Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00417:body:0:p20
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00417
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 50337–53399

should be stored
in a dust-free area, away from direct sunlight. At least once a week, the inside of the helmet should be washed with warm water and mild detergent.

The helmet cape requires frequent inspection, periodic cleaning and immediate replacement
if damaged. You should never use tape to repair holes or worn areas. The inner collar should
be replaced when the elastic becomes stretched out of shape.
For further information on the selection, use and maintenance of helmets refer to AS/NZS 1800: Occupational protective helmets – selection, care and use.
Protective eye equipment includes safety glasses, goggles, face shields, hoods or helmets with lenses designed to withstand medium to high velocity impact by flying objects. For further information refer to AS/NZS 1336 Recommended practices for occupational eye protection and AS/NZS 1337: Eye protectors for industrial applications.
Maintenance of PPE

The WHS Regulations require that PPE is maintained, repaired or replaced so as to ensure that
it continues to be effective. A maintenance program should include procedures for:
    * daily cleaning and inspection of PPE by the worker for wear and damage
    * identification and repair or replacement of any worn or defective components of equipment
    * regular periodic inspection, maintenance and testing of respiratory protective equipment in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
    * regular periodic testing of breathing air quality, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or, where manufacturer's instructions are not available, the instructions of
      a competent person.

    3.3 Particulate matter

Identifying particulate matter
Particulate matter is small particles or pieces of the substrate being blasted, or of the blasting medium which are generated during abrasive blasting. Particulate matter can also include water.

Workers carrying out abrasive blasting can be struck by particulate matter. Serious injuries
or death can result from being struck by particulate matter discharged under high pressure.
Common injuries include:
    * eye damage
    * severe lacerations
    * burns
    * skin penetration.

Assessing the risks
You should observe workers undertaking abrasive blasting. This will allow you to see if they are following correct procedures and using the PPE provided. The risk of sustaining a serious injury from particulate matter is increased when:
       * blasting in a confined space
       * working in an elevated position
       * the operator is out of the line of sight of a pot tender or there is no dedicated pot tender
          who can provide assistance if required.

Controlling the risks
Isolation
Abrasive blasting activities should be isolated from other workplace activities to minimise the possibility of workers being struck by particulate matter. This can be done by using blasting chambers, blasting cabinets, temporary enclosures and exclusion zones.
Abrasive blasting plant can also incorporate guards to reduce the possibility of particulate matter striking