Recycling plants, whether those dealing with organic waste and compost or those focusing on the recycling of packaging, pose a huge exposure risk to bioaerosols for those employed on site.
Bioaerosols are airborn microorganisms, such as fungi and bacteria, which multiply during the breakdown of organic materials. COSHH guidelines class bioaerosols as substances which are hazardous to health, as exposure to them may lead to a variety of respiratory issues including asthma, bronchitis and allergic reactions leading to respiratory sensitisation.
While engineering controls such as ventilation and suppression mechanisms can reduce the bioaerosol hazard, it may be necessary to implement a full RPE solution to ensure that those working in a recycling plant have their lungs protected from bioaerosol particles. Anchor Safety experts can advise you on the best ways to protect your teams and ensure they do not suffer any ill effects from the inhalation of bioaerosols.
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