WORKSAFE Victoria has released a safety solution for ensuring local exhaust ventilation systems function properly.
Local exhaust ventilation systems typically include a capture hood, ducting, an air cleaner/dust collector such as a filter and an air mover or fan. They are used to capture airborne contaminants like wood dust, welding fumes and spray mists.
If the local exhaust ventilation systems are poorly maintained, users could be exposed to excessive levels of the airborne contaminants, raising the risks of respiratory irritation, central nervous system depression, asthma, lung diseases and cancer.
According to WorkSafe Victoria, proper and effective maintenance of the ventilation systems is important.
Proper maintenance includes regularly checking for signs of damage or deterioration to capture hoods, ducting, air cleaners/dust collectors, fans and connections.
Workers should inspect for and clean up contaminant build up regularly, test the unit’s effectiveness using smoke tubes or an anemometer, check the effectiveness of the ventilation system through observation, and check the pressure drop across the filter where appropriate.
Other regular tasks include removing waste from collection units and changing filters as required.
The frequency of such a preventative maintenance program will depend on the level of work activity and manufacturer’s recommendations/instructions.
Ventilation systems should also be annually maintained and checks. These involve checking the operation of the system, airflow testing, inspecting the fan and motor for noise or vibration, integrity and security of fixings, cleanliness, and lubricate or grease.
A competent person should also inspect belts, bearings and pulleys for tension, alignment, safety guards, and wear and tear, check duct work for cleanliness, damage or holes and secure connections, and check electrical parts of the system.
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