Promoting Resource Efficiency in Small & Medium size ... - UNEP

Examples:
• Overalls, aprons, gowns, chemical-resistant suits
• Footwear (enclosed shoes, safety boots)
• Gloves
• Chemical-resistant glasses (safety glasses)
• Face shields/masks, respirators full/partial
• Head protection
Training and information for the employees:
Employees need to know how to use and store substances safely. The
regulations require employers to provide information, instruction and
training to employees on the hazards and risks associated with hazardous
substances and dangerous goods that they use or may be exposed to.
Where dangerous goods are stored or handled, other persons on site
such as contractors, maintenance workers, administrative staff and
visitors may also need to be given information, instruction and training
on associated risks and precautions to be taken.
• Vacuum or wet sweep to suppress dust being generated
• Cover containers and make sure lids are attached
• Clean up spills immediately (includes provision of suitable aids
and equipment)
• Ensure there is no eating, drinking or smoking in areas where
substances are used
• Provide suitable washing facilities
• Provide first-aid facilities
• Instruct employees on how to use substances/ equipment safely
Personal protective equipment (PPE):
PPE is protective clothing and equipment for employees, supervisors
and visitors, and is the least effective safety measure. It should only be
used where it is not practicable to use other measures, or when other
measures do not adequately control exposure.
Safe storage of chemicals:
Some basic rules and guidelines should be observed to minimise
the risks associated with the storage of hazardous substances. Safety
precautions are indispensable if a company uses a large number of
different toxic substances, or if it stores large quantities of chemicals.
The following issues need to be considered:
• Spatial separation of stored chemicals according to their
properties
Substances that may cause a powerful reaction (e.g. strong acids
and alkaline solutions) as well as substances capable of releasing
toxic reaction products (acids + solution of chlorinated lime)
must be stored separately. The following illustration provides a
simplified scheme for the storage of hazardous working materials.
• Storage of liquids in collection trays close to floor level
Always store liquids in shelf-type racks on the lower shelves. If
there is an accident (e.g. a container breaks or leaks), this will
prevent the liquid from oozing into materials stored on the lower
levels. Liquids kept in small tanks/containers (up to approximately
200 litres) must be stored in collection troughs suitable for their
chemical properties.
◦ –
–
–
– –
–
+
–
–
◦
–
–
–
+
◦
◦ –
–
–
◦
+
+
◦
–
–
Figure 47: Different types of personal protective equipment 97 +
◦
◦
+
–
–
+
◦ +
+
+
Figure 48: Safe storage key
(+ Can be stored together, -
Cannot be stored together,
o Can be stored together if
specific precautions are taken)
97) Victorian Workcover Authority, A step by step guide for managing chemicals in the workplace, 2001
85