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HOME PAGEThis is covered fully in ARP 006.1991 available from the SABS
This document is being updated - CLICK HERE to see draft version.
It is important to understand that the effects of chemicals may not be immediately obvious. On the other hand the more unpleasant ones are not necessarily the most dangerous. Think of snakes and spiders - if you can't identify them - give them all a wide berth. You would be careful with any spider or snake no matter how harmless it looked. Those who work with them must first learn to identify which ones are dangerous. Unfortunately familiarity can lead to unnecessary risks being taken.
An examination of some 3000 different materials used and made in the paint industry shows that only a fifth of these represent any major hazard to health and only a quarter of these are really serious.
As no worker can be expected to remember the potential hazard for each of these substances, each substance used is classified so that the user will know the degree of danger and how to protect himself. The way it works is as follows:-
(click here to view the logic)
The degree of danger to health for each substance is placed into one of four categories as follows:-.
GROUP 4 - MINIMAL. Minimally hazardous substances are substances that are reasonably safe under all normal conditions of use. No residual effect is to be expected from accidental exposure even if no treatment is applied.
GROUP 3 - SLIGHT. Slightly hazardous substances are substances that require some sort of safeguards but are otherwise safe under normal conditions of use. Minor residual effect(s) could result from accidental exposure if no treatment is applied.
GROUP 2 - MODERATE. Moderately hazardous substances are substances that are to be handled with caution and careful regard for personal protection. Minor residual effect(s) could result despite prompt treatment and cumulative/chronic effects are possible.
Note:- Substances with potential for chronic effects should be considered for this group or group 1
GROUP 1 - SERIOUS. Seriously hazardous substances are substances that are to be treated with extreme caution., and either have to be handled with specialised equipment or personal protection has to be worn, or both. Major residual effect(s) could result despite prompt treatment, and severe chronic effects are possible.
Note:- These ratings apply to use under normal ambient conditions. Variations such as use at elevated temperatures must be given due consideration.
.THE HEALTH HAZARD RATING (HHR)
Combining the Health Hazard rating number with the letter indicating the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required makes up a rating for each chemical. These two symbols are separated by a letter "H" and the Health Hazard rating are shown in the form "3HC", "2HE" etc. Boards showing this information are prominently displayed to assist in interpreting the code easily & quickly. This rating is shown on the batch sheets. Any worker not sure should ask his supervisor to assist in assessing the degree of hazard and the level of protection needed.
The use of personal protection equipment is recognised not only to be uncomfortable and clumsy but it also reduces the workers efficiency. It is for these reasons that it should be looked upon as a protection at times of unacceptable exposure. It is also in the workers own interest to maintain his PPE properly.
One of the main objectives of the Health and Safety Act is to encourage the employer to make the workplace safe. To do this properly he should monitor the workplace and, providing that the levels are acceptable, PPE will not normally be required. PPE signs should be displayed at appropriate positions where the STOELs may be exceeded e.g. at reactor manholes, over open mixing tanks or charging points. If a sign is displayed then the appropriate equipment as given in the SAPMA rating should be worn. This refers essentially to respiratory protection. Eye and skin protection should be used as appropriate.
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A GENERAL GUIDE TO THE SAFE HANDLING OF CHEMICALS
OBSERVE THE BASIC RULES OF HYGIENE:-
Always wash before touching food.
Always wash before smoking - better still - don't smoke!
Never touch your eyes with dirty hands or gloves.
Do not wear contaminated clothing.
Keep you body and hair clean.
Look after your Personal Protection Equipment.
WHEN USING SOLIDS OR POWDERS:-
Minimise the creation of dust - use a dust mask.
Avoid any direct contact.
Use goggles as well as a mask when dealing with fine powders.
Take precautions to minimise static discharges.
NEVER use compressed air to remove dust from your body or clothing.
WHEN USING LIQUIDS:-
Avoid direct contact with the skin and eyes.
Use a face shield if there is a possibility of splashing.
Avoid breathing vapours.
Remove contaminated clothing - wash it before re-use..
Take precautions to minimise static discharges, ensure earth clamps are connected..
VAPOURS, AEROSOLS, MISTS & FUMES.
Ensure good ventilation or use a respirator.
Ensure your respirator has a clean particle filter.
If you can still smell the vapour, your respirator may need attention.
Remember - A dust mask offers no protection against vapours.
Use goggles, full face respirator or hood if there is eye discomfort.
IN CASE OF SPILLAGE
Contain, absorb and collect any spillage immediately.
Keep ALL liquids out of drains and sewers.
If spilt substances are rated 1H or 2H call your supervisor at once.
Consider the use of PPE when dealing with spills.
GENERAL
NEVER work alone with chemicals rated 1H!
Consider all un-rated/unmarked chemicals as dangerous.
Make sure your static clamps are properly attached!
Assume all paints/resins/oils to be a likely cause of spontaneous combustion
If you have no training in fire-fighting, call someone who has!
NEVER use water jets on a paint or chemical fire. Use fog or fine water spray to damp down the surrounding area and cool the fire until help arrives.
Remove waste bins to a safe place before leaving at end of shift.
IF YOU ARE UNSURE - FIND OUT! - DO NOT TAKE CHANCES
