Around 12,000 people die in the UK each year due to historical exposure to harmful substances in the workplace. Asbestos-related deaths amount to 4,000 per year. 99% of all workplace deaths are the result of respiratory disease, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Terrifying numbers! That's why we at Kramp can help you prevent repiratory issues. An extended assortment of respiratory protection is in place to help you. We'll show you exactly which products to use in which circumstances so your fellow workers, employees or customers remain safe, always! Did you know that UK law obliges employers to provide a safe working environment?
What are the types of air-purifying respirators?
At Kramp we have an extensive assortments of respirators, example air mask, available to cover all different types of circumstances. We have fine dust masks, full-face masks and even fit testers. To make the right choice for your employees or customers, you must have a good understanding of air quality and risk substances and combine this with the right form of respiratory protection. These are just some of the factors to consider:
- how long will the individual have to work in the potentially hazardous environment?
- the location and (general) measures taken to reduce risk
- the limit value: what is the maximum permitted concentration of the substances present?
- the health risks associated with the relevant pollutants/contaminants.
The respiratory protection necessary for one situation may differ greatly from another. Read our article How to find the right respiratory protection in 5 steps for tips on choosing the right protection. Which protective equipment is required depends on the work and health risks. The substance must also be tailored to the employee who will wear it; after all, no two faces are the same.
COSHH risk assessment
Respiratory protection alone is not enough. It's a final point of protection. Tackling the sources of potential hazards are the first and primary priority and a legal obligation. Consider using less harmful substances, ventilating the workspace properly or shortening the duration of the work.
If these measures do not provide adequate protection, you have followed all other guidance on compliance, and your COSHH risk assessment identifies a hazardous environment, workers must wear task- and environment-specific respiratory protection.
What happens if the respiratory system is not working properly?
The disadvantage of working in dusty environments is that the adverse effects may only become noticeable in the longer term. Do not take any unnecessary risks, wear the respiratory protection but also be aware of short term human health problems in the direct working environment.
If you(r customers) work in a risky environment and you notice some of the below short term effects don't hestitate and apply or improve the use of respiratory protection guidelines.
Would you like some personal guidance in choosing respiratory protection? Contact us or get in touch with your nearest Kramp representative or dealer.
