Protecting Your Future Compensation Rights
As a worker operating dowel drilling rigs, your role in the construction and manufacturing industry is pivotal. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential health hazards associated with your job and understand the importance of this section in securing future compensation payments after a workplace accident or injury.
Risks of Silica Dust Exposure
Drilling holes in concrete with dowel drilling rigs can generate respirable crystalline silica dust. Inhalation of these fine silica particles over time can lead to irreversible lung damage. Hence, implementing exposure controls is not only essential for your well-being but also for protecting your future.
Complying with Exposure Controls
The Managing respirable crystalline silica in construction and manufacturing of construction elements code of practice 2022 provides essential guidelines to ensure your safety:
Step 1: Implementing Engineering Controls
Commercially Available Shroud or Cowling with Dust Collector
Choose one of the following engineering control options to minimize exposure:
- Commercially available shroud or cowling with a tool-mounted HEPA filtered dust collector.
- Commercially available shroud or cowling with an on-tool capture hood connected to a dust extractor/vacuum that meets or exceeds the minimum air flow requirements recommended by the tool manufacturer and is rated to either M-Class or H-Class.
Note: Use an M or H class vacuum when cleaning drilling holes.
Utilizing Dust Collection Systems
Dowel drill rigs must be equipped with a dust collection system when drilling into material containing one percent or more crystalline silica.
The dust collection system must include:
- A shroud or cowling sized to fit around the drill bit.
- A dust collector rated to provide the airflow recommended by the tool manufacturer or greater, with either:
- A tool-mounted HEPA-filtered dust collector.
- An on-tool capture hood connected to a dust extraction system rated to either M or H-Class in accordance with AS60335.2.69.
Ensure that your drill and vacuum dust collection system is operated and maintained following the manufacturer's instructions to minimize dust emissions. This involves:
- Keeping the vacuum hose clear and free of debris, kinks, and tight bends.
- Activating non-automatic filter-cleaning mechanisms as needed to reduce dust build-up on the filter.
- Changing vacuum-collection bags as needed.
- Setting a schedule for filter cleaning and maintenance.
- Avoiding exposure to dust when changing vacuum bags and cleaning or replacing air filters.
- Cleaning the dust and debris from the drilled holes, utilizing a HEPA-filtered vacuum system to capture the dust.
Step 2: Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)
RPE is required when using dust extraction. Half face reusable or disposable RPE offers a minimum protection factor (MPF) of 10.
Choose your RPE based on the following factors:
- The type of engineering controls you are using.
- The duration of the task during your shift.
- The work environment (indoors or outdoors).
For tight-fitting RPE, it's crucial to undergo fit-testing for the specific make and model before using it. See section 7.6 of the Code for detailed information on fit-testing and other RPE requirements.
Protecting Your Future
In case of workplace accidents or injuries, it's vital to be well-informed about your rights regarding potential compensation payments. These payments can cover lost wages, medical expenses, and more. Understanding your rights is key to securing your future.
Seek More Information
For comprehensive information, resources, and support related to work-related respiratory conditions, exposure controls, and compensation, please refer to the following sources:
- Managing Respirable Crystalline Silica in Construction and Manufacturing Code of Practice 2022 (PDF)
- Work Health and Safety Act 2011
- Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011
Your health is non-negotiable. Staying informed and proactive ensures your well-being in the workplace and secures your rights.