View Training Dates for Your City

Filter By

  • No scheduled courses - please call us to discuss your requirements

According to a recent report released by Safe Work Australia, occupational skin diseases are the second most occurring work-related disease that general practitioners  regularly treat. The report released indicated that the cost to businesses throughout Australia is about $33 million annually.

Considering this significant cost to the public, it is important to be aware of how one can minimise the risks of  suffering from a  work related skin-disease. Workers who suffer the greatest risks are those who are frequently exposed to harmful chemicals or wet work in their daily professions.

Some Main Causes:

  • detergents
  • disinfectants
  • solvents
  • bases and alkalis
  • fuels
  • rubber accelerators; and
  • potassium dichromate in leather and cement.

Safe Work Australia Chair Mr Tom Phillips AM stated that of the workers who report exposure to chemicals, less than two-thirds said they had received chemical safety or Personal Protective Equipment training.

These numbers indicate that occupational health and safety training needs to implemented in every workplace in Australia regardless of how big or small and include how to properly handle chemicals and hazardous substances.
This is a clear message that work health and safety training needs to be integrated in every workplace in Australia no matter how big or small and include how to properly handle chemicals and hazardous substances,” he said. Quality training then, is of significant importance.

The use of PPE here is self-explanatory, and includes:

  • gloves
  • safety glasses and goggles
  • shop coats and overalls
  • boots; and
  • hearing protection systems.

An often overlooked method of reducing risks is to practice good personal hygiene. While it would seem that personal hygiene is the responsibility of the individual worker, it is up to the employer to ensure that PPE is properly maintained and employees have access to the proper facilities and cleansing agents.

When coming into contact with hazardous contaminants, the most important initial treatment should be immediately washing the contaminated part of the body, so these products are a valuable addition to industrial environments where dangerous chemicals are used.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be maintained, repaired or replaced so that it continues to be effective and safe. Each worker must be trained in ensuring the equipment is:

  • clean and hygienic, and
  • in good working order.

 What are the problems with using personal protective equipment?

Where PPE is required and used at work one must remember:

  • wearing PPE may adversely affect the performance of tasks being undertaken — either by restricting vision or mobility
  •  While PPE may be uncomfortable to wear and some workers may not be able to wear it (such as those with allergies to latex and thus cannot wear rubber gloves)
  • constant supervision is required to ensure the PPE is being used the proper manner

What is the worker’s duty in relation to personal protective equipment?

A worker who is provided with personal protective equipment (PPE) is trusted to:

  • use or wear the PPE in accordance with any information, training or reasonable instruction provided by the person conducting business, so far as they are reasonably able
  • not misuse or damage the PPE on purpose
  • advise the person in charge  of any damage, defect or need to clean or decontaminate any of the PPE they are aware of, and
  • consult with their manager if the PPE is not an adequate size or quality.

If a worker refuses to wear or use the PPE,  the employer can take action against the worker.  When a  worker who does not wear or use PPE, or intentionally misuses or destroys  it, that worker may face prosecution.

Source: http://www.ferret.com.au/c/Ferret-www-ferret-com-au/Protecting-workers-from-occupational-skin-diseases-a-33-million-problem-n1831990

Latest OHS news

Asbestos is a serious and ongoing concern in Australia

Asbestos is a serious concern in Australia, affecting the lives of many and creating havoc in the building and construction industry. Staying on top of developments regarding this dangerous mate...

Read more

Australian Hospitals and the Asbestos Crisis

Millions of people walk in and out of hospitals around the world every day. Some are doctors, nurses and staff members getting paid to clock in and help the sick and injured. Others are patients an...

Read more

Top 10 Deadliest Jobs in Australia

So many things can go wrong on the job. You may strain muscles and tear ligaments in any line of work that requires movement, but some industries present much bigger dangers. If your job requires t...

Read more

Paralympians inspire safety at work [VIDEO]

Transcript Working at heights training and other OHS programs are vital for reducing the risk of injuries in Australian workplaces. A fall from height can often result in serious injuries, such ...

Read more

Testimonials

“In over 20 years of training, this was one of the best courses I’ve ever attended.”

Queensland Rail

“Great! The instructor made it interesting and enjoyable”

Leighton Contractors

” We heard that AlertForce delivers one of the best courses around so the boss decided to send me to Australia from New Zealand.”

Participant Public Course

“I liked the trainer’s positive outlook and uplifting approach towards completing the long day.”

Visionstream

“Very competent training course. Trainer was very knowledgeable on subject.”

Servicestream

“AlertForce provided an excellent trainer,  knowledgeable on the topic and allowed for active questioning.”

DHS

“Informative and concise training delivered at the right pace.”

AFMA.gov.au

“The Trainer was very engaging”

Fair Work Commission

“Interesting, informative, relevant.”

Airservices Australia

Payments & Security

Awards & Accreditations

Make an Enquiry:

Google Rating
4.5
Total Rating 4.5 out of 5 based on 696 reviews
×