state of emergency. The enforcement people from one or more of the above officer is in control of the emergency. agencies as well. In addition it must be noted He/she may: that there will be occasions where jurisdiction is not immediately clear. >> prohibit any activity within the designated area 4.2.3 HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES TECHNICAL >> evacuate the area and restrict entry to it LIAISON COMMITTEE (HSTLC) >> request the assistance of any person The Hazardous Substances Technical including any other emergency service Liaison Committee (HSTLC) is made up or enforcement agency to assist in dealing of representatives from central and local with the emergency government along with industry who >> use other hazardous substances to remedy have expertise in the safe management of the situation, provided the provisions of hazardous substances. They are not mandated section 47 have been met by legislation, but by agreement by the >> destroy any property or any thing to render participants. They have no legal connection the situation safe with HSNO, nor do they have an enforcement function. There are National and Regional >> exercise any of the powers under section HSTLC committees throughout the country. 103 (powers of entry for inspection), or They are chaired by the NZ Fire Service. under section 119 (powers of entry under search warrant) for the HSNO Act. The HSTLC provides a means of coordinating technical support when hazardous 4.3 COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST substance emergencies or incidents occur. The committee can play a role in preparing On entry to a site it is necessary for an plans prior to an emergency as well as a enforcement officer to identify the person management function during an emergency in charge and identify him/herself them by or incident. means of their warrant. Two crucial pieces of information are required to conduct an 4.2.4 INSPECTORS’ EMERGENCY POWERS effective inspection that suitably measures UNDER THE HSNO ACT the HSNO component. Firstly identify the This section assumes prior knowledge by substance and second determine the quantity. EOs of their powers of entry and general The following information is required: powers under the HSE Act and HSNO Act. >> Is there a register or inventory of hazardous As noted previously, there may be cause substances on site? to exercise your powers under the HSE Act >> Are Safety Data Sheets (SDS) available even though you are conducting a compliance in electronic form or as a hard copy – visit re HSNO – ie to inspect a site for accessible within 10 minutes if held off site? hazardous substances. >> Are the correct product labels on containers?
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>> Are staff trained to handle the hazardous 4.4.1 CLASSES substances on site (this is an HSE The HSNO Act classifies substances by their requirement). Where necessary, are there hazardous properties. Table 2 lists the 9 correctly certified people in place, like classes of substance16. approved handlers or approved fillers? The latter is a HSNO matter triggered Within these 9 classifications is a further series by specific quantities, see Table 3. of sub-classifications denoted by the letters A, B, C etc These letters reflect the risk posed by >> Do employees have the correct equipment/ the substance to the environment or to people PPE? This is an immediate consideration, (A is high). but it is then desirable to consider the hierarchy of controls under HSE. This may A particular substance may display a range have long-term implications for processes of hazardous properties. Hence petrol, a and the nature of work at a particular site. flammable liquid is also: >> Are stationary container certificates in >> toxic if ingested place where required? Are they up to date >> explosive when mixed with oxygen and do stationary containers have the in the correct ratio and correct secondary containment if required? >> ecotoxic. See Table 9. Thus petrol may be classified as 3.1A, 6.1E, >> Is there an emergency plan and emergency 6.3B, 6.7B and 9.1B. management procedures and have emergency drills and procedures been 4.4.2 CONTROLS practised? See Table 9. The need to practice emergency procedures is a Hazardous substances have physical requirement under HSNO. properties which may result in injury. The HSNO Act further specifies methods >> Signage and fire extinguishers? of managing and mitigating the effects See Tables 7 and 8. of these substances. These are the HSNO >> Segregation of incompatible substances? controls. The Act also addresses quantities >> Are there hazardous atmosphere zones of hazardous substances. It thus speaks (See Table 6) and are the sources of of ‘trigger quantities’ or quantities that potential ignition clearly understood? are sufficient to require specific controls. HSNO controls are also designed to prevent 4.4 THE NUTS AND BOLTS an unplanned release of a substance by OF THE HSNO ACT ensuring that they are bulk stored in the correct containment vessels and that they The HSNO Act seeks to create order out of are correctly packaged for commercial and chaos by classifying substances into classes domestic use. based on common hazardous properties. It then stipulates how to minimise the effects The Act thus makes provision for controls of the hazard by providing rules for the on the Hazardous Properties of a substance management (controls) of each class. and system controls extending over the hazardous properties for its life cycle (pan-life cycle controls).
16 Note A: Class 7 is Radioactive substances. This aspect of HSNO is administered by the National Radiation Laboratory.
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HAZARDOUS PROPERTY CONTROLS CLASS SUBSTANCE AND DESCRIPTION >> Manage hazards resulting from intrinsic 4.3 Solids that emit flammable gas when hazardous properties. in contact with water >> Reduce the likelihood of unintended Class 5 Oxidisers occurrence of the hazard. 5.1.1 Oxidising substances that are liquids >> Limit the adverse effects arising from or solids exposure to the hazard by responders 5.1.2 Oxidising substances that are gasses such as fire crews. 5.2 Organic peroxides Table 2. Classes and sub-classes Class 6 Toxics of hazardous substances 6.1 Acutely toxic substances CLASS SUBSTANCE AND DESCRIPTION 6.2 Biologically toxic/dangerous Class 1 Explosives substances
1.1 Substances & articles having a mass 6.3 Skin irritants explosion hazard 6.4 Eye irritants 1.2 Substances & articles that have a projection hazard but not a mass 6.5 Respiratory and contact sensitisers explosion hazard 6.6 Known, presumed or suspected 1.3 Substances & articles that have a human mutagens fire hazard and either a minor blast 6.7 Known, presumed or suspected hazard or a minor projection hazard human carcinogens but not a mass explosion hazard 6.8 Known, presumed or suspected 1.4 Substances & articles that present no human reproductive or develop- significant explosive hazard mental toxicants on direct exposure 1.5 Very insensitive substances that have or via lactation a mass explosion hazard 6.9 Toxic or harmful to human organs or Extremely insensitive articles that do systems not have a mass explosion hazard Class 8 Corrosives
Class 2 Flammable Gasses and Aerosols 8.1 Corrosive to metals
2.1.1 Flammable gasses 8.2 Corrosive to dermal (skin) tissue
2.1.2 Flammable aerosols 8.3 Corrosive to ocular (eye) tissue
Class 3 Flammable Liquids/Desensitised Class 9 Ecotoxics – Ecotoxic or harmful Liquid Explosives 9.1 in the aquatic environment 3.1 Flammable Liquids 9.2 in the soil environment 3.2 Liquid Desensitised Explosives 9.3 to terrestrial vertebrates Class 4 Combustible Solids 9.4 to terrestrial invertebrates 4.1.1 Readily combustible solids and solids that may cause fire through friction PAN-LIFE CYCLE CONTROLS 4.1.2 Self-reactive substances Certain substances are deemed so hazardous 4.1.3 Solid desensitised explosives that they are subject to controls that cover 4.2 Spontaneously combustible their whole of their life. These relate to substances. controls under 6 headings:
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1. Identification 5. Emergency preparedness
These concentrate on providing information to Information and training must be provided workers, visitors to a site and in an emergency: to inform employees on how to respond to >> Signage about the type of hazardous emergencies specific to the type of hazardous chemicals on site. substances held. It is also necessary to provide equipment (including fire extinguishers) to >> Containers to be clearly labelled promote effective responses to emergency as to contents/hazard. situations. >> Safety data sheets and other documentation. 6. Disposal
2. Packaging and containment Systems need to be in place for the disposal of hazardous substances in such a way that There are regulations that govern the materials they do not pose a threat to humans and/or which are suitable to be used to contain the environment. particular hazardous substances, as well as the strength and integrity of the packaging ADDITIONAL CONTROLS and bulk containers. 1. Competency
3. Tracking Requirements for test certifiers and Certain classes of hazardous substances enforcement officers. are required to be tracked under HSNO 2. Compressed gasses throughout the lifecycle of the substance. The HSNO Act is also concerned with the This requires systems to be created to locate correct containment and management of and track highly hazardous substances compressed gasses. This section of the act is at all points in their usage cycle – from not concerned with the chemical structure of manufacture/importation to disposal and these gasses but rather the physical dangers all points in between. of containing gasses at high pressures.
Details are required of the following: There are thus minimum requirements for the a. identity of the Approved Handler construction and design of the cylinders that contain these gasses. b. substance information There is also a requirement for certification of c. location of the tracked substance approved fillers. d. transfer to another place 3. Fireworks e. disposal of tracked substance must be There are restrictions on the sale of fireworks recorded at each stage of its lifecycle. to the public as well as requirements for
4. Competency of handlers the certification of persons in charge of pyrotechnic displays. At a retail level, fireworks There is a requirement for suitably skilled may only be displayed for sale or sold people to be in charge of more highly beginning on the 2nd of November and ending hazardous substances (see section 4.3 1.). at the close of the 5th of November each year, and only to people over 14 years of age. At any other time the retailer requires a written approval from the EPA.
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4. Exempt Laboratories In some specific cases it is not necessary to have class 6–9 substances under the control of This covers research and development an approved handler if they are secured from laboratories and those involved in teaching unauthorised persons. The list of substances (section 140) where there is small-scale to which this applies can be found in the use of hazardous substances. Dangerous Goods and Scheduled Toxic 4.4.3 TEST CERTIFIERS AND TYPES Substances Transfer Notice No. 35 document OF CERTIFICATION (available from Government bookshops) or seek advice from a Test Certifier/Hazardous HSNO makes provision for suitably qualified Substances Enforcement Officer. people to inspect areas where hazardous chemicals are held and specify any needed Table 3. Quantities of Hazardous Substances corrective action to be taken to meet that trigger the requirement for an Approved HSNO requirements. Handler. (Note: some classes do not trigger this need.) These ‘Test Certifiers’ can provide a certificate of compliance once compliance is achieved. HAZARD QUANTITIES THAT CLASSIFICATION TRIGGER SPECIFIC The HSNO Act specifies the requirements CONTROLS for the certification of people handling 2.1.1A 100kg (not permanent certain hazardous substances as well as gasses); LPG any amount those filling containers. There are a range at a refuelling outlet
of other certification requirements. Flammable 100m3 (permanent gasses) Test Certifiers can issue: gasses >> Approved Handler Certificates. 2.1.2A 3000L aggregate >> Location Certificates. 3.1A >> Stationary Container System Test Flammable Any amount (except petrol, Liquids aviation fuel and racing Certificates. fuel = 100L); Farms >4ha … for different classes of hazardous up to 2000L substances, depending on their competence 3.1B 250L (in containers >5L) as assessed by the EPA. The EPA holds 500L (when in containers a register of Test Certifiers and what they up to 5L inclusive) can certify. 3.2A Any amount
APPROVED HANDLER CERTIFICATION 3.2B 100L
Approved handler certificates are required 4.1.1A
to provide evidence of competence and 100kg – Flammable solids experience with the handling of certain 4.1.2A and B Any amount classifications and quantities of hazardous substances. 4.1.2C and D 25kg
Table 3 on the next page shows the quantities 4.1.2E and F 50kg of the various classes of hazardous substance 4.1.3A Any amount
that trigger approved handler requirements. 4.1.3B 100kg
4.2A Any amount
4.3B 100kg
Hazard Quantities that trigger classification specific controls
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An approved filler is required for filling: HAZARD QUANTITIES THAT CLASSIFICATION TRIGGER SPECIFIC >> industrial gas cylinders CONTROLS >> LPG cylinders 5.1.1B 500kg or L >> self-contained underwater breathing 5.1.1C 1000kg or L apparatus (SCUBA) 5.1.2A 250kg or 200m3 >> self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
5.2A or 5.2B Any amount >> fire extinguishers
5.2C, 5.2D, 5.2E 10kg or 10L >> aerosol cylinders or 5.2F >> paintball cylinders 6.1A, 6.1B, 6.1C – Any quantity >> bulk storage containers. Toxic
6.7A 10kg or more (solid) 10L LOCATION TEST CERTIFICATE or more (liquid) (INCLUDE TRANSIT DEPOT) 8.2A A location test certificate is required when you
Corrosive Any quantity exceed the quantities stated in Tables 4 and 5.
9.1.A, 9.2A, 9.3A, Table 4. Quantities of those Hazardous and 9.4A Substances that trigger the requirement for Ecotoxic Any quantity; Class 9 Location Test Certificate – Gases and Liquids. substances may be handled (Note: some classes do not trigger this need.) by a person who is not an approved handler if HAZARD TRIGGER TRIGGER the substance is in sealed CLASSIFICATION QUANTITY QUANTITY packaging (CLOSED (IN USE, OPEN CONTAINERS) CONTAINERS) Propellant powders of classes 1.1C Note: 2.1.1A and B 100kg 100kg (UN 0160) and 1.3C (UN 0161) need an (100m3 (100m3 approved handler when 50kg or more is permanent permanent held before sale to the public or when 15kg gasses) gas) or more is held after sale to the public 2.1.2A 3000L 3000L (aggregate (aggregate APPROVED FILLERS water water capacity capacity) Any person filling a compressed gas container 3.1A 20L 20L with a gas must be an approved filler. They are required to be trained and to have the 3.1B 100L in 50L necessary knowledge and skills to fill a containers >5L container safely. A test certifier will assess potential approved fillers for the purpose 250L in containers of issuing them with an approved filler test up to & certificate. These requirements apply to including 5L all compressed gasses whether they are 3.1C 500L in 250L hazardous substances such as LPG or non- containers hazardous gasses such as compressed air. >5L
1500L in containers up to & including 5L
3.2A, B and C 1L 1L
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Table 5. Quantities of Hazardous Substances Table 6. Quantities of Hazardous Substances that trigger the requirement for an Approved that trigger the requirement for plotting a Handler – Solids. (Note: some classes do not Hazardous Atmosphere Zone. (Note: some trigger this need.) classes do not trigger this need.)
HAZARD TRIGGER QUANTITIES HAZARD TRIGGER EXAMPLES CLASSIFICATION CLASSIFICATION QUANTITIES
4.1.1A 1kg 2.1.1A, 2.1.1B 100kg (non- LPG, permanent Hydrogen 4.1.1B 100kg gas) 300m3 4.1.2A and B 1kg permanent gas) 4.1.2C and D 25kg 2.1.2A 3000L Aerosols 4.1.2E, F and G 50kg aggregate water capacity 4.1.3A, B and C 1kg 3.1A, 3.1B, 3.1C 100L closed Petrol, 4.3B 25kg acetone, 25L decanting 4.3C 50kg methylated 5L open spirits 5.1.1A 50kg or 50L occasionally
5.1.1B 500kg or 500L 1L open for 5.1.1C 1000kg or 1000L continuous use
5.1.2A 100kg (non-permanent The hazardous atmosphere zone needs gas) 200m3 (perm. gas) to be in compliance with: 5.2A, 5.2B More than 10kg >> AS/NZS 2430.3; or 5.2C or 5.2D More than 25kg >> AS/NZS 2439.1:1987; or a Code of Practice 5.2E or 5.2F More than 100kg approved by the Authority (ERMA-now the EPA). HAZARDOUS ATMOSPHERE ZONE STATIONARY CONTAINER SYSTEM Where volatile and flammable chemicals and TEST CERTIFICATES gasses occur there are specific maps of how A stationary container test certificate is close a source of ignition may be located. required in the following cases: Removal of sources of ignition may be the removal of an incandescent light bulb form a. A stationary container system that the area where volatile organic chemicals are includes a stationary tank intended to decanted or preventing vehicles from entering contain a hazardous substance if the an area where there is a concentration of stationary tank — flammable gasses. ix. is a below ground stationary tank; or
A hazardous atmosphere zone has to be x. has a water capacity greater than established when you exceed the following 500 litres and is used or intended to thresholds listed in Table 6. be used to contain a gas; or
xi. has a capacity greater than 2,500 litres and is used or intended to be used to contain a class 3.1A or class 3.1B hazardous substance (ie flammable liquid); or
192 SECTION 4.0 // HSNO TOOLS
xii. has a capacity greater than 5,000 litres vii. 60 litres for class 3.1 substances and used or intended to be used to supplying a burner (includes 3.1A, contain a hazardous liquid, other than 3.1B, 3.1C and 3.1D). a hazardous liquid that is a class 3.1A or class 3.1B hazardous substance (eg TRACKED SUBSTANCES diesel class 3.1D). Certain classes of hazardous substances must be tracked under HSNO throughout b. A stationary container system that the lifecycle of the substance. Details of: includes a process container (eg a reaction vessel or a distillation column or a dip >> identity of the Approved Handler tank) that is part of a stationary container >> substance information system intended to contain a hazardous >> location of the tracked substance substance if the process container: >> transfer to another place; and i. is situated under ground, including >> disposal of tracked substance must be ground that has been raised to provide recorded at each stage of its lifecycle. cover for the process container; or
ii. is covered by material other than 4.4.4 SEGREGATION ground; or Some types of chemicals are incompatible
iii. has a water capacity greater than 250 with others in that if they mixed they would litres and is used, or is intended to be combine via an undesirable chemical reaction used, to contain a hazardous gas; or resulting in such as a fire or explosion.
iv. has a capacity greater than 1,000 litres An example of such substances would and is used or is intended to be used be chlorine (an oxidiser) and brake fluid to contain a hazardous liquid. (flammable). In this case minimum segregation distances are stipulated. These distances can c. A stationary container system that be accessed via Chemsafe, but as a rough includes a vaporiser to which Schedule 8 guide they should be separated by as much of the Dangerous Goods Transfer Notice distance as is practical at a particular site. No. 35 applies. 4.4.5 TRIGGER QUANTITIES d. A stationary container system attached to an oil burning installation (excluding On the following pages Tables 7, 8 and 9 installations at domestic premises as present information about the quantities specified in clause 64 of the Dangerous of hazardous substances that trigger the Goods Transfer Notice No. 35). need for:
The above legislative requirements do not >> Signage (Tables 7). apply to a stationary container system that: >> Fire Extinguishers (Table 8) and see a. does not have a service tank; and section 6.1. >> Emergency Plans and Containment b. has a capacity less than — (Table 9) and see section 6.3. v. 500 litres for class 3.1D substances Note that not all classes are listed in these (eg diesel) supplying an internal tables because some of the classes do not combustion engine; or trigger the need for signage, fire extinguishers vi. 50 litres for class 3.1A (eg petrol), or emergency plans and containment. 3.1B and 3.1C (kero-sene) substances supplying an internal combustion engine; or
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Table 7. Quantities of Hazardous Substances HAZARD TRIGGER QUANTITIES that trigger the requirement for signage CLASSIFICATION (Classes 1 – 5) Some classes do not trigger 5.2A, 5.2B 1L liquid 1kg solid this need. 5.2C, 5.2D, 5.2E, 10L liquid 10kg solid HAZARD TRIGGER QUANTITIES 5.2F CLASSIFICATION 6.1A 5kg (non-permanent gas) 2.1.1A 250kg (non-permanent gas) 2.5m3 permanent gas 50L 100m3 (permanent gas) liquid 50kg solid
2.1.1B 500kg (non-permanent gas) 6.1B 5kg (non-permanent gas) 200m3 (permanent gas) 2.5m3 (permanent gas) 250L liquid 250kg solid 2.1.2A 3000l aggregate water capacity 6.1C 5kg (non-permanent gas) 2.5m3 permanent gas 3.1A 50L liquid 50kg solid 1000L liquid 250kg solid 3.1B 250L liquid 250kg solid 6.1D 10 000L liquid 10 000kg 3.1C 1000L liquid or 1000kg solid solid
3.1D 10 000L 8.1A 1000L liquid 1000kg solid
3.2A 50 L liquid 50kg solid 8.2A 5kg (non-permanent gas) 2.5m3 (permanent gas) 50L 3.2B 250L liquid 250kg solid liquid 50kg solid
3.2C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 8.2B 50kg (non-permanent gas) 25m3 (permanent gas) 4.1.1A 250kg 250L liquid 250kg solid 4.1.1B 1000kg 8.2C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 4.1.2A, 4.1.2B 50L liquid 50kg solid 8.3A 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 4.1.2C, 4.1.2D 250L liquid 250kg solid 9.1A 100L liquid 100kg solid 4.1.2E, 4.1.2F, 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 4.1.3A 50L liquid 50kg solid 4.1.2G 9.1B, 9.1C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 4.1.3B 250L liquid 250kg solid 9.1D 10 000L liquid 10 000kg 4.1.3C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid solid 4.2A 50L liquid 50kg solid 9.2A 100L liquid 100kg solid 4.2B 250L liquid 250kg solid 9.2B, 9.2C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 4.2C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 9.2D 10 000L liquid 10 000kg 4.3A 50L liquid 50kg solid solid
4.3B 250L liquid 250kg solid 9.3A 100L liquid 100kg solid
4.3C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 9.3B 1000L liquid 1000kg solid
5.1.1A 50L liquid 50kg solid 9.3C 10 000L liquid 10 000kg solid 5.1.1B 500L liquid 500kg solid 9.4A 100L liquid 100kg solid 5.1.1C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 9.4B, 9.4C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 5.1.2A 250kg (non-permanent gas) 500m3 (permanent gas)
194 SECTION 4.0 // HSNO TOOLS
Examples of signage used for the Table 8. Quantities of Hazardous different classes Substances that trigger the requirement for Fire Extinguishers
HAZARD QUANTITY NO. CLASSIFICATION
2.1.1A 50kg (non-permanent 1 gas) 30m3 (perm. gas)
2.1.1B 200kg (non- 2 Class 1: Class 2: permanent gas) 120m3 Explosives Flammable (perm. gas) Eg LPG 2.1.2A 3000L aggregate 1 water capacity
3.1A 50L 1 200L 2
3.1B 250L 2
3.1C, 3.1D 500L 2 Class 3: Class 4: 3.2A, 3.2B, 3.2C 50L 1 Flammable Flammable Solid 200L 2 Eg Petrol Eg Sodium 4.1.1A 250kg 2
4.1.1B 500kg 2
4.1.2A 4.1.2B, 50L liquid 50kg solid; 1 4.1.2C 4.1.2D, 200L liquid 200kg 2 4.1.2E, 4.1.2F, solid 4.1.2G
Class 5: Class 6: 4.1.3A, 4.1.3B, 50L liquid 50kg solid; 1 Oxidising Toxic Substance 4.1.3C 200L liquid 200kg 2 Eg Hydrogen Peroxide Eg Cyanide. 1080 solid
4.2A 50L liquid 50kg solid; 1 200L liquid 200kg solid
4.2B 250kg 2
4.2C 500kg 2
Class 8: Class 9: 4.3A 50L liquid 50kg solid; 1 Corrosive Ecotoxic 200L liquid 200kg 2 Eg Acids and alkalis Tributyl tin oxide solid 4.3B 250L liquid 250kg 2 solid
4.3C 500L liquid 500kg 2 solid
5.1.1A 5L liquid 5kg solid 1
5.1.1B 200L liquid 200kg 1 solid
5.1.1C 500L liquid 500kg 2 solid
195 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
HAZARD QUANTITY NO. HAZARD TRIGGER QUANTITIES CLASSIFICATION CLASSIFICATION
5.1.2A 10kg (non-permanent 1 5.1.1B 500L liquid 500kg solid gas) 10m3 perm. gas 2 5.1.1C 5000L liquid 5000kg solid 50kg (non-permanent 3 gas) 50m (perm. gas) 5.1.2A 100kg (non-permanent gas) 100m3 (perm. gas) 5.2A, 5.2B 1L liquid 1kg solid 1 5.2A, 5.2B 10L liquid 10kg solid 5.2C, 5.2D 10L liquid 10kg solid 1 5.2C, 5.2D 25L liquid 25kg solid 5.2E, 5.2F 50L liquid 50kg solid 1 5.2E, 5.2F 100L liquid 100kg solid Table 9. Quantities of Hazardous Substances 6.1A, 6.1B, 6.1C 5kg (non-permanent gas) that trigger the requirement for Emergency 2.5m3 (perm. gas) 100L Response Plans and Secondary Containment liquid 100kg solid
HAZARD TRIGGER QUANTITIES 6.1D, 6.5A, 6.5B, 50kg (non-permanent gas) CLASSIFICATION 6.7A 25m3 (perm. gas) 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 2.1.1A 300kg (non-permanent gas) 200m3 perm. gas 6.6A, 6.7B, 6.7A, 10 000L liq. 10 000kg solid 6.9A 2.1.1B 1000kg (non-permanent gas) 600m3 perm. gas 8.2A 5kg (non-permanent gas) 2.5m3 (perm. gas) 100L 2.1.2A 3000L aggregate water liquid 100kg solid
3.1A 100L 8.2B 50kg (non-permanent gas) 25m3 (permanent gas) 3.1B 1000L 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 3.1C, 3.1D 10 000L 8.2C, 8.3A 10 000L liq. 10 000kg solid 3.2A, 3.2B, 3.2C 100L 9.1A 100L liquid 100kg solid 4.1.1A 1000kg 9.1B, 9.1C 1000L liquid 1000kg solid 4.1.1B 10 000kg 9.1D 10 000L liq. 10 000kg solid 4.1.2A, 4.1.2B 50L liquid 50kg solid
4.1.2C, 4.1.2D 100L liquid 100kg solid 4.4.5 GROUP STANDARDS
4.1.2E, 4.1.2F, 200L liquid 200kg solid Group standards are approvals for a group 4.1.2G of hazardous substances of a similar nature, 4.1.3A, 4.1.3B, 100L liquid 100kg solid type or use. 4.1.3C A group standard sets out the conditions that 4.2A 100L liquid 100kg solid enable a group of hazardous substances to be 4.2B 1000kg solid managed safely. Most domestic and workplace 4.2C 10 000kg solid chemicals (except for pesticides, veterinary medicines, timber treatment chemicals and 4.3A 100L liquid 100kg solid vertebrate toxic agents) are approved under 4.3B 1000L liquid 1000kg solid group standards. See: 4.3C 10 000L liq. 10 000kg solid www.epa.govt.nz/hazardous-substances/ 5.1.1A 50L liquid 50kg solid approvals/group-standards/Pages/default. aspx
196 SECTION 4.0 // HSNO TOOLS
GROUP STANDARDS
>> Additives, process chemicals and >> class 1 (explosives) raw materials >> 3.1A (extremely flammable liquids) >> Aerosols >> all class 3.2 (liquid desensitised explosives) >> Animal nutritional and animal care products >> all class 4.1.2 (self reactive substances), and >> Class 4 substances 4.1.3 (desensitised explosive) >> Cleaning products >> 4.2A (pyrophoric substances) >> Compressed gas mixtures >> 4.3A (release flammable gas on contact >> Construction products with water) >> Corrosion inhibitors >> 5.1.1A, 5.1.2A, 5.2A (extremely oxidising) >> Cosmetic products >> 6.1A (acutely toxic) >> Denatured ethanol >> 8.2A (highly corrosive). >> Dental products 4.5 RESOURCES >> Embalming products >> Fertilisers All the documents in this section are available on the Intranet. (Hold down the CTRL key >> Fire fighting chemicals and click on each one to access the document >> Food additives and fragrances in question.) >> Fuel additives >> Graphic materials ASSESSMENTS AND CHECKLISTS >> Laboratory chemicals and reagent kits A number of HSNO Checklists are available for >> Leather and textile products assessing the situations listed below. They may be found on the Intranet at: >> Lubricants >> Metal industry products intranet/workgroups/workplace/news/ wpsprojecttools/pages/projecttools.aspx >> Not Otherwise Specified (N.O.S.) substances >> Agricultural >> Oxidising substances (class 5.1.1) and >> Automotive Spray Painters organic peroxides (class 5.2) >> Farm Visits >> Pharmaceutical active ingredients >> Fibre Reinforced Plastics >> Photographic chemicals >> Fire Extinguishers >> Polymers >> Forestry >> Refining catalysts >> HSNO Hazardous Substances Register >> Solvents >> Hydrocarbon Refrigerants >> Surface coatings and colourants >> Location Certificate Inspection Checklist – >> Water treatment chemicals Regulation 81
Note: If a product has one or more of the >> LPG following hazard classifications, then it will not >> LPG Compliance fit within the scope of any group standard. >> Nail Bars Contact the EPA for further advice. >> Products Manufacturing
197 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
>> TC – Tests – Regulation 81 4.6 A LIST OF COMMON TOXIC >> TC – Tests – Regulation 83 SUBSTANCES USED BY INDUSTRY >> TC – Tests – Regulations 98 to 100 Where the sub class is 6.9A or 6.9B the >> TC – Tests – regulations 120 to 122 primary target organ(s) affected by each >> Transit Depots solvent are also listed. >> Sawmills SUBSTANCE CLASSIFICATION PRIMARY >> Secondary Containment TARGET ORGAN >> Service Stations Toluene 3.1B, 6.1D, 6.3A, Central >> Signage Check-sheet 6.4A, 6.8B, 6.9B, nervous >> Site-plans 9.1D, 9.3C system
>> Spray painting Xylene 3.1C, 6.1D, 6.3A, Central >> Water Treatment 6.4A, 6.8B, 6.9B, nervous 9.1D, 9.3C system
HAZARD ALERTS OR HAZARD MANAGEMENT Hexane 3.1B, 6.1E, 6.3B, Central BULLETINS FOR SELECTED TOPICS 6.4A, 6.9A, 9.1B nervous system >> Jun 2011 – Misuse of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) (re-issue) Ethylene 6.1D, 6.4A, 6.9A, Renal Glycol 9.3C toxicity >> Jun 2010 – Cool store hydrocarbon (kidney) refrigerant injures technician Ethyl 3.1B, 6.1E, 6.4A, Numerous >> Apr 2010 – Employee overfills LPG cylinder Acetate 6.9B (incl. blood, (re-issue) brain, liver, thyroid, >> Apr 2010 – Misuse of Diesel Results in adrenal Severe Burns (re-issue) gland >> Feb 2010 – Explosion at Fish and Chip Cafe Dimethyl 3.1C, 6.1D, 6.3B, Liver formamide 6.4A, 6.8A, 6.9A, >> Feb 2010 – LPG Portable Outdoor Heater (DMF) 9.3C
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION >> 2011 – Earthquake Fact Sheet: Earthquake 4.7 KEY DEFINITIONS
Highlights Stacking and Shelving Hazards Aggregate water capacity means the >> 2011 – Earthquake Fact sheet: Hazardous aggregate or cumulative total volume of Substances one or more containers, calculated as the >> 2010 – Workplace Exposure Standards equivalent volume of water at 20ºC and at version 5 (2010). This will soon be 101.3kPa. Data includes values that are directly replaced by Workplace Exposure measured, calculated, or estimated for any of Standards Version 6. the measures given Gas a substance that: >> 2010 – Formaldehyde WES Information a. is completely gaseous at 20ºC and at sheet 101.3kPa absolute pressure, or >> 2010 – Benzene WES information sheet b. has a vapour pressure of more than 300 kPa absolute pressure at 50ºC.
198 SECTION 4.0 // HSNO TOOLS
Liquid – a substance with a melting point >> All hazardous substances locations in of less than or equal to 20ºC at 101.3 kPa classes 2, 3, 4 or5. absolute pressure, or a viscous substance, >> All hazardous atmosphere zones if classes without a defined melting point (additional 2 or 3. criteria apply). >> All controlled zones. Permanent gas – a gas that has a critical The site plan must be of a scale that can temperature at or below 0ºC. The critical show the required detail (1:100 or 1:200 is temperature is the temperature above suggested.) which the gas cannot be liquefied by increasing the pressure. The site plan could comprise a scaled drawing, a sketch or an aerial photograph, with all Solid – a substance that is neither a liquid important dimensions being marked. It should nor a gas. A4 or larger in size.
More than one site plan may be needed 4.8 SPECIAL NOTES to present all the required detail.
4.8.1 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS It should be kept up to date. Table 8, taken from Schedule 3 of the 4.8.3 EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANS Hazardous Substances (Emergency Management) Regulations (HSEMR) lists the Schedule 4 of the HSEMR shows trigger trigger quantities for Fire Extinguishers. quantities of flammables and oxidisers that require an emergency response plan (ERP). The highest number should be selected if two See Table 9 above. or more quantities trigger the requirement. If one is needed, a single ERP is required Fire extinguishers must be within 30 metres and must identify all likely emergencies that of the substance. This may require a greater will occur. number of extinguishers than specified. The Emergency Response Plan must: The capability of the fire extinguisher required is set out in AS/NZS 1850: 1997 Portable >> Describe what to do in an emergency: Fire Extinguishers – classification, rating and –– Warn people at the site and surrounding performance testing. An extinguisher with a areas; advising them. performance rating of 30 and classification –– What to do to protect themselves. B should meet the performance standard. –– Help treat any injured person. Fire extinguisher requirements to not apply –– Contain the emergency as soon in areas like unattended dispensing of petrol as possible. etc or an LPG facility. –– Re-establish control.
4.8.2 SITE PLANS AND DRAWINGS >> Identify who is responsible for these actions, including: A site plan is required whenever a hazardous substance location is to be established. –– How to contact the person. –– Any skills the person needs. The site plan must show the physical position relative to legal boundaries of: –– Any actions the person is expected to take.
199 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
>> Specify TESTING THE PLAN –– How to obtain information about An ERP must: hazardous properties of the substances >> Be tested once every 12 months or within involved. 3 months of any change to the plan. –– How to contact any emergency >> Records of tests must be kept for 2 years. providers. >> Every procedure must be shown to be –– The purpose and location of any workable. equipment or material to manage >> Records could include: the emergency. –– the date of the test –– How to decide which actions to take. –– elements of plan subject to test. –– The sequence actions should be taken in. >> Outcomes – such as – competencies of AVAILABILITY OF THE ERP people – effectiveness of the procedures – It must be available to: items requiring corrective action. >> Be available to any person identified in the plan with any responsibility of some sort. >> Be available to every emergency attender. >> The information in an emergency response plan must meet the standards of presentation required by Part 2 of the Hazardous Substances (Identification) Regulations 2001.
EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS The ERP must: >> Specify the type and location of any additional fire fighting equipment, emergency equipment and materials, if any are specified in the plan. >> Provide for the retention of any liquid or liquefied oxidizing substance or organic peroxide and prevent it coming into contact with any incompatible substance.
200 05/
APPENDICES
IN THIS SECTION: 5.1 References 5.2 Glossary
201 WORKSAFE NEW ZEALAND // OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND HSNO TOOLS
5.1 REFERENCES
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Electrical Safety Hazards Awareness Training Module. EFCOG Electrical Safety Improvement Project. Los Alamos National Laboratory. Los Alamos.
HUMAN ERROR
Getting to Grips with the Human Factor. UK P&I Club. London. Available from
www.ukpandi.com/loss-prevention/article/getting-to-grips-with-the-human-factor-a-guide-for- trainers-791/
Human Error. Models and Management. Reason J. BMJ. Vol. 320. No. 7237. 18 March 2000.
Lidwell W, Holden K and Butler J. Universal Principles of Design. Rockport Publications. Gloucester MZ 2010.
HEALTH AND SAFETY AS PART OF NORMAL MANAGEMENT. Eg: Wagenaar W A., and Hudson P T W. Industrial Safety. In: A Handbook of Work and Organisational Psychology. Drenth P J D., Thierry H., and de Wolff C. (Eds.) Psychology Press. Hove, Sussex. 1998.
SEATED WORK Schofield G, Quigley R, and Brown R. Agencies for Nutrition Action, 2009. Does sedentary behaviour contribute to chronic disease or chronic disease risk in adults? Agencies for Nutrition Action. See: www.ana.org.nz
VALUES Schwartz S. H. Universals in the content and structure of values: Theoretical advances in empirical tests in 20 countries. Advances in experimental social psychology. Vol. 25. 1992.
202 SECTION 5.0 // APPENDICES
5.2 GLOSSARY
TERM DEFINITION TERM DEFINITION
LEGAL TERMS TEL Tolerable Exposure Limit
ACOP Approved Code of Practice TWA Time Weighted Average.
APS All Practicable Steps UEL Upper Explosive Limit.
ERA Employment Relations Act WBV Whole Body Vibration (Eg from sitting in a tractor.) HSE Health and Safety in Employment Act ORGANISATIONS
HSEMR Hazardous Substances (Emergency ACC Accident Compensation and Management) Regulations. Rehabilitation Corporation
HSNO Hazardous Substances and New AS Australian Standards (Organisation) Organisms Act
PECPR Pressure Equipment, Cranes and AS/NZS Joint Australia New Zealand Passenger Ropeways Regulations Standard TECHNICAL AND SCIENTIFIC TERMS DHB District Health Board ALBP Acute Low Back Pain EAP Employee Assistance Programme. Mol/L micro moles per litre (A measure of (This term is used generically, but the concentration of a substance there is a company called by this measured in blood or urine.) name.)
BEI Biological Exposure Index (A EPA Environmental Protection Agency measure of how much of a substance (Used to be called ERMA) is allowable in the human body.) ERMA Environmental Risk Management CCA Copper Chrome Arsenic (A method Agency of preserving timber.) HSE Health and Safety Executive (UK) dB Decibel (A measure of noise NIOSH National Institute for Occupational loudness.) Safety and Health (A research HAVS Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome organisation in the USA)
LEL Lower Explosive Limit NRL National Radiation Laboratory (NZ)
LEV Local Exhaust Ventilation NZS New Zealand Standards (Organisation) LOSP Light Organic Solvent (A method of preserving timber.) WES Workplace Exposure Standard
NIHL Noise Induced Hearing Loss MISCELLANEOUS
PID Photometric Ionisation Detector DMP Departmental Medical Practitioner
PPE Personal Protective Equipment APR Air Purifying Respirator
PPM Parts per Million (A measure, usually, HSTLC Hazardous Substances Technical of how much of a substance is in an Liaison Committee. (Usually formed air sample.) when there is a chemical emergency for its duration.) SAR Supplied Air Respirator NODS Notification of Occupational Disease SBI Serious Back Injury System SCBA Self Contained Breathing Apparatus NZECP New Zealand Electrical Code of TBTO Tri-butyl Tin Oxide. (A method of Practice. preserving timber.)
203 Notes ??? // ???
IN BEING SUMMARIES ABOUT THE SCOPE OF THE WORKSAFE NZ PUBLICATIONS, THESE ENTRIES DO NOT CLAIM TO EXPLAIN THE FULL RANGE OF DUTIES. THOSE WHO USE THIS BOOKLET SHOULD CONSULT THE PARENT DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY BEFORE ASSUMING THEY HAVE FINISHED NEEDING TO ACT. DISCLAIMER
WorkSafe has made every effort to ensure the information contained in this publication is reliable, but makes no guarantee of its completeness. WorkSafe may change the contents of this guide at any time without notice.
This document is a guideline only. It should not be used as a substitute for legislation or legal advice. WorkSafe is not responsible for the results of any action taken on the basis of information in this document, or for any errors or omissions.
ISBN: 978-0-478-42588-8 (online)
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205
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