Bridge refurbishment led to molten metal burn to Fabricator

26/10/2016

Bridge refurbishment led to molten metal burn to Fabricator:

As a business some of your employees may be subject at times to working with hazardous substances or sensitisers.

It is the responsibility of you as the employer to make sure you manage any risk and that adequate control measures are identified to protect your employees from injury in the workplace. Wherever there are risks to health and safety that cannot be adequately controlled by other methods then PPE should be supplied.  This should always be used as a last resort once other control measures have been implemented, to control the risk of injury to an employee.

A recent Safety Bulletin issued by Network Rail to all safety professionals and RISQS registered contractors who work within the rail infrastructure gives details of an incident which took place on the 25th August 2016 where a contractor was burning out sheared bolts on a bridge structure.

Unknowingly, molten metal had burnt through the palm of the employees leather gauntlet causing them to suffer minor burns to their forearm and wrist.  The leather gauntlet worn was the Warrior Red Split Leather Welding Gauntlets (0111WRSC).

Early investigations suggest these gauntlets may be an inferior import version.  The company has since removed and replaced them with the Weldas Comfoflex (10-2087) whist they investigate this issue further.

Healthwork Advice and Discussion:

Certain job roles like the one identified above require the individual to use PPE if this is necessary and appropriate if health hazards still exist after implementing other control measures.  However, it is the responsibility of the employer to make sure any PPE used is maintained and fit for purpose.

As an employer you should always choose good quality products which are CE marked in accordance with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2002 and choose equipment that suits the individual wearer.

PPE comes in many forms, examples being, eye protection, face masks, breathing apparatus and respirators to ear plugs and ear defenders.

Where employees may be exposed to substances hazardous to health, Healthwork can help setup, carry out, or review a health surveillance programmes, ensuring employees are protected and ensuring that businesses have met the requirements of the control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.

An adequate health surveillance programme can help businesses monitor the effectiveness of control measures and help identify any issues early that may be arising.

If you would like further details on how Healthwork could assist you in this area, visit our website www.healthworkltd.com or alternatively contact us on 0161 831 9701.