ON THE COVER
SAFETY SOLUTIONS FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
CONTENTS Blackwoods takes Safety very seriously, ensuring that customers have access to everything they need to keep their workplace safe. To highlight the importance of workplace safety, Blackwoods is launching its successful safetybased campaign ‘Don’t Gamble with Safety’ in March. Highlighting innovation and quality products, advice and on-site assessments, the promotional brochure and its unique program can be used to encourage people to play it safe in the workplace.
6
OHS: how to plan it, fund it and get everyone on board
14
The right tools for the job
20
Safety In Action 2013
30
Keeping on top of fire safety regulations and standards
43
Vehicle safety in mining
45
Resources
46
In my opinion
This year’s promotion enables participating customers to earn reward points, achieved through purchasing $200 or more worth of safety product from the promotional brochure, then entering their invoice details online at www. winwithblackwoods.com to redeem. Rewards for playing it safe include company travel vouchers, additional Blackwoods merchandise from the ‘in-stock’ range, or credit via the promotional reward card. This year’s reward card allows access to all reward options and can be used in over 7,500 service or merchandise destinations across the country (view full listing at (www.rewardyourself.com.au/DGWS/tabid/77/ Default.aspx). Blackwoods products can also be purchased, from any one of the Blackwoods locations across the country using the Don’t Gamble with Safety reward card (full listing at www.blackwoods.com.au/about-us/branchlocations). Get registered at www.winwithblackwoods.com and start earning reward points right away, Don’t Gamble with Safety and take the health and wellbeing of you and your team seriously with Blackwoods. Blackwoods Blackwoods.com.au
NOW in DIGITAL! Your copy of Safety Solutions is now available as an online eMag.
http://www.safetysolutions.net.au/latest_issues
OHS: HOW TO PLAN IT, FUND IT AND GET EVERYONE ON BOARD
Dealing with one of safety’s toughest challenges - funding projects on worksites that senior managers never see - fall prevention specialist Carl Sachs* has also become expert at attracting funding for OHS. Here, he shares the secrets of successful investment in safety.
6 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
© iStockphoto.com/36clicks
O
HS professionals tend to be idealistic, as they should. Capital expenditure decision-makers, on the other hand, are often a tad more hard-nosed. Both find the other’s approach immensely frustrating and that can be a big problem when it comes to funding safety-related, capital-intensive projects. Surprisingly, the secret to finding common ground lies in the OHS professional’s stock in trade, the risk assessment. The pure logic of combining probability with consequences to assign a risk rating is something that resonates with many senior company officers, who are increasingly attuned to risk management in an uncertain global business environment. The key is to present the information in a format that very clearly reflects the organisation’s objectives, whether they are prudent corporate governance, reputation management or sheer compliance.
Create a plan The place to begin is with an audit. Uncover and document what the organisation already has in place and the current compliance gaps, then set a baseline for improvement. At the heart of the audit lies the risk assessment’s matrix of the probability of injuries and their seriousness. This ranking system creates a list of priorities that takes the first step towards legal compliance and successful corporate communication: accurate documentation of the facts. And while documentation is a necessity, do not be tempted to produce a daunting wad of paper designed to strike fear into the hearts of senior management. Clarity is the secret to winning capital expenditure approval. For this reason, Workplace Access & Safety’s audit reports are presented very simply. Photographs of each hazard are matched with plain English explanations and a colour-coded risk rating. The results are summarised in tables and even the most time-poor decision-makers rapidly appreciate the relative urgency and importance of projects. Illustrating reports to demonstrate hazards is particularly valuable when the decision-makers are physically remote from the hazards. In our experience, prominent hazards are normally dealt with more rapidly than others that may be associated with greater risk but are quite literally ‘out of sight and out of mind’.
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
Do the sums The next step is to team the prioritised areas with controls that minimise risk and maximise safety. Again, the good news is that the safety professional’s best friend - the hierarchy of controls - tends to work well for corporate accountants since the lowest order control for any risk is also often the cheapest over its lifetime. From a management perspective too, the most complicated safety systems are generally the least effective. Any fall prevention system that involves a harness, for example, also brings the need for second workers, rescue plans, regular inspections and a tide of paperwork. Sadly, this is where many facility managers face their greatest challenge. The main source of information about controls is equipment vendors, who are also generally enthusiastic promoters of complex, expensive solutions. Remain stubbornly true to the hierarchy of controls and, almost invariably, there will be significant lifetime savings and safety gains to be won. Such practicality will also win OHS professionals many friends at the executive management level and invaluable respect from users. So, how then to get the safest, most workable solution and a proper costing? • Choose your providers with great care. Look for those who participate at an industry level, are trainers, who provide impressive referees and, importantly, have a suite of solutions on offer so they can supply the appropriate match for your circumstances. • Ask to see sample reports in advance and, for a real insight, learn how they manage their own safety obligations. Photocopied safe work method statements (SWMS) for a height safety installation, for example, warn that a service provider’s safety credentials are little more than skin deep. • Specialists are normally best geared up to the job correctly and can often deliver savings due to greater efficiencies. • Match the costings with the priorities identified by the risk assessment to create a budget. Of course, no organisation can realistically address all risks instantly, so the budget could have several phases to allow for systematic project management.
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 7
© iStockphoto.com/MACIEJ NOSKOWSKI
HEIGHT SAFETY
AND WHILE DOCUMENTATION IS A NECESSITY, DO NOT BE TEMPTED TO PRODUCE A DAUNTING WAD OF PAPER DESIGNED TO STRIKE FEAR INTO THE HEARTS OF SENIOR MANAGEMENT. CLARITY IS THE SECRET TO WINNING CAPITAL EXPENDITURE APPROVAL.
How to fund OHS systems With a risk assessment and a budgeted list of priorities, the business case for OHS capital expenditure now simply needs a rationale. In most cases, compliance with safety obligations alone is sufficient but not always. In the name of flexibility, most work health and safety laws are open to interpretation and sometimes even conflict with other mandates. It is also true that many substantial safety gains are made beyond mere compliance in terms of productivity, lower insurance costs, improved morale and fewer lost time injuries. The most compelling call to action is the one that best mirrors the goals of your organisation as former chamber of commerce advisor and now OHS consultant Jo Kitney explains. “Meeting health and safety obligations is a moral as well as legal obligation; however, there can be differences in values and beliefs for health and safety between organisations and within organisations,” Kitney says. “Decisions made by employers and business managers can be influenced by what they think and how they feel - and this can make the difference between resourcing health and safety, or not. “To find money for health and safety means looking beneath the line and establishing the organisations’ value base for health and safety. It is difficult to do so, but there are times when below the line aspects of health and safety management have to be challenged, to ensure that those making decisions are aware of the implications - personally as well as for the wider organisation.”
Get everyone on board Even the most robust safety systems come unstuck unless the people they are designed to protect take them seriously. Ensure that employees and contractors of
varying skill levels are working safely by following a few basic principles.
Consult with users The first is clearly to consult with the users of any safety system very early and often throughout the process. An unworkable safety system is a dangerous safety system because it forces users to take perilous short cuts. A safety system that is difficult to manage is similarly frightening, so it is important to consider the resources and skills of the people using the equipment - right from the start so safety is inherent in the design rather than an afterthought. In Workplace Access & Safety’s field of fall prevention, for example, a vertical ladder line may suit a telecommunications environment where two riggers are working, trained in rescue and doing this on a daily basis. Not so for a school where teachers or grounds staff climb on the roof to retrieve balls. Apart from skills and resources, the conditions of use need to be understood. If people need to carry tools onto the roof, for instance, a narrow opening presents an added hazard. It is also important to make sure a truly representative group is consulted, which might go beyond the normal workplace boundaries. Employees might carry out completely different tasks to those of contractors and visitors, who are equally as entitled to a safe environment. It goes without saying that design concepts should be shared with and approved by users to ensure a sense of ownership as well as real-world functionality.
Training and protocols Many of the most successful OHS projects require little or no training because they build safety into existing processes. On the other hand, some require serious skill levels coupled with careful administration to make them effective. Beyond the skills of the user, work positioning systems, for example, demand inductions, administrative controls, rescue
8 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
plans, a buddy system and regular inspections. It is essential in situations like these that users and the administrators responsible for the management of the safety system are well supported with training.
Management feedback Don’t forget to include senior management the people who approved the project - when it is time to celebrate project outcomes. Update the proposal document to create a review report, complete with before and after pictures and testimonials from users. Feedback in this format will be very welcome, builds a useful relationship for the next OHS project and is a great way to demonstrate compliance with your friendly workplace safety authority inspector.
OHS skills are great business skills OHS is often perceived as a cost rather than an investment and a tangled web of red tape. Ironically, occupational health and safety professionals are better equipped than most to present a compelling business case for capital expenditure. Like so many things, the key to success may just be simplicity. Workplace Access & Safety Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S315
*Carl Sachs is the managing director of falls prevention specialist Workplace Access & Safety and takes an active role in the development of fall prevention standards, representing the Master Builders Association on the committee for AS 1657 - 1992: Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders - Design, construction and installation. Sachs is dedicated to building a general awareness of this highly specialised area of risk, training facility managers of major retail corporations and regularly addressing OHS professionals at national conferences.
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
Mindfulness app Skill Pill M-Learning (SPML) has released a mindfulness mobile application in association with Mindfulness at Work, a company which delivers specialist mindfulness expertise to the workplace. ‘Mindfulness’ is a psychological tool being used to great effect in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety. It can also help staff be more effective in the workplace and reach their full daily potential through the use of coping mechanisms when faced with the pressures of a busy and stressful workload. The app contains three ‘SkillPills’ centred on mindfulness at work
Aural testing system
eg, what is mindfulness?; beginner’s mind; and coping with stress. It also
With noise-induced hearing loss a serious issue
provides three audio exercises for daily practice: thinking doing being;
for many workers, Howard Leight by Honeywell
X-ray; and three-step breathing.
has introduced the VeriPRO system, a way
The app will be available to individuals and companies.
to assess and monitor workers’ aural health. Developed in conjunction with the House
Skill-Pill M-Learning Ltd
Ear Institute in the US, the system has field
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S945
verification technology that makes it simple to get an accurate picture of employees’ hearing protection and requirements.
Modular rung ladder
The software shows whether a worker is
Sayfa Systems believes that any fall is preventable by following a set of
receiving optimal protection, requires addi-
guidelines and procedures for designing and determining safety require-
tional training on how to fit their earplugs or
ments based on specific applications as well as the use of innovative
needs a different sized or shaped protector.
and compliant height access and fall prevention systems.Simply put, it is
It also assesses the personal attentuation
good business to install the higher level controls such as fixed ladders,
rating (PAR) that an employee receives from
guardrails and walkways wherever possible. Low maintenance systems
their earplugs.
such as guardrails are cost effective, require little training to use and allow a broader spectrum of workers to do the job safely.
The three-part process checks the effectiveness of a worker’s earplug in each ear over a range of frequencies, with the results then captured in individual reports that can be accessed by the relevant safety manager. Should the PAR indicate that an employee is underprotected or overprotected, the safety manager then has the opportunity to refit the earplug for optimal attentuation or select a more appropriate earplug for the noise environment. The system works with earplugs from any manufacturer. The kit comes with CD-ROM software with a specially designed interface for users, audiometrically balanced headphones that are specifically constructed to provide optimal audio output and greater backset of the speaker for testing earplugs, and an audioprocessor that plugs into the USB port of a computer
The company’s Katt Modular Rung Ladders provide a rapid, cost-effective access solution to elevated areas such as rooftops, ceiling spaces and
to power the system and serve as an external sound card and headphone amplifier.
maintenance platforms. The rung ladders’ precision and unique profile
For ease of use, each kit includes a quick
design ensures a high level of safety and confidence for building and
reference guide that provides basic instruction
maintenance crew. The prefabricated modular system ensures easy and
on getting started, how to use the program,
rapid on-site assembly, with no welding required. The lightweight, high-
understand the reporting and conduct trou-
strength aluminium construction is industrial rated and requires minimum
bleshooting.
ongoing maintenance.
Honeywell Safety Products Australia Pty Ltd
Sayfa Systems
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R381
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S804
10 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
ROLLgLISS R520 RESCUE & ESCAPE DEVICE ®
WORLD’S FIRST
CONVENTIONAL TWIN BRAKE RESCUE & ESCAPE DESCENDER Fully-automatic, hands-free descent. The lightest, most compact unit in its class. Multiple rope lengths, from 5m - 100m. i-Safe™ enabled. Simply the best escape solution on the market ideal for use in utilities, construction, maintenance, fire & emergency services and general industry. Fully automatic hands-free descent from EWPs, towers, cranes, buildings and more...
LIgHTEST & MOST COMPACT
DUAL REDUNDANT BRAKES
BI-DIRECTIONAL HUB
Contact Capital Safety for more information on this product or visit www.capitalsafety.com.au Alternatively scan the QR Code with your QR scanner/reader app. (QR readers are available for free from your app store.)
www.capitalsafety.com.au | Australia: 1800 245 002 | New Zealand: 0800 212 505 The ulTimaTe in fall proTecTion
a capiTal SafeTy Brand
NEW PRODUCTS
Industrial field meters The Narda industrial field meters NIM-511 and NIM-513 are complete handheld measuring systems consisting of a basic unit and a measuring probe equipped with electric and magnetic field sensors. They provide a solution for the task of checking the compliance of industrial plant with regulations and limit values for electromagnetic radiation. The NIM-511 sensors cover a frequency range from 300 kHz to 100 MHz and are balanced during calibration at the 13.56 MHz ISM frequency often used in semiconductor manufacturing, for example. The NIM-513 sensors cover the range 10 MHz to 42 MHz and are balanced during calibration at the 27.12 MHz ISM frequency - the frequency most often used for heat welding equipment and induction ovens. Since the probes measure the electric and magnetic fields at the same time, there is no need to switch probes. They feature automatic measurement range selection, auto-zeroing, clear operating mode display and a digital result readout. Narda Safety Test Solutions GmbH Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S481
Protective clothing The range of Elliotts ArcSafe Systems include the W89 series made from Walls FR 88/12 cotton/ nylon with a HRC4 rating and ATPV of 89; the W45 series made from Walls FR 88/12 cotton/ nylon with a HRC4 rating and ATPV of 45; and the T40 series made from TecaSafe Plus fabrics with a HRC4 rating and ATPV of 40. All series are available in jackets, trousers, coats, leggings and hoods. Elliott Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S283
Complete internal access solution The lightweight, industrial-rated Vista Commercial, Vista Compact and Vista Maxi deliver a complete internal access solution: floor to ceiling, through ceiling space and onto the roof. The Vista family is compatible with all ceiling types - meeting all ceiling and roof access needs.The design and unique pre-finished componentry ensures low impact and a neat appearance. The fold-down ladder is suitable for multilevel construction where it is difficult and unsafe to gain access to the roof area externally due to excessive heights.The solution can be rapidly installed, is easy to use and ensures controlled and authorised access. Vista Compact is designed to be installed in-between standard roof trusses, while Vista Commercial is suitable for suspended ceilings from 2200 to 3200 mm. Vista Maxi is suitable for extra-high ceilings up to 4300 mm. A specially design suspension kit is available for Vista Commercial and Vista Maxi. Vista is easily incorporated with the Skydore roof-access hatch. A recent hospital project in Victoria has seen in excess of 15 Vista fold-down ladders installed as the primary means of access onto the roof area. The increased number of access points strategically located around the building reduced foot traffic on the roof and time wasted for maintenance personnel. Sayfa Systems Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S805
12 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
Dust-free Powder Handling Systems and organised ‘bulk product’ Storage We specialise in equipment for safe work environments Safe bulk product storage Not bulk bags - Use IBC’s “Intermediate Bulk Containers” stack easily & product is sealed. - Dust-free discharge stations; - Ease of filling; long life. Raise efficiency with IBC’s!
Safe Lifting Procedures
Vacuum-assisted; or by Robot, automatically.
Packaging Division bag filling palletising pallet dispensers slip sheet applicators conveyors pallet wrappers hooders
Handling boards and doors Okura robot, 3 separate product infeeds,
3 separate palletising lines, simultaneously!
TAWI Vacuum-assisted Lifting: Special lifting feet built to suit objects.
High speed COBRA in action
Single products to total Turn-key Systems The Professionals in Powder Handling and Packaging Systems and Ysafety1213b
CONTROL AUTOMATION
Head Office VIC - Tel: (03) 9457 8244 Fax: (03) 9457 7695
www.kockumsbulk.com.au
THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB Emmett McGregor*
14 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
HEIGHT RESCUE
Working at heights continues to be a key issue within the safety world and despite continual education we still see workers falling both with safety systems in place and without.
L
egislation, education and due diligence motivate us to put systems into place on the jobsite that are intended to protect the workers. With proper planning, training and equipment selection, these programs prove quite effective. Most effective programs find a balance between the needs of the workers to get their jobs done and providing a functional heights system. They will either eliminate the possibility of workers falling or reduce the effect of falling by stopping them before they hit the ground or something else on the way down. A key component to these programs is dealing with the aftereffects of falling by providing a safe and efficient rescue program. This component of working at heights is often overlooked with the assumption that a call to ‘000’ will suffice. Safety managers soon discover that reliance on emergency services may not meet the requirements as put forward by relevant standards (ie, ASNZS 1891.4) or for that matter relevant state and territory legislation. With further investigation, hopefully prior to an accident, it becomes apparent that some form of rescue capability must be available on site. The level and type of response should be evaluated based on the needs and capabilities of the site and adjacent resources. Rescue tools chosen should likewise reflect the needs and capabilities of the site and the level of training maintained. A properly designed heights program rescue should fit the site, not the local trainer or salesman. So let’s take a look at two different directions to heights rescue (industrial rescue and technical rescue) and key factors in setting up your rescue program.
Industrial vs technical rescue While many companies seem to struggle with the concept of developing a self-supporting rescue program, rescue in industry is anything but new. For a hundred or more years, mines rescue has been an integral component of working at a mine. Major gas and oil refineries around the world have had not only rescue teams but fully equipped fire departments providing fire, rescue and medical first response. However, the more recent development and refinement of height safety legislation has brought the need for rescue to much smaller and less equipped companies. This shift in combination with tightening budgets has created a need for rescue to be conducted not so much by a dedicated rescue team but by the very workers that are at height. It is this very shift that has created the division of rescue into technical rescue and industrial rescue. Industrial rescue represents the side of the market where coworkers may and will be called on to effect the rescue of a fallen worker. The concept of ‘peer rescue’, whereby you may conduct the rescue on a co-worker who was working with you, brings with it some very unique requirements and specific rescue tools. Characteristic of industrial rescue, the depth of knowledge of the rescuer is reflective of the job itself rather than conducting res-
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cues. Their rescue training and skillsets may only be suited to the particular situation that they are in during that job and certainly would be limited to the rescue tools on hand. Simplicity then is the key to success of a peer rescue, both in tools and techniques. For a mechanic, whose primary concept of rescue is likely to be to call 000, the desire to learn knots and improvised systems is limited at best. Thus, industrial rescue kits are typically made up of pre-rigged kits that allow a worker to remove the kit from the bag, attach it to an anchor point and then attach it to the fallen worker, raise them, disconnect their current system and lower them to the ground. As mentioned earlier, simplicity is key, such tools as those found within the Rollgliss Industrial Rescue range (R250, R350 and R500) simplify rescue to a point where limited training is necessary to provide a safe and efficient solution. Technical rescue, however, takes a less simplistic approach to providing rescue solutions. Where the focus of industrial rescue is peer rescue, technical rescue is more team based, using the well-developed skillsets of rescue leaders and practised teams. Improvisation based on extensive training and experience will provide a rescue ability that may span a significant number of situations. It is the versatility of technical rescue which normally sees rescue tools being components of a system rather than a pre-rigged system itself. Rescue technicians are normally very passionate about learning and practising the skills that make it possible to evaluate a scenario and put together the components for a rescue solution from their various pieces of kit. It is also this versatility that demands continual practise so that the implementation of those solutions becomes second nature. Rescue tools such as the Rollgliss Technical Rescue Line, formerly SRTE provides a wide array of components that can be combined to deal with anything from a suspended worker to various components of a major urban search and rescue operation. So which is better, technical or industrial rescue? This is a difficult question and certainly should be based on the needs of the site versus the current trends and bias of a training organisation. It is very common to choose rescue techniques based on the style of training received, not necessarily because it is the best solution but it reflects the knowledge base, or worst yet, the current stocking situation of a sales group or training agency. Like choosing the right hammer or spanner to complete the job, choosing a rescue style must suit the needs of the site and workers. While a true needs analysis should be conducted for the site, the following will address three key factors that should be included: site analysis, worker skills and training/practise opportunity. • Site analysis: Take a look at the jobsite and the work being conducted. In developing a rescue solution, you need to evaluate whether there is a need for individual workers to conduct the rescue or whether a dedicated team may be available. For
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 15
HEIGHT RESCUE
THE MORE RECENT DEVELOPMENT AND REFINEMENT OF HEIGHT SAFETY LEGISLATION HAS BROUGHT THE NEED FOR RESCUE TO MUCH SMALLER AND LESS EQUIPPED COMPANIES.
example, workers who are often in remote locations may need to have the skillset to retrieve a fallen co-worker, tower workers, utility workers - even some maintenance workers would fall into this category. Typically, in these situations the remote nature of the work will require some form of peer rescue rather than waiting for a dedicated team to respond. It is also important to evaluate the site in relation to the specific jobs and response times. For example, mines have a long history of maintaining technical team-based rescue. Yet there are several locations where the response time of the rescue team necessitates the use of industrial peer rescue to get workers to a safe area where the rescue team can then take over. How complex is the worksite? Often the fact that a single site may include various plants and work areas increases the need for a diverse rescue team with the tools and techniques to adjust to the particular situation. • Worker Skills: Determine how workers normally access areas of height - Do they use EWPs? Do they climb? What is their technical skill level for working at height or working in suspension? The less that their job focuses on accessing areas of height (using EWPs versus climbing) the more likely their training and practise will be focused on completing the job versus climbing techniques. In this case, introducing highly technical rescue techniques will require very intensive training and practise sessions to learn and maintain the necessary skills. In contrast, if workers are relying on their skillset to access areas of height (arborists, show riggers, etc) then their technical base will enhance their ability to learn and maintain the skills necessary for more technical rescue. • Training: What opportunities and motivation do the employees have to learn and practise new rescue skills? Like anything, successful rescues require training and practise. The more opportunity to practise rescue the more likely that a real rescue will go smoothly. However, budget and time restraints often limit the amount of training available to develop and maintain rescue skills. In addition, workers often lack motivation to put themselves at risk for others when they aren’t
16 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
comfortable with the techniques or equipment. This is often the most significant determining factor for industrial versus technical rescue. As industrial rescue will use pre-rigged kits that normally require less training, the decision can easily be swayed to this style simply because there is not enough time or motivation to train for technical rescue techniques. Often on large sites that have a variety of hazardous situations, the simplicity of industrial rescue techniques and tools may not address the needs of the workers. Often with the right support of the companies involved, worker motivation is higher and it becomes much easier to develop a technical rescue program. Rescue training may be viewed as a perk and workers will often come in on days off to practise. In these situations the diversity and versatility of technical rescue far outweighs the investment in training and practise. Choosing the right method of rescue is no different from choosing the right method of accessing heights. It should always be evaluated on a thorough analysis of the needs of the site and the workers. Where rescue skills, tools and training/practise are limited, the techniques and tools of industrial rescue are best suited. Where worker skills lean more to technical access or the opportunity for establishment of a well-trained rescue team is present, then the versatility of technical rescue fits the bill. With most OHS legislation requiring rescue capabilities wherever workers are put at risk of a fall, companies and individuals are looking for a suitable solution. Ensure that the solution presented fits your site through analysis of the site variables, work environment, skills available and opportunity to learn and practise new skills. Where our goal is always to work safely and not require rescue, we can’t ignore it and need to choose the right tool for the job. Capital Safety Group (Australia) Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S857
*Emmett McGregor is Global Product Manager, Access & Rescue with Capital Safety, a designer and manufacturer of fall protection and rescue products.
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
Mosquito protection
Bamboo work shirt
The Para’Kito range of refillable
The Riggers bamboo polo shirts
wristbands and clips provides an
are made from a breathable,
alternative to a gel or liquid mosquito repellent which
absorbent material that has bac-
is traditionally sprayed or spread on people’s skin to
terial inhibition, thermo control
protect them from mosquitoes. The Para’Kito natural
and antistatic qualities. Available
mosquito protection device is based on a technology
in long- and short-sleeve styles,
of impregnation of essential oils into polymers.
the shirts are comfortable to wear and feature a UPF 50+ rating and
The wristbands can be worn on the wrist or an-
good durability.
kle, day and night, to protect against mosquitoes. The longlasting Para’Kito pellets are effective for 15 days and are waterproof, meaning that swim-
The shirts comply with Australian/New Zealand standards
ming, heavy rain or any contact with water does not affect the product’s efficacy. The Para’Kito pellet diffuses only essential oils and does not come in contact with the skin,
(AS/NZS 1906.4:2010; AS/
making it suitable for pregnant women and young children, and it is recommended for individuals
NZS 4602.1:2011 and AS/NZS
susceptible to skin allergies and irritations. The French-made product is 100% natural; it diffuses a
4399:1996) and are available in a
blend of seven essential oils that are extracted from plants that naturally protect from mosquitoes
range of colours and sizes from
by masking the olfactory signals of humans.
S to 5XL.
Blackwoods Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S883
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
Workwear Industries Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S902
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 17
NEW PRODUCTS
Fall protection full body harnesses Capital Safety has released a range of fall protection full body harnesses for the rescue/rope access market. The suspension harnesses have been purpose
Self-retracting lanyard
built to include all the vital features for rescue and rope access work, encompassing rescue and emer-
MSA has introduced the
gency services, industrial rope access, abseiling
Workman self-retracting
and tower work.
lanyard. The lanyard is provided in a 9 m length. Other features include: RFID enabled for product tracking and inspection;
Available in the ExoFit NEX or Delta II styles, the harnesses provide the functions required by rescue personnel when faced with extreme situations. The ExoFit NEX models provide comfort, safety and ease of use, while the Delta II style is an economical version of the basic suspension harness incorporating features required for the job at hand.
136 kg working capacity
There are models available with a chest ascender to aid in ascending working lines, models without a
for increased versatility;
chest ascender and a model that includes an integral miner’s belt built specifically for mines rescue scenarios.
available with galvanised
The DBI-Sala i-Safe intelligent safety system using RFID technology is built into each harness in the
or stainless steel lifeline (cable) to
range to track inspections, control inventory and manage information. All of the harnesses meet the strict
fit varied applications.
requirements of the AS/NZS 1891.1:2007 standard and conform to AS/NZS 4488.1 & 2 Twin Rope Ac-
MSA Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S032
cess Standard. Capital Safety Group (Australia) Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S745
18 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
Disposable protective coverall 3M’s 4510 Protective Coverall is constructed of high-quality laminated microporous material and is designed to provide protection against hazardous dusts and light liquid chemical splashes. Features include: good barrier against dry particles and certain limited liquid chemical splash (CE Type 5/6); laminated microporous material; two-way zipper with storm flap for added on-off convenience and extra protection; elastic cuffs, waist and ankles for a better fit; low-linting; antistatic treatment. Suitable applications include: light industrial cleaning; machine maintenance; paint spraying and powder coating; coating and resin applications. The company says the coverall is suitable for consideration for: asbestos inspection and removal; site preparation, insulation; cement manufacturing; grinding and polishing; pharmaceutical processing and handling toxic powders; cleanrooms. 3M Personal Safety Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S816
Remote filter holder Safety Equipment Australia has released a remote filter holder for half-mask respirators. The extended breathing hose enables the filter or filters to be placed around the user’s back, well away from any pollutant directly in front. This may also extend filter life. The remote filter holder fits into Sundström SR100 and SR90-3 half-mask respirators without any modifications. The slimline design allows breathing protection to be used in combination with many visors, face shields and welding helmets. Also, with welding in mind, the breathing hose is protected by a spark- and flame-resistant sleeve. Both particle and gas filters from the Sundström range can be fitted to the holder, singly or in combinations. The unit comes with a clip-on waist belt, enabling the filter to be placed where desired. For further convenience, the breathing hose can be swivelled over the wearer’s left or right shoulder. Safety Equipment Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S301
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 19
When: Tuesday 19 March 2013, 10 am-4 pm Wednesday 20 March 2013, 9 am-4 pm Thursday 21 March 2013, 9 am-4 pm Where: Melbourne Exhibition Centre, South Wharf Further info: www.safetyinaction.net.au/
SAFETY IN ACTION 2013 In March, the Melbourne Exhibition Centre will play host to hundreds of businesses working to keep Australians safe. Experts from all over the country will converge to talk about the latest technology and know-how for three days at Safety In Action (Tuesday 19 to Thursday 21 March 2013).
O
ne of the key speakers at Safety In Action 2013 is Barry Sherriff, an OH&S Partner at Australian law firm Norton Rose. He has been a part of the event for over a decade and this year will discuss how to communicate with various people, within and outside an organisation, who may be a help or hindrance to OHS management policies. It’s a high-priority issue for all involved, and the keys to effective engagement and influencing in OHS will be discussed. Sherriff was a member of a three-person panel that made recommendations to Australian state and federal governments on the structure and content of a model OHS Act. The model Work Health and Safety Act, now in operation in seven of the nine jurisdictions in Australia, closely follows these recommendations. Safety In Action 2013 will also play host to safety world leaders for the SIA National Safety Convention (19-20 March 2013). They will discuss health and safety legislation, issues and practices across Australia and the world for a wider perspective on crucial safety matters for those wanting a deeper experience. As part of the conference, Sherriff will also be conducting a panel discussion and audience Q&A session, about the future of work health and safety in Australia.
The Advanced Logistics and Materials Handling show will also be at the event for those wanting supply chain specialist information on the packing, moving, storing, tracking and delivering industries. With everything displayed under one roof at the exhibition, visitors to the show can source and compare industry suppliers, both new and established, with a vast range of products and services available. Hazibag will be showcasing its innovative containers for safe removal of asbestos. Once asbestos or any other harmful materials have been placed inside the Hazibag, they’re safely contained and ready to be removed or transported. The container has been on the Australian market for about 18 months and has since launched in Germany and the UK, after having been approved under UN recommendations for the safe transport and containment of solid dangerous goods. Also exhibiting is Modern Tools, with its Skyhook lifting cranes on display. The cranes are designed to lift the workload of up to four men. They’re easy to transport, manually operated and can hold weights of up to 227 kg.The cranes are suitable for miners, tradesmen or anyone performing a heavy lifting job, as they eliminate the risk of injury caused by lifting.
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© iStockphoto.com/beetle8
SAFETY IN ACTION
NEW PRODUCTS
Lace-up safety boot The BRGB03S Nullabor lace-up safety boot with bump cap is part of the
Metal-detectable protective clothing
Riggers footwear range. Made from
To reduce the risk of contamination from protective clothing
full-grain, water-resistant leather, the
or other articles accidentally breaking and entering the
boot is built for strength, comfort and
production line, CK Safety has released a large range of
durability. The boot also has antistatic,
metal and X-ray detectable protective clothing products.
oil resistance, hot-contact resistance
The range of clothing provides protection from head
and shock-protection properties, with
to toe, with the added safety of being metal and X-ray
the added protection of a 200 joule SB
detectable. Products include non-woven mob caps, mesh
standard impact-resistant steel toe cap.
hair nets, non-woven and mesh beard snoods, non-woven
Other features include: double-bar-
and polythene sleeve covers, heavy-duty nitrile gloves,
relled padded system, padded collar and
disposable vinyl gloves and shoe covers, all of which
tongue, Smartmask insoles and Vibram
are detectable. The latest product added to the range
outsoles. Available in a wide range of
is the disposable polythene apron, supplied on a roll. All
sizes, the boot is designed to meet
the protective clothing products can be used as part of
AS/NZS 2210.3.2009, EN ISO 20345.
a system for the control of foreign body contamination
Workwear Industries Pty Ltd
and compliance with HACCP and BRC Issue 6. The range is designed for caterers, food processors and
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S903
food manufacturing plants, while also being suitable for a wide range of other industries. CK Safety Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R538
22 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
Arc-rated workwear fabric TenCate Tecasafe plus provides electric arc and flash fire protection in a comfortable lightweight fabric. It performs to the NFPA 70E and NFPA 2112 standards and is inherently flame resistant. The fabric is made with Lenzing Tencel environmentally friendly cellulose fibre. The NFPA 70E compliant, comfortable, lightweight fabric has heat- and flame-retardant properties and provides durable and affordable electric arc protection to electricians, electrical contractors and other professionals with potential exposure to electric arc flash. The fabric provides durable flash fire protection for workers in the petroleum, petrochemical, fire service, mining and other industries that may be exposed to flash fire. It also protects
Protective glove with touchpad capabilities
against the hazards of wildland firefighting and meets the standards of AS/NZS 4824. Elliott Australia Pty Ltd
A protective glove with touchpad capabili-
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S177
ties is part of the Taeki5 range of hand, arm and body protection designed to ensure
Platform step ladder
a safer working environment. It is made from a high cut-resistant Taeki5
A range of aluminium and non-conductive fibreglass platform step and order picking ladders
material and features touchpad capability
has been released by Ladamax. The range is designed to prevent falls from height and is
for added dexterity to the fingertips. The
suitable for situations that require hands-free operation when working above ground or at
glove is also reinforced with an extra layer
height. It complies with OHS regulations covered by the new national working at heights
of HCT nitrile coating for extra grip and
legislation. Main features include: a heavy-duty platform step ladder/order picking range with
abrasion resistance.
safety and stability features; portable and folding; available in aluminium and non-conductive
Taeki 5, Hand, Arm & Body Protection
fibreglass for hot work; platform is test loaded to 500 kg; castor kits available to make the
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S879
range completely mobile; handrails are available on the Stockmate Order Picking range; complies with AS1892 and is Australian made. Ladamax Aluminium Products Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S734
lead them to safety Honeywell can help. Honeywell Safety Products has the broadest portfolio of leading safety solutions in the marketplace today. Our core mission is to help safety managers build an enduring culture of safety that minimizes injuries and maintains a more protective and productive workplace. Partner with Honeywell to discover new ways to lead them to safety. Visit our website today.
www.honeywellsafety.com/culture
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 23
NEW PRODUCTS
Biodegradable nitrile gloves Using eco best technology (EBT), Showa Best has developed a biodegradable disposable nitrile glove, with no loss in mechanical or chemical-resistant performance and no latex or powder in the glove. EBT accelerates the biodegradation of nitrile in biologically active landfills and anaerobic digesters as validated by independent certified laboratories using internationally recognized test methods such as ASTM D5511. It is composed of organic materials designed to make GreeNDex attractive to microbial activity. These microorganisms, upon consuming the EBT material excrete enzymes that depolymerise the nitrile. The final result is biogases and inert humus. The gloves can be used for janitorial, automotive, laboratory analysis, food processing, intricate parts handling and pharmaceutical industries. The gloves comply with FDA (21 CFR 170-199).
Environmental management training The Diploma of Environmental Management (32986QLD) gives environmental officers the practical skills, knowledge and confidence to manage environmental responsibilities. This course covers resource management, land management, environmental legislation, pollution, EMS as well as internal and external communication. The diploma has been developed for those responsible for their site environmental performance. It leaves graduates prepared to manage environmental responsibilities from site level down. Graduates will have the ability to act on information from a range of sources within the environmental management field. They will be able to implement and monitor procedures for controlling risks as well as analyse, plan, design and
Best Manufacturing Australia Pty Ltd
evaluate approaches to unpredictable problems.
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S752
Absorb Environmental Solutions Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S789
Safety goggles Pyramex I-Force safety goggles have H2X anti-fog coating and dual lens technology. The sporty, lightweight frame has dual pane lenses and is antifog, by isolating the temperature difference inside and outside of the eyewear. The thermal system provides antifog protection in harsh weather conditions or extreme-temperature working environments. The goggle has an indirect vented foam carriage which provides dust protection, as well as a sufficient airflow outlet for heat. Interchangeable temples and an elastic strap are included with each pair of I-Force. Key features of the dual lens includes: two lenses in one; an outer polycarbonate lens protects against the environment, while the inner lens is designed to prevent fogging; the inner lens is made from acetate, separated by a thin spacer of air, and sealed together with foam; an air barrier exists in a double lens goggle; the air spacer creates a thermal barrier between the wearer and the cold or hot air; the air barrier helps to further prevent fogging by equalising temperature between the heat of the face and the outside air of the climate. Elliott Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S096
New ProTag Optima System Australia’s Most Compact Appliance Testing and Tag Printing System. The new ProTag Optima System tests portable appliances and RCDs, and prints test tags in a compact system weighing only around 2kg. No interface cables between the tester, printer and scanner provide maximum mobility on construction sites, factories and workshops. Light weight, wireless, battery powered and with logging of visual inspections and risk assessments, the Optima System guarantees greater efficiency, huge time savings and a lower cost per tag. Call EMONA Instruments on tel: 1 800 632 953 email: testinst@emona.com.au or www.protag.com.au 24 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
Firefighting footwear Three Oliver Footwear choices have full compliance with the AS and NZS Standard 4821:2006 for Type 1 Wildland Firefighting and Type 2 Structural Firefighting Footwear, including the electrical insulating properties. The first of the three fire boot choices, the Oliver 66-360 Wildland Firefighter Boot meets the requirements of a Type 1 safety boot suitable for general-purpose rescue, fire suppression, property conservation in
AUSTRALIA’S FALL PREVENTION SPECIALISTS LADaMAX AUSTRALIAN MADE 150kg Rating to AS1892
buildings, enclosed structures, vehicles, vessels or any like situation where a fire or emergency situation may prevail. The boot is a 180 mm, lace-up, fully lined boot with
STABILITY/RIGIDITY SAFETY GATES ARE AVAILABLE
an optional zipper attachment for fast donning and doffing. Construction includes high-quality black water-resistant leather with a heavy-duty nitrile rubber soling system that cushions the foot on impact. The upper is also flame retardant with red Nomex heavy-duty stitching and flameproof laces. There is also a lightweight, high-impact, wide-profile, non-metallic toe cap that is padded with a latex cushion liner for comfort and protection. The high-density outsole is heat resistant
ALUMINIUM FOLDING PLATFORM STEP LADDER
to 300°C of surface contact, slip, cut, crack and split resistant. There is also a TECtuff toe bumper for abrasion or scuffing resistance and a flame-retardant, high-visibility reflective tape patch for identification. The Oliver 66-395 and 66-396 Structural Firefighter Boots are a 230 mm lace-up structural firefighter boot and a 250 mm pull-on structural firefighter boot. Their construction also uses similar features to the Wildland boot but with the additional features of a fully lined Sympatex waterproof liner and membrane plus the QFlex non-metallic midsole penetration protection. The pull-on choice also has Poron, XRD metatarsal protection against impacts while the lace-up version also has the Poron, XRD extreme ankle protection. The lace-up style also has the option of the quick-release zipper attachment for fast donning and doffing. The three firefighters’ boots include standard comfort features designed to protect the heel and ball of the foot and help reduce foot, leg and lower-back fatigue. All three boots are available in sizes 3-15 including half size increments. Oliver Footwear Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S763
Customised isolation solutions Each year thousands of people are injured in the workplace during maintenance of machinery. Many of these
FIBREGLASS FOLDING PLATFORM STEP LADDER NON CONDUCTIVE
SAFEST REAR FRAME
SAFEST PLATFORM
SAFEST BASE BRACE
injuries could have been avoided with an effective lockout/ tagout system. Mayo Hardware can deliver the mining, power generation, manufacturing, utilities, transport, and oil and gas industry customised isolation solutions that are designed to meet the specific needs of the site. This includes Master Lock safety padlocks and lockout
STRONGBOW
World’s Strongest Base Brace Tread Stiffener A NEW GENERATION IN LADDERS
PLATFORM TEST LOAD
500KG
EXCEEDS THE STANDARD A NEW GENERATION IN LADDERS
accessories as well as custom key systems that ensure one employee’s key cannot open another employee’s personal padlock. There is also an extensive range of padlock identification solutions including laser engraving, Traffolyte labels and photo identification. Mayo Hardware can conduct site surveys which identify a site’s exact isolation requirements and solutions to difficult plant isolation. The company can also conduct procedural reviews via established partnerships and provide up-to-date information on the legal requirements for Safe Systems of Work. Mayo Hardware Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S919
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THOUSANDS OF UNITS PER ANNUM TO DISCERNING CUSTOMERS LADaMAX Ph: 07 3205 2511 Fax: 07 3205 4066 Email: admin@ladamax.com.au Visit: www.ladamax.com.au
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 25
NEW PRODUCTS
Specialty respirator for organic vapours
Split specimen cup
3M has released its 9542A particu-
LaneWorkSafe Split Specimen Cup provides accurate re-
late respirator with P2-rated filter to
sults and is simple to use. The last thing employers and
its range of disposable respirators.
stakeholders need is a false-positive
The respirator provides protec-
indicating an employee has
tion against dusts, mists and fumes.
unwanted substances in
The added carbon layer provides
their system at work. The
additional relief from nuisance lev-
cost of unnecessary stand-
els of organic vapours and odours. It
down and expensive con-
is designed to fit a range of facial sizes.
firmatory testing to reveal a
Its foldable design is portable and easy to
false-positive leads to a waste of
carry. The low-profile design allows better visibility as
financial resources and employee
well as compatibility with eyewear. Each respirator is individually
relationships.
wrapped, protecting it from contamination prior to use, as well as
The cup is an Australian
making it practical for storage and dispensing in the workplace.
Standard compliant product
The respirator is suitable for use in foundry operations, mining,
suitable for mining, construction,
metal processing, printing, light-duty welding, agricultural opera-
medical and other Australian
tions, laboratory, waste disposal, solvent cleaning plus various
workplaces - both government
other operations where particulate, nuisance levels of organic
and non-government. The split cup has a compliance certificate issued by an
vapour and odours are present. It meets performance requirements of Australia/New Zealand
independent NATA accredited laboratory.
Standards AS/NZS 1716:2012.
LaneWorkSafe Pty Ltd
3M Personal Safety
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S267
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S755
26 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
Hydration drink THORZT is a drink that has
Thermal imagers
been scientifically formulated
Fluke has released the Ti105 and TiR105 thermal im-
to meet the hydration require-
agers, the latest addition to the company’s series of
ments of workers in extreme
lightweight, rugged and easy-to-use imagers.
environments.
The Ti105 helps plant technicians, HVAC/R profes-
The drink has been positively
sionals and electricians maintain and inspect electrical
evaluated by physiologists at the
and mechanical equipment and components, which lets
University of Western Australia and
them find potential problems before they become costly
its formula has low levels of sugar.
failures. Technicians can troubleshoot in seconds, reduc-
The concentrates are available in
ing the likelihood of unplanned downtime and allowing
five flavours in both core and sugar-free formulas.
regular inspections from a safe distance. The TiR105 lets building inspection and energy audit
Five Fruits Multi Packs have
professionals evaluate and report insulation problems,
been released in both core and
air leakage, moisture issues or construction defects.
sugar-free varieties. Each pack
It quickly documents visible proof of problems so
contains either 10 x Solo Shots
repairs can be made and then verifies those repairs
(core) or 50 x Solo Shots (sugar-
have been made correctly.
free) sachets that make a rehydrating drink when mixed with 800 mL of water. Thorzt Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S429
The imagers’ advanced features include the IR-Fusion (picture in picture) technology, which helps users identify and document problem areas by overlaying a PIP infrared image over a digital image. Fluke Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R795
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 27
WorkCover NSW’s Crane Safety Roundtable was specially convened on 4 December in the wake of the crane fire and collapse at the University of Technology, Sydney Broadway, on Tuesday 27 November 2012. The purpose of the roundtable, which was attended by representatives of building industry, unions, crane suppliers and the NSW Industry Plant Consultative Committee, a joint initiative of WorkCover NSW, the Master Builders Association of NSW and the NSW CFMEU, was to prevent such incidents from happening again. A commitment to maintain and improve tower crane safety and emergency evacuation procedures in the building industry was the key outcome from the WorkCover NSW roundtable which also provided a preliminary update on WorkCover’s investigation into possible causes of the recent incident in Sydney. General Manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division John Watson said that tower cranes are potentially hazardous plant machinery and the outcome of this recent incident could have been catastrophic. He said WorkCover’s investigation into the incident in Sydney was ongoing. WorkCover officials provided a preliminary briefing in relation to possible root causes and preliminary actions in relation to reviewing and monitoring risk controls. While the actual cause of the incident is not yet known, a number of potential causes have been identified. “WorkCover has taken possession of a number of relevant components and transported them to its Londonderry facility for testing and analysis in an attempt to identify the cause of the fire,” said Watson. “Any action taken by WorkCover will be dependent on the findings of the investigation.” The roundtable agreed that all persons in control of tower cranes should address the following key risk controls: Fire prevention measures • Check fuel lines and hydraulic hoses are located away from ignition sources or guarded to prevent leaking fluid from contacting potential ignition sources. • Do not store unnecessary quantities of combustibles on the machine deck. • Enhance inspection and maintenance programs to prevent
© iStockphoto.com/sculpies
CASE STUDY
WorkCover NSW addressing crane safety
or minimise fluid leaks, including preventative maintenance to replace hoses before they fail. • When replacing hoses ensure that they meet the crane manufacturer’s specifications. • Ensure hydraulic systems are operating as designed and any malfunctions, including leaks, are repaired prior to the crane resuming service. Fire control measures • Ensure fire extinguishing equipment and fire detection and control systems are correctly maintained and serviced. • Ensure operators understand the use of fire extinguishing equipment provided. Evacuation procedures and systems • Review site evacuation procedures to include consideration of structural collapse including tower cranes. • Ensure emergency plans and communication systems are adequate and well maintained. The roundtable was also reminded of the need to be vigilant about general site safety including falls from heights. The WorkCover investigation into the fire is predicted to take some time to complete; however, as further, more detailed risk information comes to hand, this information will be disseminated to industry in a form which will assist industry in progressing prevention actions.
NEW PRODUCTS
Static eliminator Exair’s Super Ion Air Knife neutralises static electricity while blowing away dust and particulates from printed surfaces, paper, plastics and three-dimensional shapes. The 1372 mm wide laminar airstream full of static eliminating ions is effective at high speeds and provides cleaning up to 6.1 m away. Poor print quality, dust attraction, tearing, jamming and related equipment downtime can be eliminated. The static eliminator uses only 16.7 scfm of compressed air at 5 psig to entrain high volumes of surrounding room air. An electrically powered static control bar fills the uniform sheet of air with a high concentration of positive and negative ions. The laminar airstream increases the surface exposure to the ions, making it effective for high-speed processes and over long distances. Force can be adjusted from a ‘blast’ to a ‘breeze’. The shockless design is UL Component Recognized to US and Canadian safety standards and power supplies are CE and RoHS compliant. There are no moving parts to wear out. Applications include surface cleaning, neutralising plastics, bag opening, pre-paint dust removal, printing machinery, packaging operations and elimination of painful static electricity shocks. Many lengths up to 2438 mm are available. Compressed Air Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S790 © iStockphoto.com/Miklos Voros
28 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
Pilz offers expert training solutions for machinery and equipment safety.
Machinery Safety Training
Our training is based on AS4024.1-2006 Safety of Machinery and the new harmonised Work Health and Safety legislation. Our updated course offerings include: MachineSAFE Introduction (1 Day) This popular course has been designed to provide a basic knowledge on how to make machinery safe. It has been updated to include the key points of machinery safety with reference to the new WHS legislation, and Australian Standard AS4024.1-2006 Safety of machinery. MachineSAFE Advanced (2 Day) This newly developed course is a follow on from the Introduction Course and has been specially put together for technical staff who are given the very important task of building safety features into new machinery or upgrading the safety features on existing machinery. It delves into much more detail on the key aspects of mechanical and electrical safety design for machinery. Customised Machinery Safety Courses. We can create customised courses that cater for the specific needs of your organisation such as conveyor safety, Lock out Tag out/energy isolation, risk assessment, machine guarding, safety control system design, etc. For more details on our courses see our website www.machinesafe.com.au or phone us on 03 9544 6300 or email us at training@machinesafe.com.au
Melbourne • Sydney • Brisbane • Auckland
Ph: 03 9544 6300 Fax: 03 9544 6311 www.pilz.com.au safety@pilz.com.au
the spirit of safety
KEEPING ON TOP OF FIRE SAFETY REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS Garry Kwok, National Technical Services Manager, Wormald
Fire safety is an important responsibility for anyone managing a business or facility of any size. To ensure the safety of building or site occupants, it is vital that an adequate fire protection solution is in place and that sufficient fire safety training is provided to building occupants. It is also important that any fire protection equipment on site is routinely serviced so that it is kept in proper working order and ready when needed.
O
ver the past eighteen months, a number of amendments have been introduced to legislation and to Australian Standards relating to fire safety and fire protection systems and equipment. Business and property managers have a responsibility to keep up to date with these changes to ensure compliance and a high level of protection against fire.
Routine maintenance and servicing There are various state-based fire safety regulations throughout Australia. For example, in New South Wales (NSW), property owners and managers must be aware of the NSW Environmental Planning & Assessment Regulations (2000). The regulation stipulates that all essential fire safety measures must be maintained and demands that an Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) be prepared by a building’s owner or their agent and submitted to the respective governing authority. An AFSS certifies that a building’s fire safety measures have been assessed by a qualified person and were found capable of performing as intended to their original design standard. November 2012 saw the release of the newly revised edition of the Australian Standard AS1851 with a title change to AS1851-2012 ‘Routine Service of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment’. Australian Standard AS1851-2012 provides prescribed routine servicing activities for the majority of fire protection systems and equipment. This includes inspection, testing, preventative maintenance and survey
30 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
activities and helps to ensure that the systems and equipment are in proper working order. The latest revision to AS1851-2012 is the result of extensive consultation between industry experts, regulators, government and fire service providers. While many of the core elements of AS1851 remain the same, there have been some clarifications, updates and improvements. For example, the standard introduces the requirement for ‘baseline data’ to be provided for any fire protection systems and equipment installed. This provides a benchmark for subsequent periodic servicing activities so results can be compared. There is now greater emphasis on the records and evidence required by the building owner to demonstrate regulatory compliance.
Fire protection in aged care facilities 2012 also saw a significant change to fire safety legislation relating to nursing homes and aged care facilities. As of 1 January 2013, the retrofitting of automatic sprinkler systems has become a mandatory requirement in existing facilities throughout NSW. This is a change that will be welcomed by many, as it significantly enhances the safety of these living environments for the state’s older and most vulnerable citizens. Similar requirements already exist in Victoria and Queensland and these changes to the legislation in NSW are consistent with the Building Code of Australia’s national standard for sprinklers in newly built aged care buildings which has applied since 2002. Given the tragic
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FIRE SAFETY
THERE IS NOW GREATER EMPHASIS ON THE RECORDS AND EVIDENCE REQUIRED BY THE BUILDING OWNER TO DEMONSTRATE REGULATORY COMPLIANCE.
older building can be a complex project and will take time. Aged care providers and nursing home facility managers should allow themselves plenty of time to meet the prescribed deadlines. Once installed, automatic sprinkler systems need to be maintained in accordance with relevant legislation, codes and standards to ensure they are in proper working order if and when they are required to operate in the event of a fire.
© iStockphoto.com/Roger Cotton
Fire safety training
consequences of a fire at a Quakers Hill nursing home in November 2011, it is not surprising that many groups, including Council of the Ageing, are calling for this legislation to be extended to all nursing homes throughout the country. Under the new regulation, operators of Commonwealth-accredited aged care facilities have just 18 months to retrofit sprinklers. Operators who are unable to meet that time frame will be given until January 2016 to complete the installation and will be required to submit six-monthly progress reports to the government’s implementation committee. Many operators are already well advanced in their preparations. While the cost to retrofit an aged care facility can be significant, automatic sprinkler systems are widely recognised as one of the most effective defences a building can have against fire. When used in conjunction with a fire detection system, these sprinkler systems can automatically detect a fire, transmit an alarm to warn occupants and alert the fire brigade, while at the same time acting to control the fire. They have the ability to limit fire damage to the property and reduce interruption to facility operations. Under the new regulation, operators will need to inform residents, prospective residents and families about whether sprinklers are installed and make progress reports publicly available. Fire safety in any building, regardless of size or purpose, requires careful consideration and expert assessment to determine the most appropriate fire protection solution. Retrofitting a sprinkler system in an
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
While having an appropriate fire protection solution is essential, its impact will be limited if building occupants don’t know how to respond in the event of an emergency. Facility managers must ensure that staff members are also trained. For example, staff should be aware of how to use the portable fire protection equipment on site and how to effectively evacuate in the event of an emergency. Facility and business managers should develop an effective fire prevention plan in accordance with the Australian Standard, AS 3745 2010 ‘Planning for Emergencies in Facilities’. Emergency-related training is a vital element of this fire prevention plan. The Standard outlines the minimum requirements for the development of the emergency plan and also provides direction for the planning and implementation of an effective emergency planning committee, emergency control organisation (ECO) and emergency response procedures. The purpose of the ECO is to provide guidance to management and staff that places them in the best position to quickly and adequately respond to an actual or potential emergency on their premises or nearby. Those appointed to the ECO have the responsibility of ensuring that all relevant personnel are trained for their role in an emergency and could manage the situation until appropriate emergency services arrive. It’s important to note amendments to AS 3745 which came in to effect in late 2011. These changes make it mandatory for training to be completed by at least one member of the emergency planning committee, for the ECO and for the facility occupants. Furthermore, ECO members must attend skills retention training every six months. Wormald offers a wide range of fire safety training courses such as warden training, emergency awareness training, evacuation training and fire extinguisher training.
Keeping up to date Fire safety is an important responsibility and it can be daunting to keep up to date with frequent changes to legislation, codes and standards and understand exactly what the responsibilities are. Working with a fire protection specialist can help building managers and EHS officers to stay on top of things - ensuring all of the necessary servicing procedures are undertaken so that the risk of the fire protection equipment failing is minimised. Having well-maintained fire protection equipment and systems on site could mean the difference between a minor fire and a devastating blaze. Wormald offers maintenance and servicing to all types and size of business and can also maintain other manufacturers’ systems. Wormald Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S808
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 31
NEW PRODUCTS
Safety of machinery workshops AS 4024.1-2006 Safety of Machinery workshop participants will learn essential legal obligations and to apply the critical requirements of the stand-
Spill-containment range
ard for legal compliance together with enhanced productivity. Carefully constructed exercises, led
The Enpac range comprises tough polyethylene technologies designed to prevent
by a key member of the AS 4024 (Safety of
slip and fall hazards - while also preventing the health, environmental and downtime
Machinery) committee, consolidate the ‘safety by
hazards resulting from chemical spills. The range brings together in one system a
design’ principles.
complete range of solutions to materials handling issues commonly arising across a broad spectrum of industrial applications. The equipment is purpose built to comply with packaging and environmental standards for handling, storage and transporting of hazardous materials, including those of the US EPA. Environmental Protection Agencies in Australia require that all drums and other primary containers containing hazardous liquids are stored in a bunded area that must be able to contain 110% of the capacity of the largest drum or 25% of the total, whichever is the greater. Enpac’s two and four-drum polyethylene spill pallets and two-, four-, six- and eight-drum workstations are part of a range of spill containment, environmental and worker protection products. Included are: two-drum forkliftable Poly-Spillpallet 2000 with a 900 kg load-bearing capacity UDL and a sump capacity of 220.4 L with drain hole and plug; four-drum Poly Slim-Line 6000, forkliftable from all four sides and with a load-bearing capacity of 2700 kg UDL in four 205 L drums; and four-drum Poly-Spillpallet 3000, which permits drum storage near walls and between columns and other obstacles and has a load bearing capacity of 1350 kg and 250.8 L sump.
Frank Schrever is the principal trainer of the workshops. He is chairman of the Australian Standards Committee for ‘Safety of Machinery’ SF 041 reviewing AS 4024 and other machine-specific standards since 1999. Schrever has over 34 years of experience in instrumentation and automation and designed the first safe automation course at Swinburne University and guest lectures at educational institutions. After 12 years as MD of Pilz Australia, he established Machine Safety By Design Pty Ltd to provide specialist machinery safety
Drums workstations in two-, four-, six- and eight-drum capacities are designed to
consulting and training to the machine industry.
integrate into factory and workshop floors, optimising space, safety and efficiency.
The workshops include vital information for:
Features include: constructed in tough, one-piece polyethylene, simple to load with
machinery designers and manufacturers; OEMs;
low-profile design, optional ramp and large sump capacity; multiple drums worksta-
machinery importers and suppliers; electricians;
tions can be combined by a Link-lock feature; and workstations feature rolled-edge
technicians and operators; OHS professionals
design to help resist crack and warpage and have strong, structural foam grates
and managers and supervisors.
that remove for easy cleaning. Enware Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S385
32 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
Machine Safety by Design Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S862
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
Compare these Blowoffs
Facts about Blowers
There are a variety of ways to blow the water from the bottles shown in the photo below, but which method is best? To decide, we ran a comparison test on the same application using four different blowoff methods: drilled pipe, flat air nozzles, Super Air Knife™ (each using compressed air as a power source), and a blower supplied air knife (using an electric motor as a power source). Each system consisted of two twelve inch long air knives. The following comparison proves that the EXAIR Super Air Knife is the best choice for your blowoff, cooling or drying application.
Energy conscious plants might think a blower to be a better choice due to its slightly lower electrical consumption compared to a compressor. In reality, a blower is an expensive capital expenditure that requires frequent downtime and costly maintenance of filters, belts and bearings.
The goal for each of the blowoff choices was to use the least amount of air possible to get the job done (lowest energy and noise level). The compressed air pressure required was 60 PSIG which provided adequate velocity to blow the water off. The blower used had a ten horsepower motor and was a centrifugal type blower at 18,000 RPM. The table at the bottom of the page summarizes the overall performance. Since your actual part may have an odd configuration, holes or sharp edges, we took sound level measurements in free air (no impinging surface).
Drilled Pipe
Blower Air Knife
This common blowoff is very inexpensive and easy to make. For this test, we used (2) drilled pipes, each with (25) 1/16" diameter holes on 1/2" centers. As shown in the test results below, the drilled pipe performed poorly. The initial cost of the drilled pipe is overshadowed by its high energy use. The holes are easily blocked and the noise level is excessive - both of which violate OSHA requirements. Velocity across the entire length was very inconsistent with spikes of air and numerous dead spots.
The blower proved to be an expensive, noisy option. As noted below, the purchase price is high. Operating cost was considerably lower than the drilled pipe and flat air nozzle, but was comparable to EXAIR’s Super Air Knife. The large blower with its two 3" (8cm) diameter hoses requires significant mounting space compared to the others. Noise level was high at 90 dBA. There was no option for cycling it on and off to conserve energy like the other blowoffs. Costly bearing and filter maintenance along with downtime were also negative factors.
Flat Air Nozzles
EXAIR Super Air Knife
As shown below, this inexpensive air nozzle was the worst performer. It is available in plastic, aluminum and stainless steel from several manufacturers. The flat air nozzle provides some entrainment, but suffers from many of the same problems as the drilled pipe. Operating cost and noise level are both high. Some manufacturers offer flat air nozzles where the holes can be blocked an OSHA violation. Velocity was inconsistent with spikes of air.
The Super Air Knife did an exceptional job of removing the moisture on one pass due to the uniformity of the laminar airflow. The sound level was extremely low. For this application, energy use was slightly higher than the blower but can be less than the blower if cycling on and off is possible. Safe operation is not an issue since the Super Air Knife can not be dead-ended. Maintenance costs are low since there are no moving parts to wear out.
Here are some important facts: Filters must be replaced every one to three months. Belts must be replaced every three to six months. Typical bearing replacement is at least once a year at a cost near $1000.
• Blower bearings wear out quickly due to the high speeds (17-20,000 RPM) required to generate effective airflows. • Poorly designed seals that allow dirt and moisture infiltration and environments above 125°F decrease the one year bearing life. • Many bearings can not be replaced in the field, resulting in downtime to send the assembly back to the manufacturer. Blowers take up a lot of space and often produce sound levels that exceed OSHA noise level exposure requirements. Air volume and velocity are often difficult to control since mechanical adjustments are required. To discuss an application, contact:
Compressed Air Australia Pty Ltd GPO Box 2792 Darwin NT 0801 Phone: 1300 787 688 Fax: 1300 787 637 email: info@caasafety.com.au www.caasafety.com.au
The Super Air Knife is the low cost way to blowoff, dry, clean and cool.
Blowoff Comparison
$952 *Based on national average electricity cost of 8.3 cents per kWh. Annual cost reflects 40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year.
$2,669
CASE STUDY
Toyota forklift gives Darwin building supplier a boost
Darwin’s largest family-owned builders’ supplier has commissioned two three-tonne-capacity Toyota forklift trucks to boost safety, productivity and machine availability. Trade Building Supplies commissioned the two Toyota 32-8FG30 forklifts to load building supplies, including packs of timber, at its Berrimah headquarters. Sister company Alltools is poised to purchase two petrol/gas Toyota forklifts this financial year. Company Director Darren Treumer said the three-tonne payload internal combustion forklifts replaced another brand. “Our family business owns many Toyota vehicles and it made sense to switch to Toyota for the latest forklift purchase,” he said. “Overall, Toyota has a very good name in the Northern Territory and the forklifts always provide good resale value. They even match our company colours.
“Toyota forklifts have excellent safety features and the models we have just purchased have been highly specified, with features such as weighing scales. “In addition to the quality of the machines, we have the peace of mind of knowing that if we do need a spare part, they’re readily available at the local Toyota forklift dealer, Western Diesel. “Spares availability was an issue with our previous machines,” Treumer said. Trade Building Supplies was founded in 2004 to meet the need for a building supply company that focused on ‘old school’ Australian values and attention to detail. The company supplies a range of building products, from roof trusses to general building material and hardware items on all types of projects, whether they be residential, commercial or industrial, throughout the Northern Territory. Western Diesel’s Toyota Industrial Sales Consultant Ron Gysberts said the 32-8FG30 forklift has Toyota’s System of Active Stability (SAS) for safe manoeuvring and Operator Presence Sensing (OPS), which prevents accidental movement of the hydraulic controls or traction in the event the operator leaves the seat, and provides peace of mind for operators and managers. “In addition, SAS Automatic Fork Levelling Control, ergonomic controls and smooth, quiet operation from the Toyota engine has greatly improved our workplace operations,” he said. Toyota Material Handling Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R149
NEW PRODUCTS
Breathable glove HexArmor has released the Rig Lizard Oasis 2022 hand protection. The ventilation technology, called HexVent, is an advanced nylon mesh that supports the IR-X smash guard exoskeleton, which together provides a lightweight, breathable glove complete with synthetic high-grip palm. Using the impact guard design, the range has the ability to dampen blunt force to the hand, deflecting the impact of hazardous or damaging blows. HexArmor Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S740
34 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
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Automated gas detection fleet test system MSA’s Galaxy GX2 Automated Test System efficiently manages a portable gas detection fleet through simple, intelligent testing and calibration of MSA Altair and Altair Pro single-gas detectors and Altair 4X and 5X multigas detectors. The easy-to-use automated test stand offers high performance as either a stand-alone unit or an integrated portable detector management system, enabling total data access and control of the MSA Altair Gas Detector fleet. Once an Altair Family Gas Detector is placed within the Galaxy GX2 System, it can be tested and calibrated automatically. Flexibility allows for up to 10 test stations, four cylinder holders and a multi-unit charger within one system detector bank. Eighteen languages can be easily chosen via an on-screen menu. Featured Models:
Featuring easy set-up with touch-free testing, it is said to save
T5LD Latex Palm, T5SLE35 35cm Sleeve Made with Taeki5®
up to 50% cost of ownership, including calibration gas when used with MSA high-performance XCell Sensors and through reduced calibration gas usage and faster testing times. The company’s Link Pro software offers proactive safety management by addressing gas exposure information and missing or failed calibrations and bump tests.
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MSA Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S043
Safety signs and labels Safety signs and labels reduce workplace hazards by alerting staff to potential incidents well before they happen. The ProChoice signs and labels collection meets statutory workplace requirements. The company also has a customisation service for specific site needs. They are available in a range of substrates and sizes. ProChoice Safety Gear
Taeki 5® is a High Performance Fibre, providing both mechanical and heat resistance and engineered with Hand, Arm and Body Protection in mind. gloves and sleeves made with taeki5® fibre are lightweight for comfort and feature superior fit, dexterity and tactile sensitivity. The ProChoice Taeki5® cut and heat resistant range offers a choice of dipped and leather-clad palms for a variety of applications.
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S490
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 35 TAEKI5 Advert.indd 1
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NEW PRODUCTS
Dry-type transformers ABB has released three dry-type transformers. The improved EcoDry
Safety glasses
low-loss transformer, TriDry triangular transformer and PoleDry trans-
The 3M BX safety glasses range
former provide users improved efficiency, safety and eco-compatibility.
provides adjustability with comfort.
The PoleDry transformer is a dry-type (no fluid inside) transformer
They have a modern design and
designed for pole-mounted applications. The transformer is manu-
suitable protection against flying
factured using Vacuum Cast Coil (VCC) technology ensuring the
particles.
transformer is non-flammable and self-extinguishing.
Fully adjustable arm length and
The TriDry adopts the latest core technology, using a triangular
lens angles provide full protection,
construction for its core. Along with the traditional advantages offered
the soft tip temples and universal-fit
by a dry-type transformer, the symmetrical construction ensures that
nose bridge provide improved com-
no-load losses, footprint, weight, noise emissions, inrush currents,
fort and an antifog coating reduces
harmonic content and stray magnetic fields are all reduced. This
fogging for clear vision.
compact transformer range extends from 100 to 2500 kVA.
The range consists of three
EcoDry dry-type distribution transformers are ‘green’ transform-
models. All have ocean blue frames
ers which provide the inherent benefits of a dry-type transformer,
and wearers can choose from clear,
including fire safety and environmental friendliness (no fluid leakage)
grey or light amber antifog lenses.
with ultrahigh efficiencies suitable for renewable energy applications.
It has a medium impact rating and
The transformers incorporate amorphous-metal core lamination which is said to reduce transformer losses
is compatible with a range of PPE
up to 70%. To match individual user applications, there are different types of EcoDry: the EcoDryBasic dry-
including safety helmets and half-
type transformer for distribution transformers with a low average load and the EcoDry99Plus for applications
face respirators.
involving a high to very high loading.
3M Personal Safety
ABB Australia Pty Ltd
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S353
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S107
LaneWorkSafe are wholesalers of Urine Drug and Saliva Testing Equipment. LaneWorkSafe offer competitive prices and can guarantee continuity of supply on our quality equipment.
The LaneWorkSafe Split Specimen Cup is made to meet Australian Standard AS4308:2008 cut-off levels. Used by NSW Police for testing serving Police Officers.
LaneWorkSafe deliver all clients the highest quality and best value on-site devices currently available in Australia. Unlike others we stand behind our product with after-sales and backup support.
www.laneworksafe.com.au 36 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
Ph: 1800 429 219 www.SafetySolutions.net.au
CASE STUDY
Sitemed supports rail project staff On-site health and emergency response company Sitemed has been contracted by Downer EDI to manage the health and medical needs of the workforce working on a major rail project in the Northern Territory. As part of the contract, Sitemed mobilised staff and services to create an on-site medical centre and mobile response service to support workers, including securing a Northern Territory drug licence to possess and administer emergency drugs. The Downer team of 25 workers is carrying out railway construction and repairs several hundred kilometres from Tennant Creek. Sitemed general manager Nicole Nott said the company had been able to establish a fully functional on-site facility from scratch with only a short lead time, as was often required by clients. “Working in these remote locations, a major consideration is the environmental factors such as risk of heat stress and heat stroke with high temperatures and physically demanding work, snake bite and general medical risks such as cardiac arrest. “Downer is to be applauded for its proactivity in assessing the risks of working in remote locations and engaging a company like ours to protect its workforce.” Downer executive general manager of Rail Infrastructure Paul Kyte said: “Knowing that Sitemed was on site 24 hours a day, seven
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
days a week, providing our people with quality medical care and emergency response gave us peace of mind.” Sitemed was recently named national winner of the HTC Start-Up Award category in the 2012 Telstra Australian Business Awards. Sitemed Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S126
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 37
CASE STUDY
Scissor lift solution for power board manufacturer Optimum Handling Solutions (OHS) provided a national power board manufacturing company with a number of custom 300 kg lift and tilt work platforms for its main production facility in Sydney. Customised scissor lift tables were suitable adjustable height work platforms. Each work platform was customised to the client’s specifications. The work platforms sizes were designed to suit the products, and being height adjustable, they ensured operators were always working at a suitable height for the job at hand. A unique tilt function was added to assist with the testing and packing of the larger power boards. Ball transfers made the positioning of the products simple.
Lifting and tilting functions were controlled by hand pendant; however, foot control or a wall-mounted cabinet was available as well as automatic level controls for specialised applications. The safety and production managers were pleased with the outcome of the custom work tables and were interested in purchasing additional units due to the difference they have made in the workshop so far. Optimum Handling Solutions Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/R796
Innovative Powered Respirator
Electrical arc flash protective face shields Arc flash protective face shields are critically important in keeping electrical workers safe in low-voltage environments where workers are required to wear face shields. Arc flash accidents can cause serious injuries or kill. Elliotts ArcSafe Elvex face
Talk to your leading safety
shields and kits are tested and
supplier today or email us at sales@paftec.com
certified at the Kinectrics High Current Laboratory. The face shields are moulded polycarbonate material for maximum
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thermal and impact protection.
GENERATION Works Hard Long Operating Time
to provide suitable visible light transmission (VLT). The protection value (ATPV) for FS18ARC10 shield is 10 cal/ cm 2 and the protection value (ATPV) for FS20ARC10 shield
Internal Air Flow Test Gas and Particulate Filtration Secure Pin and Lock Filter Cover Robust and Reliable at 7m Drop Test Tough and Simple DC Jack Charger Connection Comfortable and Supportive Webbing Head Harness Enhanced Natural Breath Responsive AirsensitÂŽ System
www.paftec.com 38 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
They are designed in light green
is 12 cal/cm 2 and is equipped with a chin cup. Face shields are also available with visor bracket for mounting to various style safety caps. Elliott Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S769
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
Breath-alcohol measuring instrument with a vehicle immobiliser The Dräger Interlock XT can be fitted to company vehicles as part of an employer’s health and safety at work policy. Eliminating the risks associated with drink driving, it helps organisations to ensure that they are doing everything they reasonably can to prevent an accident or incident resulting from the actions of an employee. Fitted to the vehicle’s ignition, the device measures the driver’s breath alcohol level. The driver simply blows into the device as directed by the straightforward user menu. The vehicle will not start until an alcohol level that is within the pre-set maximum limit is received. Additional control options can be programmed to ensure that the driver stays sober while driving and any attempt to tamper with the device can be recorded. Draeger Safety Pacific Pty Ltd
CASE STUDY
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S718
No heavy lifting required for WRP mine project Pengelly Electrical used Evo-Crete’s cable ladder blocks for its WRP mine project. The electrical contractors, working in the fields of agriculture, commercial and mining, gained the contract to build the electrical pipeline for the Woornack, Rownack and Pirro (WRP) mine site in Ouyen, Victoria. The company was advised the mine was planning on using solid concrete for the 600 m of cable to be built. The cable was being built for a temporary set-up of three years. The company had initial concerns of safety, time constraints and the lifting and handling involved in working with concrete. As such, the team searched for a solution and one team member suggested Evo-Crete. The contractors ended up using Evo-Crete’s standard large cable ladder blocks for the WRP mine project, as they found cost savings through a number of avenues using the blocks. There was no need to hire a crane as no slinging was required, the blocks were lightweight enough for two people to move safely and comfortably, and savings were also found through reduced labour requirements as less workers were needed to complete the job. Another benefit the company found was the ability to move the blocks easily in larger quantities, whereas a pallet could only usually carry 10 concrete blocks per pallet. The highlighted weight advantages also had occupational health and safety benefits as manual handling risks were reduced. The workers also found it easy to screw into the blocks when necessary, therefore a job that would usually take weeks, took only days. Evolve Composites Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S675
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 39
CASE STUDY
Ingested capsule monitors heat stress in firefighters Victorian firefighters ingested a capsule capable of relaying live data about their health during a simulated training exercise which saw 50 volunteer firefighters evacuate 20 people from a burning medical centre. The exercise was part of a pilot study investigating heat stress in firefighters. The study aimed to help firefighters learn more about how their bodies reacted to working in hot, stressful situations and when to take breaks, according to CFA Health and Wellbeing officer Peter Langridge. “ T h i s d a t a h a s re s u l t e d i n a change in work patterns and exposure times to increase the safety of firefighters. If we see their core body temperature increasing then we know to remove them from the fire and put them into the rehabilitation area,” said Langridge. “Working in hot environments will stress different people at different rates. There is no set formula for how long a person can fight a fire before they start suffering from heat stress or dehydration and management is the key to protecting our firefighters. “The capsule fed us excellent live data about the heat stress and welfare of individual firefighters and where they were located. “While personal protective clothing has minimised the amount of radiant heat our firefighters are exposed to, we still need to manage the risk of heat-related illness,” said Langridge.
40 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
The study took place during a simulated training exercise in Echuca, which saw volunteer firefighters from three different brigades work together to evacuate 20 people from a burning medical centre. By ingesting a body temperature capsule and wearing chest monitors, the 50 firefighters provided realtime performance data including core body temperature, heart rate, skin temperature, respiratory rate and effort, as well information about location and body movement. Ben Greenaway, managing director, BMedical, said, “The pilot study was an excellent opportunity for BMedical to support Australian firefighters. Equivital EQ02 LifeMonitor uses stateof-the-art technology and provided the firefighters with a wealth of information about their vital signs. “The next step is a national study involving other fire agencies as more research needs to be done in the area of heat stress in firefighters.” The Equivital EQ02 LifeMonitor is already being used by firefighters in the UK, US and China. The systems are also used by the Defence Science Technology Organisation to evaluate fitness for military roles, AFL Players, racing car drivers, Bear Grylls from the Discovery Channel Show and numerous research projects in universities across Australia. Redbull Stratos also used Equivital to monitor Felix Baumgartner’s vital signs during his world record jump. www.cfa.vic.gov.au
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
NEW PRODUCTS
Training module upgrade for risk management software The training module of the web-based Sherm Software system has been upgraded. Designed to support Australian businesses with safety, health, environment and risk management, Sherm has a variety of modules that streamline the administration, implementation and monitoring of a SHE Risk Management system. The training module is designed with a Training Master whereby all required training programs are listed. By linking required training to job positions, the company automatically populates its ‘Training Needs Analysis’.This module has been modified to enable the configuration of the ‘Training Register’ where details can be recorded for the purpose of facilitating, prioritising and scheduling safety training for employees. When training is scheduled and completed, records are retained in the register. Reporting has been enhanced to allow the running of both scheduled training and training undergone by employee, and functionality has been added to allow employees to manage their personal profile and keep relevant information updated. Other various improvements and inclusions to the application have also been made to meet changes in legislation and also in response to client feedback. These include the reporting and management of issues, confidentiality around health information in the Human Resources Module, links to incident, hazard and issues from the notifications provided through email and within the dashboard message and ease-of-use improvements.
Are you prepared for sudden cardiac arrest?
Sherm Software Pty Ltd
Sudden cardiac arrest claims the lives of nearly
Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S783
30,000 Australians each year. It can affect anyone at anytime. The only definitive treatment
Eyewear range Honeywell Safety Products has added features to its existing SP1000 eyewear range. The SP1000 is now available in clear and grey hard coat, antifog and polarised hard coat.
is high-quality CPR and defibrillation, and every second counts. The ZOLL AED Plus® features Real CPR Help,® which provides real-time feedback to help you provide compressions at the proper depth and rate. The audio and visual prompts
The clear and grey models provide value over the exist-
guide you to rescue with confidence and clarity
ing durastreme models when lens coatings for extreme
unmatched by any other AED. Contact us today
environments are not required. Antifog models combine hydrophilic and hydrophobic
to find out more about the AED Plus.
coatings to prevent lens fogging for all wearers. The polarised model reduces glare and visual distortion magnified by flat surfaces and provides protection from flat surfaces such as steel, roads, water etc. All SP1000 eyewear provides a complete seal around
Call 1-800-605-555 or visit www.zoll.com.au
the wearer’s eye, making it suitable for high particulate, dusty or windy environments. It has removable arms so it can be worn as a spectacle or the arms can be replaced with an accessory headband strap to be worn as a goggle. The eyewear is supplied in high-quality polybags. Honeywell Safety Products Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S556
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 41
Proudly sponsored by:
www.safetysolutions.net.au
© iStockphoto.com/Pgiam
MINING
VEHICLE SAFETY IN MINING There is no doubt that heavy mining vehicle operators have to accomplish a difficult task. The increase in mine productivity has led to a proportional increase in the size of the equipment used. Most vehicles have considerable operator blind spots, due to scale alone.
D
espite the best efforts of operators, accidents on mine sites remain an industry-wide problem. The reasons for accidents are diverse, so too are the collision scenarios. Safety and health commissioner Stewart Bell estimates that greater than 50% of mining operations in Queensland are currently trialling or operating proximity detection systems (PDT) on heavy mining vehicles to reduce these accidents. Building on its experience in the development of advanced driver assistance systems (including: adaptive cruise control (ACC); automatic emergency braking (AEB); pedestrian protection (PP); lane departure warning (LDW); and up to complete autonomous driving platforms) Sick has introduced a turnkey proximity detection system for the mining industry. The Sick suite of collision avoidance systems (CAS) allows for the combination of different technologies in order to be truly fit for purpose. The building blocks of the Sick CAS suite are a number of advanced laser scanners used cooperatively with other sources of information like GPS. Qualified obstacle information from these sensors is used in a warning strategy, which alerts an operator, via a simple user interface, to take evasive action. The same technology has been widely used in passenger vehicles to automatically control the vehicle, adapt the speed to a safe distance and to avoid the collision. The CAS is a turnkey retrofit solution suitable for surface mining operation. The multiecho detection provides good performance in rain, dust, fog and even snow. It can be configured to fit existing mine operation processes. The company has invested in the adaptation of proven technologies in a way to be used by mining companies. This has resulted in a product that is easily installed onto a variety of vehicle types and makes a ‘plug-and-play’ system without the necessity to be integrated into the vehicle’s control and sensor system. This allows for cost-effective adaptation and offers further integration into fleet management or other collision avoidance systems as required. The first installation of the CAS was completed in cooperation with BEC Engineering at Alcoa’s Huntly mine site in 2010. The success of the implementation exemplified the importance of the end user’s dedication to the project and ownership of the technology. Unintended road departure, potential collisions as well as reversing
www.SafetySolutions.net.au
THERE IS NOW GREATER EMPHASIS ON THE RECORDS AND EVIDENCE REQUIRED BY THE BUILDING OWNER TO DEMONSTRATE REGULATORY COMPLIANCE.
incidents are prevented by alerting the operator, displaying only relevant information and alarming audibly, if necessary. It has been developed to be an aid and not an annoyance, as it has an in-built awareness of intentional driving behaviour, like the avoidance of a rock or turning at an intersection. It also automatically adapts warning zone dimensions according to the speed and switches the context between reversing, travelling forward, crossing roads, turning and loading. A digital map is used to raise the operator’s attention in their approach to predefined hazardous areas like intersections and construction sites. The effective combination of technologies is a sensible approach, when considered that fatalities and serious injury can occur in all possible scenarios from: a close proximity crush; an operator misjudgement during a precision loading or unloading process; a microsleep while at the controls of a vehicle. Ultimately, people working within the mines bear the costs of such incidents. The interest from the mine management shouldn’t arise from pending regulation, but from the interest to overcome existing challenges and the desire to be reputed as an industry innovator. This requires comprehensive risk assessment, followed by the implementation of robust process and the effective use of suitable collision avoidance technology. This approach means ‘safety first’. A number of proximity detection systems are available on the market, all of which are designed to help save lives. No individual system offers the ‘silver bullet’ solution, but adds a layer of protection to infrastructure, equipment and people working in mines. Sick Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S555
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 43
RESOURCES
from the editor
Update on anchor point standard
© iStockphoto.com/Dwight Smith
The three key elements in height safety are: the fall arrest rated full body harness, the anchor point and the shock-absorbing lanyard that connects the harness to the anchor. There are Australian Standards (AS/NZS 1891 series) covering the manufacture and test of harnesses, lanyards and both horizontal and vertical lifeline anchors. However, there is no standard for single point anchors - fixed (to a structure) or portable (principally, movable tripods and davits). The Working at Height Association - currently comprising height safety equipment manufacturers, system designers and installers and equipment distributors - saw the need to fill this safety gap. The association agreed to fund the development of an Australian Standard for the manufacture and test of single point anchors through Standards Australia. Current status The standard was initially drafted by the WAHA Technical Committee based on using the ISO14567 standard and aligning it with the current AS/NZS1891 series of standards. This outline work was then passed to Standards Australia to their height safety committee as the basis for development of the new Standard. The final draft Standard went out for Public Comment from September 2012 to November 2012, and those comments were reviewed by the committee in February 2013 and appropriate adjustments made where warranted. The Standard is now in final draft and is currently planned to be released for ballot in March this year. At the conclusion of the ballot, it is expected that the Standard will be formally released shortly afterwards. The new Standard will be named AS/NZS5532 - Manufacturing requirements for single point anchor device used for harness-based work at height. The Working at Height Association is now looking at how best to cover standards or codes of practice to cover the design of anchor point systems, the installation and site testing (as opposed to manufacturing testing) and inspection of those systems as well as appropriate additions to the safe use standards. Gordon Cadzow, Secretary, Working at Height Association Ltd www.waha.org.au
According to Safe Work Australia, 220 workers in Australia died from a workrelated traumatic injury in 2010–11, with more than 170,000 workers injured badly enough to need five or more days off work. The Safe Work Australian Work Health & Safety Strategy 2012-2022, released last year, aims to reduce worker fatalities due to injury by at least 20% by 2022, as well as reduce the incidence of injury. The strategy outlines seven national action areas and identifies a number of broad industry groups to focus its attention and solutions. Some of the industries include agriculture, road transport, manufacturing and construction. In the first five years, the Strategy will focus on work-related disorders such as musculoskeletal, mental, cancers (including skin) asthma, contact dermatitis and noise-induced hearing loss. The ongoing challenge at the forefront of every work health and safety leader is keeping their workers safe. The Zero Harm challenge will be discussed by Malcolm Deery at the OHS Leaders Summit this month. Safety in Action, which is being
New ATO reporting requirements From 1 July 2012, if you are a contractor in the building and construction industry, businesses in this industry will have to report to the ATO the total amount they have paid you each year for building and construction services. The ATO will compare this information with the income you have included in your tax return. Make sure you: • lodge your 2012-13 tax return by the due date and include all your income; • lodge any prior years’ tax returns as soon as possible; • consider making a voluntary disclosure if you think you have made a mistake in a previously lodged tax return. Where you voluntarily advise the ATO of any errors or omissions, any penalties that apply may be reduced. If your tax obligations are not up to date or you choose to do nothing, you could be subject to a review or audit and may face penalties. You can find out more at http://ato.gov.au/taxablepaymentsreporting.
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held in Melbourne in March, will also be presenting the latest products, systems, design and technology to heighten safety for industry. I hope to see you there!
Carolyn Jackson - Editor ss@westwick-farrow.com.au
In my opinion Over the last 10 years, the safety maturity of many commercial and industrial sectors has increased dramatically. No longer is it just the safety managers or supervisors prioritising safety in the workplace, so are workers on all levels.
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There are many reasons for this increase in awareness, including mainstream safety awareness media campaigns, companies investing in more safety training and legislation changes. With companies becoming more safety aware, current processes have been evaluated and replaced with products and methods that meet safety standards.
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The following are three key reasons why cleaning processes have changed in the last decade to ensure cleaning is a safer process for all involved.
Editorial Assistant: Kylie Baracz kbaracz@westwick-farrow.com.au
Slips and falls: It is common thinking that for something to be clean, large amounts of water and chemicals need to be used during the cleaning process. This is one of the myths that modern cleaning technology has tried to shake.
Chief Editor: Janette Woodhouse
An overuse of water and chemicals has the opposite effect to cleaning by actually transferring grime and bacteria from one surface to another. The excess water is just being ‘wiped’ to another area. An overuse of chemicals causes grime and dirt to actually stick to a surface, leading to a build-up bacteria.
Editor: Carolyn Jackson ss@westwick-farrow.com.au
Publisher: Geoff Hird Art Director/Production Manager: Julie Wright Art/Production: Tanya Scarselletti, Colleen Sam, Jeanette Teuma Circulation Manager: Sue Lavery circulation@westwick-farrow.com.au
Besides the obvious hygiene, OHS issues associated with this, sticky surfaces and wet floors are a major contributor to slips and falls. Staff, as well as vehicles and machinery that are driven on damp or wet floors, are at risk of vehicles or equipment slipping, causing serious injury to the person driving, as well as to others in the vicinity.
Copy Control: Mitchie Mullins
Dry steam vapour is a leading method to clean, sanitise and dry in one action. Due to its dryness, residue and wet surfaces are no longer a risk.
VIC, SA, WA - Sandra Romanin Ph: 0414 558 464 sromanin@westwick-farrow.com.au
Build-up of debris: Debris is the main cause of dirt build-up in many industrial facilities. Although dusty working environments go hand in hand with the job for some sectors, too much of it can impact eyesight and breathing abilities. PPE gear, such as masks and goggles, aim to eliminate some of these concerns; however, many sectors are adopting the mindset of eliminating risk, rather than solely focusing on prevention. Modern cleaning technology is especially designed for the specific issue of picking up dirt and debris in large areas. Industrial cleaning equipment and processes, such as sweepers and scrubbers, need to pick up both loose and large debris and also wash and flush a floor surface to ensure the smaller particles are not being left behind to accumulate. Infection control: High-temperature steam is also a key method in infection control as it provides a ‘deep clean’ of all surfaces including flooring, equipment and vehicles. For example, sectors that deal with the distribution or preparation of food benefit from its disease-killing abilities. Ninety per cent of contamination in food happens during the production and packaging process. Gastroenteritis and botulism are just two of the diseases that are infectious. When heated above 180°C, steam kills all bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Escherichia coli. It is important for industry to understand that the process of disinfection and cleaning isn’t just for presentation or reputation purposes. Upgrading from the ‘mop and bucket’ is essential to keep workers safe from physical industry as well as disease.
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September 2012 total CAB audited circulation (Aust + New Zealand) 7308 readers (91% personally requested)
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*Murray McDonald has over 20 years’ experience in the distribution of industrial and commercial cleaning equipment and is director of Duplex Cleaning Machines. Duplex distributes cleaning machine products in Australia and New Zealand and has solved cleaning issues and improved cleaning standards in thousands of industrial and commercial facilities. Visit www.duplexcleaning.com.au.
46 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013
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