Extraordinary Achievement: Noel Tresider Awarded Member Of The Order Of Australia New Metalworking Fluid Good Practice Guide Raising the Bar for Occupational Hygiene Consultancy Issue 2 2018
Communicating Occupational Hygiene
Celebrating achievements of our members
‘‘A HEALTHY WORKING ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL‘‘
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Dear Readers, It‟s always good news to hear when our members receive recognition for their hard work in the industry and raising awareness of the importance of occupational hygiene. In our previous edition, we reported how former BOHS Past-President, Trevor Ogden, received the prestigious title of an OBE in the 2018 New Year‟s Honours list. We are very delighted to say that another one of our members, Noel Tresider, has been awarded the title of Member Of The Order Of Australia. Read Noel‟s achievement on page 6. Congratulations, Noel!
BOHS member awarded Member Of The Order Of Australia
Read the story on page 6
Contents 4 5 6 8 10 12 13 14 16 17 18
From the President From the CEO BOHS Member Awarded Member Of The Order Of Australia Launch of New Metalworking Fluid Good Practice Guide Raising the Bar for Occupational Hygiene Consultancy Recent Events Summary Head Office Round-Up Global Campaign Tackles Asbestos-related Occupational Cancer Communicating Occupational Hygiene HSE News Meet the Member: Lisa Williams
This issue also features an article on the launch of a new metalworking fluid good practice guide on page 8 and a thought-provoking article titled “Raising the bar for occupational hygiene consultancy” on page 10. Jasmeen Daji from IOSH talks to us about the launch of a new campaign tackling asbestos-related occupational cancer on page 14 and Amanda Parker discusses the significance of using plain English to communicate occupational hygiene to clients and other stakeholders. We also feature summaries of recent events that have taken place on page 12 and we chat to Lisa Williams, Head of Commercial Qualifications and Training at BOHS in Meet the Member on page 18. Until then, we shall see you in the next issue! The Exposure Team: Michelle Chan, Claire Creed, Evi Karmou and Caroline Smith
Read the latest from our scientific journal, Annals of Work Exposures and Health at: academic.oup.com/annweh/issue
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Cover image by Geralt via Pixabay
Issue 2 | www.bohs.org | 3
From the President Karen Bufton
In March, I was honoured to present at the inaugural Northern Ireland Occupational Health, Hygiene and Wellbeing Conference organised by the Workplace Health Leadership Group in Northern Ireland (WHLGNI). The WHLGNI was formed in August 2016 when a group of stakeholders from industry and government including BOHS (represented by Adele McClelland) came together to raise the profile of occupational health, occupational hygiene and wellness/health promotion with the aim of reducing the 20,000 plus occupational illness and 400 fatalities that occur each year in Northern Ireland as a result of exposure to workplace health hazards. Conference delegates heard how workplace ill health was preventable and the importance of the need to approach it with the same enthusiasm as safety. Key speakers included Dr Michael McBride (Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Health), Professor David Fishwick (Chief Medical Adviser to HSE GB and NI), Professor Diana Kloss MBE (Occupational Health Law Barrister and Honorary President of The Council for Work and Health) as well as myself and Bev Messenger, the CEO of IOSH. The delegates comprised HSE professionals and business representatives but few occupational hygienists so my presentation focused on what occupational hygiene was, how it fitted into occupational health and wellbeing, why it was important and pointed them in the direction of further support and BOHS resources.
enjoyable year in which I have learnt a lot. The most notable change, of course, was Steve Perkins, the BOHS former CEO, leaving us to start his own business and the recruitment of our new CEO, Simon Festing. This was not something I had anticipated when it was suggested that I put myself forward for President! But with the support and hard work of the BOHS Office and Council, we navigated this change successfully and have now entered a new era under the leadership of Simon. During this time, we also continued to implement the BOHS Strategy 2015-20 including two significant milestones: the launch of Breathe Freely manufacturing campaign in May 2017 and the Faculty of Asbestos Assessment and Management in October 2017. In closing my last column, I would like to thank a number of people for their support during my year as President including Simon Festing, Shani Jackson (interim BOHS General Manager) and all BOHS Office staff, BOHS Council, Tracey Boyle (Immediate Past-President), Neil Grace (President-Elect), Neil Pickering (Faculty of Occupational Hygiene Registrar) and Adrian Hirst (Past-President and wise counsel). I would also like to thank Shell International, my employer, for allowing me the time to devote to BOHS and, of course, my husband and family who have cheered me on from the sidelines.
During the day, WHLGNI launched the ‘NI Workplace Health Strategy 2017-2022’ and all delegates were invited to consider how they could best contribute and support the strategy. Attending this conference was one of my last formal duties before handing over the Presidency to Neil Grace at the AGM at the 2018 BOHS Annual Conference in Stratford-uponAvon in April. The past year has been a very busy but an 4 | www.bohs.org | Issue 2
David Fishwick (Chief Medical Officer, HSE GB and HSENI), Michael McBride (Chief Medical Officer, Dept of Health), Karen Bufton, Bev Messenger (CEO, IOSH), Wilson Lambe (Chair, WHLG Northern Ireland) and Richard McIvor (Chair, IOSH Northern Ireland)
From the CEO Simon Festing
For a professional body to function effectively requires a delicate balance between the different parts of the organisation. First and foremost, it’s important for members to recognise that the organisation belongs to them. BOHS is not “run” by the staff. Rather, the staff operate the machinery, making things run smoothly as far as possible. That distinction can be seen, for example, in the organisation of conferences and events where the members are responsible for developing the content, and the staff make the bookings and arrangements.
into advancing the cause. A professional body is only as good as the combined expertise of all the members who are willing to contribute. Contributing in this way is often referred to as “volunteering”. And certainly there is a time commitment required – we can’t get away from that. But contributing to the deliberations of a professional body is an integral part of your professional development. And the work of the many committees benefits the entire profession, by making sure the right expertise is available to progress the discipline of occupational hygiene.
So, the “real work”, of the content, is done by the members through the myriad of working groups, committees, and, of course, the BOHS Council. It’s only the members who have the technical expertise to allow BOHS to progress the field of occupational hygiene. None of the staff is employed directly for such purpose.
So, it’s hugely encouraging to see that eight members put themselves forward to join the Council of BOHS. It’s a great shame that not everyone can make it on, but we hope that those who did not make it into the top three from the elections will not be discouraged. There are plenty of other opportunities for involvement.
On the topic of things running smoothly, from time to time investment is needed in the internal systems and processes within the Head Office. Over the last year, some of our IT equipment, and in particular our main server, had gone beyond its workable lifespan, leading to difficulties in going about our daily business. Unfortunately, the process of upgrading this server had serious knock-on effects on our website functionality. This means some people were not able to book onto our conference when they would have liked to. I must apologise for the inconvenience to members. It’s been a deeply frustrating experience all round.
Part of the job of the Council is to determine whether or not BOHS is running as a vibrant organisation, and what can be done to encourage more of that. It is in Council that the members directly oversee the work of staff, ensuring that the committees and other business functions are all welladministered. If everything runs smoothly, it is more rewarding for members to carry out their work.
There will inevitably be further areas of modernisation to come, but in future we will be in a better position to start from. Ultimately, it is my pledge to make this a well-run organisation in terms of how it operates.
The main enjoyment of working in a membership body like the BOHS is the richness of relationships throughout the different parts of the organisation. As I’m writing this column, the annual conference gets ever closer. I’m very much hoping you were persistent in your efforts to book – despite our problems with the website. That would mean I may get the opportunity to chat to many of you there.
Back to the matter of working groups and committees, this is where members of a professional body can really get stuck
Our latest issue is out now!
This edition’s Editor’s Choice is the effect of workforce mobility on intervention effectiveness estimates by Justin Manjourides, Emily H. Sparer, Cassandra A. Okechukwu and Jack T. Dennerlein. You can now read the latest issue of the Annals here: https://academic.oup.com/annweh/issue/62/3
Issue 2 | www.bohs.org | 5
BOHS BOHS Member Member Awarded Awarded Member Member Of Of The The Order Order Of Of Australia Australia David O’Malley David O’Malley BOHS member, Noel Tresider, was awarded the Member BOHS NoelDivision Tresider, wasOrder awarded the Member (AM) inmember, the General of the of Australia in the (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia in the 2018 Australia Day Honours List. This highly prestigious 2018 Australia Day Honours List. This highly prestigious Australian award is conferred onto distinguished Australian award conferred onto distinguished recipients. Noel was ishonoured for significant service to recipients. Noel was honoured for significant service to workplace health in the field of occupational hygiene, and to workplace health in the field of occupational hygiene, and to the promotion and development of standards and training. the promotion and development of standards and training. Noel has had a long and illustrious career in worker health Noel has hadand a long and known illustrious careerthe in worker health protection, is well around world for his protection, and is well known around the world for outstanding leadership, pioneering vision and dedication. his He outstanding leadership, pioneering vision and dedication. is a former President (1998-99) of the Australian InstituteHe of is a former President (1998-99) Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists (AIOH),ofa the former President (2011Occupational Hygienists (AIOH), a former President (201112) of the International Occupational Hygiene Association 12) of the International Occupational Hygieneof Association (IOHA), a former Board Member (2015-2017) Workplace (IOHA), a former Board Member (2015-2017) of Workplace Health Without Borders (WHWB), and a current Board Health Borders (WHWB), and aTraining currentHygiene Board MemberWithout (2015-date) of the Occupational Member (2015-date) of the Occupational Training Hygiene Association (OHTA). Association (OHTA). In addition to his Presidency of IOHA, Noel served as Chair of In his Presidency of IOHA,and NoelRecognition served as Chair of theaddition IOHA to National Accreditation (NAR) the IOHA National Accreditation and Recognition (NAR) Committee for six years, and in this capacity helped to Committee six ayears, andto inrecognise this capacity helped to establish andforlead process excellent quality establish and lead a process to recognise excellent quality national qualification processes in occupational hygiene national qualification processes in occupational hygiene around the world. around the world. Noel also played a key role in the development of the OHTA Noel also played a keyscheme role in the the OHTA international training anddevelopment qualificationsofframework, international training scheme and qualifications framework, which enables trainees across the globe to obtain which enables trainees across the globe to obtain transferable practical skills in a consistent way using freely transferable practical skills in a consistent way using available training materials. He has worked around the freely globe available training materials. has worked the globe to help OHTA gain ongoingHesupport, andaround has utilised his to help OHTA and has utilised his expertise withingain theongoing oil andsupport, gas sector to develop an expertise within the OHTA oil and gas currently sector toin develop an advanced Oil and Gas module, final review advanced Oil and Gas OHTA module, currently in final review and development. and development. Noel’s outstanding contributions to the field of occupational/ Noel’s outstanding contributions to been the field of occupational/ industrial hygiene have previously recognised through industrial hygiene have previously been recognised through the IOHA Lifetime Achievement Award (2014) and the the IOHA Lifetime Achievement Award (2014) and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Yant Award American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Yant Award (2015). (2015).
“[Noel] helped to establish “[Noel] helped to establish and lead a process [during his tenure and lead a process [during his tenure at IOHA] to recognise excellent at IOHA] to recognise excellent quality national qualification processes quality national qualification processes in occupational hygiene in occupational hygiene around the world.” around the world.” 6 | www.bohs.org | Issue 2 6 | www.bohs.org | Issue 2
On a more personal note, Noel has been a dear friend for On a more Noel treasure has beenour a dear for more than apersonal decade. Inote, especially timesfriend together more than a decade. I especially treasure our times together
“[Noel] played a key role in the “[Noel] played a key role in the development of the OHTA development of the OHTA international training scheme and international training scheme and qualifications framework.” qualifications framework.” in both South Africa and Australia in 2013. His rendition of in South Africa and Johnny AustraliaB.inGoode 2013. His rendition of theboth Chuck Berry classic at the karaoke the Chuck Berry classic Johnny B. Goode at the karaoke during the IOHA Conference in London in 2015 will live long during the IOHAOur Conference in isLondon in 2015 willthat live Noel long in the memory. profession richer for the fact in the memory. Our profession is richer for the fact that Noel decided on a career in occupational hygiene rather than rock decided onaward a career in occupational hygiene rather than rock music. His of AM is well deserved. music. His award of AM is well deserved. David O’Malley is a Past-President of BOHS and is a Member David is a Past-President of BOHS and isAssociation) a Member of theO’Malley OHTA (Occupational Hygiene Training of the OHTA (Occupational Hygiene Training Association) Board. Board.
Noel Tresider Noel Tresider
Launch Launch of of New New Metalworking Metalworking Fluid Fluid (MWF) (MWF) Good Good Practice Practice Guide Guide Samantha Lord and Paul Smith Samantha Lord and Paul Smith The United Kingdom The United Kingdom Lubricants Association Lubricants Association (UKLA) Metalworking Fluid (UKLA) Fluid ProductMetalworking Stewardship Group Product Stewardship Group (MWFPSG) has announced (MWFPSG) hastheannounced the launch of following the launch of the following publication, Good Practice publication, Good Handling Practice Guide for Safe Guide for Safe Handling and Disposal of a nd D i s p o s a l Fluids of Metalworking Metalworking Fluids (MWFs). (MWFs). The guide has been The guidewithhas support been produced produced with support from the Health & Safety from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) and other Executive (HSE) and other industry experts and will be formally launched in April at the industry experts and will be formally launched in April at MACH 2018 event (showcase for advances in the the MACH 2018 industry), event (showcase advances in the manufacturing organised for by the Manufacturing manufacturingAssociation industry), (trade organised by the for Manufacturing Technologies association companies Technologies association for companies working in theAssociation engineering (trade and manufacturing sectors) at the working in the engineering and manufacturing sectors) at the Birmingham NEC. Birmingham NEC. Both UKLA and HSE recognised the need to produce this Both and current HSE recognised the need to produce guide UKLA to reflect good practice in managing MWFsthis to guide to reflect current good practice in managing MWFs to reduce the risks of ill-health in machine operators. The guide reduce the risks of ill-health in machine operators. The guide has been produced in partnership by a panel of experts from has in partnership a panel of experts from the been UKLA produced and HSE with additionalbyadvice from experienced the UKLA and HSE with additional advice from experienced workshop managers and medical experts. workshop managers and medical experts. The guide is aimed at those with daily responsibility for The guide MWFs is aimed thoseprovides with daily responsibility for managing andat also advice for machine managing MWFs and also provides advice for machine operators. It will also be of particular interest to occupational operators. It will also be ofadvice particular interest tocontrol occupational hygienists when offering on exposure where hygienists when offering advice on exposure control where MWF mist is generated. MWF mist is generated. The guide advocates good MWF management including pH, The advocatesand good MWF overuse management including pH, fluid guide concentration avoiding of biocides. Advice fluid concentration and avoiding overuse of biocides. Advice is given on the monitoring arrangements for maintaining is given on the monitoring MWF quality, particularly the arrangements use of dipslidesforformaintaining identifying MWF quality, particularly the use of dipslides for identifying the level of bacterial contamination and the actions which the level of bacterial contamination and the actions which should follow at specific bacterial growth levels. should follow at specific bacterial growth levels. This is the first time HSE has worked with the UKLA’s This is the first HSE Stewardship has workedGroup with tothe UKLA’sa Metalworking Fluidtime Product produce Metalworking Fluid Product Stewardship Group to produce written guide that details good practice control in thea written guide that details good practice control in the workplace. workplace. The guide will be available as a downloadable pdf from the The guide will be available as a downloadable pdf from the UKLA’s website at www.ukla.org.uk UKLA’s website at www.ukla.org.uk 8 | www.bohs.org | Issue 2 8 | www.bohs.org | Issue 2
FAQs FOR OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENISTS: FAQs FOR OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENISTS: Why is there no UK guidance limit for MWFs? Why is there guidance for MWFs? Outbreaks ofno ill UK health have limit occurred across the world in Outbreaks of ill health have occurred across the world in machining plants using water-mix metalworking fluids machining plants using water-mix metalworking fluids despite apparent compliance with national exposure or despite compliance with worker national exposure or guidanceapparent limits designed to protect health. In 2005, guidance limits designed to protect worker health. In 2005, following a large outbreak of respiratory illness at Powertrain following a largeaoutbreak of respiratory illness atallPowertrain Ltd, HSE made policy decision to withdraw guidance 1 Ltd, HSE made a policy decision to withdraw all guidance values1 relating to MWFs as their value in protecting worker values was relating to MWFs as their value in protecting health limited and were actually providing a falseworker sense health was limited and were actually providing a false sense of protection. of protection. Can I use another countries exposure limit or set an inCan I use house limit?another countries exposure limit or set an inhouse For thelimit? reasons outlined above, occupational hygienists can For the reasons outlined above, occupational can advise employers to adopt exposure limits hygienists set in other advise employers to adopt exposure limits set in other countries, for example the US NIOSH Recommended 3 countries, for (REL) example the US NIOSH Recommended total particulate mass) or Exposure Limit (0.5 mg/m 3 total particulate or Exposure Limit (REL) (0.5 mg/m set an in-house limit. However, you should ensuremass) that the set an in-house limit. However, you should ensure that the sampling/measurement method used is compatible with the sampling/measurement method used is compatible with You the published methodology and the relevant specified limit. published methodology and the relevant specified limit. You should clearly outline the criteria under which these are set, 2 should clearlythe outline thedocument criteria under which these set, for example, criteria for the NIOSH RELare states 2 for example, the criteria document for the NIOSH REL states that ‘it is intended to prevent respiratory disorders that ‘it iswith intended to prevent disorders associated MWF exposure in the respiratory workplace. However, associated with MWF exposure in the workplace. However, concentrations of MWF aerosols should be kept below the concentrations of MWF aerosols be have kept developed below the REL where possible because someshould workers REL where possible because some workers have developed work-related asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) or work-related hypersensitivity (HP) or other adverseasthma, respiratory effects when pneumonitis exposed to MWFs at other adverse respiratory effects when exposed to MWFs at lower concentrations.’ lower concentrations.’ Is there a validated method to measure boron-free MWF? Is there a validated method to boron-free MWF? of Following the identification of measure boric acid as a substance Following identification boricRegistration acid as a substance of very hightheconcern underofthe Evaluation very high concern under (REACH) the Registration Authorisation of Chemicals Regulation,Evaluation lubricant Authorisation Chemicals Regulation, manufacturers ofhave started (REACH) to formulate MWFs lubricant without manufacturers have started to formulate MWFs without boron as a constituent. The UK MDHS method, MDHS 95 44 is boron as a constituent. The UK MDHS method,orMDHS 95 (as is only validated for detecting boron, potassium sodium only validated for detecting boron, potassium or sodium (as markers in the sampling method) in water-mix fluids. MDHS markers in validated the sampling in water-mix MDHS 8433 is only for method) neat mineral oils. You fluids. may wish to 84 is only validated for neat mineral oils. You may wish to adopt an alternative validated sampling method. For 5 adopt an alternative validated sampling method. For example, the NIOSH Method 55245 is applicable to all example, the fluids NIOSH- straight, Method soluble, 5524 issynthetic applicable all metalworking and to semimetalworking fluids straight, soluble, synthetic and semisynthetic as long as they are soluble in the extraction 3 synthetic as long theyREL arethe soluble the extraction value is for solvent. (Note: the as NIOSH 0.5 mgin/m 3 solvent. (Note: the NIOSH REL the 0.5 mg /m value is for total particulate not total extractable particulate.) total particulate not total extractable particulate.) Can I use MDHS 14? Can I use 14? to using MDHS There areMDHS limitations There are limitations to using method may over-estimate the MDHS levels method may over-estimate the levels
1466, for 14 MWF , for of of MWF
example the example the mist present mist present
because the sampling will capture other workplace contaminants (inhalable size fraction) present including those generated from nearby processes such as welding. As stated above you should clearly explain in your report the context of the results particularly when comparing to a limit value. The results are indicative of all inhalable particulates present and that even if levels below the NIOSH REL of 0.5 mg/m3, exposure should still be kept as low as reasonably practicable. Are the results from personal exposure monitoring meaningful? Despite the current uncertainties, monitoring workers’ personal exposure can provide the employer with some evidence about the adequacy of the measures they are taking to control MWF mist. This will be complimented by observations made during monitoring, including the use of techniques such as a dust lamp or particle counting direct reading instruments. You should also provide advice on the established good practice standards of control. Are there other monitoring techniques I can use? The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 Approved Code of Practice7 states that ‘monitoring is not appropriate if suitable techniques for sampling, analysis and quantification do not exist, or cannot be devised or if the employer is able to demonstrate that an alternative method of evaluation has been used to ensure that exposure is adequately controlled.’ Because we are dealing with a mist, it may be possible to visualise this using a dust lamp (MDHS 828) or use direct reading aerosol monitors (DRAMs), otherwise known as particle counters. These techniques can be used to identify leaks and areas of high mist concentrations in real-time. On their own or combined with personal exposure monitoring results, this will allow occupational hygienists to provide specific targeted advice concerning effectiveness of control measures. This will help employers make and prioritise improvements to controls. What does the law require with respect to control to MWF exposure? There is a legal requirement under COSHH to follow the principles of good control practice set out in Schedule 2A, in order to reduce exposure to as low a level as is reasonably practicable. Mist control measures include using enclosures, LEV incorporating mist filtration units and working procedures such as avoiding or restricting the use of compressed air, programmable delay in opening CNC enclosures derived from a machine specific mist clearance time. There is also a legal requirement to maintain engineering controls such as LEV and to review and revise as necessary systems of work. The objective being to ensure that every element of a control measure performs as originally intended, and continues to adequately control the exposure of employees to MWF. Using a validated method to quantify and/or to visualise mist, and keeping a record of these checks will help employers demonstrate they are taking actions to adequately control the exposure of employees to MWF.
Employers should also put procedures in place to ensure that control measures, including PPE are properly used and are not made less effective by other work practices or by improper use. Arrangements to ensure this should include: visual checks and observations at appropriate intervals; training and supervision of employees to ensure that the defined methods of work are followed; monitoring systems for the effectiveness of controls and prompt remedial action where necessary. Is HSE going to issue a new monitoring method and/or limit? Not at present, as there is no compelling evidence to do so. HSE has, however, proposed further research into monitoring emissions and quantification of MWF mist, to provide more evidence to support either monitoring methodology and/or a limit including: The UK Lubricants Association (UKLA) is currently funding HSE to undertake research on different types of direct reading aerosol monitors (DRAMs) as a means to monitor emissions of MWF mist. HSE will also be organising a workshop in early summer 2018 to discuss with UKLA and other interested parties the results of this research. Note: If you wish to attend this workshop, please express your interest by contacting: paul.smith3@hse.gov.uk A second consultative workshop will be organised by HSE in early 2019 to consider options for replacing the boron MDHS 95 marker method with another quantitative method, as well as options for developing industry led benchmark values for controlling MWF mist emission. 1. In October 2002, the guidance value of 1.0 mg/m 3 (8hr TWA) for water-miscible MWF, based on boron marker analysis was published in the HSE guidance document HSG231 Working Safely with Metalworking Fluids. 2. NIOSH Publication Number 98-102 Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Occupational Exposure to Metalworking Fluids. https:// www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/98-102/default.html 3. MDHS 84/2 Measurement of oil mist from mineral oil-based metalworking fluids. http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/mdhs/pdfs/ mdhs84-2.pdf 4. MDHS 95 Measurement of personal exposure of metalworking machine operators to airborne water-mix metalworking fluid. http:// www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/mdhs/pdfs/mdhs95-3.pdf 5. NIOSH Method 5524 Metalworking Fluids (MWF) all categories. Issue 2 (Dec 2014) https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2003-154/ pdfs/5524.pdf 6. MDHS14/4 General methods for sampling and gravimetric analysis of respirable, thoracic and inhalable aerosols http://www.hse.gov.uk/ pubns/mdhs/pdfs/mdhs14-4.pdf 7. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 as amended Approved Code of Practice L5. 6th Edition http:// www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l5.pdf 8. MDHS 82/2 The dust lamp A simple tool for observing the presence of airborne particles. http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/mdhs/pdfs/ mdhs82-2.pdf
Samantha Lord is HM Principal Specialist Inspector and Paul Smith is HM Specialist Inspector. Both work in the Occupational Hygiene Unit and are both Chartered Members of the Faculty of Occupational Hygiene within BOHS.
Issue 2 | www.bohs.org | 9
Raising Raising the the Bar Bar for for Occupational Occupational Hygiene Hygiene Consultancy Consultancy -- a a View View from from the the HSE HSE Chris Keen Chris Keen Occupational lung disease is one of three key health issues Occupational disease is one of three health issues1 being tackled lung by HSE under its Health andkey Work Strategy 1 being tackled by HSE under its Health and Work Strategy and is part of the ongoing ‘Go Home Healthy’ campaign22. It is is part the ongoing Homewhere Healthy’ campaign .lung It is aand fact thatofmany of the ‘Go sectors occupational adisease fact that many of the sectors where occupational lung risks exist (e.g. woodworking, stone working, disease risks comprise exist (e.g.a high woodworking, working, construction), proportion stone of SMEs. Such construction), comprise a high proportion of SMEs. Such companies often do not have in-house occupational hygiene companies often do not have in-house occupational hygiene expertise and rely on a variety of health and safety-related expertise andincluding rely on a occupational variety of health and safety-related consultants, hygienists to provide consultants, including occupational hygienists to provide support in managing health risks. support in managing health risks. One of the work strands within HSE’s occupational lung One of work the work strandsthat within HSE’sdevelopment, occupational islung disease programme is under an disease work programme that is under development, is an initiative to try and improve the standard of the support initiative to try and improve the standard of the support provided by these consultants to employers in managing provided by In these to employers in managing these risks. theconsultants broad sense, this ‘consultancy’ also these risks. In the broad sense, this ‘consultancy’ also includes providers of exposure control ‘hardware’ (e.g. LEV, includes providers of exposure control ‘hardware’ (e.g. LEV, RPE) and those providing the testing and maintenance of RPE) those providing maintenance of such and equipment. However,the thistesting articleand focuses on a topic such equipment. However, this article focuses on a topic close to the hearts of many BOHS members: providing advice close to the hearts of many BOHS members: providing advice on exposure control and associated exposure monitoring on exposure control and associated exposure monitoring services. services. Within HSE’s Buxton laboratory, my team are responsible for Within HSE’s workplaces Buxton laboratory, my team are responsible for going into to gather occupational hygiene going into workplaces to gather occupational hygiene intelligence to underpin HSE’s activities. This includes intelligence to underpin HSE’s reports activities. includes obtaining relevant consultants’ thatThis have been obtaining relevant consultants’ reports that have been commissioned by businesses engaging in HSE’s voluntary commissioned by businesses engaging in HSE’s voluntary exposure surveys. Through this, we have built up a library of exposure surveys. Through this, we have built up library of consultants’ reports of highly variable quality. At athe better consultants’ reports of highly variable quality. At the better end of the spectrum, the reports include relevant contextual end of the spectrum, theinreports relevant contextual information, as defined COSHHinclude Regulation 10 (paragraphs information, as defined in COSHH Regulation 10 (paragraphs 222 and 223 of the current ACOP), and good quality, 222 and advice 223 of on the control current tailored ACOP), and goodindividual quality, practical to the practical advice on control tailored to the individual customer’s needs. A minority of reports actually attain the customer’s minority of reports actually attain the standard setneeds. out inAthe excellent BOHS guidance on report 3 set out in the excellent BOHS guidance on report standard writing3. However, more frequently, the work reported writing . deficiencies However, more theusefulness. work reported contains whichfrequently, will limit its Some contains deficiencies which will limit its usefulness. Some common deficiencies include: common deficiencies include: Inadequate assessment of exposure controls, including a Inadequate assessment of exposure controls,specific including failure to compare controls against industry HSEa failure to compare controls against industry specific guidance e.g. COSHH Essentials. This guidance is basedHSE on guidance e.g. COSHH Essentials. This guidance is basedwill on reasonable practicability and, if properly implemented, reasonable practicability and, if properly implemented, will offer adequate worker protection. Although following offer adequate protection.it represents Although following guidance is not a worker legal requirement, a control guidance is not a legal requirement, it represents a control benchmark against which HSE inspectors will make benchmark against which HSE inspectors will make judgements. Very often, there is no need for consultants judgements. Verysolutions often, there noprinciples, need for consultants to design control from is first and efforts to design from first principles, and efforts could be control better solutions spent on ensuring that their clients could be better spent on ensuring that their clients implement all elements of the relevant HSE guidance. implement all elements of the relevant HSE guidance. Failures of control are often due to some of the details Failures of control are often due to some of the details 10 | www.bohs.org | Issue 2 10 | www.bohs.org | Issue 2
contained in this guidance being overlooked e.g. airflows contained this guidance being overlooked e.g. airflows into LEV in systems not meeting recommendations and into LEV systems not meeting recommendations and incorrect choice of filtration systems in industrial vacuum incorrect choice of filtration systems in industrial vacuum cleaners. cleaners. A focus on production activities, omitting the assessment A focus on production activities, omitting assessment of maintenance and cleaning tasks - whichtheoften carry a of maintenance and cleaning tasks which often carry a higher degree of exposure risk. higher degree of exposure risk. A focus on compliance with workplace exposure limit A focus on rather compliance withapplication workplaceof exposure limit (WEL) values than the good exposure (WEL) values rather than the application of good exposure control practice. Any experienced hygienist recognises that control practice. Any experienced hygienist thata occupational exposure is highly variable andrecognises being below occupational exposure is highly variable and being below limit on one day does not mean that a workplace will bea limit onthe onelimit day all does be below of not the mean time. that BOHS,a workplace and others,will have below the limit all of the time. BOHS, and others, have produced guidance which deals with the statistics around produced variability, guidance which dealscan withplay the astatistics around exposure and that useful role as exposure variability, and that can play a useful role as discussed in Trevor Ogden’s recent article for this discussed in Trevor Ogden’s recent article for this magazine. Nevertheless, the legal duty under COSHH to magazine. Nevertheless, the legal duty control under practice COSHH to implement the eight principles of good is implement the eight principles of good control practice is every bit as important as being below any WEL. every bit as important as being below any WEL. Unfortunately, some consultants, and their clients, do not Unfortunately, some consultants, and their clients, do not consider the principles of good practice. consider the principles of good practice. A failure to adequately challenge the client in situations A failure to adequately challenge client in situations where control improvements fromthe previous consultants’ where control improvements from previous consultants’ reports had not been implemented. Where consultants reportsaccess had not been implemented. have to previous consultant Where reports,consultants very few have access to previous consultant reports,of very few consultants’ reports reference the findings previous consultants’ reports reference the findings of previous exposure surveys. Consultants have an ethical duty to exposure surveys. Consultants have an ethical duty to challenge clients where previous control improvements challenge clients where previous control improvements have not been implemented. In extreme cases, it may be have not been extremethe cases, it mayifbea appropriate forimplemented. consultants toIn inform regulator appropriate for consultants to inform the regulator if a client consistently fails to implement recommendations. client consistently fails to implement recommendations. However, consultancy is a commercial business, and as However, a commercial as such, someconsultancy consultantsismay be wary of business, “biting theand hand such, some consultants may be wary of “biting the hand that feeds”. that feeds”. Monitoring total dust (gravimetric assay) and not the Monitoringcomponents total dust which (gravimetric and the not true the individual actuallyassay) represent individual components which actually represent the true health risk e.g. bio-aerosol in waste and recycling and toxic health risk e.g. bio-aerosol in problem waste and and toxic metals in welding fume. This is recycling often exacerbated metals in welding fume. This problem is often exacerbated by consultants incorrectly applying an ‘exposure limit’ for by consultants incorrectly applying limit’offora the non-specific dust based on an the‘exposure definitions the non-specific dust based on the definitions of 10a substance hazardous to health (inhalable dust above 3 3 substance hazardous to health (inhalable dust above 10 mg/m3, respirable dust above 4 mg/m3) set out in COSHH mg/m , respirable dust above 4 mg/m ) set out in COSHH regulation 2. These values are not exposure limits, and do regulation 2. These valuesofare not exposure limits, and do not represent ‘safe’ levels exposure. not represent ‘safe’ levels of exposure. A failure to adequately address the risk from exposure A failure to than adequately address the risk from exposure routes other inhalation. routes other than inhalation.
Many health and safety professionals may possess the equipment and knowledge to take air samples. However, the skills required to interpret exposure monitoring results and offer good quality, proportionate advice on exposure control are those of the occupational hygienist. Whilst it may often be the case that sub-standard work is a result of poor client specification, all consultants have some responsibility to ensure that the services they provide are of value. The BOHS’ Faculty’s Code of Ethics is clear that the protection and preservation of worker health is the paramount responsibility of practising occupational hygienists. It is the duty of health and safety professionals to challenge clients asking for inappropriate work to be conducted. Delivering work because it is what is asked for, with no consideration of how it fits into the clients overall risk management strategy, is considered poor practice. Occupational hygiene consultant should work with their clients to ensure that the work delivered helps the client to manage workplace health risks. For example, the delivery of exposure monitoring results with no interpretation and/or recommendations should be voided unless it is clear that the client has the in-house skills to interpret the results for themselves.
“Occupational lung disease is one of three key health issues being tackled by HSE under its Health and Work Strategy and is part of the ongoing „Go Home Healthy‟ campaign.” It is unfortunate that the work delivered by consultants is not always in line with good practice. Clearly this limits the value delivered to the client, leaving workers inadequately protected in some cases. It also devalues the occupational hygiene profession, leaving clients with reduced expectations of the value that a good occupational hygienist can add to
their business. The situation would be improved if clients could be educated to better understand occupational hygiene and the support that our profession can deliver. In this respect, some of the excellent material produced by BOHS’ Breathe Freely campaign4, including defining the role of an occupational hygienist, offers excellent additions to our toolkit. Generally, the poorer quality consultancy is delivered by those who hold no formal occupational hygiene qualifications, raising serious questions about the competence of the individuals providing these services. Many are not BOHS members and so may never see this article, meaning other communications channels are needed to reach these individuals. The HSE initiative that is under development, which was mentioned earlier in this article, aims to improve the standard of occupational hygiene consultancy provided in Britain. BOHS can also take steps ensure that our profession is providing the best advice to industry in managing health risks. References 1. www.hse.gov.uk/.../health-and-work.../health-and-workstrategy.pdf 2. Go Home Healthy: http://www.hse.gov.uk/ gohomehealthy/index.htm 3. BOHS. Clear and concise report writing : guidance for occupational hygienists 4. www.breathefreely.org.uk The Editor would like to point out the following: All members of the Faculty, whatever their grade of membership, are required to abide by the Code of Ethics, as documented in the BOHS Faculty of Occupational Hygiene Handbook, available on the BOHS website. Any member of the Faculty who becomes aware of another member’s breach of the Code of Ethics is under an ethical duty to report that breach to the Faculty. Chris Keen CMFOH is a BOHS member and works within the HSE Science Division.
The National Register of RF (radiofrequency) Workers The last twenty years have seen a marked increase in the prevalence of RF radiation. The advent of 24-hour broadcasting, and the roll-out of analogue and digital mobile telephony systems, means our reliance upon and demand for RF technology is at an unprecedented level. Concerns over the health effects of RF radiation have also risen in line with the visible proliferation of this technology. Though, the health impacts resulting from the heating effects of heating and RF are well documented, much of the science concerning other possible mechanisms remains inconclusive. In response, the HSE worked with the University of Birmingham to establish the National Register of RF Workers – the first database of its kind created specifically to explore the effects of long-term occupational exposure to RF. It contains information on workers with a potential to be exposed above existing public guidelines and is designed to allow the exploration of any emergent health concerns. It is currently supporting an investigation into the prevalence of cancer amongst those exposed to RF through their work. Key to the success of the Register is recruitment of individuals in sufficient numbers to allow for robust research to be undertaken in the future. Professor Sorahan of the University of Birmingham confirms “…we need to ensure that all individuals eligible to join are aware of the Register and have made an informed decision on whether to participate….it is important that as many of the relevant individuals as possible join the Register as the greater the number of participants, the greater the confidence we can have in any findings”. Recruitment is continuing and the University of Birmingham welcomes enquiries from employers and employees wishing to find out how they can get involved.
Contact: Ian Litchfield PhD
Tel: 0121 414 6006 Email: RFregister@bham.ac.uk Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham
Issue 2 | www.bohs.org | 11
Recent Recent Events Events Summary Summary Marie Townshend Marie Townshend Conferences Manager, BOHS Conferences Manager, BOHS
LEV – Extracting the Best LEV – Extracting the Best Practice Practice On 6 & 7 February, we held an LEV event at the Hinckley On 6 &Jurys 7 February, held3rd aninLEV Hinckley Island Inn. Thiswe is the theevent seriesatofthe annual LEV Island Jurys Inn. This is the 3rd in the series of annual LEV events. events. Richard Topliss, Adrian Sims and Mary Cameron made up Richard Topliss, Adrian Sims and the Maryprogramme Cameron made up the event committee and led for the the event committee and led the programme for the conference with Mary and Adrian performing chair duties. conference Mary and performing chair duties. We had 88with delegates overAdrian the two days with speakers We had 88 delegates over the two days with speakers including Jane Bastow providing an ILEVE update, Bill including Jane Bastow providing ILEVE update, Bill Cassells speaking on both days andanproviding equipment Cassells speakingIan on Birkinshaw both days and providing equipment demonstrations, (Shapa) speaking on ‘The demonstrations, Ian Birkinshaw (Shapa) speaking on ‘The role of a trade association in promoting safe working role of a trade association in promoting safe working practices’, Duncan Smith (HSE) presenting ‘Air monitoring practices’, Duncan (HSE) and presenting ‘Air monitoring in LEV testing LeadSmith indicators’ Mike Slater (Diamond in LEV testing Lead indicators’ and Mike Slater (Diamond Environmental) with a Breath Freely campaign update. We Environmental) with a Breath Freely campaign update. We had a packed exhibition area including Concept Life had a packed exhibition area including Concept Life Sciences, Jacob, Flamefast, TSI, Vent-Tech, R & B Sciences, Jacob,andFlamefast, TSI, Vent-Tech, R & B Industrial, ILEVE Shapa. Industrial, ILEVE and Shapa. Feedback was positive with over 90% of responses stating Feedback was recommend positive with over of responses stating they would the 90% event to a colleague they would recommend event and comments included the ‘carried out toin aan colleague informal and comments included ‘carried out in an informal atmosphere, very enjoyable’, ‘Adrian representing ILEVE atmosphere, very enjoyable’, ‘Adrian representing ILEVE came across really well’ and ‘the presenters were good, came across really well’ and ‘the presenters were good, particularly the practical examples and the info from HSE’. particularly examples and the info from HSE’. Over 90% the felt practical the quality of presenters exceeded or Over 90% felt the quality of presenters exceeded or greatly exceeded expectations. The committee have now greatly exceeded expectations. The committee have now begun work on the format, venue and content for the begun work on the format, venue and content for the 2019 event. 2019 event.
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Legionella - An Update on the Legionella - An Update on the Requirements for Effective Requirements for Effective Water System Management Water System Management On Wednesday 14 March, we held a legionella one-day On Wednesday 14 March, held aDougie legionella one-day event in Manchester at TheweStudio. Collin, Colin event inand Manchester at The Studio. Dougie Colin Purnell Duncan Smith made up the eventCollin, committee Purnell and Duncan Smith made up the event committee and led the programme for the day. Both Duncan and and the programme for the day. and Bothproviding Duncan and Colinled presented with Dougie chairing the Colin presented with Dougie chairing and providing the round-up. round-up. We had 50 attendees for the day with speakers including We 50 attendees for theControl day with Association speakers including MatthadMorse (Legionella (LCA) Matt Morse (Legionella Control Association chairman) updating on the history and relevance of(LCA) the chairman) updating the history and presenting relevance of the organisation, Adrianon Parris (Sellafield) about organisation, Adrian Parris (Sellafield) presenting about ‘Ensuring a Good Standard of Service From Your Water ‘Ensuring a Good Standardand of Service From Your Water Treatment Contractor‘ Bob Dummond (HSE) Treatment Contractor‘ and Bob Dummond (HSE) discussing ‘Remote Environments & Practical discussing ‘Remote Environments & Practical Enforcements’ Enforcements’ The feedback was positive with over 85% of responses The feedback was positive withthe over 85%toofa responses stating they would recommend event colleague stating they would recommend the event a colleague and comments including ‘excellent range ofto speakers with and comments including range of of time speakers with all subjects covered and ‘excellent a fair amount given to all subjects covered and a fair amount of time given to each. Dougie did an excellent job of ensuring all had a fair each. Dougie did an excellent job of ensuring all had a fair say and a balanced view was given’. say and a balanced view was given’. There was much enthusiasm for a follow up event with There much enthusiasm a follow up event with subjectwas suggestions includingforHAVS, COSHH, benzene, subject suggestions including HAVS, COSHH, benzene, case studies of success and failures, healthcare premises case studies ofsystems. success and failures, healthcare premises and domestic and domestic systems.
Head Head Office Office Round-Up Round-Up
Qualifications Update Qualifications Update Natalie Horton, Qualifications Project Manager
Natalie Manager We’ve nowHorton, completedQualifications the first pilot run ofProject the new P408 – Identification and Quantification of Asbestos in We’ve nowPLM completed thequalification first pilot run of the newdelighted P408 – Identification and Quantification Asbestos in Soils Using and PCM which we’re to report was a big success. All of candidates Soils Using PLM and PCM qualification which we’re delighted to report was a big success. All candidates scored high pass marks in the assessments, and found the course engaging and informative. We will be scored pass marks the course engaging andP408 informative. We2018. will be runninghigh a second pilot ininathe fewassessments, weeks’ time,and thenfound preparing to officially launch in summer running a second pilot in a few weeks’ time, then preparing to officially launch P408 in summer 2018.
We are also seeing continually increasing numbers of new training provider applications and candidate We are also continually increasing numbers Health of newRisks training provider applications and candidate bookings forseeing the CCHRC – Certificate in Controlling in Construction course, which is being well bookings by forconstruction the CCHRC –companies Certificate and in Controlling in Construction course, which is being well received health andHealth safetyRisks organisations. received by construction companies and health and safety organisations. We went to BOHS’ LEV Conference at Hinckley Island in February 2018, attended by occupational hygienists and LEV engineers. A We wentoftoengaging BOHS’ LEV Conference at Hinckleyand Island in February were 2018,delivered attendedon byboth occupational hygienists and qualifications LEV engineers. A number practical demonstrations presentations days, including a BOHS number of engaging practical demonstrations and presentations were delivered on both days, including a BOHS qualifications update from John Lyons and Breathe Freely introduction from Mike Slater, both of which were positively received by delegates. update from John Lyons and Breathe Freely introduction from Mike Slater, both of which were positively received by delegates.
Membership Update Membership Update Claire Creed, Membership Officer
Claire Membership Officer Thank youCreed, for renewing your membership and continuing to support BOHS in its vision of a healthy working Thank you forfor renewing your membership and continuing to support BOHS in its vision of a healthy working environment everyone. environment for everyone.
We have made good progress since the start of the year processing membership renewals, professional We have madeapplications good progress the start of the renewals, qualifications andsince CPD submissions. Weyear are processing also pleasedmembership to report that we haveprofessional reached a major qualifications applications and CPD submissions. We are also pleased to report that we have major milestone with regards to our new Faculty, FAAM, and have reached over 200 members! Thereached supportawe milestone with regards to our new Faculty, FAAM, and have reached over 200 members! The support we have received firmly establishes FAAM within the industry, and the overwhelmingly positive response shows received firmly establishes FAAM within the on industry, the response shows just how important itshave creation was. We receive enquiries about joining a dailyand basis sooverwhelmingly we look forwardpositive to meeting the next just how important its creation was. We receive enquiries about joining on a daily basis so we look forward to meeting the next major milestone very soon. major milestone very soon. The membership team have also been out and about meeting people at various events. In February, we attended the LEV event The beenand outWellbeing and aboutevent meeting people at various events. we attended LEV event We and membership in March, we team were have at thealso Health in Birmingham, plus, we wereInatFebruary, our Legionella event inthe Manchester. and in March, we were at the Health and Wellbeing event in Birmingham, plus, we were at our Legionella event in Manchester. are pleased to report that all three events were positively received and new members have joined. If you are a new member We are pleased thataall three events were to positively received and members have joined. If you arerewarding. a new member reading this,to wereport give you very warm welcome the organisation and new we hope you find your membership reading this, we give you a very warm welcome to the organisation and we hope you find your membership rewarding.
Marketing Update Marketing Update Evi Karmou, Head of Marketing and Communications
Evi Karmou, Marketing Communications The last couple of Head months, of we have had a few and exciting developments at BOHS. FAAM collaborated with IOSH The lastlaunch coupleofofthe months, haveofhad few exciting developments at BOHS. FAAM with IOSH for the fourthwe phase theaNo Time To Lose campaign, which focuses oncollaborated asbestos. The launch for the launch of the fourth phase of the No Time To Lose campaign, which focuses on asbestos. The launch took place in London on 9 April and was attended by key industry representatives and bodies. took place in London on 9 April and was attended by key industry representatives and bodies. Breathe Freely will soon be launching a new series of public roadshows for both the construction and Breathe Freely will soon beThe launching newfocus serieson ofmanufacturing public roadshows both theinconstruction manufacturing industries. first onea will andfor take place South Walesand at the end manufacturing industries. The first one will focus on manufacturing and take place in South Wales at the end of May, and the rest throughout the summer and autumn. of May, and the rest throughout the summer and autumn. The campaign is also launching its Breathe Freely Champions programme, for those who would like to actively get involved in The campaign is also launching Breathe Champions programme, forTwo those who would like toorganised actively get involved in spreading awareness about lungitsdisease in Freely construction and manufacturing. webinars are being in May to update spreading awareness about lung disease in construction and manufacturing. Two webinars are being organised in May to update you on the latest campaign developments and introduce the new programme. you on the latest campaign developments and introduce the new programme. Issue 2 | www.bohs.org | 13 Issue 2 | www.bohs.org | 13
Global Global Campaign Campaign Tackles Tackles Asbestos-related Asbestos-related Occupational Occupational Cancer Cancer
Businesses Businesses worldwide worldwide will will have have access access to to new new free free resources resources to to manage manage cancer-risk cancer-risk from asbestos exposure from asbestos exposure at at work, work, says says IOSH IOSH Campaigns Campaigns Communications Communications Co-ordinator, Co-ordinator, Jasmeen Jasmeen Daji Daji
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The world’s Chartered body for safety and health professionals – The Institution of Occupational and Safety Health (IOSH) – launched the asbestos phase of its No Time to Lose (NTTL) campaign on 9 April at BMA House in London, immediately after Global Asbestos Awareness Week, in collaboration with BOHS, other representative bodies, and businesses. Asbestos is the biggest occupational cancer killer, claiming at least 107,000 lives a year worldwide– probably many, many more. In Britain alone, around 5,000 people die from workrelated asbestos exposure. NTTL aims to raise awareness of work cancer contracted by exposure to significant carcinogens and to help businesses take action by providing free practical materials. Asbestos is the fourth phase of our campaign, previous phases included diesel engine exhaust emissions, solar radiation, and silica dust. The risk from asbestos is considered to be so serious that 62 countries, including the UK and those in the European Union, have banned its use and have specific laws to protect workers and others who may be exposed to it. However, asbestos is still used and imported into many countries, and there are still many thousands of tonnes of asbestos-containing material (ACM) in buildings, and in industrial plant and equipment, all over the world. Workers and the public are therefore at risk from breathing in asbestos fibres. Today, still around two million tonnes of chrysotile asbestos is being mined. The largest producers of asbestos are Russia, China, Kazakhstan and India.
Craig Foyle, IOSH President, said: “Asbestos is the biggest occupational cancer killer. To help businesses tackle this serious health issue, IOSH, through its No Time to Lose campaign, is developing a range of resources to highlight the risks and educate workers on the dangers of exposure to asbestos. “There will be factsheets, infographics, leaflets, posters, presentations, films and more – everything businesses need to educate and inform the workforce. “We are delighted to be working with the British Occupational Hygiene Society and other important organisations on this phase of the campaign to help raise awareness at events, share resources and provide advice to businesses.” To help tackle asbestos-related cancer, IOSH is encouraging organisations to demonstrate their commitment by supporting NTTL and signing up to the pledge. Over 200 organisations worldwide are already supporting the campaign and more than 100 leading businesses worldwide have signed up to the pledge to tackle occupational cancer. Through these forward thinking companies, work-related carcinogens have been highlighted to at least half a million employees globally. NTTL has also been presented at over 150 events globally, from Ireland to Singapore, reaching over 10,000 delegates. To find out more and get involved in IOSH’s NTTL campaign, visit www.notimetolose.org.uk.
Asbestos is the name used for a group of naturally occurring minerals that are used in many products. It is used to strengthen materials and provide fire and chemical resistance. Asbestos is usually mixed with other substances to create different ACMs, but also used on its own. The mineral can be found in spray coatings, laggings, insulating boards, ropes, yarns and cloth, millboard and papers, fibre cement, floor tiles, gaskets, bitumen felts, mastic, sealants, putties, textured coatings and paints, and reinforced plastics. Asbestos fibres are invisible to the naked eye and which, if breathed in, can become stuck in the lungs and can cause serious illnesses over time, including fatal cancers such as mesothelioma, as well as asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural thickening. Exposure to asbestos is widespread in society, but current UK data indicates that the risk of a fatal asbestos-related cancer is greatest among people who work in construction and engineering. These trades encounter asbestos in their work during maintenance, refurbishment or demolition activity. In countries where asbestos is still used, other workers will be exposed, especially those involved in the manufacture, use or installation of products using ACMs.
Issue 2 | www.bohs.org | 15
Meet the Member Lisa Williams
Head of Commercial Qualifications and Training, BOHS
What first degree did you take? I took an MSc in Human Resource Management and joined the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personal Development) and achieved Chartered Status. What was the first job you got when you finished your fulltime education? I left college and went into a trainee management training role where I learned the application of life to management theory. It’s a bit like learning to drive, you never really know what kind of driver you are until you get out there and start practicing. I found that I am very much a leader who genuinely enjoys working in partnership and collaboration with people. You make much quicker progress if you recognise the strength of your team and help them to develop the skills they enjoy the most. Never think you can do it all or know it all. Be sure to recruit people around you who have the skills you don’t - that way you make a fully functioning team and are able to achieve to a higher level of effectiveness. When and why did you join BOHS? Arriving at the end of November 2017, just a week before Simon Festing, the new CEO, we were able to learn the multi -faceted aspects of the organisation at the same time. It is the most committed team of genuine people I have had the pleasure of meeting, which has been very supportive and welcoming to both of us. Describe a typical day in your work I commute a long way, so on a good day, it takes around 50 minutes but on a bad day, it can take hours! The team always welcome me with a cheery greeting and coffee, and we talk about the day’s events. I usually have meetings planned far in advance, so it’s usually straight into the day’s actions. There has not been a single ‘typical’ day so far. We have so many different qualifications and projects we are working on - it is very varied and has a real sense of purpose. There are lots of subject areas we can develop and I am systematically building our opportunities to put some of our ideas into practice. How did you get your current job? I left my management trainee job to go and live in Bermuda, which was an amazing experience. It was very relaxed and
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sunny almost every day - it was a wonderful opportunity too good to miss. Then I moved to the east coast of America to Virginia. I loved the defined four seasons of weather, deep snow, red hot summers and colourful autumn - the scenery was stunningly beautiful. I got to travel up and down the east coast and explored a lot. I worked for Marriott International and when I returned to the UK, I carried on working for them. A great organisation that really invests in its people. I learned a lot from their ethos and culture. Over a few years, I moved into the human resources and training and eventually, the education sector. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working? When I’m not working, I am usually out with family or friends. No particular hobbies to brag about as I try most things once and move onto the next. Some of the things I’ve done recently are photography, drums, harmonica and art with a range of mediums. I am a reluctant gardener simply due to the fact it needs doing. Where did you last go on holiday? I supported a friend running a conference in Portugal recently and we added a few days to the end of it for fun. I usually visit family on the west coast of northern California at least once a year and last time, I flew in a bi-plane over San Francisco Bay with my dad for his 80th birthday. Cat or dog? Neither. I don’t have any pets as you can’t do much spontaneously with the responsibility. Favourite film? Anything where Clint Eastwood stars or directs is usually my kind of movie What was the last music album your bought? I love a playlist and so my most recent one is an eclectic mix of Depeche Mode’s greatest hits (great for the gym) and Train: Save me San Francisco, Pink and, of course, Paloma Faith. Favourite Book? I was fortunate enough go on a Stephen Covey “7 Habits” course quite a few years ago and the book is a great dip in and out of classic for the office book shelf. A non-work related one that I’m currently reading is Andy McNab’s Bravo Two Zero.
The Chartered Society for Worker Health Protection
SAVE THE DATE
1-4 April 2019 ®
BRIGHTON METROPOLE
BRIGHTON The Premier Conference for Occupational Hygiene in the UK
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