A chemical accident at Ecostore’s Auckland facility has left a worker with permanent eye damage, highlighting the potentially devastating consequences of inadequate safety measures in workplaces handling hazardous chemicals. The worker was injured when a pressurised hose malfunctioned during the production of dishwashing powder, causing chemicals to spray into his eyes. This tragic event emphasises the importance of robust HAZCHEM (hazardous chemicals) safety practices to prevent similar incidents.
While Ecostore has committed to revising its safety practices, the incident serves as a reminder for all organisations to reflect on their own safety protocols and take proactive steps to safeguard their teams.
What Went Wrong: The Importance of Risk Mitigation
The Ecostore case underscores several key areas where HAZCHEM safety practices could have mitigated the risk:
- Equipment Malfunction: A failure in the pressurised hose highlights the need for regular maintenance and monitoring of equipment used in chemical handling.
- Inadequate Emergency Response: Immediate access to emergency eyewash solutions could have reduced the severity of the injuries.
- Insufficient Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards in routine tasks like decanting chemicals is critical to preventing accidents.
Key HAZCHEM Safety Measures
To prevent chemical accidents and minimise harm, workplaces handling hazardous substances must adopt comprehensive safety measures. Here are key practices to consider:
Comprehensive Site Risk Assessments
- Identifying Hazards: Regular site assessments can help identify potential risks associated with hazardous substances, including equipment failures, improper storage, and unsafe procedures.
- Evaluating and Mitigating Risks: Effective measures, such as installing proper signage, ensuring emergency equipment is nearby, and providing appropriate protective gear, can reduce the likelihood of incidents or injuries.
- Equipment Maintenance: Regular checks and servicing of equipment used in chemical processes, including hoses, pumps, and storage containers, are vital to prevent malfunctions.
- Safety Audits: Comprehensive audits help identify gaps in safety practices and ensure compliance with relevant regulations, enabling continuous improvement in workplace safety.
Conducting regular audits/site risk assessments and reviewing safety data sheets (SDS) for all chemicals are essential steps in maintaining a safe work environment.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Providing the appropriate PPE for chemical handling is essential. This may include chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, respirators, and coveralls. High-quality PPE serves as a critical defence against chemical exposure.
Training and Education
- Employee Training: All employees should receive training on HAZCHEM safety, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency response protocols.
- Emergency Drills: Conduct regular drills to familiarise workers with the location and operation of emergency equipment, such as eyewashes, showers, and spill kits.
Emergency Showers and Eyewashes
Emergency decontamination stations are critical for managing chemical exposure incidents:
- Eyewash Solutions: Sterile saline eyewash systems provide an immediate and effective solution for flushing harmful substances from the eyes. Their compact design and ease of use make them ideal for high-risk areas.
- Emergency Showers: Emergency showers and eyewash stations offer rapid full-body decontamination in cases of exposure to hazardous chemicals, reducing the potential for severe injuries.
Both eyewashes and showers should be strategically placed, easily accessible, and regularly tested to ensure functionality.
The Role of Tobin Saline Eyewash Systems in Emergency Response
In the event of chemical exposure, immediate action is crucial. For eye injuries, flushing with a sterile solution can make the difference between recovery and permanent damage. Tobin saline eyewash systems, available from pH7, are designed for such scenarios:
- Rapid Response: The bottles are easy to use, providing a steady flow of sterile saline for quick and effective flushing.
- Gentle and Effective: The solution mimics natural tears, ensuring it’s safe for sensitive eye tissues while effectively removing contaminants.
- Compact Design: Tobin systems are space-efficient, making them ideal for high-risk areas where space is limited.
Conclusion
The Ecostore incident is a sobering reminder of the importance of proactive safety measures in workplaces handling hazardous substances. Implementing comprehensive HAZCHEM safety practices—such as risk assessments, proper chemical handling protocols, PPE, emergency response equipment, and regular training—can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and minimise harm when incidents occur.
By taking these measures, organisations can not only protect their workers but also foster a culture of safety and responsibility. Investing in proper equipment and safety solutions ensures preparedness, reduces risks, and ultimately saves lives. Don’t wait for an accident to act—prioritise safety today.
pH7 can assist with various HAZCHEM safety solutions, from services to products. Feel free to contact us regarding any safety products or procedures mentioned in this article and we’d be happy to help. Reach us on 0800 323 223 or enquiries@ph7.co.nz.
