Citation

Bluff EJ. Safety Sci. 1997; 25(1-3): 123-136.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

There is a dearth of information about the current use and management of hazardous chemical substances in Australian workplaces. This project aimed to contribute knowledge in this area by drawing on the practical experience of worker-elected health and safety representatives. A random sample of 660 representatives, from a cross-section of industry and work force sectors, was selected from the 7178 representatives registered with the former South Australian Occupational Health and Safety Commission. A postal questionnaire, completed by 410 (62%) of these representatives, elicited information about the nature of chemicals used, potential exposure to them, and the extent to which recognised elements of hazard management had been implemented in workplaces where hazardous chemicals were used. These elements included labelling of containers, access to material safety data sheets (MSDS), training, assessment and exposure control measures. The results indicated widespread use of hazardous chemicals although there were differences in the range of chemical types used, and the nature and degree of contact that workers have with them. Use of some chemical types was ubiquitous. Container labelling and access to MSDS were found to be established in many workplaces and some form of assessment to decide how to protect workers was also often undertaken. Training was less commonly provided. While some type or combination of control measures were generally implemented, greater emphasis was found on personal protective measures and administrative controls, rather than on measures which control chemical exposures at source. Areas for improvement in the management of hazardous chemicals were identified and baseline information was obtained against which the impact of proposed regulatory reforms to control workplace hazardous substances can be evaluated. This information can also be used in the planning and prioritising of educative and other preventive strategies, to minimise risks to health and safety arising from work with hazardous chemical substances.