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Cleaning industry
The incident
Two workers suffered severe acid burns from exposure to cleaning products containing sulphuric and hydrofluoric acid whilst cleaning a truck.
The workers were cleaning the trailer using the cleaning product and a high-pressure hose and after finishing the job began to feel a burning sensation on their arms resulting in severe acid burns.
What should the employer have done?
The employer is required to conduct a risk assessment for any new or existing hazardous work including the use of any hazardous substances. The risk assessment should involve researching Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) for any substances used.
The employer is required to keep records of the hazardous substances they are using and maintain current MSDSs for each hazardous substance in the workplace. MSDSs should be made available for all employees to access.
The employer should consider whether that particular cleaning product is required in the first place, or whether it can be substituted with another, less hazardous product.
Where no other alternative is available the employer is required to provide information and training to employees about the safe use of the substance in accordance with the MSDS.
MSDSs specify the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) employees are required to wear when working with the hazardous substance.
Where it is specified, and provided by an employer, workers are required to protect their own health and safety by wearing PPE.
Workers have the right to refuse to undertake a task where inadequate training or PPE is provided or where they have otherwise identified it as being unsafe.
Last updated: 21 October, 2010
Telephone 1300 365 255
Employers and employees within South Australia can contact their local SafeWork SA office, or the Help Centre, for the cost of a local call. This service is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8.30am to 5.30pm, and on Wednesdays from 8.30am to 4.15pm (excluding public holidays)
Email: help@safework.sa.gov.au
