Bosses told to invest in LEV air cleaning systems

17th March 2010 | Health and Safety Signs

Welding and stonemasonry companies are being advised on the risks of exposing their workers to harmful dust and fumes, it has been confirmed.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been hosting a range of events to encourage bosses to invest in local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems.

According to the body, LEVs are capable of removing the type of pollutants that cause asthma and silicosis in thousands of British workers every year.

"The use of LEV equipment can make a real difference to the health of those who work in industries where airborne contaminants are an issue," said Stephanie Beach, LEV communications manager at the HSE.

"Events like these inform small businesses of their legal obligations, and help them protect their workers from occupational diseases."

The roadshow events include a role play involving a negligent boss ignoring the complaints of an employee, who is found to have developed silicosis two years later.

Bosses should also consider investing in safety signs to warn their workers about the dangers of air contaminants in the workplace.

Posted by Nicole Stevens