Hazardous Chemicals

ASHE's Occupational Hygienists can provide advice relating to hazardous chemical storage, use and disposal. Specific areas we can assist with relate to:

• Hazardous chemical storage (labelling and signage, separation and segregation, spill retention etc)

• Safe use of hazardous chemicals (ventilation, emergency response, selection, use and maintenance of PPE, etc)

• Requirements for Material Safety Data Sheets/Safety Data Sheets under applicable legislation

• Requirements for risk assessments related to use of hazardous chemicals

• Requirements related to changeover from the National Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances [NOHSC: 1008 (2004)] to the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals 3rd revised edition

OSH/WHS legislation details certain requirements for exposure to hazardous chemicals such as lead, asbestos and isocyanates in the workplace. Excessive exposure to certain hazardous substances requires health surveillance to be implemented. OSH/WHS legislation is complex; ASHE can provide advice to help you meet your requirements in relation to occupational hygiene issues.

Unsafe management of hazardous chemicals and hazardous materials can lead to personnel injury and illness from various routes of exposure such as by ingestion, inhalation of vapours and skin contact. Environmental damage can also occur via spills and release of fibres/vapours/ gases. There is also potential for non-direct impacts such as fire and explosion as a result of poor separation and segregation practices, inadequate ventilation and presence of sources of ignition. This is a specialised area of expertise where ASHE can provide support and advice.