Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00420:reg:15:p18
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00420
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 15 (pt 18/22)
Character Range: 243337–246352

is quite old and poorly maintained.
    * A very strong solvent odour can be detected in the vicinity of the degreaser, particularly when lifting the basket out. This is because the components trap the condensing solvent vapour.  In this case, stacking the components in the basket in a different way would not overcome this problem.
    * The operator has reported symptoms of eye irritation and light-headedness.
    * The operator would be exposed to a very high level of trichloroethylene vapour whenever the build-up of sludge is cleaned from the bottom of the degreaser. Although this task is only performed occasionally, it requires the operator to get into the degreaser and as such is a 'confined space entry' which comes under the WHS (Confined Spaces) Regulations. Exposure to the substance in this confined space poses a serious risk to health (possibly death) particularly through inhalation of trichloroethylene vapour. The personal protective equipment used provides inadequate protection.

Evaluation of risks from physicochemical hazards
Since the chemical is stored away from incompatible materials, the risk of hazardous reactions occurring during storage is minimal.
Controls to be put in place
The sole purpose of the vapour degreasing operation is to remove the fine coating of oil and supply the client with a clean product. Discussion with the client indicated they prefer the components to be coated with oil as it protects against corrosion whilst the components are stored on their premises. Therefore it was decided that the use of trichloroethylene be eliminated.

Case study 3: Cleaning offices

Risk Assessment Report Date: 20 June 2011

Assessor(s):
Management and health and safety representative

Job description:
Products used by cleaners of several office blocks include a disinfectant, a toilet cleaner and a glass cleaner. The toilet and glass cleaners are used as supplied. The disinfectant is diluted with two parts of water and sprayed and wiped onto surfaces. Dilution (mixing) of the disinfectant (Zap) takes place in a central storeroom.

Hazardous chemical:
The SDS for Zap indicated that the product is classified as hazardous. Manufacturers of the other products confirmed that their products were not hazardous according to the WHS Regulations.
Form:                    Water based concentrate
Active ingredient:       Sodium hypochlorite (15%)
Health effects:          Skin, eye and respiratory irritant; prolonged
                         skin contact may cause dermatitis
Routes of exposure:      Skin, eyes and inhalation (particularly spray mist). Exposure through ingestion is not considered to present a risk to health because of the nature of the tasks and the controls in place (see below).
Physicochemical hazards  May decompose above 40°C, in sunlight or in contact with acids.  Also reacts with oxidisable materials, heavy metals (which act as catalysts), reducing agents, ammonia solutions, ether, and many organic and inorganic chemicals such as paint,