Ordinance on Hazardous Substances
The Hazardous Substances Ordinance is a national regulation protecting workers from harmful effects of chemical agents at the workplace. It governs hazard assessment and protective measures hierarchy for welding work.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
The Hazardous Substances Ordinance defines which chemical substances are dangerous and how they can harm health. It defines measures to minimize exposure to these substances.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
In the welding industry, many hazardous substances occur, such as hydrocarbons, sulfur oxides, and metal salts. The ordinance requires careful hazard assessment and measures to reduce exposure to avoid health issues like lung damage or skin reactions.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
• Hazard Assessment: Identify all hazardous substances in the welding zone and assess their risk to workers.
• Protective Measures: Use appropriate respiratory protection, work clothing, and ventilation systems. Keep the use of hazardous substances to a minimum.
• Employee Information: Inform all workers about the hazards and measures to protect against hazardous substances.