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Choose an operation for a workplace where you once worked or with which you are familiar where either chemical hazards or noise exposures were present. If you have never worked in a location where chemical hazards or noise are present, read about some examples on OSHAs website, and choose one that interests you. Then, write short essay completing the following tasks:1.Summarize how the passage of the OSHAct of 1970 changed the way health hazards were evaluated and controlled in such an environment.2.Summarize the steps you would take to perform a hazard assessment of your chosen operation. Make sure you list the chemical hazards or noise hazards that are present using the example hazard assessment from OSHAs website or one with which you are already familiar.3.Discuss how OSHA PELs and ACGIH TLVs are used in evaluating risks in the environment. Include a statement about which exposure limits are legally binding and why you might choose to use one type of occupational exposure limit over another type (i.e., PEL, TLV, REL).4.Discuss the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for controlling occupational hazards versus the use of other control methods in relation to the operation you chose.5.Choose one hazard that you identified. The hazard can be a chemical or noise hazard. Summarize how you would evaluate employee exposures to the hazard. Include information about any sampling method you would use, how many samples you would collect, the types of samples you would collect

 

Sample Solution

The OSHAct of 1970 and its Impact

Prior to the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHAct) of 1970, workplace safety regulations were lax or nonexistent. The passage of the OSHAct fundamentally changed how health hazards are evaluated and controlled in environments like auto body repair shops. Here’s how:

  • Established exposure limits: OSHA set Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) for various airborne contaminants, including the solvents and paint fumes common in auto body repair. These limits define the maximum concentration a worker can be safely exposed to over an eight-hour workday.
  • Mandated hazard communication: The OSHAct requires employers to develop and implement Hazard Communication Programs to inform workers about the chemicals they handle, their associated hazards, and safe handling procedures.
  • Increased enforcement: OSHA established a national enforcement program to inspect workplaces, identify violations, and issue citations for non-compliance with safety standards.

Hazard Assessment in an Auto Body Repair Shop

Here’s a summary of the steps involved in a hazard assessment for an auto body repair shop:

  1. Identify Hazards: Conduct a walk-through inspection to identify potential chemical hazards (e.g., paints, solvents, degreasers) and noise hazards (e.g., sanding, power tools).
  2. Review Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Obtain and review SDSs for all chemicals used in the shop. These documents provide information on the chemical’s properties, hazards, and safe handling procedures.
  3. Evaluate Exposure Potential: Consider factors like ventilation systems, work practices, and the duration of exposure to determine the likelihood of worker contact with hazards.

Chemical Hazards and Exposure Limits

  • Common chemical hazards in auto body repair shops include:
    • Solvents (e.g., toluene, xylene) used for degreasing and paint thinning.
    • Isocyanates found in some paints and hardeners, known for respiratory sensitization.
    • Lead dust from sanding operations on older vehicles.
  • OSHA PELs and ACGIH TLVs: Both OSHA and the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) set exposure limits for various chemicals. However, OSHA PELs are legally enforceable, while ACGIH TLVs are considered recommended guidelines.
  • Choosing an Exposure Limit: In most cases, OSHA PELs take precedence due to their legal weight. However, ACGIH TLVs may be more stringent and offer a lower exposure limit. A prudent approach might be to use the lower of the two limits to provide an extra margin of safety for workers.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) vs. Engineering Controls

The hierarchy of controls prioritizes eliminating hazards at the source whenever possible. In an auto body repair shop, this could involve:

  • Improving ventilation systems: Installing local exhaust ventilation systems to remove airborne contaminants close to the source (e.g., spray booths).
  • Substituting less hazardous chemicals: Using water-based paints or alternative degreasing solutions whenever feasible.

However, PPE can still play a crucial role in protecting workers from residual hazards:

  • Respiratory protection: Providing appropriate respirators for tasks that generate hazardous fumes or dust.
  • Skin protection: Equipping workers with gloves and other protective clothing to prevent skin contact with chemicals.
  • Eye protection: Supplying safety glasses or goggles to shield eyes from splashes or flying debris.

Hazard Exposure Evaluation: Noise

Here’s how to evaluate employee exposure to noise hazards in an auto body repair shop:

  • Equipment Testing: Use a sound level meter to measure noise levels generated by various tools and equipment (e.g., sanders, grinders).
  • Employee Monitoring: Consider noise dosimetry badges for workers regularly exposed to high noise levels. These badges track individual exposure levels over a work shift.
  • Number of Samples: The number of samples will depend on the size and layout of the shop, the number of workers, and the specific noise sources. Ideally, measurements should capture representative noise levels across different work areas and tasks.

By following these steps and utilizing a combination of engineering controls and PPE, auto body repair shops can create a safer and healthier work environment for their employees.

 

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