Chemical handling is one of the most hazardous tasks in industrial workplaces. Despite solid labor laws, workers are still constantly exposed to harmful substances that can lead to severe health issues, including respiratory problems, skin irritations, chronic illnesses, etc.
Official figures show that over 839 workers died in the US in 2022 due to exposure to harmful substances. That means workplace safety from toxic exposure is the need of the hour. Check out five innovative ergonomic solutions designed to improve safety during chemical handling.
Adjustable Lifting Devices
Handling large containers of chemicals manually can lead to physical injuries for workers. In 2023, approximately 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in the United States.
Adjustable lifting devices such as hydraulic lifts, mechanical trolleys, etc., can prevent such issues to a great extent by making the movement of heavy containers easier. These advanced ergonomic solutions are not just to save workers from physical strains. It also reduces the risk of chemical spills.
Take the example of fire departments that use AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam). Due to the weight of extinguishers, the chances for spills are even higher, making them more vulnerable to significant hazards.
The health risks associated with AFFF have prompted many individuals to pursue legal action. Properly implementing adjustable lifting devices is one of the best ways to avoid the massive AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts.
As per TruLaw, a multidistrict litigation (MDL) is even formed to manage the large number of AFFF lawsuit cases. Most of them allege that the manufacturers knew about the risks involved but did not take any steps to warn the users.
PPE Gloves with Enough Grip
Touch and surface contact compound the danger of workplace exposure. For workers prone to toxic exposure, simply wearing regular cloth gloves may not be helpful. Instead, employers must provide gloves made from materials like nitrile that are resistant to the specific chemicals being handled.
Similarly, protection and comfort must go hand in hand. Unfortunately, most traditional chemical-resistant gloves are bulky, making it more challenging to handle the tools. That’s why companies must switch to more modern gloves that have a textured surface to give a proper grip on wet substances. As a result, the chances of accidents caused by dropping containers will be reduced.
Automated Dispensing Systems
Pouring chemicals through manual methods can lead to exposure to toxic fumes and even burns. Ergonomic innovations in automated dispensing systems help to safely transfer liquids to containers without the need for direct human contact.
The global market value of the automated dispensing industry amounts to $4.76 billion in 2022. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% each year. Check out some of the advanced features of the latest dispensing systems:
- Self-cleaning mechanisms to prevent cross-contamination.
- Voice-activated controls for hands-free operation.
- Automated sensors that can detect leaks in real-time.
- Built-in ventilation mechanisms to dissipate any harmful fumes.
Some systems even incorporate machine learning algorithms that can optimize dispensing patterns based on the properties of the chemicals being handled.
Ergonomically Designed Chemical Storage Racks
Standard storage racks often require workers to lift heavy containers in awkward positions. That’s where companies need to adapt modern, ergonomically designed chemical storage racks. Let’s see how it solves the pressing concerns of workers:
- Adjustable racks that can be accessed by anyone from comfortable heights.
- Integrated spill containment systems to prevent chemical leaks from spreading.
- Clearly labeled compartments for quick identification of chemicals.
- RFID tags on chemical containers with expiration dates for better chemical management.
The main highlight of these modern storage racks is that they emphasize both convenience and safety.
Ventilated Fume Hoods
Fume hoods are a must-have safety requirement for workspaces containing hazardous fumes and vapors. However, the problem with traditional models is that they are challenging to operate because users cannot adjust the airflow settings.
The latest ventilated fume hoods combine superior containment capabilities with ergonomic features focusing on worker safety. Check out some of its features:
- Adjustable height sashes for comfortable viewing angles.
- Touch-sensitive panels for easy accessibility.
- LED lighting systems that reduce eye strain during prolonged use.
- Variable air volume (VAV) systems automatically adjust airflow based on sash position to reduce energy consumption.
Some advanced models even use augmented reality displays to show real-time airflow patterns. This way, users can adjust their working position for maximum protection.
As the number of workplace fatalities is rising like never before, employers must go beyond the basic safety frameworks. Remember, investing in ergonomic solutions is not just a matter of compliance; it is an essential requirement to create a safe workspace. It’s a decision that will improve your business productivity and stability in the long run.
