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Posted By halesowen Baggie
I am looking to buy aprons for employees to wear when dipping trays into a solution that contains Potassium Hydroxide (corrosive).
The job entails dipping the trays into a small vat of the chemical and then after a time getting the tray out and dipping it into a tank of water that is adjacent to the 'nasty stuff'.
I am thinking on getting disposable aprons that are disgarded after one use.Your thoughts please.
The MSDS states that there is >5% Potassium Hydroxide in the chemical used, why dont they just put that they dont know how much Potassium Hydroxide the chemical has in it?
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Posted By Paul Leadbetter
I am sure they know exactly how much KOH is in it, they just don't want to tell anyone! The figure probably derives from the classification under CHIP; under 5% is probably classed as 'irritant' whereas over 5% would be 'corrosive'.
Paul
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Posted By Chris Packham
For one-off “splash protection” and for a short period a simple apron of polyethylene will provide adequate protection. However, have you considered the possibility of the chemical running off the bottom of the apron and on to their lower legs and feet?
Whilst I do not know the details of your operation, I have several times encountered what may be similar activities in some of my clients operations. In almost every case we have been able to modify the activity (at nominal cost) to eliminate the potential for splashing and thus the need for aprons, gloves etc. (which, after all, are a last resort).
May I respectfully suggest that a reappraisal of the operation would be advisable and could resolve the problem?
Regards
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Rank: Guest
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Posted By halesowen Baggie
Chris,
Thanks for replying,
Can you give me some ideas to the solutions that you have worked in similar situations.
I think the only way to do away with the PPE is to totally automate the process (this would have the board having kittens due to cost).
The risk is very low (cost/risk) and the aprons would be worn over overalls with boots, goggles, gloves etc. The person dipping can complete the task in seconds.
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Posted By Chris Packham
I have used a variety of techniques. One was a simple splash guard. Another was to use a set of tongs that created what the HSE now term a "safe working distance". In another we simply repositioned the two tanks and this created the safe working distance and eliminated the potential for splashing.
As I am sure you will recognise, there is seldom just one answer. The first step is observation of the actual operation. (I find a camcorder useful here as it allows me to go over and over the activity until I can recognise where the risks are and therefore work on a solution.) You then need to know what equipment is available. (I scan engineering/production/maintenance journals to keep my database and library of equipment/systems etc. up to date!).
Trying to suggest a method without seeing the workplace and activity is like visiting the doctor and asking him about the pain your wife has in her chest whilst she is in bed at home! Assessing risks of skin exposure is 90% on-site observation.
One final thought: Have you asked the actual workers whether they have any ideas? I have often found that they can produce at least an idea that points you in the right direction - but all to seldom no-one ever thinks of asking them. After all, they are the ones who do the work.
Regards
Chris
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