Toolbox tips

TOOLBOX TIP EVERY BREATH YOU TAKE

Are you keeping the team safe from carcinogens and airborne risks?

Hazardous dust caused by cutting or grinding work is a very real risk in the plumbing industry. Breathing in hazardous dust can cause diseases such as lung or upper respiratory tract cancers; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); asbestos-related diseases; and silicosis.

WorkSafe has published a new quick guide to using industrial vacuums and portable extractors. The guide discusses the selection of the filter and vacuum, appliance maintenance and worker information and training. It joins existing WorkSafe guidance on using local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems and on-tool extraction.

Find WorkSafe’s new quick guide to industrial vacuums and portable extractors among the guidance at www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/dust

If you live in Christchurch or Dunedin, there’s still time to get along to a WorkSafe carcinogens and airborne risks roadshow. The sessions focus on asbestos, silica, welding fumes and wood dust. Visit www.worksafe.govt.nz for dates and times and to register (enter roadshow in the search bar).