New HSE fume testing guidelines during pandemic
The HSE has recently updated its guidelines with regards to Thorough Examination & Testing (TExT) of dust and fume extraction equipment during the pandemic. In brief it covers the following points:
- Businesses and inspection bodies must co-operate to ensure access to plant and equipment for TExT schedules to continue
- If your business is closed, you should still ensure TExT’s are carried out to remain compliant
- Critical industries will be prioritised
- Local Exhast Ventilation (LEV) equipment should not be used if a TExT has expired. (Equipment must be safe for staff to use and employers must comply with HSE regulations)
Ensuring employee protection, not only from the virus, but also from harmful dust and fumes in the workplace, must remain at the top of the agenda for employers. Equipment may have been left unused for a number of months and testing dates may have passed by, so it is crucial that the equipment is tested and approved for use.
Tony Bosworth, operations director for dust and fume extraction specialists, Impact Technical Services, says “LEV testing/TExT is affordable and simple to arrange, so there is no reason why employers should not follow the updated guidelines. At this time, employers have a great responsibility to ensure workers are safe from Covid-19 but as always, there are also other risks that should be addressed in every working scenario. The number of deaths and illnesses from dust and fume inhalation in the workplace as reported by the HSE are slowly decreasing each year and we need to ensure this continues. A simple test can help to ensure it does.”
For more information visit the HSE website and to book on-site testing call Impact on 0116 2448855 or enquiries@impactts.co.uk.
