Safety Solutions Jun/Jul 2012 by Westwick-Farrow Media

SAFETY SOLUTIONS JUNE/JULY 2012

ON THE COVER

CONTENTS 4

Much to consider in FIFO worker wellbeing

Storm in a pee cup

Casting a green eye on safety

Legal and illegal substances take toll on safety of mine workers

Mental illnesses cost mining industry $320-450 million a year

Work negatively impacts mental and physical health

Fighting fires with computer models

Resources

In my opinion

SpanSet Australia's Original Gotcha rescue kit, released in 2003, was the first prerigged rescue kit specifically designed for recovering a fallen worker from a fall arrest system without undue risk to the rescuer. The kit is a solution to a problem faced by all workers at height who use PPE for protection against falls. This product was described by some as a once-in-a-decade breakthrough and has spawned several pole-based remote attachment rescue kits since. Specifically designed for the infrequent user, simplicity is the cornerstone of this kit. Now a generic term for rescue systems, the kit is considered to be the benchmark standard by both industry operatives and emergency service personnel alike. The kit will work effectively with conscious or unconscious casualties, the rescuer can carry out the rescue from a point of safety, the rescue can be carried out by a single person, no cutting is required and the user can raise or lower the casualty in a controlled manner to the nearest point of safety. More than a basic rescue kit, it now comes standard with a Grabba attachment device, enabling rescue from inertia reels and rope lines, as well as fall arrest lanyards. The kit comes fitted with 11 mm Australian Standards Rescue Rope with internal tracer tape and contrasting inner core to make inspection easier. The Gotcha rescue range also includes evacuation devices or rescue devices that can be used for evacuation.

NOW in DIGITAL! Your copy of Safety Solutions is now available as an online eMag.

http://www.safetysolutions.net.au/latest_issues

SpanSet Australia Ltd www.spanset.com.au

MUCH TO CONSIDER IN FIFO WORKER WELLBEING

Nicole Nott and Dr Denise Keenan*

4 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

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An invasion of bumblebees may sound like something best dealt with by an exterminator but for some towns this isn’t a viable solution. Bumblebees is an often derogatory term used to described the yellow, fluorescent-striped uniform-wearing miners who are perceived as infiltrating family-based communities, bringing with them inflated housing and food prices, drunken bad behaviour and lack of engagement with the local community. It is easy to have some sympathy for these townships and communities; however, a balance needs to be struck in order for Australia to remain a prosperous nation enjoying worldleading employment, health and lifestyle.

emote communities across the country can benefit from population growth and the associated improved infrastructure such as better quality roads, telecommunications, community amenities and access to health services due to the financial investment by resources and mining companies as well as government expenditure in these growth areas. There are many examples in the community where additional medical and emergency response resources are available to the community, either directly delivered by mine site medical staff or through investment by mining companies, such as the Rio Tinto-supported Life Flight aircraft. This aircraft can fly from virtually any Western Australian location to Perth within three hours, generally without refuelling, carrying three critical patients and three critical care medical staff. It can be used for offshore locations such as the Cocos and Christmas Islands and the jet can be used to transfer critically ill babies. In state emergencies the jet will be utilised as part of the disaster response. Government resources are also used to support areas of population growth and need. The Roxby Downs Medical Centre is set to benefit from an increase in bed numbers as part of the population increase related to the expansion of the Olympic Dam project. Communities are increasingly benefiting from social investment programs offered by natural resources companies including traineeships and apprenticeships in the local area. For many of these young people these opportunities would not be available in a small community and they would have had to leave to pursue study and employment away from home. There are also opportunities for small businesses to service the mining staff and their families, such as hairdressing, activities for children, retail and hospitality. It is easy to believe that the bumblebee FIFO worker has it all,

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with a great income and no responsibilities out of work hours - with meals provided, laundry done, rooms cleaned, flights and airport transfers provided. But what about the FIFO workers themselves? There is a growing body of anecdotal evidence and research-based literature to indicate that life in the colony may not all be the land of gold and honey (or iron and honey, or coal and honey). Most of us would understand that for good health we need adequate nutrition, sufficient rest and quality sleep, exercise, meaningful activity (work and leisure) and relationships. If we consider FIFO workers, these good health fundamentals can be difficult to access and maintain, or in poor balance. Long work rosters with alternating day and night shifts can affect rest and sleep cycles and quality of sleep. Food choices and food quality can be variable and motivation to exercise after a 12-hour work day and long consecutive periods of work can lead to excessive weight and other health issues. A sense of belonging and connectedness are hard to achieve with many work tasks being solitary in nature, eg, plant operation, and performed in a geographically isolated environment. Even crib meals are conducted in crews with limited opportunity to interact with other crews and teams. How can ‘worker bees’ achieve that happy hum? Below are some tips for happy comings and goings, getting along in the hive and enjoying the fruits of the honey pot.

What can the employer do? Employers should consider the design and functioning of camp and other accommodation. A sense of place and ownership are important components to a sense of belonging and connectedness. In accommodation this can extend to being able to keep reminders of home prominent, such as children’s drawings pinned up and family photos.

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 5

SAFETY IN MINING

TECHNOLOGY OFFERS MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR CONNECTING WITH EACH OTHER. FAMILIES CAN USE A COORDINATED FAMILY DIARY SUCH AS GOOGLE CALENDARS SO THAT THE FIFO WORKER IS UP TO DATE WITH FAMILY ACTIVITIES AND IS ABLE TO CONTRIBUTE TO ACTIVITIES AND ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT EVENTS.

As we’ve heard, communication is a must and reliable, fast speed internet with Skype facilities is great for families and friends to stay connected. Employers have an opportunity as part of their wellness programs to provide computers and cameras in accommodation for this to occur privately and to provide assistance to those who need help with getting online and signing up for social media. Flexible rosters are also desirable. For some families one week on, one week off might be the ideal so they can play in their local sporting competition at least every other week and watch their children’s sport. For others, two weeks on and two weeks off may work better due to longer recovery time between rosters and more time and energy to do home activities. When considering roster structure, a mid-week roster change allows for weekends at home rather than commuting on weekends. Health and lifestyle programs are becoming more commonplace but need to be easy to access and supported in terms of availability in paid time or conveniently with rosters. Group-based programs are highly encouraged to create connectedness and a culture of engagement rather than the worker being isolated by a culture of work, eat, sleep, work ... One of the most important things an employer should consider is that it’s not always a ‘one size fits all’ process. With so much competition for labour and the high costs associated with staff turnover, employers who seek to provide flexible family-friendly work arrangements will become employers of choice. This could extend to providing family housing on sites and childcare services that complement the work roster to encourage spouses and families to reside at site.

What can the FIFO worker do? FIFO workers may have had the experience of arriving home, tired after a long period of work away, and then feeling disappointed with their family’s seemingly lukewarm welcome. While absent,

6 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

when your attention has not been taken up with the job at hand, you have thought about those at home and things you might be missing out on. Then when you get home, everyone seems to be busy with other things, and while happy to have you back, not as excited about it as you’d like. Want to have a happier return? Try these tips: • Stay in touch when away and know how family members are spending their time so you’ll have an understanding about activities that will be important to your family in your absence. • Upon return, put your focus on them. Ask them about their activities. Make reference to specific things, so they know you have made an effort to remember them, even though you’ve been away and busy. • Make them feel important. Be a good listener. Most people enjoy being the focus of attention of someone they love. If you give first, then maybe they’ll follow your lead and the conversation and attention will then turn your way.

One FIFO worker I spoke to said he relished the long flights home where he could get to rest because as soon as he got home his girlfriend would have scheduled every waking moment until he went back to work a week later. Remember, your FIFO family member has probably just worked 84 hours in a week (not just a 38-hour week) or, in some cases, 14 days straight of 12-hour shifts (168 hours) and probably needs some downtime before immersing in family activities. Also, think how you can schedule activities to assist with transitioning from day shift to night shift and vice versa. Involve your FIFO family member in decisions eg, send links to gifts you are thinking of buying the kids, ideas for holidays or renovations, and keep your FIFO partner involved in family life.

The future It is clear the FIFO lifestyle is going to become increasingly prevalent, at least in the short term, and that a range of creative solutions is required to address the associated issues.

What can the FIFO worker’s family do? It is easy for FIFO families to feel like they are living a double life; one where it is just the spouse and the kids and the second where it is the FIFO worker and the family. The goal is to make one solid family unit regardless of location. The key is staying connected and part of this is regular communication with each other. This could include each night using Skype at a dedicated time with the FIFO worker so they can listen to the kids read, listen to music instrument practice or just catch up on the day. Technology offers many opportunities for connecting with each other. Families can use a coordinated family diary such as Google calendars so that the FIFO worker is up to date with family activities and is able to contribute to activities and ask questions about events.

*Nicole Nott, General Manager of onsite health and emergency response services provider Sitemed (www.sitemed.com.au) and Dr Denise Keenan, Organisational Psychologist and Managing Director of COGNITION (www.cognition.com.au). With qualifications in occupational therapy and ergonomics, and studies in business, Nott established Sitemed in 2009, which specialises in the provision of health and emergency response services to a range of companies - particularly those in the construction, resource and mining industries. Dr Keenan has particular interests in working with organisations in the areas of occupational health and safety, early intervention for psychological trauma, prevention and management of occupational stress and injury management.

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On the field I rely on my instinct, at work, you can rely on instinct. - Jamie Soward, Ambassador for Instinct i-wear and Professional Rugby League Player.

MSA AUSTRALIA MSA (Aust.) Pty. Limited 137 Gilba Road, GIRRAWEEN NSW 2145 PH: 1300 728 672 Email: aus.customerservice@MSAnet.com Web: www.msa.net.au MSA AUSTRALIA - PERTH OFFICE MSA (Aust.) Pty. Limited 4 Iron Road, MALAGA WA 6090 PH: (08) 9247 8900 Email: perth.customerservice@MSAnet.com Web: www.msa.net.au

NEW ZEALAND The Gate, Unit E, 373 Neilson Street Onehunga, Auckland, NZ PH: 0800 441 335 Email: nzcusserv@MSAnet.com Web: www.msa.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Self-retracting lifeline range The Nano-Lok self retracting lifeline (SRL) range can be used in place of lanyards and can be directly attached to any harness, reducing fall clearances. The SRLs are virtually unnoticeable to the user when worn and provide the ultimate worksite flexibility. The single or twin SRL quick connector designs leave the

Intruder-detecting mat

dorsal D-ring available for other uses and provide a snug fit,

According to the Australian Institute of Criminology, an estimated 30%

eliminating nuisance flopping. The SRL technology retains tension

of residential builders are affected by theft and vandalism each year.

on the lifeline at all times, keeping it out of the workerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way

The SecureMat, developed by Perimeter Security Industries (PSI), can

and reducing dragging, snagging and trip falls. The automatic

help builders take pre-emptive action to prevent construction site crime.

activating arrestor locks quickly to stop falls within centimetres,

The product is a versatile optical-fibre mat for area and intruder

reducing freefall distances and providing more protection at lower

detection. The fibre-optic cable within the mat is compressed when an

heights. It also features a 1.8 m web lifeline for added strength.

intruder stands on it. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s control electronics can instantly

The SRLs have multiple anchorage options. The quick-connect

analyse the signal to determine if the disturbance is a person or some

anchorage connector allows the SRL to be attached directly to

other event such as a windblown object, rodent or stray animal. If it

the back of most harnesses without the requirement of a sepa-

is a person, the mat will trigger a deterrent alarm and simultaneously

rate karabiner. Instead of being attached to the D-ring, the SRL

send an SMS to a home base.

attaches around the web, allowing the D-ring to be used for

Easy to install and remove for temporary installations, the mat has

other equipment or rescue. The cab-mount anchorage connector

very low power demands and can easily be powered from alternative

allows the SRL to be attached directly to the cab of an order

sources such as solar panels and UPS battery packs for weekend use

picker, while the swivelling loop provides a full range of motion.

or around parked equipment or building sites. The product is capable

The SRLs can also be arranged as twin-leg SRLs, providing

of being left exposed to all weather conditions.

100% tie-off capabilities. The twin-leg configuration provides

Perimeter Security Industries Pty Ltd

continuous fall protection and added mobility when moving from

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N543

one location to another and can be used to replace twin-leg shock-absorbing lanyards. The quick-connect anchorage connector allows both SRLs to be attached directly to the back of most harnesses. Capital Safety Group (Australia) Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q070

Safety boot range Mack Boots has launched a range of safety boots for a variety of industrial environments and work conditions. The range includes the Aero, Boss, President, Freeway, Wolf, Venus, Kelpie, Heeler, Peak, Terra, Zero, Jupiter, Barb, Blast, Earth, Tradesman and Saturn boots. All the boots in the range have high durability, are slip and heat resistant, can withstand extreme conditions and are comfortable for those that need to wear their boots all day long. The range is available now from Mack Boots distributors Australia wide. Mack Boots www.mackboots.com.au

8 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

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Don’t leave hearing protection to chance, we don’t. Padded foam headband minimises pressure on the head for added comfort

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CASE STUDY

Fire suppression solution for forestry vehicle Fire protection specialist Wormald has designed and installed a fire suppression system for Logset’s new forestry vehicle, the 10F Titan Forwarder. Logset is a Finnish manufacturer of forestry machinery and has recently started operating in the Australian market. The company provides solutions to logging professionals and its 10F Titan Forwarder is a heavy-framed machine with a load capacity of 18 tonnes. Wormald was engaged to design and install a vehicle fire suppression system on the 10F. Firstly, the Wormald team carried out a formalised fire risk assessment of the vehicle, in accordance with Australian Standard AS 5062-2006: Fire Protection for Mobile & Transportable Equipment. They then installed a 35 L automatic/ manual foam water spray fire suppression system which is housed in a 5 mm thick steel box, designed by the company specifically for forestry equipment. Wormald’s foam water spray vehicle fire suppression (VFS) system is compliant with AS 5062-2006. It features high pressure and small droplet nozzles which target risk areas such as the turbo charger and starter motor in the engine compartment. The system utilises the fire-suppressing and containment features of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF). In the event of a fire, a continuous stream

of foam water spray is discharged to rapidly suppress flames and dramatically cool hot surfaces. At the same time, the generated foam acts to smother fuel and oil-spill fires, helping to prevent reignition. Ian Vincent, from Wormald’s Albury branch, said, “There are many combustible components in heavy forestry vehicles which are in close proximity to ignition and heat sources. Considering the potential for timber to add to the fuel load, the risk of a fire can be very high. The VFS system on the 10F Titan Forwarder is configured so that in the event of a fire, early detection and warning is provided to the driver. This should allow extra time to safely evacuate, while also quickly suppressing the fire to help minimise damage to the vehicle.” Markku Turunen at Logset said, “The Wormald team showed their expertise and professionalism in designing the fire suppression system for our 10F Titan Forwarder. We showcased the vehicle at this year’s AUSTimber show and it received a great response from attendees. We are expecting to have more 10Fs available to the Australian market soon and will work with Wormald in fitting them with suitable vehicle fire-suppression systems.” Wormald (Tyco/Fire & Security) Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q217

Portable hazardous area light The RUL-9 portable hazardous area light from Magnalight is Class 1 Division 2 approved hazardous location rated. It is designed to provide a strong light beam and long run times on a single charge. The light can operate for 5 h on a single charge of its lithium-ion batteries. It is not necessary to fully discharge the batteries before recharging and, if left unused, it will last up to 18 months without losing charge or the battery life decreasing. The light produces 120,000 candlepower and 1102 Lux at 7.6 m, with the light beam reaching over 180 m. Constructed with a high-strength nylon body and rubberised coating and equipped with an integral carry handle, the light is suitable for such uses as industrial applications, utility work, military and law enforcement and emergency services. The rear-mounted red and white LEDs can act as locator, signal or warning lights as needed. Operation is controlled by a booted, three-way push-button switch that allows users to operate the main beam and LEDs independently or in tandem. The light head is adjustable and can be moved through 90° for optimal beam placement. An included 120 VAC wall charger will not overcharge the unit, allowing operators to leave the light connected to the charging unit when not in use to ensure a full charge when the light is needed. An optional magnetic mounting system allows for increased manoeuvrability. The light is NFPA 1901-14.1.11.2 compliant. Magnalight www.magnalight.com

10 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

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NEW PRODUCTS

Radiation meter with LTE option Regulations not only require measurement of the instantaneous field exposure at an antenna site, but also demand separate recording of the proportions due to the individual antennas and extrapolation to determine the exposure at maximum traffic load. Narda Safety Test Solutions has equipped its Selective Radiation Meter SRM-3006 frequency selective field measuring instrument with an LTE option (which can be retrofitted to older instruments), thus meeting these requirements. The instrument measures the electromagnetic fields emanating from LTE wireless communications stations in their entirety as well as according to cells and their antennas automatically. It can also extrapolate the results to determine the immission that would occur when transmission capacity is fully utilised. The meter obtains the LTE-specific information by demodulating control and information channels that are part of the LTE signal. It automatically extracts the cell ID from the primary and secondary sync signals (PSS, SSS) and determines the transmitting antennas from the reference signal. All the levels of these signals can be shown in detail at the same time. Settable extrapolation factors allow calculation of the field exposure at maximum transmission load. As a spectrum analyser, the product can cover all LTE bandwidths from 1.4 to 20 MHz or select individual frequency channels down to 15 kHz. The instrument displays the continuous time characteristic of the signal level in scope mode, so that the levels of the PSS and SSS can be identified even though they are present only in a few timeslots. The product automatically records peak values in level meter mode. The instrument can automatically evaluate the field exposure in accordance with current human safety standards. Its analysis features make it suitable for monitoring limit values, checking signal integrity and detecting impairments. It can be used for applications ranging from safety investigations in the near field of longwave transmitters, through to measurements on radio and TV transmitters, and exposure measurements on the latest generation of wireless communications services. Narda Safety Test Solutions GmbH Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q152

Safety relay Electrical connectivity supplier Weidmuller has released its SIL 3 Safety Relay. Created specifically for use in the emergency shutdown of plants and plant components in the process industry, the device increases plant availability and safety. It ensures safe electrical isolation of the safety PLC to the field and initiates protective measures in the face of danger or immediately cuts the energy supply. The device’s safety and monitoring circuits each have a yellow LED to indicate the functioning of the relay and ensure faultless operation. In the output of the safety circuit, there is a redundant connection of three relays to guarantee reliable isolation within the output circuit. The safety relay is fitted with gold-plated contacts and an additional switching current range of 6 mA up to 5 A of the monitoring circuit permanently guarantees reliable reac-

Rehydration ice blocks and drinks

tion of the emergency shutdown system. In addition, the time span between Relay ON

Hydralyte at Work is a clinical rehydration product

and Response is only 4.5 ms (230 VAC) and

manufactured to pharmaceutical standards and

5.7 ms (120 VAC) respectively.

listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic

For added flexibility and user convenience,

Goods. Effective hydration is best achieved by

the product offers a widespread rated opera-

a solution that is low in sugar (2-3%) and high

tional voltage of 120/230 VAC at the input of

in electrolytes.

the monitoring circuit. A wide temperature

Competitor rehydration products in this market

range of -25 up to +50°C makes it suitable

are registered as food goods and often very high

for use in numerous environments including

in sugar (some up to 30 teaspoons/L) and low

harsh surrounds.

in the essential electrolytes, claims the company.

Highly compact, the product is only

Hydralyte at Work contains on average a quarter

92.4 x 22.5 x 112.4 mm. It requires little

of the sugar found in these ‘sports rehydration drinks’ and has been formu-

space in a control cabinet and can be easily

lated to rapidly replace fluid to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.

mounted on a TS35 DIN rail. The device meets

Hydralyte at Work rehydration ice blocks and drinks relieve and help prevent

the requirements of EN61508 as well as the

muscle cramping and fatigue, maintain healthy physical and mental function,

safety demands of Safety Integrity Level 3.

and reduce the risk of hyponatremia and heat exhaustion in prolonged activity.

Weidmuller Pty Ltd

The Hydration Pharmaceuticals Trust

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q066

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q159

12 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

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STORM IN A PEE CUP

THE WORKPLACE DRUG TESTING DEBATE CONTINUES Mansi Gandhi

DRUG TESTING

The Fair Work Australia ruling in the Endeavour Energy v CEPU, ASU, APESMA case has again sparked a debate on drugs and alcohol testing in the workplace. Most of us agree that drug testing is vital in maintaining a safe and drug-free workplace; however, there still remains much-debated controversy about the most appropriate method for drug testing.

arlier this year, Australian energy company Endeavour Energy looked to introduce a new drug testing policy that involved urine drug testing. In March 2012, Fair Work Australia (FWA) ruled against the proposal. The FWA decision found that the use of urine testing was unjust and unreasonable, according to Endeavour Energy. FWA determined Endeavour Energy could introduce its drug and alcohol testing program by using oral swabs, rather than testing urine samples, according to the company. “We’re appealing one part of that decision while accepting the rest,” said the spokesperson for Endeavour Energy. “The appeal only relates to the method of testing for drugs. We believe we have an overriding legal and social responsibility to protect the safety of our staff at work from foreseeable risks associated with chronic drug use. It is urine testing, not oral swab testing that best mitigates those foreseeable risks,” claims the company. “When working with electricity, there is no margin for error as even the smallest mistake can be fatal or cause severe and permanent injury.” It’s the duty of employers to provide a safe work environment and safe work systems to all its employees and it’s the duty of employees to take reasonable care for their safety at work and avoid harming others. In the National Hospital Morbidity Database (NHMD), there were 26,339 work-related injury cases in 2001-02, of which 1965 (7.5%) were estimated to be alcohol-related, according to Safe Work Australia’s work-related alcohol and drug use report released in 2007. The report further states that workers in the hospitality (15% frequently) and mining (22% occasionally, 22% infrequently) industries were more likely to drink alcohol at risky and high-risk levels for short-term harm (Roche & Pidd 2006a). It should be noted that workplace drug testing is now mandatory for the mining, aviation and transport industries. The report further states that hospitality (13%) workers were more likely to drink at risky [levels] and agricultural (6%) industry workers were more likely to dink at high-risk level for long-term harm respectively (Roche & Pidd 2006a). Tradespersons are more likely to drink at risky and high risk levels for short-term harm (20% infrequently and 13% frequently), it adds. The two most common methods of drug testing are - saliva or oral-fluid based drug testing, and urine drug testing. Both the methods have advantages as well as limitations. The advocates of urine testing argue that it is a more cost-effective and accurate method, while those against it say it’s an intrusive method. Oral drug testing, say the proponents, is a less intrusive method and has fewer privacy issues. The method of drug testing should be determined based on the requirements and objectives of the company, said Steve Korkoneas, National Operations and Technical Manager, Medvet. “There is no one size fits all solution for workplace drug testing.” On-site oral fluid drug testing, says Korkoneas, could be more convenient and deemed less invasive. However, the two key limitations of on-site oral fluid drug testing are: the existing on-site oral fluid drug testing devices have a significantly lower chance of detecting benzodiazepines (ie, Valium) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, marijuana), and there is no known or established correlation between blood THC levels and oral fluid THC levels, he adds. THC is the key mind-altering ingredient in cannabis. While on-site oral fluid drug testing can detect drugs consumed less than 24 hours prior to testing (cannabis ingested less than four to six hours prior to testing), on-site urine testing can detect drugs

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ingested more than 24 hours prior to testing, adds Korkoneas. It should be noted, however, whichever method is used neither oral fluid nor urine can be used to measure if a donor is impaired. Drug testing can only determine the presence of a drug above a certain cut-off level. Cut-off levels should be described in a company’s Alcohol and other Drug Policy and Procedure, he adds. John Walsh from Path Tech says that urine drug testing has a longer detection window, but oral drug testing can detect recent drug use and is a better measure for determining whether an employee is unfit for work. An employee’s personal life shouldn’t be of concern to an employer, he argues.

The case in question In the Endeavour Energy v CEPU, ASU, APESMA case (currently under appeal), Fair Work Australia’s senior deputy president, JM Hamberger, noted: “It is clear from all the evidence presented during the hearings that neither oral fluid nor urine testing devices are perfect. Seen from one perspective, urine testing can be seen as more ‘accurate’ in that it is more likely to pick up whether an employee has at some stage taken certain substances. However, that is not necessarily the goal of a workplace drug testing regime. Hamberger repeated what he said in the Shell Refining v CFMEU case: “... The employer has a legitimate right (and indeed obligation) to try and eliminate the risk that employees might come to work impaired by drugs or alcohol such that they could pose a risk to health or safety. Beyond that the employer has no right to dictate what drugs or alcohol its employees take in their own time. Indeed, it would be unjust and unreasonable to do so.” Hamberger concluded: “Both methods are susceptible to cheating. For example, cleaning one’s mouth thoroughly after smoking cannabis would minimise the risk of being caught by an oral fluids test. Urine can also be adulterated. There is some evidence that saliva/oral fluid screening is less susceptible to specimen adulteration or substitution compared to urinalysis. In practice, however, the likelihood of someone being in a position to cheat effectively when a test is conducted at random and with no prior warning is in my opinion relatively low. “Neither method tests directly for impairment. However, a method which tests for recent consumption (only) is more likely to identify someone who is impaired. While some witnesses regard this as a weakness, it is precisely because it only detects for recent use that oral fluid testing is a better indicator of likely impairment as a result of smoking cannabis (the most widely used drug apart from alcohol) than a urine test. Indeed, urine testing may be unable to identify that someone has smoked cannabis in the previous four hours - precisely the time frame which is most relevant for identifying likely impairment. “Not only is urine testing potentially less capable of identifying someone who is under the influence of cannabis, but it also has the disadvantage that it may show a positive result even though it is several days since the person has smoked the substance. This means that a person may be found to have breached the policy even though their actions were taken in their own time and in no way affect their capacity to do their job safely. In the circumstances where oral fluid testing - which does not have this disadvantage - is readily available, I find that the introduction of urine testing by the applicant would be unjust and unreasonable. Accordingly, I find that the system of drug testing that should be used by the applicant for on-site drug

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 15

DRUG TESTING

Conclusion

16 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

The ongoing debate about the appropriate method for drug testing, conflicting decisions from FWA and contradictory views from industry experts make it hard for businesses to design the appropriate drug testing policy. There are three types of testing: random drug testing where employees are randomly selected for drug testing, incident-driven testing system and ‘for cause’ testing, informs Walsh. A lot of companies have “wishy-washy” drug testing policies, adds Walsh, noting that it is important to have a tight policy which is communicated clearly from the top to the bottom of the organisation. Having an alcohol and other drug policy and procedure demonstrates commitment to a safe and healthy workplace, for all employees, says Korkoneas, noting that organisations should consider the following points when implementing an alcohol and other drug program: • Consultation with unions and staff - consult early and consult often; form a working party with a variety of key stakeholders. This will ensure a smooth implementation down the track. • Consider workplace risk factors and goals of the alcohol and other drug program, eg, preventing harm through education; management of risk factors associated with alcohol and other drug use. • Based on your goals, identify whether oral fluid or urine testing will best suit your workplace. • Include procedures in how to manage affected staff eg, identification of an affected person, use of an employee assistance provider, strategy for a return to work program.

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testing should be that involving oral fluids. This should be done on the basis of AS4760 -2006: the Australian Standard governing procedures for specimen collection and the detection and quantitation of drugs in oral fluid.” The national resource industry employer group AMMA argues that FWA’s recent Endeavour ruling appears contradictory to an earlier decision involving HWE Mining, where the tribunal ruled that urine testing was more accurate and less likely to produce false negatives. Endeavour Energy is also seeking clarity on the status of urine testing considering two different rulings by FWA in the recent past - one concerning HWE Mining and the other relating to Endeavour Energy. The HWE decision found that urine testing was not unjust or unreasonable while the most recent decision found that urine testing at Endeavour Energy was unjust and unreasonable, says the company. “Based on the findings in the HWE Mining case, there is a strong argument to be made that mining industry employers are obligated to adopt urine testing as the most accurate method of on-site screening in order to meet their stringent obligations under OHS laws,” said Steve Knott, CEO, AMMA.

NEW PRODUCTS

Electrical chain safety modules igumid ESD has been designed for applications where there are any electrostatic discharges that are potentially damaging; for instance, manufacturing or handling of sensitive electronic products and component parts. Made in conformity with ATEX guidelines for 94/9 EG for devices and systems in potentially explosive areas, these energy chains are certificated according to the EX II 2 GD classification, meaning ESD/ATEX energy chains from igus can be used in areas where gas or dust can cause the risk of explosion. When there is motion, it can generate friction between machine parts and consequently static electricity may build up. At contact with an earthed body this can be discharged; potential differences of up to 10,000 V can occur. The current is usually relatively low, but sensitive electronic component parts can be irreparably damaged. To avoid such damage, all components of a machine need to be discharging so the entire system needs to be earthed throughout. Permanent and reliable discharging of energy chains is especially important to avoid electrostatic build-up - even after years in use. Electrostatic discharge is not only dangerous for electronic component parts - they can contribute to the combustion of burnable gases, dusts or vapours in areas with a danger of explosion. Wherever such conditions exist, for example in the chemical industry, material bulk handling or in coating lines, ESD energy chains contribute to avoid electrostatic discharges. Treotham Automation Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q102

Safety reference guide NHP has released its comprehensive Safety Reference Guide. The free guide comes complete with technical information on the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive range of safety products, white papers on various safety applications and information documents on international/local safety standards. It also includes example system designs for achieving different safety categories and a glossary of typical safety terminology. The guide is therefore a good resource for projects and sites across all industries. To register for your complimentary copy, visit the NHP website. NHP Electrical Engineering Products Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q232

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JUNE/JULY1 Fluke_SafetySolutions_Jun-Jul_Ad_Corrected.indd

2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 17 AM 4/06/12 10:04

NEW PRODUCTS

Welding helmet range Cigweld Weldskill Auto-Darkening welding helmets offer the latest safety features combined with good comfort and performance. The range provides the personal eye protection required for a solid day’s welding. The range is fitted with the latest autodarkening shade lenses and is available in seven models - one model with a fixed shade 11 lens and six other models with a variable shade 9-13 lens. All models can be fitted with the company’s optional magnification lens, which magnifies the work area to substantially assist the welder in maintaining the high standards required.

Material handling robot

Cigweld Pty Ltd

Adept Technology has introduced

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q063

the Adept Viper s1700D, a 6-axis robot designed for material handling, machine tending, packaging, cutting and assembly. The s1700D robot features Adept ACE

Safety air guns with chip shields

software, which deploys the robot through

Exair’s range of safety air guns is now available with

a user-friendly interface. The ethernet TCP/IP

chip shields to protect workers and to help businesses

capability allows the robot to be controlled

comply with OSHA safety standards. Chip shields

through a PC, PLC or controller. Self-diagnos-

can be used on safety air guns with or without an

tics enable proactive monitoring and quick troubleshooting.

extension pipe.

Offering a reach of 1.7 m and a payload capacity of

A chip shield is a durable polycarbonate shield that

20 kg, the Viper is interchangeable with other Adept robots

protects operators from flying debris often associated

and controllers, which can ease deployment, support and

with blowing chips off machined parts. The product is

maintenance, including parts availability.

suitable for keeping coolant from splashing everywhere

Adept Technology International Ltd

during drying operations. Chip shields are available

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q231

to fit the safety air guns currently in use.

Lift truck The Crown CDV180S-7 18-tonne lift truck is claimed to offer more power than any other comparable IC vehicle. With a 1200 cm load centre, the CDV180S-7 delivers high levels of capability and capacity. The lift truck has a Tier 3 electronic control 254 HP 7.6l diesel engine that provides high torque at low revs, reduces fuel consumption and meets or exceeds current environmental requirements. This power and efficiency is matched by advanced synchronisation of the drive train with the vehicle’s hydraulics system. The driver cabin has a centrally positioned heated leather seat that gives a clear, uninterrupted view of the forks. Heating and cooling comprises separate air-conditioning and heating ducts for the dash and the roof, as well as an efficient defrosting nozzle for the front window. The dash is fitted with both digital The company’s safety air guns use engineered air nozzles for high performance and safety - designed to maximise entrainment of room air while minimising compressed air consumption. The Precision Safety Air Gun is lightweight and comfortable to operate during periods of extended use. The Heavy Duty and Soft Grip Safety Air Guns have a durable cast aluminium body for rugged industrial use. All are available with extension pipes and chip shields. Compressed Air Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N937

18 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

and analog instrument panels, as well as a technically advanced sound system. Additional features of the CDV180S-7 include a rear-view camera, distancemeasuring infrared camera, wheel-steering sensors, weight scales and an air compressor for general cleaning and maintenance of the driver’s seat and footwell. Operating the CDV180S-7 is easy, with all controls ergonomically located and with six roller bearings giving speed and precision to the lifting process. Ease of maintenance has also been designed and built into the CDV180S-7, with a tilting cabin and hood system, centralised fuse and relay box, centralised steering axle grease inlet and conveniently located control valve. Crown Equipment Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q230

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Hearing protection and communications system The Quietpro QP100Ex intelligent hearing protection and communication system provides personal hearing protection, personal noise exposure measurement and clear communication throughout a full range of work environments. Suitable for workers who wear head protection (eg, respirators, welding shields), it is intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, energy production applications and the gas, oil, mining and primary metal industries. The product is connected to two-way com radios, which allows users to hear without compromising listening quality, even under high-noise situations.

Calibration gas test stations CAC Gas has introduced a line of bump test/calibration stations for use with gas detection instruments

The product uses in-ear dosimetry to measure every sound that reaches the user’s

and gas analysers.

eardrum, providing continuous monitoring of personal noise exposure. Audible and visual

The test stations range from manual systems to

signals alert workers when they are approaching or have met their daily noise dose.

automated systems. The MGS and GFS Manual Series

The headset’s microphone captures voices inside the ear tip via air conduction, eliminating

stations are designed to be used by technicians and

sounds commonly picked up by external microphones, while the exterior microphones

service repair facilities. The BTS and BTS-HP Auto-

constantly analyse surrounding sounds, adapting continuously to facilitate natural hearing.

mated Series are easy-to-use, one-button test stations

Upon ear tip insertion and system startup, the product performs a quick calibration

for field testing of portable gas detection instruments.

check to detect proper fit, validating adequate hearing protection and clear commu-

All test stations can be used with either disposable

nication in each ear. It also alerts the user if they do not achieve a minimum level of

calibration gas cylinders or large-volume cylinders.Test

protection and are required to refit.

stations can be designed for one, two, three or more

The product’s bionic hearing adapts to changing noise levels, allowing workers to

incoming gases distributed to one or more outlets.

remain aware of their surroundings, assess changing environments and potential threats,

Each outlet can be split to allow multiple workers

and reduce further exposures to hazardous noise.

testing instruments at the same time. Flow rates and

Honeywell Safety Products Australia Pty Ltd

gas flow duration can be set to allow the test stations

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q064

to be locked and secured for field use. CAC Gas can design and build customer specific solutions for calibration and bump testing requirements. CAC Gas & Instrumentation Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q161

IR windows Opening electrical cabinets to perform IR and visual inspections of live components is dangerous work, exposing technicians to the risk of a hazardous arc flash incident. Placing FLIR IR Windows between the user and their energised equipment adds safety and eliminates the need for opening enclosures. The product is easy to use and install, and it is compatible with all thermal cameras. The product has a variety of features. It uses PIRma-Lock locknut technology to automatically ground metal components. A secure, permanently hinged cover opens easily with one hand. The company’s broadband

Combat gloves

crystal lens allows cameras to capture visible light pictures as well as

Ansell is a supplier of tactical and utility hand protection products

thermal images, and also allows LED and laser illumination to pass straight

to defence forces and peacekeeping operations worldwide. The

through for clearer visual assessments.

company’s ActivArmr Mission Critical Gear is designed to provide

The product is claimed to reduce inspection time for more efficient

protection in extreme environments where teams need reliable

assessments within NFPA guidelines. It eliminates the need for PPE

gear to help them do their job safely, comfortably and precisely.

and withstands arcs, vibration and extreme humidity. By combining the

ActivArmr Combat and Combat Extended Cuff gloves are

product with a FLIR thermal camera that features integrated visible light

comfortable and dextrous, designed and engineered for use in

video, lamps and a laser pointer, the user will be able to get the job

all types of environments and across a wide range of general

done single-handedly.

and soldier-specific tasks. These fully flame-resistant gloves

The windows have been tested to international safety standards

offer a high level of grip and protection with good tactility. Their

for enclosures that house dangerous electrical and mechanical parts.

rugged construction ensures durability in tough conditions.

They meet end application safety requirements for medium- and high-

Ansell Healthcare Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q097

voltage switchgear (above 600 V). FLIR Systems Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q086

20 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

Mongrel SP Range Because what you do makes a difference to the boots you wear Our Mongrels SP Series was designed to incorporate the most significant technological, comfort and safety features into one premium range. Now Mongrels have expanded the SP designation to meet the requirements of different work conditions. For example the mining industry and light manufacturing industries have very different needs. Now, along with SP>P Originals we offer SP>R, SP>S, SP>Z, SP>T and SP>N ranges. Take a look on our website or call for a Mongrel salesman for more information. Features many of the original and popular styles of our SP Premium Range launched in 2006.

The high tech rubber-soled work boot that’s built to take the heat no matter how rugged the conditions – heat resistant soles up to 300˚C

The lightweight, work boot with aluminium toe-cap and advance Sport technology soling.

The revolutionary ZipSider style allows for great ankle support with easy on and off features required by many trades.

Our Trade range featuring high spec features matched with a comfort innersole and value for money rugged leather uppers.

Many workers don’t require a steel toe cap. So Mongrels has provided a number of non-safety styles from riding boots to classic elastic sided boots and a security range.

SP RANGE The Aussie born and bred work boot designed to work best for you

Victor Footwear 15 George Young St. Auburn NSW 2144 p: 02 8667 2555 f: 02 8667 2500 e: sales@mongrelboots.com.au w: www.mongrelboots.com.au SPZ 002

CASE STUDY

Grocon reduces injury numbers and frequency rate Grocon, an Australian construction and development company, wanted to achieve a better safety record than its peers. However, to translate goals into reality, the company needed to shift its safety culture. The construction industry, says Grocon, had traditionally accepted safety records deemed unacceptable by world-class performers and the longer serving employees and leaders of the company worked with the attitudes that could lead to prioritising project deadlines before safety considerations. And that’s not all - the safety management traditionally practised was compliance driven and of a policing nature, with a focus on disciplinary action. In 2006, Grocon was introduced to DuPont methodologies and tools that could assist the company to achieve world-class safety standards. In 2008, the company commissioned DuPont to assess its practices and performance in a number of critical areas. The findings were benchmarked against world-class safety standards and the ensuing gap analysis showed some areas of excellence and some opportunities for improvements. As a result of this initial activity, DuPont worked with Grocon’s leaders to develop a detailed and tailored improvement plan. It aimed to integrate safety into the organisation’s strategy, structure and culture, with a plan that catered for every employee and subcontractor. Grocon’s safety culture transformation involved a three-year intensive partnership with DuPont. Training involved key modules such as conducting safety observations and incident investigations, as well as developing the most effective interpersonal skills required to deliver and adopt the safety message. Managers received one-onone DuPont coaching to develop the leadership skills to understand, feel and demonstrate an active commitment to safety. Grocon’s achievements are the result of strategic implementations that filtered from the CEO’s office, through line management to site workers and subcontractors. The chart shows Grocon’s national safety data from 2008 to 2011. It depicts how the company managed to achieve a significant reduction in total injury frequency rate (TIFR), lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) and medical treatment injury frequency rate (MTIFR). “The guidance that DuPont has given us, the tools and measures, the training and the way to position ourselves to tackle the right things, and to sequence our plans appropriately, were quite enlightening,” said Daniel Grollo, CEO, Grocon.

Grocon suggested its subcontractor Apps Electrics undertake DuPont coaching and training. Sustainability and reliability were key values for Apps Electrics and played a part in its leaders’ decision to accept Grocon’s suggestion. Michael Sharpe, Director, Apps Electrics, was introduced to safety leadership by a Grocon site worker, who approached him as he made his way to a site office. He discussed with Michael that he wasn’t wearing the required safety gear. “I thought it was really impressive that this guy took the time to walk over to me and explain that I was not following safety procedures,” said Sharpe. Apps Electrics has recorded a 73% reduction in its TIFR from 2010 to 2011. The speed with Grocon’s state teams progressed varied: while Victoria and New South Wales were quick to embrace change, Queensland took longer to adapt. Reflecting on the three years of transformation, senior managers recall being introduced to some challenging ways of thinking. “The initial challenge was getting alignment with subcontractors and a fair bit of education was needed to get them onto the same wavelength as Grocon. It took time for them to adjust,” said Dayne May, Queensland Project Manager. Once the Queensland team understood and accepted the concepts of safety leadership and the program was fully underway, there was an acceleration of injury reduction. By the end of November 2011, Queensland had achieved 84% reduction, from 80 down to 13. Despite differences in the rate of acceptance, hard work and the safety leadership of its managers saw Grocon nationwide achieve a reduction in TIFR. In 2011, Grocon’s safety culture was recognised by WorkSafe Victoria with the awarding of the ‘OHS Management System of the Year’. The company has also won the ‘Best workplace health and safety management system - Private sector’ in the 7th annual Safe Work Australia Awards. Today, everyone at Grocon sees safety in a new way, the kind that goes beyond compliance and legislation to a lifestyle. People make safe choices because it’s what they want. Grocon continues working to become the industry leader in safety, sustainability, community and innovation. As John Van Camp, Head of People and Culture, observes: “This engagement process has certainly paid great dividends - it is an ongoing journey and we cannot relax. It needs to be relentless.” DuPont (Aust) Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q128

22 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

SUSTAINABLY SAFE

CASTING A GREEN EYE ON SAFETY There is little argument that in today’s workplace significant attention has been given to improving the environmental footprint created by work activity and sites.

any companies have signed arrangements to improve performance on an ongoing basis as part of the approval of operation. What is often overlooked is how product selection can assist with environmental impact both locally and where products are manufactured. Many products have the potential to use or contain potentially environmental damaging materials. For example, leather gloves can be tanned with chromium salts presenting a risk where manufactured as well as a slight risk to the user. Similarly, some filtering respirators (half-face and full-face mask filters) have chromium salts contained within the filter medium. Well-meaning companies could be inadvertently supporting less environmentally sound practices even though they are committed to reducing their footprint when purchasing such products. They may even be losing important opportunities to show their environmental credentials in choosing products that have better environmental profiles. When addressing these issues awareness is everything. The first step in the process should always be in choosing a manufacturer who has a commitment to the environment and community. This is normally contained in the corporate message, which is normally publically available. For example, safety company MSA’s corporate mission statement clearly indicates a global commitment to safety for men, women, families, communities and the environment. Statements like this can be further investigated to validate action as we have all heard promises not kept. For example, MSA Australia third-party certifies the chromium-free nature of their leather products to the appropriate international standards. These gloves bear the standards mark and certificates can be provided to validate the claim. Recently, MSA reinvented the filtering respirators to remove all chromium salts while maintaining the established performance ratings for filter efficiency. Doing this is not a simple task and required significant re-engineering to maintain low breathing resistance and performance characteristics. These filters are now certified to

24 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

be chromium free to appropriate European standards as well as meeting Australian requirements for performance. MSA filters are now ‘greener’ than ever and still provide improved worker safety. Using technology to improve product performance and reduce environmental footprint is not a once-off exercise. It is a culture of activity and involves the entire company. Again using MSA Australia as an example, all cartons are recycled to reduce waste and MSA is a signatory to the National Packaging covenant. It is part of the MSA global culture as well. Last year MSA developed new sensor technology that dramatically improved sensor response rates and sensor life. Sensor response time has addressed long-standing risks to workers where gas levels rise more rapidly than sensors could respond and long life reduces landfill. It also significantly reduces corporate expense on maintenance but how significant could this be? Standard oxygen sensors used in most common industrial gas detectors use up to 10 g of lead (sometimes more). In the life of a detector this sensor could be replaced five times or more but typically three times. Taking this into account, the life of the detector and the numbers used globally, the quantity of lead being consumed and often deposited into landfills is thousands of tonnes across the industry. MSA in developing new technology with a green eye on safety has eliminated a significant environmental risk while providing a safer and better value safety product. Green does not have to be more expensive, less functional or less reliable. We all have a desire to work not only safely but with minimal negative impact on the environment and our community. Many talk it but few walk it. Opportunities do exist to validate good environmentally focused companies really making the effort and to gain value to our own workplace in taking these decisions. We should all cast a green eye on safety. MSA Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q028

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Digital multimeter for hazardous zones Fluke Corporation has introduced the Fluke 28 II Ex DMM, a digital multimeter for measurements both inside and outside of hazardous zones. The device meets intrinsic safety (IS) standards worldwide (Qld pending) for safe use inside potentially explosive environments, making it suitable for use in petroleum, chemical and pharmaceutical facilities.

Air nozzles Exair's family of air nozzles - from the tiny Model 1108SS Atto Super air nozzle at 56.7 g of blowing force to the high power Model 1120 Large Super air nozzle at 10.4 kg of strong blow-off force - provide safe performance. Independent laboratory tests now certify that Exair’s air nozzle family has also met the rigorous safety, health and environmental standards of the European Union in order to attain the CE mark. None of Exair’s large selection of Super air nozzles can be blocked, meeting OSHA’s standard for dead-end pressure 29 CFR 1910.242(b). All the company’s air nozzles fall within OSHA’s noise requirement 29 CFR 1910.95(a).

The product is drop-proof up to 3 m with a totally sealed, IP67-rated case for complete protection against dust and water. It can withstand hazardous 8000 V spikes caused by load switching and faults on industrial circuits. The device features a high-resolution 20,000-count display and true-rms AC voltage and current for accurate measurement on nonlinear signals. It measures up to 1000 V and 10 A AC and DC and its low pass filter ensures accurate voltage and frequency measurements on variable speed motor drives. The built-in thermometer function measures temperature from -200 to 1090°C. Backlit keypad buttons, large display digits and two-level bright white background for visibility make the product easy to use even when wearing full personal protective equipment. The battery lasts up to 800 h and the separate battery compartment makes it easy to change batteries or fuses on the job without jeopardising the meter’s IS or IP ratings or sending the unit for servicing. The product comes with TL175 test leads, AC72 alligator clips, red holster, 9 V battery (installed) and manuals. An optional magnetic hanger is available for hands-free set-up and viewing.

Compressed Air Australia Pty Ltd

Fluke Australia Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q257

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q081

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 25

NEW PRODUCTS

Tank cleaning spray heads The ATEX-certified Chemidisc tank cleaning spray heads are suitable for use in industrial and manufacturing settings containing potentially explosive elements. The range is available in a variety of sizes, making

Insulated tool range

it suitable for a large range of tank sizes. This ATEX version is made from carbon-filled PTFE which dissipates electricity, thereby making it

The non-sparking and non-magnetic insulated tools and

antistatic. Chemdiscs operate at a maximum temperature of 95°C and

tool kits from Salisbury includes wrenches, pliers, cut-

are designed and manufactured in the UK by Breconcherry.

ters, screwdrivers, sockets and tool kits, which can be used within environments where hazardous, flammable or combustible vapours, liquids, dusts or residues may be present. Manufactured from special aluminium-bronze and copper-beryllium alloys, the new range is designed to eliminate the risk of sparks at work sites where explosive atmospheres may be present. The new tools use the same high-impact resistant insulating material as the traditional line of insulated hand tools, which means that the material is flame-retardant.

The product is suitable for burst rinsing and can be placed into the

With colour-coded layers - a blue top layer and yellow

tank at any angle. The heads have only one moving part, the rotating

under layer, the insulation also allows for easy safety

disc. Spinning friction free on a hydraulic bearing, the disc instantly

inspection. If the yellow under layer is showing, the

converts the wash fluid into a sphere of fast-moving droplets. Suitable

insulation may have worn and should be considered

for use in pharmaceutical, nuclear, chemical and food industries, the

for replacement and removed from service, adding to

spray heads with a 360° spray pattern enable the total surface area of

the tools’ overall safety.

the tank, including inlet pipe and overhead nozzles, to be cleaned thor-

The safety tools have been drop-forged and are corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for use in shipyards, laboratories and paper and pulp mills, as well as in the pharmaceutical, food product manufacturing, wine industries, mining and more. With a non-

oughly due to the high power and uniform distribution of the wash fluid. Tecpro Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q258

magnetic feature, the tools are also able to be used

Surge arrestor

on special machinery with powerful magnets, such as

The Times Protect LP-BTR high performance surge arrestor series addresses

MRI machines, military demining and explosives. Rated

applications in the 200-1000 MHz spectrum. The DC blocking technology

for exposure up to 1000 VAC and dielectrically tested

employed in this design provides optimum isolation of the antenna port

at 10,000 VAC, the Salisbury Non-Sparking Safety Tools

from the protected equipment port for maximum surge protection.

are suitable for use in industries where non-sparking safety tools are required.

The LP-BTR product family is available with N connector configurations to satisfy various installation requirements: The LP-BTR-NFF has

The tools also meet and exceed ASTM 1505-07 and

N Female connectors on surge and protected sides; the LP-BTR-NMP has

IEC 900 standards, and are necessary for compliance

N Male connector on protected side with N Female connector on surge

with OSHA 1910.333 (c)(2) and NFPA, as well as meet-

side; and the LP-BTR-NMS has N Male connector on surge side with N

ing CSA-2462 standards.

Female connector on protected side.

Honeywell Safety Products Australia Pty Ltd

Rojone Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q162

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q337

26 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

DRUG TESTING

LEGAL AND ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES TAKE TOLL ON SAFETY OF MINE WORKERS Drug screening services have been targeting the mining industry in an effort to keep the synthetic drug Kronic out of the workplace. The synthetic cannabinoid was detected in as many as one in 10 of West Australian miners last year, prompting NSW and Queensland mines to also begin testing workers. The drug is a mix of herbs and chemicals, containing synthetic cannabinoids which mimic the effect of cannabis, giving users feelings of euphoria and relaxation.

ealth experts have warned that Kronic use can also result in paranoia, nausea, high blood pressure and hallucinations. Allan Tisdell, who runs a drug screening program, has tested many miners in the Hunter Valley region. “When you look at the symptoms, it’s paramount that companies educate their workforce to minimise the risk of employees using [Kronic] and presenting for work. Allan has been conducting Tool Box Talks for eight months for companies around the country on these issues.” Tisdell said it was a difficult problem because the companies who produce the drugs change the chemical make-up on a regular basis. The use of the synthetic drug Kronic among NSW miners has prompted specialised drug screening. The Director of Mine Safety Operations, Rob Regan, from NSW Trade & Investment, says the Work Health and Safety legislation imposes a duty on a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers and others at work. The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 requires that hazards are identified and the resultant risks eliminated or controlled.

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 has duties for workers and others at the workplace. They must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and take reasonable care that their acts or omissions do not adversely affect the health and safety of others. They must also comply with any reasonable instruction by the PCBU and the worker must cooperate with any reasonable policy or procedure of the PCBU. “Our mining specific legislation requires the operator to provide a health and safety management system that identifies and controls risks to the operation,” Regan said. “A good operator will recognise that alcohol and other drugs (AOD) may present a risk and have policy and procedures, as part of fitness for work, to control these risks. However, those policies and procedures must have been developed through, and with, the consultation of the workforce.” The Coal Mine Health and Safety Regulation 2006 clause148 specifies the coal operation must have a fitness for work program that includes measures to eliminate or control risks from the consumption of drugs at the coal operation. The Mine Health and Safety Regulation 2007 makes similar provision at clauses 82 and 83 that a person must not take drugs into a mine without the mine operator’s authority.

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 27

DRUG TESTING

THE WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY ACT 2011 HAS DUTIES FOR WORKERS AND OTHERS AT THE WORKPLACE. THEY MUST TAKE REASONABLE CARE FOR THEIR OWN HEALTH AND SAFETY AND TAKE REASONABLE CARE THAT THEIR ACTS OR OMISSIONS DO NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OTHERS.

Kronic is a synthetic cannabinoid product being sold in some states of Australia. Kronic contains a leafy green material adulterated with one or more compounds that convey similar pharmacological properties as Delta9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive constituent of marijuana. Compounds which appear to be highly popular are the ones known as AM2201, JWH250 and AB001. Brands which are currently legal in NSW, including Kronic Black Label and Pineapple Express, have been banned by the WA government. “AOD policy should recognise that both legal and illegal substances may have an impact on the competency of people who work at a mine,” Regan said. “Good procedures establish behaviours of people at the mine so they recognise that they may not be fit for duty and inform their supervisor. “This happens through education and positive reinforcement. Kronic is just another AOD that mine operators should give information about to their workforce.” Regan said the second layer of control was to train others, and in particular supervisors, on how to detect that a person may not be fit for duty. AOD may not always be the reason a person may not be fit for duty.

“A further control measure may be AOD testing. This would have been established through workplace consultation. “The AOD testing may take many forms, such as pre-employment medical, random and unannounced tests, notified testing for ‘at risk’ groups, requirements for AOD tests post-incident for certain people such as people operating machinery. As to the investigation of an incident by Mine Safety, AOD may be identified as a contributing factor in an incident, Acting Senior Investigator Mark Freeman said. “Investigators may review the AOD policy and procedures as part of the investigation and review and take copies of any test results that are at the mine. Where a death has occurred, we may receive toxicology and other test results from the Coroner. “Investigators do not have powers to require a person to undergo AOD testing. “We do have the power to take and remove for analysis a sample of any substance at the workplace. Investigators also have the power to seize anything they consider evidence.” Mine Safety, Division of Resources and Energy, NSW Trade & Investment www.resources.nsw.gov.au/safety

Gas measurement

Wireless safety system

The automatic tube pump Draeger X-act 5000 can be used

The WiLERT ‘Wireless Alert’ Beacons are omnidirectional and designed to be

to measure and sample gases, vapours and aerosols.

installed on walls, bollards or even moving infrastructure. They’re compact

An all-in-one solution, it is designed for measurements with

and can be orientated in any direction and simply screwed in place. When

the company’s short-term tubes and for sampling tubes

activated, the bright beacons appear to rotate, making them more obvious

and systems.

than even larger beacons in most applications - even in broad daylight.

The handling of gases, vapours and aerosols is said to be easy - the automatic tube pump directs the air to be measured through the appropriate Draeger tubes. The pump is comfortably carried with one hand or using the shoulder strap and is easily operated, even wearing protective gloves. An intuitive menu structure provides user-efficient operation with a few button presses. Using the password-protected menu, repetitive operating modes can be set. A barcode printed on the label on the backside of a company short-term tube box contains all relevant measurement parameters. Simply sliding the barcode over the barcode

The system can be activated either by wireless handheld or wall-mounted

reader of the pump automatically transfers the name of

remote controls, or ‘wirelessly’ networked so that multiple beacons in a

the substance to be measured, the number of strokes and

security-coded network can be activated by network-enabled devices

the measuring range to the display. The required steps to

such as IR photo beams, pedestrian pressure mats or other sensors for

carry out the measurement are simplified with the device

automated applications.

and the possibility of making an error is said to be reduced

Available with amber, red, blue or green LEDs, an installed system can

to a minimum.

be expanded at any time by adding more beacons or networked activation

Draeger Safety Pacific Pty Ltd

devices, simply by using that network’s security code.

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M951

Inventis Technology Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q058

28 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

COMPACT. ergonomically designed and virtually unnoticeable on your back. VERSATILE. choose from a range of single or twin leg configurations and harness/lifeline connectors. SAfE. Stops a fall within centimetres, providing greater protection at low heights.

Single or twin leg harness interface connector, cab mount or karabiner 360 swiveling anchorage loop Impact-resistant housing

Twin leg models offer 100% tie-off configurations

Automatic quick-activating arrestor Impact indicator Retractable lifeline equipped Triple action karabiner, snap or scaffold hook with 16kN gate stregth Mine specific models all feature triple action karabiners

Contact Capital Safety for more information on DBI-SALA’s range of Nano-Lok™ SRL’s or visit www.nanolok.capitalsafety.com.au Alternatively scan the QR Code above with your smart phones QR scanner/reader. (QR readers are available for free from your mobiles app store.) Safety has long been a critical concern in mining whether it’s above or below ground and the best solution often requires specialised fall protection equipment. Capital Safety delivers a comprehensive range of fall protection products for the mining industry: Full Body Harnesses Miners Belts Shock Absorbing Lanyards

Self Retracting Lifelines Engineered Access Systems Accredited Training

www.capitalsafety.com.au | Australia: 1800 245 002 | New Zealand: 0800 212 505 The ulTimaTe in fall proTecTion

a capiTal SafeTy Brand

NEW PRODUCTS

Floor and wall labels The Earth Wrap non-slip floor and wall label allows users to personalise their signage with corporate slogans or logos. This enhances their message and helps them promote their corporate ideals at no extra printing cost. This reinforces their commitment to their staff to provide as safe a work place as is possible. All Earth Wrap labels can now have appropriate company logos and relevant slogans, to further reinforce message. Earth Wrap also has a range of safety signs that can be personalised to suit. Total Print www.totalprint.com.au

Flame-resistant safety workwear Flame-resistant (FR) safety apparel can be used to protect workers from the risk of flash fire, electrical arc flash and molten metal splash injuries. The use of FR clothing can provide the necessary thermal protection to shield workers at the moment of exposure. Once the

Absorbent mats New Pig's range of absorbent mats perform across a wide range of liquids and applications to help clean up easily and economically. There are three main types of mats available: Oil-Only Mats for oily spills; Haz-Mats to cover small to large hazardous spills and absorb high concentrations of acids; and tough absorbent Universal Mats for all types of liquids that keep floors cleaner, drier and safer. They can be bought in pads and rolls and are perforated to help customers use the amount they require. The poly-backed absorbent mats can be used in high-traffic areas. Matthews Safety Products Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N860

source of ignition is removed, flame-resistant garments will self-extinguish, greatly limiting the severity of a burn. Elliotts safety apparel utilises the material safety and FR properties in the following FR materials to make them suitable for workers in all types of worksites across the electrical arc flash, oil and gas, metal fabrication, mining, electrical, firefighting and chemical industries. TenCate Tecasafe Plus is engineered to provide electric arc and flash fire protection that lasts twice as long as FR-treated cotton fabrics. Tecasafe Plus is soft and lightweight fabric that provides comfortable wear. Its inherent protection will never wash or wear out. Banwear fabrics provide flame resistance that is guaranteed for the life of the garment. Its composition of 88% cotton and 12% high-tenacity nylon combines the comfort of cotton with extra garment durability. ALu-Safe is a high-performance workwear fabric developed specifically and especially to protect workers in primary aluminium smelters who are exposed to the hazards and dangers of molten aluminium and cryolite (reduction cell flux) splash. The fabric also offers protection from hazards such as radiant and convective heat and electric arc. Elliott Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N368

NEED INFORMED INDUSTRY SOLUTIONS? With almost 40 years in the industry, TechRentals has the expertise to resolve your issues.

Features: • 180h logging storage: LAeq and LZpeak • Auto-calibration function • LCD display for review on instrument, battery and memory status • Rechargeable battery; operation time 28h • Includes Type 1 calibrator with NATA calibration Applications: • Measures all relevant parameters required by Noise at Work standards • Indicates the level of hearing protection required Call us today to find out how you can benefit from renting the Brüel & Kjær’s 4448 Personal Noise Dose Meter or another item from our range of test and measurement equipment.

30 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

CALL NOW TO FIND OU T HOW MUCH YOU CAN SAVE THE LONGER YOU RE NT!

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your rental business partner

RENT FOR A DAY, A MONTH, A YEAR OR MORE

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The cable-free Brüel & Kjær’s 4448 Personal Noise Dose Meter can be used in hazardous environments such as mining and petrochemical facilities where only intrinsically safe equipment can be used.

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Oxygen self-rescuer The Draeger Oxy 6000 oxygen self-rescuer, a self-contained device, features â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Safety Eyeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which ensures maximum reliability and efficiency in an emergency. It is the suitable for underground utilities and shipping applications. Its robust housing features a double-cased design to protect the KO2 cartridge along with integral shock absorption and crush-zone protection. It also features replaceable abrasion/wear protection for maximum strength and durability and is claimed to provide a 10-year lifetime without maintenance. Ergonomically designed and small in size for optimum manoeuvrability, the device is comfortable to wear and will minimise restriction of movement and interference with work. Fitted with a stainless steel clip that is easy to open with either hand, it is simple and quick to don. The functional device is removed from the protective outer casing by pulling on the yellow neck strap. The breathing hose can then be placed in the mouth and the nose clip positioned. At the same time the starter is automatically activated, providing an immediate air supply. As a result, time is gained to escape from the hazardous area. To be prepared for an emergency situation, regular training on the use of the oxygen self-rescuer is essential and the device can be supplied in a training version. Draeger Safety Pacific Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M947

Roof walkway matting Crossgrip walkway matting is designed as a safe and easily loose-laid solution for rooftops, gantries and high-level walkways. It provides a slip-resistant surface and protects the roof membrane. Due to its flexible construction, the matting will contour over uneven surfaces and imperfections and provide a permanent and safe walkway for service staff and wheeled equipment. Because the matting is raised 14 mm by its underbar construction, it will maintain an efficient and drier path over puddles and ponding. It is maintenance free and will resist the harshest of conditions, including winds of up to 150 km/h. Its PVC composition will resist bacterial growth and is impervious to temperature extremes including frost, ice and snow, making it suitable for use on the most exposed areas and in the most extreme environments. The matting is supplied in 10 m rolls and standard widths of 60, 91 and 122 cm. It is available in black and light grey as well as other colours and can be supplied with a high-visibility yellow edging for increased visual safety. Plastic Extruders www.crossgrip.com

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 31

CASE STUDY

Lifting up Christchurch Underpinning and relevelling large commercial buildings has been proven viable with the successful relevelling of a large three-storey building damaged in last February’s big earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. The magnitude 6.3 quake - which killed 185 people in New Zealand’s second-largest city - was followed by a series of aftershocks that further weakened buildings in the devastated central city. A collaborative effort between Piletech and Enerpac, in responding to the needs of the owners of the three-storey building, resulted in the structure being safely jacked back into position with millimetre precision using the Enerpac Synchronised Hydraulic Lifting System and a battery of Enerpac 50 and 100 tonne jacks, with a combined lifting capacity of 800 t. The Enerpac synchronous system, available through Enerpac Integrated Solutions, is being employed globally for challenging lifts of up to tens of thousands of tonnes, ranging from ships, buildings, bridges and wharves through to mining draglines, ball mills, turbines, petroleum drilling platforms and exploration machinery and loading/ unloading facilities. Applications include relocation of the Shanghai Concert Hall, lifting the Prado Museum in Madrid, lifting the San Francisco Bay Bridge and even the recent U2 concert’s giant climbing stage. Piletech designed and installed screw piles both inside and outside the building which provided the support for temporary steel jacking frames. The Enerpac Synchronised Hydraulic Lifting System provided the ability to individually control the jacking points, ensuring that the building was not subjected to further stresses. The relevelled building is now supported by new screw pile foundations which have been proven to perform exceptionally well throughout all the seismic events. Believed to be the first relevelling of a building of this size in Christchurch, it brings new hope to owners of large buildings that would otherwise be facing the demolition ball. The Piletech/ Enerpac team is currently assessing several more significant

building relevelling projects within the city with lifting capabilities of up to 12,800 tonnes. The lift went right to schedule and as planned, saving many hours or even days of hard work. “The ability to control all aspects of the lift is a huge step forward in helping rebuild Christchurch safely and without further damaging the building,” said Jonty Petorius of Piletech. Piletech’s wide experience in screw piling is complimented by Enerpac’s wealth of worldwide experience in heavy lifting. Screw piles can be put in just about anywhere; even piling through windows is possible, as is coming down from a second story to install screw piles. The Enerpac synchronised lift systems are available for monitoring up to 64 points. The entire lift can be controlled by one person by touch screen, safely away from the building being lifted. “There are virtually no limits to what can be lifted, only your imagination,” said Enerpac New Zealand Territory Manager Neville Stuart. “The ability to control so much force with the touch of a finger is impressive.” The Enerpac technology is designed to provide optimum control and stability during the lift and ongoing safety, by protecting the structures’ integrity during the lifting and manoeuvring. “Not only does the PLC controlled lift provide minute control down to 1 mm or less during the lift, measured over hundreds of cylinders arranged in clusters - but it can also account for variation in load over the floor or keel of the structure,” said Enerpac. “This means system operators can maintain outstanding control over huge numbers of cylinders to apply exact force as it is needed in particular parts of a structure as it is hosted for weighing, balancing or prior to skidding into position for launch.”

Enerpac Div/Actuant Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N540

Personal protective equipment range Thermo Fisher Scientific has united with Honeywell Safety Products, a manufacturer of safety equipment including eye, face and welding protection, hand and hearing protection, and fall and respiratory protection. The company’s respiratory protection provides solutions for a range of respiratory hazards and industry applications. The range includes both disposable and re-usable respirators as well as air-purifying masks and breathing apparatus. Honeywell’s eye and face protection range includes safety and laser eyewear, eyewashes and face shields. A range of safety gloves, earplugs and earmuffs is also available. The company provides fall protection products to suit a range of industry applications. Harnesses and lanyards are tested in accordance with the guidelines of AS/NZS 1891.1 2007. Thermo Fisher Scientific Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q256

32 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Power for hazardous zones Quint DC/DC converter power supplies equipped with selective fuse breaking can be used in hazardous zones and in shipbuilding. The converters trip circuit breakers reliably. Faulty circuits are selectively shut down so that the fault is localised and important system components remain operational. With rated output currents of 5 to 20 A, the devices supply peak currents of 30 to 120 A for 12 ms to magnetically trip circuit breakers. The converters operate with DC input voltages of between 18 and 32 VDC and the range is expanded to between 14 and 32 VDC during operation. Depending on the device type, potentiometers at the front of the device can be used to adjust the output voltage for the ranges 5 to 18, 18 to 29.5, and 30 to 56. By boosting the voltage on long supply lines, the modules change the voltage level or compensate for loss-related voltage drops. As a result of the electrical isolation, they separate circuits to decouple and protect sensitive loads.

Antifog safety glasses The Pyramex safety glasses range is available with an antifog, antiscratch lens coating that blocks out fog, mist, sweat and steam. The antifog technology, H2X, assists when weather constantly changes and is claimed to ensure the user’s vision will remain optically clear in any weather element. The antifog coating is bonded to the lenses and will continue to be effective even after repeated cleanings. Pyramex lenses are said to remain unaffected by steam 15 times longer than other antifog treatments. The coating will withstand weather and temperature environments where humid or cold conditions cause eyewear to fog. Features include: antistatic - lenses do not attract dust; all lenses provide UVA and UVB protection due to the feature of PC raw material. Elliott Australia Pty Ltd

Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q262

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N098

LET’S ELIMINATE ROOM FOR ERROR.

E A SY T O H A N D L E I N A N Y S I T UAT I O N . The Protégé multi-gas monitor is durable, portable and simple to use. With a lithium-ion battery pack, the Protégé provides an 18 hour run time without a pump or a 12 hour run time with a pump. The Protégé ensures local regulatory compliance with IEC Ex a id IIC T4 approvals. With an intuitive user interface and simple two button operation, the Protégé makes calibration and operation virtually thought free. T O L E A R N M O R E V I S I T : S C OT T S A F E T Y.C O M O R C A L L 1 3 1 7 7 2

LET’S WORK.

C O N F I N E D S PAC E E N T R Y / WA S T E WAT E R / F I R E S E R V I C E S / O I L & G A S

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 33

NEW PRODUCTS

Fog maker for dust suppression The Idrotech high-pressure Giraffa fog maker is designed for dust suppression in a variety of open and enclosed environments including construction and mining sites, open-air dumps, waste-disposal stations and industrial sites. The fog maker operates at up to 50 bar, producing a fine mist vapour that captures and suppresses ultrasmall dust particles. The fine droplets created by the fog maker are suitable to capture dust and, because they are so small, the water tends to evaporate quickly, avoiding problems associated with overwetting the site. The Giraffa features two rings of nozzles, each with 32 nozzles. The fog maker is used for dust suppression, evaporative cooling and odour control and deodorising. It is available as a fixed or mobile version. The mobile version can be attached to a wheeled trolley, enabling it to be moved to wherever it’s needed. The fog maker can be set to continuously rotate through a horizontal angle of 340° or any angle in between. Tecpro Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q261

Rehydration drink A new fluid and electrolyte replenishment drink, Thorzt, has been scientifically formulated to meet the hydration requirements of Australian workers. The drink has been positively evaluated by physiologists at the University of Western Australia, who praised the formula for its balanced make-up and lower levels of sugar, compared with most sports drinks.Thorzt concentrates are available in five flavours in both traditional and sugar-free formulas, and in a range of pack sizes from individual solo shots to bulk mixers for larger work sites. ProChoice Safety Gear Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q167

Online catalogue 3M’s Occupational Health & Environmental Safety Division has launched its Australian website (www.3M.com/au/PPESafety). The site’s online product catalogue enables visitors to quickly find information on 3M safety solutions ranging from disposable and re-usable respirators, earplugs and earmuffs, protective coveralls, welding helmets and communication headsets and more. A major addition to this site is the 3M Respirator Selection and Service Life software. By entering contaminants and their concentrations, this free software helps make the process of selecting a respirator faster and easier. The user can follow the prompts to select an appropriate respirator. The software can analyse more than 700 different chemicals and provide a record of the user’s choices. It also offers a method for estimating service life of 3M Respirator Cartridges. Other resources on the site include a download centre, product demonstration videos, safety hazards in the news and FAQs. Visitors can locate hundreds of authorised 3M Safety product distributors by using the Where to Buy function and subscribe to receive the latest 3M Safety product and training news. 3M Australia Pty Ltd (Occupational Health & Safety) Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q165

34 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Vacuum lifting devices Optimum Handling Solutions’ range of vacuum lifting devices is designed to safely, efficiently and ergonomically handle almost any type of load. The Optimum EasyLift vacuum lifter device meets the demands of operators and businesses for reliable performance, reduced power consumption, operating safety, minimised injury risk, higher productivity as well as low investment and operational costs. The device is lowered onto the intended load until the chains hang loosely. An internal valve activates the vacuum-generation process and, as the device is lifted, the vacuum securely grips the load ready for transport. The load is released by lowering the lifting tackle until the chains hang loosely again. The vacuum lifting device releases the load and is ready for the next lifting cycle. No electricity or compressed air is used to operate the self-powered EasyLift as the device uses the power of the lifting tackle to generate the vacuum. When the crane or chain hoist begins to lift the EasyLift vacuum lifter, the necessary vacuum, depending on the weight of the load, is generated automatically. The OHS EasyLift vacuum lifter is said to be used extensively by many industries, engineering units, manufacturers, warehouses and distribution terminals. Offering a lifting capacity up to 270 kg, the device can lift almost anything including sacks, bags, boxes, cartons, cases, drums, rolls, pails, doors, glass, timber, steel and plastic sheets, among others. The vacuum lifter features an ergonomically designed combination handle, which is manipulated with minimum effort to operate the system. The equipment can easily be adjusted to the optimum working height of each individual operator. Safe operation is ensured by an electronic warning device with integrated battery-test function as well as an easily visible, integrated manometer for visual monitoring of the vacuum. Optimum Handling Solutions Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q264

and used in conjunction allows 360* degree movement

We invented the T-bar over 10 years ago and revolutionised the safety industry for ever ! Thats why more people ask for a ‘Ballantyne’ than any other roof anchor. We are the solution to temporary safety.

Ph: 07 3357 9503 Em: info@ballantynesafety.com.au Web: www.ballantynesafety.com.au

Australia’s no. 1 selling side profile temporary anchor – Give the market what it wants – Join our winning team today.

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 35

NEW PRODUCTS

NEW White Papers

now available online!

Project 25 and radio dispatch consoles Project 25 (P25) is a user-driven standard in two-way radio, meaning that local and state public safety agencies and many federal agencies define its features. This white paper provides background and information relating to radio dispatch consoles for those who specify, procure and use these systems.

Wet-weather antistatic jacket The Elliotts Z50 FRAS Wet Weather Jacket provides wet weather protection along with FR antistatic protection through its Zetel ZX antistatic materials. The jacket is available in orange navy, yellow navy and all orange, and all jackets have hi-vis reflective tape making them suitable for any worksite requiring antistatic clothing. It features: Zetel ZX FRAS high-visibility breathable, waterproof, windproof oxford material; all seams fully seam sealed; bat-wing design - sleeve construction allows for maximum movement - arms go up, jacket stays down; a zip for a removable zip-out Class D/N compliant liner; zip closure with velcro storm flap; mesh lining; draw cord waist for close fit; two large external gusseted hand warmer/gear pockets; two front chest zip pockets for mobile phones or radios; ribbing

Eliminate impulse piping, heat trace and purge lines on DP level measurements Measuring level with differential pressure is a well understood and reliable method, although accurately measuring differential pressure on tall towers and tanks has always been challenging. For information on a possible solution to better enable operators to control tank level and pressure, download this paper.

Alarm rationalisation Alarm rationalisation is a systematic process to evaluate potential or existing alarms, qualify which are legitimate, specify their design and capture rationales which can be used to guide operator response. This paper describes the SILAlarm solution and other tips for setting up and sustaining an effective alarm rationalisation process.

storm cuffs with velcro closure tabs to keep out water and cold; draw cord storm hood that stows away in the collar; 3M Class D/N reflective trim. The garments are manufactured from materials conforming to AS/NZS 1906.4:2010 and are certified to AS/NZS 4602:1999. Elliott Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N101

Firefighting breathing apparatus The Draeger PSS 5000 SCBA high-performance breathing apparatus is suitable for use by the professional firefighter. With a wide range of configurable options the device provides the user with the

Implementing OEE (overall equipment effectiveness) measures in the packaging hall

comfort and versatility to meet the demands of first responders whenever breathing protection is

Overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is a globally recognised best practice measure to systematically improve your processes

required. Utilising the company’s

for higher efficiencies and better productivity - ultimately leading to lower manufacturing costs and higher profitability. This application paper examines OEE metrics and how to capture them – download now!

most applications.

PSS pneumatics and cylinder strap design, the SCBA is suitable for The device is claimed to be comfortable and stable during use in harsh firefighting environments. Incorporating a rigid harness connection to a fixed-height back plate, advanced harness materials and a pivoting waist belt, the device is said to remain in position regardless of the task in hand. It is fully compatible with the company’s Bodyguard 7000 electronic signal and warning unit, and the PSS Merlin modem. The Bodyguard 7000 has an innovative compact design that integrates the power supply and pressure sensor modules within the back plate, creating a balanced weight distribution. Real-time monitoring of essential information such as time to whistle and cylinder pressure is communicated via a lightweight handheld electronic gauge and display and/or a facemask-mounted heads up display (HUD). Simultaneously, this information can be transferred to an entry control board via the

For these and more White Paper downloads, visit www.safetysolutions.net.au/white_papers

PSS Merlin modem, further enhancing firefighter and fire ground safety. Draeger Safety Pacific Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M948

36 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Electric forklift range Drain cover

Toyota Material Handling Australia

The PIGR Drive-Over Drainblocker cover is suitable for

(TMHA) has launched its 8FBN

semipermanent drain protection where liquid transfers,

range of four-wheel, counter-

washdowns or other spill-prone jobs are common.

balance, battery electric forklifts.

It has a rubber HogHydeT skin that protects the

The 8FBN series consists of

bottom layer to ensure a tight seal every time and

five models, ranging from 1.5 to

the super-sealing urethane bottom layer conforms

3 tonne rated capacity at 500 mm load centres, with

to uneven surfaces and tightly seals drain openings

a choice of masts, hydraulic controls and attachments. Features such as

to block liquid.

pedal-stroke regenerative braking increase times between charges.

The tough top layer stands up to puncture, tearing

The range includes an AC power system and improved equipment layout, as

and abrasion, even under heavy vehicle traffic from

well as more efficient motors and controllers. The company claims these changes

tankers, trucks or forklifts, and also withstands UV

give around a 5% improvement in operating times over the 7FB models.

rays, infrared light and all weather conditions. Users

8FBN series forklifts include automatic turn-speed control which combines lift-

can keep the cover outdoors as long as needed

height and load-weight-sensing along with turn-speed control to automatically limit

without worrying about degradation. It could be

the forkliftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speed when turning.

left down as a preventative measure or stored for emergency response - just remove protective film

Further options include a height selector, joystick controls, shock sensor, corrosion protection pack and a cold storage pack for operating at -45Â°C.

and put the cover over the drain when a spill occurs.

Water resistance to IPX4 rating and zero emissions, including a design free

Custom sizes and round-shaped covers are available.

of hexavalent chrome, mean the range is suitable for a variety of uses and may

Matthews Safety Products Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N430

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

challenge some engine truck applications. Toyota Material Handling Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q229

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 37

SAFETY IN MINING

MENTAL ILLNESSES COST MINING INDUSTRY $320-450 MILLION A YEAR

etween 8000 to 10,000 employees in the mining industry experienced a common mental health illness over a 12-month period, reveals a report released at the recent NSW Minerals Council’s 2012 Occupational Health and Safety Conference in the Hunter. The 43-page ‘Mental Health and the NSW Minerals Industry’, prepared by the University of Newcastle and the Hunter Institute of Mental Health, through Newcastle Innovation, found the following: • Estimated costs to the industry, including lowered productivity, are between $320 million to $450 million per year or around $300,000 to $400,000 for an average mine of 170 people. • An estimated average of between 8000 to 10,000 employees experienced a common mental health illness like anxiety, depression or substance abuse over a 12-month period. • It is estimated that people from across all mining employment categories are affected equally, from managers and professionals through to machinery operators and drivers. “There is no single solution to mental health. It requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Like any football club or netball squad, we need to tackle this challenge together as a team. It’s only then that we will keep kicking goals in our management of mental health,” said NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee. The Hunter Institute of Mental Health’s Trevor Hazell, who presented

the paper, agreed that a major problem was people’s reluctance to accept that they may be suffering from mental health issues and, as a result, they did not seek help. “Most people who saw their GP about a mental health issue were successfully diagnosed and treated, increasing their health and productivity. However, only a small proportion, around 35%, and more women than men, sought medical advice,” said Hazell. Galilee said a major challenge for the industry was to strike down the stigma attached to discussing mental health, particularly in traditional blue-collar, male-dominated sectors like mining: “Cultural impediments like the old macho mining culture, the ‘we’re tough, this doesn’t happen to us’ mentality, need to be swept away if employees are to confidently seek advice. We want to break the attitude that a doctor is like a plumber - you only need one when something is broken. “The impact of mental health in the workplace results in significant costs related to productivity and absenteeism as well as costs to individuals, families and colleagues. It’s not only common sense, but it also makes sound business sense to adopt a holistic approach to mental health in our industry. “As a first step, this Mental Health and the NSW Minerals Industry report will form the basis of our future work, as one industry working together, to address these challenges.”

OHS innovations in mining recognised New South Wales miners from the Illawarra/Wollondilly and Hunter Valley regions were recognised at the 2012 NSW Minerals Council OHS Innovation Awards in front of around 550 of their peers. “Our innovation awards encourage miners to identify areas where health and safety can be improved and then develop and road-test creative solutions that can be adopted at other mining operations,” said NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee. Below is the list of award winners. 2012 OHS innovation award winner: Ultra lightweight ventilation tubes, BHP Billiton Illawarra Coal (West Cliff Mine), Illawarra/Wollondilly region. Innovation: In a first for a NSW underground coalmine, trialling new carbon fibre ventilation tubes in place of traditional fibreglass significantly reduces their weight (from 35-40 kg to just 9 kg), increasing productivity and minimising heavy lifting risks like muscular-skeletal injuries.

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

Highly commended: SOTO tow hitch system, Centennial Coal (Myuna Colliery), Hunter/Newcastle region. Innovation: This rigid towing device minimises the risk of safety incidents by increasing control of movement while towing heavy mine equipment underground. It can be used in all conditions and can be operated by just one person. Highly commended: The ‘Marnett’ Belt Lifter Bracket, BHP Billiton Mt Arthur Coal, Hunter/Newcastle region. Innovation: This specialised bracket allows conveyer belts without a mechanical belt lifter to be periodically changed without manual handling and pinch point hazards. It saves time by around 25%, can be used on any conveyor and costs less than $300. People’s choice (voted by conference delegates): Ultra Lightweight Ventilation Tubes, BHP Billiton Illawarra Coal (West Cliff Mine), Illawarra/Wollondilly region. (Also winner of the major 2012 OHS innovation award.)

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 39

WORK AND HEALTH RISKS

WORK NEGATIVELY IMPACTS MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH Almost 2200 (44%) of 5000 workers recently surveyed felt their work impacts negatively on their mental or physical health, reveals research conducted by Medibank.

he research examined 13 different industries and discovered that many workers felt their employment impacted their health, with over one in two (54%) specifying that work affected their physical health and 40% believing it impacted their mental health. A quarter felt they worked for an organisation that had a high risk of harm to their physical health (26%) or mental health (24%). • 69% of respondents were generally happy with their health - those in the mining sector were the happiest (77%) while the lowest number of workers happy with their health was in the government sector (57%). • 85% of workers believed that employers should offer workplace health programs or invest in the health and wellbeing of their employees. • More workers in metropolitan areas considered that their work had a negative impact on their physical health (39%) or mental health (30%) relative to other locations. The survey, conducted in conjunction with the Allen Consulting Group, focussed on the industries of government, transport, healthcare and medical, hospitality, finance, electricity and gas, mining, construction, manufacturing, education, retail, agriculture and professional services. Over half of the respondents (57%) said that a potential employer’s focus on workplace health and wellbeing was ‘very important’ or ‘somewhat important’ when deciding where to work. Furthermore, 85% of workers believe that employers should offer workplace health programs or invest in the health and wellbeing of their employees, with 82% believing that employers bore responsibility for funding this, said Dr Melissa Lehmann, National Manager, Specialist Services Unit - Medibank Health Solutions.

40 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

In spite of an overwhelming majority of workers wanting their employers to invest in their health, less than half of those surveyed - 45% - were aware of being offered some kind of workplace health program. Of the 45% of employees who were offered workplace health programs, just over half, or 52%, participated in them. Positively, 72% of those who participated considered that it led to an improvement in their health and wellbeing. While the majority of respondents indicated that they are generally happy with their health (69%), those in the mining sector appeared to be the happiest (77%) while the lowest number of workers happy with their health was in the government sector (57%). The health self-assessment results also provided an interesting insight into Australians’ self-perceptions versus reality, as Dr Lehmann explains: “Over half the respondents rated their fitness levels as ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’. However, we know that 61.4% of the Australian population is either overweight or obese, so it’s apparent that many people are in denial regarding their true fitness status. It’s important that Australians wake up to the reality of their true health status and take steps to positively change it.” Location played a major role in determining perspectives towards workplace health. More workers in metropolitan areas considered that their work had a negative impact on their physical health (39%) or mental health (30%) relative to other locations. Absenteeism from work was also higher the closer respondents’ workplaces were to metropolitan areas. However, 55% of workers in remote areas considered they work in an organisation with a high risk of harm to their physical health.

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Dirt capturing system The Foreign Matter Capturing System actively captures metal, glass, sand, soil and dust fragments from tyres and boots every time they travel over FMCG Industry Solutions’ Profilgate system. Areas protected include entrances into and out of warehouses, production areas, processing areas, maintenance departments and other high-risk areas, reducing the risk of product contamination and potential recalls. The brush system is activated by the weight of a forklift as it travels across the metal grid and removes contaminants from the tyres and traps them in a stainless steel capture tray. The brushes have specifically been developed with the optimal hardness, angle and height to actively capture metal, glass, sand and soil from staff safety shoes, boots, trolley wheels and even forklift tyres. It requires no power, very little maintenance and is certified for up to 10 tonnes. Once installed, the system only requires foreign matter collected in the tray to be removed monthly, which dramatically reduces ongoing cleaning costs. It is suitable for the environment and sustainable. The system also comes in a wet version where it not only cleans tyres and shoes but sanitises them as well. FMCG Industry Solutions www.fmcgis.com.au

Helping you integrate machine safety for maximum productivity With integrated machine safety solutions,

Joint data management system

application experience and legislation knowledge, we can help you achieve a safer

The Joint Data Management System (JDMS) from Hydratight is designed to store the entire life cycle data relating to every critical bolted joint on an installation. It is designed to aid planning, enhance safety, ensure joint integrity and assist in reducing construction and maintenance

environment without compromising productivity. The result can be a safer future for more than just your business. www.RockwellAutomation.com.au www.RockwellAutomation.co.nz

schedules and costs in oil and gas projects. The system provides managers and technicians with essential information about joint components used in assembly, plus it specifies the tools and the torque or tension values to deliver a leak-free joint. It can be tailor-made to meet any specific individual requirements of the operating company, but based around a solid core. The core package includes a database which is fully interactive with Informate. The system can be supplied as a single-user

Integrated Machine Safety Solutions

package or as a multiuser system installed on a network. It can be

Discover more at:

interfaced to packages such as PDMS or PDS pipeline design systems.

www.discoverrockwellautomation.com/safety

The HypurJoint add-on graphic package provides a system to import electronic drawings into the JDMS. Hot spots are then allocated to the joints on the drawings, which provide easy access to joint data directly from a drawing view. Joints can be selected by clicking on the joint on the drawing, which will display the joint data. Work packs can be created directly from the drawing. Hydratight www.hydratight.com

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 41

NEW PRODUCTS

Application to identify safe operating limits inBound is a layered application for PAS's PlantState Suite alarm management software that makes plant operators continually aware of safe operating limits. The product aggregates, validates and displays physical constraints such as a vessel’s Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP), design constraints, such as relief valve settings, and safe operating

Metal and X-ray detector test pieces

limits. These constraints may be manually entered, calculated, or im-

Having metal and X-ray detectable products online to avoid con-

ported into the software from engineering applications and databases.

tamination is only effective when the actual detection machines

The application enables engineers to develop a boundary hierarchy

are also working to the specified detection levels. Regular testing

and automatically detects and reports deviations from that hierarchy,

of these machines is the only way to ensure they are compliant

such as an alarm setting that is higher than a pressure-relief valve

with quality assurance standards; the best way to do this is using

setting. This capability provides assurance that configuration parameter

metal and X-ray detector test pieces. CK Safety supplies a complete

changes, such as alarm limits and instrument ranges, remain within

range of test pieces, manufactured by Detectamet.

the safe operating envelope of the plant.

All test pieces are supplied with a certificate of conformity, with

By displaying safe operating limits in real time and in context within

each test piece having a number etched onto its side which relates

the plant’s existing control system graphics, the product enables

to this certificate supplied by the bearing manufacturer. “Detectamet”

operators to proactively monitor measurements and take action, as

is also etched onto each test piece, and a company name can

needed, to prevent violation of limits.

be added on request. Extra numbers can be etched onto the test

PAS

pieces if required, to allow for individual identification purposes.

www.pas.com

Contamination ball bearings for metal and X-ray test pieces are available in a variety of materials such as stainless steel 316, ferrous, non-ferrous, glass, ceramic and wire. The metal detector test pieces are colour coded for simple visual verification and fitted with a calibrated and certified bearing to ISO9002 and AFBMA Calibration. The test pieces are manufactured from a variety of plastic materials, including acrylic, PVC

Lead Safe Stand™ Quality polyethylene

and polyethylene. They are suitable for use with end-of-line, inline, throat, gravity, pipeline and conveyor metal detectors. The X-ray detector test pieces are transparent but with highly visible certificate numbers, ball contaminants, sizes and identification. They contain contaminants in sizes from 0.3 to 10 mm. The

» Two piece lightweight non-conductive lead stand » Height: 2100 mm » Highly visible colour » Coiling hooks for extra lead » Easily moved by rolling » Holds 45kg of water/sand » Thread inserts in cable holding prongs for mounting floodlights » Custom company embossed labelling plates available POA

range includes low-, medium- and high-density materials acting as the medium, combined with test contaminants of varying densities. CK Safety Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q065

Workwear Huski has a large range of workwear, safety wear, outdoor workwear, reflective jackets and high visibility industrial workwear and uniforms. The range now includes Ladies Fit Hi-Vis D/N jackets.

100% Australian Made

The jackets feature zip-off sleeves to form a vest.

Call 1300 All Poly for your nearest distributor.

and D/N 100% cotton shirts in long and short sleeves.

T 1300 255 765 E sales@allpoly.com.au W www.allpoly.com.au

and pants are now available as stock service. The blaze

Additional products for 2012 also include D/N polo shirts Furthermore, the company’s ARC rated waterproof jacket jacket and flame pants are flame retardant and anti-static. Palazzi (Trading) Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N169

42 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Bump test stations for gas detection instruments

Safety relay

The BTS-HP Bump Test Stations are used

4 safety relay, which has three safety

with high-pressure/large-volume gas cylin-

switching paths and a signalling out-

ders, providing a solution for bump testing/

put, is used for two-channel monitor-

response testing gas detection instruments

ing of emergency stop control devices

in mining applications. Workers can test

or safety door switches in machines

their gas detection instruments quickly and

and systems.

The Phoenix Contact PSR-ESAM

efficiently by simply pushing the green but-

In addition to the 24 V AC/DC

ton. Each outlet is independent so gas flow

model, the company also has avail-

is controlled by the individual push-buttons.

able 48 V AC/DC, 60 V AC/DC,

The system design uses a single gas cylinder mixture and distributes the gas to two, four, six

110 V AC/DC and 230 V AC/DC units.

or more outlets. The large-volume cylinders reduce the cost of gas considerably. A programmable

The safety relay meets safety

timer allows the gas to flow for the length of time required. Once the flow rate is set to the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

requirements in accordance with

requirement, the cabinet is locked and no further adjustments are necessary.

the standards for functional safety

The BTS-HP Programmable allows for multiple incoming gas mixtures connected to the sta-

up to PL e as per EN ISO 13849-1

tion, which can be programmed to flow each gas independently for the prescribed length of time

and SIL3 as per EN 62061 and IEC

required for instrument verification. Each gas would be connected to common outlets so multigas

61508. The device can be configured

detection devices can be tested with one push of a button.

for both automatic and manually

Special designs with multiple gas mixture inlets and multiple gas outlets can be designed to meet specific customer requirements. CAC Gas & Instrumentation Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q098

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

monitored start. Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N251

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 43

FIRE SAFETY

FIGHTING FIRES WITH COMPUTER MODELS

hrough advanced computer modelling of house fires, mechanical engineers at UNSW are giving firefighters a new suite of tools to investigate and battle dangerous blazes - just in time for the high-risk winter months. Beginning with an ignition point, the models can map how fires behave as they grow, accurately predicting their overall temperature and pinpointing dangerous hotspots that responding personnel should avoid. “When you’re sending a firefighter into a dangerous situation you want to have an idea of the temperatures they’re going to face,” says Debbie Mackay, who recently completed her PhD at UNSW and was involved in the research project with NSW Fire Brigade. The models also detail how fires can respond to sudden bursts of oxygen resulting from a smashed window or an opened door, offering additional information for firefighters planning their route of attack and evacuation. “Venting a room can be a good thing, as it lets smoke and heat out, but if you’re letting too much oxygen in you actually feed the fire, which can lead to explosive events such as backdrafts and flashovers,” explains Mackay. With winter fast approaching, it’s an important consideration as firefighters once again prepare for their riskiest season. Of the 4000-plus residential fires in NSW last year, more than 28% occurred during winter; while two-thirds of the total resulting fatalities in 2011 occurred between May and September.

44 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

An expert in computational fluid dynamics, Mackay can isolate parts of her computer models to show firefighters exactly what is happening with smoke, flames and the direction of airflow. “There are all sorts of little things the firefighters can learn from the models which they can’t actually see when they are facing a real fire,” she says. “When they’re inside a burning building, all they see is a mass of smoke.” The models have also piqued the interest of the NSW Fire Brigade’s investigation unit, which sees an opportunity to use them to trace a fire backward in time to its origin. “Such fire scene mapping linked with these models would represent a real step forward in forensic fire scene examination,” says Chief Superintendent Greg Buckley of the NSW Fire Brigade. Mackay and her colleagues in the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW began with a controlled fire inside a small one-metre-cubed enclosure, where they could carefully monitor all the variables, including wind conditions and the impact of certain building materials. They then graduated to a shipping container, and eventually reached the pinnacle of burning down a house in Braidwood, NSW, that was due for demolition. Heat-resistant sensors were positioned in the house and recorded information about temperature and airflow. This data, along with information about the type of fire, its ignition and the present materials, is all fed into the computer models. Future research will explore the behaviour of fires in different scenarios and larger structures, such as apartment blocks.

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Fall protection breathing apparatus harnesses The DBI-Sala Delta Repel breathing apparatus (BA) full body harness range provides fall and breathing protection for a variety of industries where workers are required to carry out activities that involve simultaneous use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full body harnesses, to protect against falls from height in contami-

Air-powered diesel pump Transferring diesel fuel in many applications in the resources industry, in local government and for safe working of contractors’ equipment often requires a sparkfree safety environment. The Selecta division of Silvan Australia has responded to this need with the introduction of the Air-Power Diesel Pump, which operates without the need for electrical currents.

nated atmospheres. The range consists of two models: the BA harness and the BA Rescue/Escape harness. Both models feature front and rear fall arrest-rated D-rings, confined space retrieval/ attachment points and stainless steel hardware. They are constructed from Repel technology webbing, which provides the added benefits of a high level of water resistance, a natural self-cleaning effect and a durable protective function, keeping them lightweight and comfortable all day long for the entire service life of the product. The BA harness integrates with large-cylinder BA equipment and includes: a wide padded lower back/hip pad for added support and comfort, a dorsal extension for unhindered connections while using large tanks and a combined shoulders, back and waist protection pad with attachment straps to redistribute the weight of the cylinder to the hips, taking pressure off the back and shoulders while ensuring the air tanks and hoses are held securely in place. The BA rescue/escape harness integrates with the smaller cylinders and incorporates: a hip-mounted escape cylinder bag for compliance to confined space standards, a rear tail strap to hold BA pigtail connection in place when connected to an external air supply and air line attachment straps to keep the hose in place. DBI-Sala’s i-Safe intelligent safety system utilising RFID technology is built into each breathing apparatus harness to track inspections, control inventory and manage information.

The product is a double diaphragm, compressed air-powered, multipurpose pump that is compatible with a wide range of liquids or chemicals. When used for pumping or transferring diesel, it has a rated capacity of 60 L/min, although it can also be used to pump oils, water and the Ad Blue aqueous urea diesel fuel additive. The pump uses Viton as the principal material within a polypropylene housing. It uses only 0.2 cm/min of compressed air at a pressure of 8 bar, or 116 psi, and could be driven from the onboard compressed air capacity of most mobile equipment items. The pump has a 0.6 cm BSP air inlet connection with a 1.9 cm BSP female connection to enable a delivery hose and nozzle gun to be fitted for delivery. With no electrical components, spark-free operation is provided. The pump has also been coupled with a 400 L capacity Polytuff tank that is baffled, UV stabilised and fitted with a full delivery system of an auto shut-off gun with swivel and a 4 m length of delivery hose. With the aid of a span-on hose fitting, it can be powered from a vehicle or equipment item that already has an onboard compressed air supply.

Capital Safety Group (Australia)

Silvan Australia Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M678

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q149

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 www.SafetySolutions.net.au

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 45

CASE STUDY

Reducing manual handling risks when terminating data cables Tech Innovations, an Australian company, has designed, developed and launched Tech Table to help alleviate many challenging manual handling and safety issues confronted by technicians when terminating data cables. The product allows technicians to perform the task on a stable, height adjustable working platform that is lightweight and easily transported. “The task of terminating patch panel cabling is a tedious one and is currently performed in awkward, and sometimes d a n g e ro u s , p o s i t i o n s fo r prolonged periods of time,” said David McKenzie-McHarg, Director, Tech Innovations. The company recently exhibited the Australian patented Tech Table (global patents pending) at the BICSI South Pacific 2012 Conference and Exhibition. Tech Table is expected to be available for companies and technicians in August this year and will be distributed by Anixter. McKenzie-McHarg came up with the idea while wo r k i n g a s a t e c h n i c i a n . Soon after entering the data co mm u n i c a t i o n s i n d u s t r y six years ago, McKenzieMcHarg began to experience back and neck pain on a daily basis. Commenting on his experience as a technician, McKenzie-McHarg said, “I was surprised to see how many other technicians dealt with this and so I decided to design a solution. With the help of a large number of technicians over several years, as well as an OH&S consultant and ergonomist, we have successfully designed, developed and implemented a practical solution to this industry problem.” Feedback from the thorough field testing undertaken with the Tech Table has been extremely positive, he said.

“Working within a communications cabinet presents several problems for our technicians,” said Adrian Whittaker, business development manager, Multisystem Communications. Multisystem participated in the field testing of the termination table and found the “table to be invaluable.” “The OH&S benefits were immediately evident as we were able to remove this part of the operation, usually carried out inside the cabinet, to outside, allowing the technician to stand or be seated,” he said. This reduced fatigue amongst employees and contributed to an increase in productivity," added Whittaker. “With a removable hard top available for the Tech Table, the apparatus is also proving very useful in terminating fibre optic cables as well as the testing of fibre optic and copper cabling. In addition, a detachable cable holder has been specially designed for the Tech Table to contain individual cables while terminating, further increasing productivity and ease of the task,” said McKenzie-McHarg. In an industry that has grown dramatically over the past 10 years and continues to grow at a rapid rate, the safety hazards associated with the manual task of terminating data cables appears to have been overlooked until now, not only in Australia but also abroad, he said. Tech Table has already bagged Safe Work ACT Award and was a finalist in Annual Safe Work Australia Awards.

Anixter Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N970

Check out this magazine’s website. 46 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

NEW PRODUCTS

Remotely operated barrier Forklift accidents are an ever-present risk where workers, pedestrians or unauthorised vehicles unwittingly cross into loading and unloading workspaces. These accidents are avoidable by using physical barriers for exclusion zones. The challenge is how to allow the forklift or other authorised vehicles in or out with a minimum of fuss. Cable Gate is a remotely operated bar-

Extended-coverage sprinkler

rier that drops in 0.5 s and automatically

The Model EC-25 Extended Coverage Sprinkler, from Tyco Fire Protection Products

rises once the forklift has passed through.

(TFPP), provides advanced solutions for the higher-density, extended-coverage ap-

The forklift driver remains in the vehicle.

plications in extra hazard and storage occupancies.

The product can be up to 10.5 m wide

The product is claimed to provide lower installed cost and better fire protection

and customised to individual require-

when compared to standard coverage sprinkler systems. Benefits of the system

ments. This ensures that it provides an

include: few branch lines and sprinklers as a result of the extended coverage area;

effective physical barrier, keeping pedes-

low operating pressures; low hydraulic system demand; fewer opened sprinklers and

trians and unauthorised vehicles safely

consumed pallets than standard coverage sprinklers as shown in full-scale fire tests.

outside the area when forklifts are in use.

The product is said to provide the minimal water requirement for ceiling heights of 10.5 m or less.

Access Technologies www.cablegate.com.au

Wormald (Tyco/Fire & Security) Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q043

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 47

PROCESS CONTROL | AUTOMATION | INSTRUMENTATION | SAFETY

Process Technology Regional Roadshow

2012 8

NOW IN ITS TH

YEAR

vend NEW or sess training ions

Western Australia

Coming soon ... to a city near you!

If you work in mining, minerals, metals processing, utilities, food and chemical manufacturing and processing then the Regional Roadshows are designed for you. Don’t miss out ...

NEW TRAINING SESSIONS FOR 2012 • Tune a PID flow loop • Troubleshoot a simple TCP/IP industrial ethernet network using four simple utilities • Write, install and test a motor control PLC ladder logic program • Basics of Modbus data communications protocol installation and troubleshooting • Arc flash protection and protective safety equipment • Variable speed drives— testing and troubleshooting

Perth • 10 Sept Bunbury • 11 Sept Rockingham • 12 Sept Karratha • 14 Sept

Supported by:

Training by:

Exhibiting companies include:

Includes FREE: • Access to exhibition • Training sessions - NEW • Lunch and networking drinks • Product demonstrations • Prize draws

To register or for more info visit: www.regionalroadshows.com.au

RESOURCES

from the editor

Drilling code of practice

Job losses and the foreign worker import plan were two hot and controversial top-

The public comment period for the draft code of practice for mineral exploration drilling in Western Australia closed on 30 March 2012. Once the revised draft is endorsed by the Mining Industry Advisory Committee (MIAC), it will be submitted to the Minister for Mines and Petroleum for approval to publish. Resources Safety, Department of Mines and Petroleum, Government of Western Australia, developed a draft code of practice that provides a practical and accessible guide to help identify hazards and risk factors associated with drilling operations. The code of practice has been written to be used by anyone involved in drilling operations, from the driller’s offsider to the managing director, and addresses hazards associated with the drilling methods commonly used in remote exploration in the state. The code has been developed with industry input from various sources. To view the draft code of practice, please visit - http://www.dmp.wa.gov.au/documents/Code_of_Practice/MSH_COP_Draft_MineralExplorationDrilling.pdf.

ics last month. While the recent collapse of the engineering group Hastie that left around 2700 Australian workers in limbo reflected poor management decisions and weakness in the non-mining sector, mining magnet Gina Rinehart’s plan to import around 1700 foreign workers showed the continued strength of the mining sector. Rinehart attracted flak for proposing to import foreign workers when Australians were losing jobs. Rienhart’s Hancock Prospecting and the Australian-listed

WA Safety Show

Hastie group operate in two unrelated

The WA Safety Show will be held from 7-9 August at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre. The show is suitable for OHS managers and officers, risk managers, production managers and logistics managers, as well as those in charge of warehouses, quality assurance, project management amongst others. The Perth Safety Conference, hosted by the Safety Institute of Australia in conjunction with the WA Safety Show, will feature more than 40 industry experts discussing key industry topics under the overall theme ‘From Downtown to Boomtown’. The conference has three streams: Downtown - this stream will focus on OHS issues affecting small to medium-sized businesses and how to better manage these issues without a complex system or breaking the bank; Boomtown - this stream will focus on sharing lessons from the booming resources sector and on helping contractors navigate their way through the often daunting requirements for making it in this market; Innovation & Technology - this stream will look at the research and emerging technology that has the potential to improve OHS outcomes, both for downtown and in the boomtown. To register or for more information, visit www.wasafetyshow.com.

According to the National Resources Sector

industry sectors, but one common thread is skilled labour. Employment Taskforce, employment growth in mining operations is expected to be 4.9% a year over the next five years, creating around 61,500 new jobs by 2015 due to increased production, driven by demand from Asia. For the 12 months ending September 2012, the net interstate migration in Western Australian was 6963 persons as against the net overseas migration of 34,683 persons, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. If Western Australia fails to attract workers from other states of Australia, it will have to continue relying on

Dangerous goods safety

fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) workers from overseas.

The Department of Mines and Petroleum, Government of Western Australia, has made miscellaneous amendments to Dangerous Goods Safety regulations. The changes were gazetted on 1 April 2012 as a part of the first phase of a comprehensive regulatory reform program. The other reforms will come into effect progressively through 2012. As a part of the reform, the major hazard facility fees have increased to achieve about 50% cost recovery, and user fees for explosives reserves have increased by 30% to achieve about 80% cost recovery. The MHF assessment and annual licence fees have increased to the following: Class A facility - $80,000; Class B facility - $40,000; Class C facility - $40,000; and, Class D facility - $20,000.This the first round of increases and the fees are rising to near full cost recovery over two years. The other reforms include: A DG site licence is no longer required if the site is subject to an explosives manufacture licence and the dangerous goods at the site are those used to manufacture the explosives; licence terms for dangerous goods drivers and shotfirers extended to five years; removing the requirement to inform the regulator when there is a change to the responsible person for explosives and security risk substances (SRS) security; licences are automatically renewed after five years unless the holder is dead or the body corporate or partnership is dissolved, the holder does not want the licence renewed, a licence is no longer needed, the annual fee has not been paid. Previously, a new licence application was required every year even though they were described as renewals.

explores the FIFO phenomenon and how

www.SafetySolutions.net.au

The FIFO workers and their families face unique challenges. This issue’s lead article to address challenges brought on by this trend. Elsewhere in this magazine we look at how legal and illegal substances are taking toll on the safety of mine workers. There is also an article on the controversial topic of workplace drug testing. The most appropriate method for drug testing is again being debated in light of the Endeavour Energy case.

Mansi Gandhi - Editor ss@westwick-farrow.com.au

JUNE/JULY 2012 - SAFETY SOLUTIONS 49

In my opinion Falls cost employers millions of dollars each year in lost time, compensation and third-party liability suits. Safe Work Australia statistics for the period 2003-04 to 2008-09 indicate that there have been 180 fatalities as a result of falls from height, 10.67% of total fatalities recorded during this period. Australian Standard AS/NZS 1891.4:2009 ‘Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices; Part 4 Selection, Use and Maintenance; Appendix E, Guidance for the provision of training and competency’ identifies five broad target groups (height safety theory, height safety operator, height safety supervisor, height safety equipment inspector and height safety manager) for training for those working at height. Appendix E provides the recommended Core Training Elements and Performance Criteria, which are much the same as any Industry Training Package ‘Unit of Competency’. However, these recommendations have not been broadly adopted by the Australian VET sector. Given that these recommendations meet the requirements of the vast diversity of industry which works at height, the key question is why not? Part of the reason is that there are but a handful of units of competency which cater for those working at height, excluding those units of competency directed at the recreational ‘climber’. Individual units of competency focus on specific industry sectors, such as restricted height scaffold and work safely at height (construction and mining). These competencies vary in content depth ranging from basic introduction to what may be considered the Height Safety Operator level menioned above, but in general, the industry and the VET sector do not appear to have embraced the need to train personnel at the varying levels according to need, which industry has recommended in the development of the Standard. While some registered training organisations (RTOs) have endeavoured to develop specialised ‘Accredited Courses’ using these recommendations, industry acceptance and recognition of the same has not been forthcoming. Where Standards are developed by industry, why is it that industry and the VET sector do not embrace the guidelines which have been established? Is it because we are so ‘over-educated’ that we want a quick and simple solution or is it all about the cost of providing safety? For example, the recommendation within the Victorian Purchasing Guide that the unit of competency RIIOHS204A Work Safely at Heights should be delivered over 20 hours of training time, yet the industry standard across Australia is for delivery within eight hours, with industry requesting that the time for delivery be shortened even still. We encourage industry, regulators and the VET sector to recognise the highrisk nature of working at height and its link to educational outcomes. Barring the probability of accidents in general, if we are to reduce the incidence of injury and/or fatality due to falls from height, we need the VET sector to develop specific content which embraces the diversity of industry requirements, using the guidelines such as these Standards. Likewise, we call on industry to look beyond a simple ‘certificate’ claiming competence for working at height and examine whether they are prepared to invest in a relevant/stepped training program to deliver the safety required at their site in line with the recommendations of the Standard. To read a more detailed version of this article visit wf.net.au/Q090

A.B.N. 22 152 305 336 www.westwick-farrow.com.au

Head Office: Cnr. Fox Valley Road & Kiogle Street, (Locked Bag 1289) Wahroonga NSW 2076 Australia Ph: +61 2 9487 2700 Fax: +61 2 9489 1265 Editor: Mansi Gandhi ss@westwick-farrow.com.au Editorial Assistant: Lauren Davis ldavis@westwick-farrow.com.au Chief Editor: Janette Woodhouse 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 Copy Control: Mitchie Mullins Advertising Sales: NSW, QLD - Kerrie Robinson Ph: 0400 886 311 krobinson@westwick-farrow.com.au VIC, SA, WA - Sandra Romanin Ph: 0414 558 464 sromanin@westwick-farrow.com.au New Zealand - Gemma Burr Ph: 0800 44 2529 gburr@westwick-farrow.com.au USA - Huson International Media East Coast Ph: +1 212 268 3344 West Coast Ph: +1 408 879 6666 ralph@husonusa.com UK - Huson International Media Ph: +44 1932 56 4999 gerryb@husonmedia.com Asia - Lachlan Rainey Ph: +61 3 9381 2952 If you have any queries regarding our privacy policy please email privacy@westwick-farrow.com.au

March 2012 total CAB audited circulation (Aust + New Zealand) 7490 readers (91% personally requested)

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By Peter Lamond, Training Manager, Capital Safety. With a background in the air conditioning and refrigeration industry as an apprentice, supervisor, business owner and TAFE teacher, Lamond holds a degree in adult education (VET major) and is highly experienced in the establishment and administration of private RTOs. He joined Capital Safety in 2010.

50 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - JUNE/JULY 2012

Printed and bound by Pegasus Print Group Co. Pty. Ltd. Ph: +61 2 8822 0600 NOTICE: All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us. Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary safety devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further, all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. Information indicating that products are made in Australia or New Zealand is supplied by the source company. Westwick Farrow P/L does not quantify the amount of local content or the accuracy of the statement made by the source.

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