Employees across the world deal with respiratory hazards at their jobs. Even the most common workplaces are home to harmful dusts and infectious particles, which means simply going to work is a health risk for countless citizens. As manager, one must do everything in their power to provide the appropriate respiratory protection to their employees.
Respiratory hazard protection can seem complicated in the way that it promotes a safe environment using preventive measures. The first step towards protection starts with a formal workplace hazard assessment. Performed by certified professionals, this test covers instances in which employees could be exposed to harmful emissions and materials that produce poor air quality. These tests do require special equipment but are essential in determining the source and scope of the problem.
Once the assessment has concluded, the perceived threats have been identified and are ready to be eliminated. It is recommended that managers approach hazard reduction through administrative and engineering controls. Administrative controls are variations made to employee tasks or how they are performed in an attempt to lessen exposure. This includes advanced scheduling, cementing written operating procedures and enforcing those procedures with signage.
Engineering controls are alterations aimed at removing or diluting a hazard. For example, a company can equip a site with vacuum and ventilation systems to eliminate a threat from the air. Automated systems can also mitigate manual tasks which will limit exposure.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is insanely important when hazards are unable to be eliminated or controlled. This technology protects employees’ lungs from contamination and infection when worn and properly kept. There are different kinds of PPE, including masks, respirators, supplied air systems and self-contained breathing apparatuses. These tools eliminate harmful chemicals from the air, filter out particles and supply clean air from an outside source.
Occupational lung diseases are the most common work-related illnesses in the United States, despite being easily preventable. It is important that those in charge make the necessary changes, invest in innovative solutions, and properly maintain their PPE so that workers don’t have to risk their health by simply going to work.
To learn more on how to lessen respiratory risks on the job, please see the provided resource.
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