Módulo 2.Medidas, prácticas y modelos de gestión y prevención de riesgos de enfermedades relacionadas con el trabajo en los sectores existentes y emergentes que utilizan sustancias y productos químicos peligrosos, incluidos los explosivos, peligrosos para el medio ambiente, tóxicos, cancerígenos, etc. /free/

There are many measures that are used to control exposure from chemicals. Certain controls are more effective than others. This order of effectiveness is known as the hierarchy of control.

Eliminating the risk

• Change the activity so that a hazardous chemical is not used.
• Use a non-harmful substance instead of a hazardous one (known as elimination through substitution).

Substituting the system of work, substance or plant

• Change the type of hazardous chemicals kept on site.
• Use a pelletised form of the hazardous chemical, rather than a powdered form.
• Replace the chemical with a safer substitute.
• Vacuum or use an industrial sweeper to clean up concentrated dusts, rather than sweep them up manually.
• Apply the substance using a brush or roller instead of by spray gun application.
• Select a product with less volatile ingredients.

Engineering controls

• Use Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) to remove fumes.
• Increase ventilation.
• Use spill containment.
• Use safety relief valves.
• Use overfill protection.
• Automate processes to remove / reduce the worker interface.

Administrative controls

• Introduce a restricted work area.
• Locate potentially hazardous materials or processes away from frequently-used thoroughfares and buildings.
• Separate goods from other hazards.
• Segregate incompatible substances.
• Use placards or hazard warning signs.
• Enhance housekeeping / cleaning.
• Provide specific training and work instructions.
• Provide spill clean-up equipment.