Measuring dust - Is it time to get real?
Casella explores developments over time for direct reading (real-time) dust measurements. What are the latest regulations at the time of writing, and how do you ensure accuracy with any price of dust monitoring equipment?
Do's and Don'ts of Real-Time Air Sampling
Casella explores the dos and don'ts of real-time air sampling.
Real-time instruments are powerful and of course useful in giving information, but understanding the technology used and where traditional air sampling with a pump is necessary will ensure an accurate measure of exposure.
Construction Site Emissions & Standards
Casella explores hazardous exposures within construction sites around the world. Why are standards required to ensure the workplace and surrounding community stay healthy, and what are they?
Parliament Renovation Halted
Up to nine members of parliamentary staff and even more contractors may have been exposed to asbestos between October and November last year, reports HuffPost UK. As a result, the house of parliament renovation has been put on hold.
Understanding Data in Construction
Casella explore what is measured for site monitoring and what sensors are typically used for boundary construction monitoring, as well as how to place the sensors.
Wood Dust - Exposure Hazards and Air Sampling Equipment
In this article Casella discuss wood dust and introduce the principles of air sampling and the equipment that can be used to measure exposure. Wood dust is a significant risk to a worker’s health. Air sampling is a way to quantify exposure or measure residual risk and ensure control measures are effective.
The Do's and Don'ts of Asbestos Monitoring
The inhalation of airborne asbestos fibres in the home or workplace can cause a variety of occupational diseases, which may ultimately lead to premature death. It strength and shape (or aspect ratio) of the fibres which means they tend to remain in the lungs for a long period of time that leads to respiratory diseases. The shape of the fibres does, however, make them distinguishable to the trained eye for counting during analysis.
Casella's dBadge2 gets MSHA approval
Casella receives Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) approval on the noise monitoring device, the dBadge2. Read more here.
Casella explore the do's and dont's of Noise Monitoring
A common question that often gets asked is, should I use a noise dosimeter or a sound level meter (SLM) to determine noise exposure? Casella explores current occupational noise exposure regulations, and the do's of don'ts of noise measurements within the workplace. Remember, noise monitoring is more than compliance but all about people's health and wellbeing!
No Time Like the Present
Hands up to all those who can remember a time before the personal air sampler (PAS)? Not many I guess, but then they only do commerically date back to the early 1960's in Europe and the US, at a time when the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) only had a few hundred members.
Casella explores the difference between air sampling pumps and real-time hand held devices.
Noise in the Workplace Terminology
Don’t worry there is an awful lot of black art surrounding noise, but you don’t need a Degree in Acoustics to be able to undertake a risk assessment in your workplace. If you are new to noise then this article introduces you to basic terminology such as decibels, frequencies, and other acoustic terms that can affect exposure.
Its A Family Affair
Air sampling pumps come in all shapes, sizes and flow rates but they all share common requirements. This article looks at the important factors.
HAVS The Effects of Vibration Exposure
Which came first, the chicken or the egg? The same question goes for noise & vibration and the smart money is on the latter, but they often go hand-in-hand and that’s particularly true (pun alert) for hand-guided or operated tools.
How do you measure HAV?
So, the author is back in Devon on holiday and has started to tidy up the green space around the family’s holiday chalet as thoughts turn to Autumn and to putting away the mower and strimmer for the season. The latter got mentioned in a previous article on hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) [1] and again, after just a few minutes use, the tingling sensation could be felt in the fingers and hands!
Casella Acquisition
Global occupational hygiene and workplace hazard monitoring expert, Casella, has been acquired by TSI Instruments Ltd, a UK subsidiary of TSI Incorporated. Casella designs and manufactures innovative instruments and systems that protect workers from occupational and environmental health risks, with key specialisms in noise, dust and vibration monitoring.
To HAV and To Hold From This Day Forward? Try before you buy!
The weather has most definitely turned autumnal, holidays are now just a photographic memory on the authors’ phone, I’ve just celebrated my 41st Wedding Anniversary, my 3rd Grandchild is due any day soon and thoughts are obviously turning to Christmas; there, I said it!
When The Dust Settles!
Anyone else having some building work done on their home? Anyone else underestimated the amount of noise, dust and general disruption it creates?
No Particle To Small - Dust Measurement Explained
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease, the seriousness of which was recognized in the US during the whole of November 2022 by a National COPD awareness campaign, and coincidentally the 16th of November marked World COPD Day.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF SOCIAL DISTANCING TECHNOLOGY
There is a plethora of social distancing technology out there now, aimed primarily at workplaces that have to have a certain amount of workforce in attendance, such as in manufacturing and the construction sectors.
SMARTER SOCIAL DISTANCING: CASELLA LAUNCHES ORBI-TRACE SMART-TAG TO SUPPORT WORKPLACE SOCIAL DISTANCING
SMARTER SOCIAL DISTANCING: CASELLA LAUNCHES ORBI-TRACE SMART-TAG TO SUPPORT WORKPLACE SOCIAL DISTANCING
Workers and businesses have never been more aware of the need for positive occupational and industrial hygiene culture than they are as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. A key means of protecting people against Covid-19 exposure in workplaces has been social distancing – remaining a minimum of 6ft apart - something that will prove challenging in workplaces where floor plans are designed to save space, not to keep workers as distanced as possible.
COST-BENEFIT OF SOCIAL DISTANCING TECHNOLOGIES
Cost-benefit of social distancing technologies
For industrial organizations, operating in the world before the COVID-19 crisis was no walk in the park, according to LNS Research [¹]. Complexity, change, and uncertainty was already the order of the day, presenting a continually evolving risk environment to be dealt with. In response, companies were embracing Industrial Transformation as the strategic framework to drive step-change performance improvement and competitive advantage.
THE HIRING PROCESS FOR CASELLA’S GUARDIAN2 COMPLETE MONITORING SYSTEM JUST GOT EASIER
Reinforcing Casella’s engineering expertise and experience producing quality monitoring instruments, the Casella Guardian2 can help control site emissions and reduce environmental risks. Casella has introduced new features to make hire management easier.
HOW TO REASSURE CUSTOMERS AND EMPLOYEES RETURNING TO WORK
With the furlough scheme has come to an end and a general call to return to work, there are still many people who are genuinely frightened to do so; such was the effectiveness of Government messaging at the very beginning of lockdown (plus a rising death toll)! These are extraordinary times and the situation is still very fluid, but we are going to have to get used to living with the COVID-19 virus until a vaccine eventually becomes available and a full return to work in the meantime is inevitable, notwithstanding localized lockdown measures. This article sets out to explore some of the issues
SMART TECHNOLOGIES WITHIN THE WORKPLACE TO TACKLE COVID
Smart technologies within the workplace to tackle COVID
According to a survey [¹] conducted by Consulting firm McKinsey of some 800, C-suite executives from across a wide range of sectors, COVID-19 has pushed companies over the technology tipping point and transformed business forever. The pandemic has hastened employer investments in a broad application of technology to maintain productivity and specifically, 85% stating that they had accelerated adoption of digitization for employee interaction and collaboration.
CASELLA'S US OFFICE IS MOVING LOCATION!
With the continued growth that we are experiencing in the United States, Casella is taking the leap to a much larger facility. With new office space and incredible facilities for all members of our team, there was no question to why we shouldn't take this opportunity with both hands.
With all hands-on deck straight after the festive period, we will be official residents of Sterling, Masachusetts from January 11!
A REVIEW OF SOCIAL DISTANCING TECHNOLOGY
Maintaining a social distance in the workplace is a key part of staving off the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The development of social distancing (promixity) technology, which is intended to support the return of people to the workplace and to allay their legitimate concerns, is a relatively new concept as a direct response to the pandemic.
CASELLA ANNOUNCES THEIR WEBINARS FOR 2021
Global occupational health and workplace hazard monitoring expert Casella has announced its schedule of industry leading webinars for 2021.
ASBESTOS! THE OLD AGE PROBLEM STILL HERE
The use of asbestos dates back at least 4,500 years. Evidence found near Lake Juojärvi in Finland, shows that people used it to make pots and other cooking utensils. In Greece, from around 300 BC there was a reference to a material that is thought to be asbestos, the name derived from the ancient Greek word meaning “unquenchable” or “inextinguishable”.
USING THE CORRECT NOISE MONITORING EQUIPMENT
Excessive noise exposure is preventable, but the effects are permanent and potentially debilitating. Noise in the workplace is common, particularly when workers operate high-powered tools and machinery. Prolonged exposure to dangerous levels of noise is concerning and could be preventing workers from operating at their best. Monitoring is an effective tool for improving such conditions, providing concrete data and highlighting avenues for change. Monitoring delivers accurate insight into noise levels, but with many devices on the market, it can be difficult to identify what type of product is most suitable for your working environment. Is it better to use a noise dosimeter or a sound level meter, and what are the differences between the two?
LEARN HOW TO MONITOR NOISE WITH CASELLA
Casella is dedicated to reducing occupational health and environmental impact risks through effective monitoring solutions. As experts in noise monitoring, the company is ideally placed to offer clear and simple advice on how to monitor noise. Casella also provide guidance on choosing the most appropriate hearing protection if required, with aim of reducing long term hearing loss in workers.
CASELLA INTRODUCES THE VORTEX3 HIGH FLOW SAMPLING PUMP
Asbestos-related diseases take the lives of 20 tradespeople every week.[¹] Despite being banned in the UK, asbestos can still be found in older homes and industrial properties built between the 1950s and 70s, posing a threat to anyone who disturbs the dangerous material.
Global occupational hygiene and workplace hazard monitoring expert Casella has launched the Vortex3, the most innovative high flow pump on the market, designed to simplify asbestos and air sampling.
Monitoring Air Quality During Wildfires: Q&A with Industry Expert at Casella
As wildfires sweep across the west of the United States and Canada, causing loss of life, urgent evacuations and mass disruption, environmental conditions linked to climate change are making wildfire seasons longer and more severe worldwide. To help protect public safety, communities need to be better informed and take steps to monitor the quality of the air they breathe.
PROFESSIONALLY DISTANCED: ENSURING EMPLOYEE SAFETY THROUGH REMOTE MONITORING AND SOCIAL DISTANCING
With the focus for many businesses dealing with the ongoing Covid-19 global health crisis beginning to shift to ‘the new normal’ and returning to the workplace, questions are being asked by employees and employers alike around how workplaces will be made, and kept, safe.
CASELLA ANNOUNCE TRAINING & WEBINAR SCHEDULE FOR 2020
Building a culture of occupational health and safety is vital for all businesses and is key to ensuring not just workplace compliance, but sustainable competitive advantage. In the UK, according to HSE’s latest statistics, 1.4 million workers suffered from work-related ill health in 2018/2019[1], causing 28.2 million working days lost and £15 billion lost for the economy annually! To manage risks and to meet today’s standards in occupational health, the first place to start is to make sure you assess and measure risks accurately, and the best way begin is by gaining a thorough understanding of the solutions and equipment available for monitoring these risks. This knowledge is at the core of building a viable and successful program for workplace safety.
DISINFECTING OF PERSONAL SAMPLING AND MONITORING PRODUCTS
As many of Casella's products are bodily worn, they need to be handled by individuals in factories and require disinfecting to ensure they are free of COVID19 before being packed away or passed on for use to other individuals. Please see below the best guidance from us on the best practice to clean and disinfect air sampling pumps and noise dosimeters.
SETTING BOUNDARIES: THE IMPORTANCE OF BOUNDARY MONITORING IN CONSTRUCTION
Establishing any new construction project is a careful logistical balancing act, with many aspects for project managers to consider; from site safety to environmental responsibility. Establishing site boundaries, drawing up necessary documentation, ordering materials, creating traffic plans, workflows and conducting risk assessments – a lot of thought and planning goes into even relatively small footprint construction projects.
BOUNDARY MONITORING: REDUCE DISTURBANCE & DECREASE ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS
How can construction work harm public health and damage the surrounding environment? Construction dust can compromise air quality, environmental noise pollution can be harmful to workers and the general public, and vibration can cause damage and a general nuisance to nearby property.
WITH THE CURVE - HSE TESTING CONFIRMS CASELLA CYCLONE AIR SAMPLING HEADS RELIABILITY
When conducting workplace air sampling, reliability is key. Operators need to know that the equipment they rely on to collect and sample the air for respirable dust and other hazards will yield consistent and accurate data.
TACKLING AIR SAMPLING: THE TOP ‘DOS AND DON’TS’
As NIOSH point out in the manual of analytical methods (NMAM)¹, industrial hygiene methods are geared towards measuring personal exposure, which for the last six decades has typically meant deploying a personal air sampling pump. The NMAM has no fewer than 220 references to the pump and details how the basics of sampling with a pump haven’t fundamentally changed much in those 60 years.
CASELLA SHOWCASES COMMITMENT TO CLEAN AIR AT CONTAMINATION EXPO SERIES
Casella, a leading UK manufacturer of environmental monitoring solutions, will be showcasing its commitment to comprehensive personal and environmental monitoring solutions at Contamination Expo Series, 11th – 12th September at the NEC, Birmingham on stand H67.
Contamination Expo Series’ ‘Clean Air Technology Expo’, which is supported by the Environment Agency, is one of seven specialist shows designed to showcase cutting edge technology to further the prevention, detection and management of airborne pollutants. Casella’s forward-thinking solutions are a natural fit for the exhibition.
EXPOSURE TO VIBRATION: DO YOU KNOW THE LIMIT?
In the engineering industry, many workers are required to operate hand-held power tools and other hand-guided equipment as part of their job, exposing them to potentially high vibration levels. Long term exposure to vibration levels that exceed safety limits puts workers at risk. Approximately two million people in U.S workers are exposed to Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome.[¹]
DO YOU HAVS OR HAVS NOT COMPLIANCE TO STANDARDS?
There is a debate being played out on the use of wrist or glove mounted transducers for the measurement of hand-arm vibration (HAVS) exposure. Expert consultants have pointed out that the UK HSE have said that “there is currently no wrist or glove mounted device which measures vibration suitable for use in a vibration risk assessment”. But they also concede that these devices have a part to play in the management of HAVS exposure when used as a ‘tool timer’ linked to properly measured tool vibration levels. And by proper that means to the relevant part of standards like BS EN ISO 5439 (or ANSI S2.70 in the US) using instrumentation conforming to ISO 8041 and undertaken by a competent person.
BLURRING THE LINES OF HEALTH AND SAFETY
The barriers and uncertainty felt when treating workplace health and safety as a joint entity is increasingly becoming a problem of the past.
NOISE INDUCED HEARING LOSS - ACT, BEFORE THE DAMAGE IS DONE
Exposure to harmful noise can happen at any age. People of all ages, including children, teens, young adults, and older people, can develop NIHL. Based on a 2011-2012 CDC study involving hearing tests and interviews with participants, at least 10 million adults (6%) in the U.S. under age 70 - and perhaps as many as 40 million adults (24%) - have features of their hearing test that suggest hearing loss in one or both ears from exposure to loud noise.
CASELLA LAUNCH NOISESAFE SOFTWARE
Casella, air sampling, noise and vibration specialist, has launched an advanced and reliable software package for its personal dosimeter (the dBadge2), NoiseSafe. When used alongside Casella’s dBadge2, it is the ideal tool for fast and efficient reporting and analysis of noise exposure levels.
MEASURING VOCS WITH THE GUARDIAN2 (PART 1)
Since the original concept for Casella’s Guardian environmental monitoring system as a multi agent monitoring system sending data to the cloud, the latest version, Guardian2, now boasts a smaller form factor (compared with the original design), a bespoke datalogger with telemetry and solar power and battery options. ‘Agents’ include user definable combinations of noise, particulate (simultaneous PM1, PM2.5, PM10), ground vibration, wind speed & direction and now volatile organic compounds (VOC). But why is this latest development so significant?
VAPex wins 'New Product of the Year'
DALLAS, August 19, 2019 – Twenty companies, including multiple winners Blackline Safety and Honeywell, were honored today for winning Occupational Health & Safety magazine’s 11th annual New Product of the Year contest. Winners will be recognized with awards next month and in the November/December issue of Occupational Health & Safety magazine. They are also featured on Occupational Health & Safety’s industry-leading website, ohsonline.com.
DUST UPDATES FROM AROUND THE GLOBE: WHAT COULD THIS MEAN?
On 23 June 2016 the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, issued the final rule to limit worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica and, in turn, reduce ill health occurrences. The new standard has reduced the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for construction and general industry to a limit of 50 μg/m3 averaged over an eight-hour workday, half the limit set in the UK. It is predicted by the Congressional Research Service that the new exposure level and actions employers must take to comply will prevent 642 employee deaths per year. Enforcement for the standard began on September 23rd, 2017.
TOXIC DUST AND BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE
Dust is tiny, dry airborne particles that are produced when materials are cut, drilled, demolished, sanded, or shovelled. This means many work activities can create dust. Dust is not always an obvious health hazard as the particles which cause the most damage are often invisible to the naked eye and the health effects of exposure can take many years to develop.
DUST DETECTION IN THE WORKPLACE
Dust in the workplace continues to receive international attention as a hidden killer. In the United Kingdom during 2015-2016, 13,000 deaths were reported as a result of past exposures at work, primarily to chemicals and dust. Annually, there are an estimated 14,000 new cases of lung disease and breathing illnesses believed to be caused by the working environment.
NOISE MONITORING MATTERS
Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by prolonged exposure to excessive noise levels. To reduce workplace risk from noise and protect employees, investment in effective sound monitoring is recommended.
GUARDIAN2 AWARDED ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NEW PRODUCT OF THE YEAR AWARD!
Press Release on behalf of Environmental Protection:
Environmental Protection Announces New Product of the Year Winners
DALLAS, May 20, 2019 - Environmental Protection recognised the winning companies in its 2019 New Product of the Year contest today. The contest attracted a record number of entries, with many of the products winning accolades from three independant judges. Two companies won multiple awards.
CASELLA ARE SPONSORING THE SEARCH FOR BRITAIN’S MOST TALENTED OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENISTS
Britain’s Chartered Society for Worker Health Protection has unveiled details of its latest search to find Britain’s most talented occupational hygienist in the early stages of his or her career and is urging interested candidates to enter the 2020 round of the competition, which closes on 31 August 2019.
AN INTRODUCTION TO SAMPLING FOR VAPOURS (PART 2)
The type of “suitable sampling medium” mentioned above largely depends on the sampling and analytical method selected for the chemical under investigation but are usually a form of sorbent tube (glass or re-usable metal). The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK and NIOSH in the US publish guidance known as Methods for the Determination of Hazardous Substances (MDHS)¹ and NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods (NMAM)² respectively.
MEASURING VOCS WITH THE GUARDIAN2 (PART 2)
EFFECTS OF HIGH HUMIDITY ON PIDS
Like many sensors and measurement instrumentation, traditional PIDs can be affected by the environmental conditions such as those found in outdoor environments, in particular dirt and humidity. Humidity is a naturally occurring phenomenon and is present in the atmosphere and gasses. The presence of humidity can disrupt PID measurements in two ways leading to false low or conversely high readings.
TOP TIPS FOR LOW FLOW SAMPLING
Manufacturing processes found across many industrial sectors have the potential to expose workers to chemicals. In fact, there are over 100,000 different chemicals used on a global scale. The International Labour Organisation report that of 160 million cases of work-related diseases, 35 million are due to chemical exposure. And of all the listed 2500 airborne hazards to which workers can be exposed, only 500 are of particulate nature, whilst the majority are of a solvent (or gaseous) nature.
CASELLA WELCOME THE VAPEX
Casella, air sampling, noise and vibration specialist, has launched its advanced and lightweight low flow pump, the VAPex. The elite low flow pump is the ideal solution for seamless reporting on employee’s levels of chemical exposure, saving occupational hygienists’ crucial time in their working day.
DUST DETECTION IN THE WORKPLACE
Dust in the workplace continues to receive international attention as a hidden killer. In the United Kingdom during 2015-2016, 13,000 deaths were reported as a result of past exposures at work, primarily to chemicals and dust. Annually, there are an estimated 14,000 new cases of lung disease and breathing illnesses believed to be caused by the working environment.
VIBRATION IN THE WORKPLACE: ARE YOU AT RISK?
It is estimated nearly two million people in the UK are at risk of developing Hand Arm Vibration, commonly referred to as HAV syndrome.[¹] Exposure to vibration in the workplace can lead to serious consequences, causing long-term injury or impairment. HAV is transmitted into workers’ hands and arms from the use of hand-held power tools and hand guided equipment.[²] High risk sectors include construction, carpentry, ground maintenance, engineering, ship building and ship repairs where workers operate powerful tools, emitting high levels of vibration.
SILICA DUST: THE SILENT KILLER
Dust exposure is one of the main health risks from working in quarries and mines. Fine dust containing crystalline silica, the most common form being quartz, can be produced very quickly as the result of use of fast running machinery, virtually invisible to the human eye.[¹] Exposure to silica dust, found in almost all kinds of rock, sands, clays, shale and gravel can lead to chronic lung diseases, such as silicosis.
SETTING UP A LOW FLOW SAMPLE TRAIN
High chemical concentrations can pose an immediate (acute) risk to life but repeated exposure to relatively low concentrations can lead to long term (chronic) illnesses, cancers and even hearing loss in the case of ototoxic chemicals such as nitriles, metals and their compounds and solvents.
AN INTRODUCTION TO SAMPLING FOR VAPOURS PART 1
Manufacturing processes found across many industrial sectors have the potential to expose workers to harmful dusts, gases and vapours and as a consequence, UK employers must meet the requirements of the CoSHH Regulations¹ and in the US, the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)². Similar legislation exists worldwide, the common theme being an onus on hazard identification, risk assessment and the provision of appropriate control measures.
TO APP OR NOT TO APP?
The smartphone is one of the technological developments that has taken the world by storm over the last decade. Statistics released in June 2016 forecast the number of smartphone users to grow from 2.1 billion in 2016 to around 2.5 billion in 2019, with just over 36 percent of the world's population projected to use a smartphone by 2018. In addition, app downloads reached nearly 200 billion in 2017 and are expected to reach over 350 billion by 2021.
THE USE OF NOISE DOSIMETERS FOR WORKPLACE NOISE
In recent decades, increased mechanisation has drastically changed the industrial work environment. This has led to many changes to an employee’s work pattern. It used to be the case on the majority of production lines, that an employee would stay in one place for their working shift. Therefore, monitoring their noise exposure with a sound level meter was very straightforward. However, with the increase in completely mechanised production lines, employees may now supervise several automated machines. This means that they now move around from area to area resulting in much more dramatic and varied exposure to noise.
NOISE MONITORING FOR MILLENNIALS
By 2031, 20% of the population are predicted to suffer from hearing loss, costing the UK economy £25 billion. Workplace hearing loss is a serious concern, with approximately, 20,000 people working last year suffering from noise induced hearing loss (NIHL), both new and longstanding cases.
Noise exposure recently became a national debate, with the chimes of Big Ben being stopped to protect workers’ hearing whilst renovation work is completed. This sparked controversy among members of the public and Parliament, raising concern about the iconic landmark being silenced for four years. Currently, a health and safety investigation is underway, exploring the affects of noise exposure on workers health and if alternative methods could be used to avoid silencing the clock.
HOW TO SELECT A PERSONAL SAMPLING PUMP FOR THE OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY
Workers in the offshore oil and gas industry are exposed to a range of hazardous substances that could impact their occupational health, increasing the likelihood of developing respiratory conditions, among others. Personal sampling pumps are a tool used to monitor such substances. A sampling pump’s size, weight, connectivity, and ability to access data are key, but in addition to that are considerations of flow rate stability, pulsation, and back-pressure capability.
CASELLA LAUNCHES GAME CHANGER IN AIR SAMPLING CALIBRATION - FLOW DETECTIVE™
Casella, air sampling, noise and vibration monitoring specialist introduces the Flow Detective™ air sampling pump calibrator…
CHRISTMAS NOTICES 2018 FROM CASELLA
From our families to yours... Thank you for your support of Casella during 2018! May your year be filled with great joy, happiness and success.
DURING THE FESTIVE PERIOD, OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED:
Our hard-working and dedicated staff will soon have a well-earned break (as will some of our loyal and valued customers, hopefully, too!) and some much-needed downtime to enjoy the festive period with their friends and family.
PRECISION IN AIR SAMPLING CALIBRATION
Personal air sampling pumps are bodily-worn pumps used to sample airborne contaminants that can be damaging to health, controlling the flow of air to ensure a known volume of air is sampled.
Monitoring for dust is usually achieved using such devices by sampling air onto a pre-weighed filter, which is then weighed after sampling and the dust concentration calculated. Monitoring for gases and vapors uses the same air sampling pump, but generally at a lower flow and using sorbent tubes or other media. The pump maintains the airflow at the correct level.
A DUST-UP IN CONSTRUCTION
Noise, vibration, and dust exposure are inevitable on construction sites and are, of course, a major concern for occupational hygienists. The recent focus in both the U.K. and the U.S. has been on respirable crystalline silica, or RCS, which is responsible for tens of thousands of premature deaths each year due to respiratory illnesses. And while the industry looks to mitigate exposure by designing-out or controlling dust, there are still a number of construction roles—including tunnel construction workers, rig operators, concrete finishers, and bricklayers—where exposure to RCS is likely to exceed permissible exposure limits.
BOOK YOUR PLACES FOR THE CASELLA NOISE COURSE
Do you know how to measure Noise at Work to assess noise hazards? If you want to learn about Noise at Work Regulations, and know which protective equipment to choose, then Casella's Noise Course.
CASELLA ANNOUNCES NEW SOLAR PANEL OPTION WITH GUARDIAN2
Casella demonstrates its commitment to reducing environmental risks with the new solar panel and battery power options available with the Guardian2 - the small form factor, multi-agent total environmental monitoring system.
The Guardian2 makes capturing construction dust and noise data easier than ever before. It allows simultaneous monitoring and reporting of noise, dust and vibration levels, as well as wind speed and direction for measurement of site emission and environmental pollution levels. The latest solar panel and battery power options mean it is now suitable for monitoring on construction and demolition sites where no hardwired power is available.
REAL-TIME DUST MONITORING: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR THE WORKFORCE?
Approximately 14.8 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with an estimated 12 million people likely to have the condition, but not yet be diagnosed.[1] Many of these cases could be linked to occupational exposure from dangerous airborne dusts, fumes and other substances.
TACKLING OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE
The collective movement for solving issues surrounding work related ill health continues to gain momentum, highlighted in the HSE Help GB Work Well Scheme calling for ‘greater awareness of the harm, costs and preventability of the issue’ which should ‘drive collective action to improve health outcomes’. In an effort to raise awareness of dangerous substances in the workplace, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OHSA) has recently launched a ‘Healthy Workplaces Manage Dangerous Substances campaign’ to promote a culture of risk prevention. The campaign is intended to heighten awareness of risks linked to exposure, targeting workers with specific needs.
PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANS & NOISE-INDUCED HEARING LOSS
“If music be the food of love, play on,” William Shakespeare wrote in the play “Twelfth Night.” Indeed, the emotional swell of an orchestra is a wonderful thing to experience. But for musicians, high noise levels during rehearsals and performances could subject them to excessive noise exposure, which could lead to irreversible noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and/or incurable tinnitus. A March 2018 landmark legal case at an Opera House in the UK, could send metaphorical shockwaves across the industry.
PUMPS VS REAL TIME MEASUREMENTS; NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT
Hands up to all those who can remember a time before the personal air sampler (PAS)? Not many I guess, but then they only do commerically date back to the early 1960's in Europe and the US, at a time when the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) only had a few hundred members.
COMBUSTIBLE DUST EXPLOSIONS: ARE YOU AT RISK?
Thinking about combustible dust explosions and coal dust, grain storage and flour mills will immediately spring to mind because they make primetime news. However, any workplace that generates dust is potentially at risk to dust explosions.
DOES YOUR CYCLONE MAKE THE CUT?
Respirable dust is considered anything below 10µm in size. This particulate is high risk because it penetrates deeply into the lungs. Respirable hazards for dust come from many dusts within the workplace and for that matter the environment. Particulate matter of various sizes can be generated from processes such as grinding, blasting, or mixing. Examples of common harmful dust materials are coal, silica and wood. This article looks at cyclones, commonly used when sampling for respirable dusts and discusses points to be aware of in their use.
IMPROVED MONITORING FOR SITE OPERATIONS: CASELLA ANNOUNCES ADVANCED DUST DETECTIVE ENCLOSURE
Casella, air sampling, noise and vibration monitoring specialist, has launched an improved version of its Dust Detective Enclosure. The ideal survey tool for efficient area monitoring, Casella’s Dust Detective Enclosure is a game changer in short-term boundary monitoring, on the market from November 2018.
In 2017-18, there were 12,000 lung disease deaths in the UK due to exposures of air hazards and dust at work, and a further 20,000 estimated new cases of occupational breathing problems reported[1].
Pumps vs Real Time Time Pumps; No Time Like the Present
Hands up to all those who can remember a time before the personal air sampler (PAS)? Not many I guess, but then they only do commerically date back to the early 1960's in Europe and the US, at a time when the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) only had a few hundred members.
MONITORING FOR RESPIRATORY HAZARDS
In the USA, of the “Top 10” OSHA Standards that were cited in 2017, Respiratory protection, general industry ranked Fourth - after Fall Protection, Hazard Communication and Scaffolding. In General Industry standards, only Hazard Communication citation was more prevalent.
Now with the new Construction Standard for Silica, requiring employers to limit exposure of this very common material, you can be sure more prosecutions are going to be happening. In fact, it was reported in Summer 2018 that a contractor was recently cited for wilful and serious violations of the new rule for which their State’s OSHA Compliance office has proposed a $300,000+ fine. In the UK awareness is growing on the hazards of respirable silica and its long term health issues.
ONLY FEW PLACES LEFT FOR THE CASELLA NOISE COURSE 24TH APRIL 2018
Due to popular demand, the Casella Noise at Work Course will return on April 24th! If you’re looking to save critical time and money for your business whilst ensuring compliance with Noise at Work Regulations, Casella’s one day noise course is the perfect starter course for you.
Led by our noise expert Shaun Knott, the course is an excellent opportunity to ensure compliance with noise at work regulations, whilst also learning some tips and tricks to improve noise regulation in your workplace.
'BREXIT', ‘AMERICA FIRST’ AND THE IMPACT ON ISO
Trade deal negotiations between the USA, the Pacific Rim and Europe and the talks of the standardisation of regulatory controls have abruptly halted and are unlikely to be resumed in the current climate. Does Brexit and America First mean an end to the need for global standards like OHSAS 18001 and ISO 45001?
MINING: WHY MONITORING MATTERS
According to the World Coal Association, there are around 892 billion tonnes of coal reserves worldwide and coal production is showing no signs of slowing down. Ensuring the global workforce of coal miners are protected against workplace exposures should be a priority.
Monitoring solutions have been enforced for many years, originally in the form of background samplers which captured dust in the general work environment. Modern methods such as long wall mining - a mechanised process allowing whole chunks of the wall to be mined in a single slice - provide speed, convenience and higher volumes of coal but as a result, dust in the atmosphere can reach an alarming level. Although more efficient, such modern methods expose workers to harmful substances increasing their risks of developing debilitating or fatal diseases such as Pneumoconiosis, commonly known as, ‘black lung.’
BOHS IGNITE SESSION - WATCH JIM STRUTHERS' PRESENTATION
During the BOHS conference Casella's Jim Struthers took the stage for the annual 'Ignite' sessions, which give presenters 5 minutes to convey their passion and knowledge on a subject to the audience.
Footballer, Jedi or something else entirely?
Watch Jim Struthers brilliant presentation from the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) Ignite sessions. Can technology solve life's big question.. What even is Occupational Hygiene? Within 5 minutes we discuss Casella's own monitoring apps and equipment that can make every worker a 'Virtual Occupational Hygienist'.
Watch the video here.
THE TECHNOLOGY MEGATREND: WHERE DOES HEALTH & SAFETY FIT IN?
In the latest in our blog series first featured on SHP Online, Casella Product Manager Tim Turney looks at the way the technology in our everyday lives has assisted the health and safety profession, and what it might mean for the future of occupational health.
CASELLA LAUNCH GUARDIAN2 - JOIN OUR WEBINARS
We are once again helping our customers reduce environmental risks from large construction projects with the introduction of the Guardian2 environmental site boundary monitor.
CASELLA LAUNCH INTRINSICALLY SAFE APEX2 AIR SAMPLING PUMP
Following a rigorous testing process, Casella has announced Intrinsically Safe approval for its Apex2 personal sampling pump range, with class leading performance and capability.
Instruments supplied for application in atmospheres where there is a risk of explosion must be designed with the appropriate safety requirement critical in achieving IS approval; protecting the equipment and ensuring it is safe to use. Achieving the IS certification for the Apex2 range ensures that monitoring and analysis of dust exposure can be carried out safely and effectively in these areas. The range includes three separate models - the Apex 2, Apex 2 Plus and Apex 2 Pro, with different functionality to meet varying requirements; all designed to monitor workplace dust levels to help protect workers from developing long latency health problems as the result of occupational exposures.
THE CASELLA NOISE COURSE WILL RETURN ON MAY 23RD
If you’re looking to save critical time and money for your business whilst ensuring compliance with Noise at Work Regulations, Casella’s one day noise course is an excellent opportunity.
The Casella Noise Course has been created to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills required to effectively monitor workplace noise.
Led by our noise expert Shaun Knott, the course is an excellent opportunity to ensure compliance with noise at work regulations, whilst also learning some tips and tricks to improve noise regulation in your workplace.
THE HUMAN COST OF OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESSES AND INJURIES
It is often said that the U.S. and the U.K. are two nations divided by a common language. But where noise is concerned, we definitely have agreement on the causal relationship between exposure and hearing loss, which has been observed anecdotally for centuries.
SEE THE BENEFITS OF USING THE APEX2 FOR AIR SAMPLING
We are proud to present our new video for the Intrinsically Safe Apex2, illustrating the features and benefits that make it the ideal pump for air sampling in workplaces of all kinds.
The market leading Apex2 Sampling Pump is now approved for use in explosive environments, from simple air sampling to specialised measurement of dusts, fumes and vapours.
MAKE TECHNOLOGY YOUR COMPANION, NOT YOUR REPLACEMENT
With officially more mobile phones in the world than people, it is clear to see the advancements that technology has made over the past 20 years, integrating into our everyday lives and in many ways becoming a replacement for human intuition.
A report in Forbes magazine suggested that app downloads are expected to reach 268,692 billion by 2017, based on data collected from the Apple app store alone. Whilst this new technology has brought many benefits, we are all aware of the potential negative impact it may have on natural human intellect and on using our own instincts. How can we, as monitors of public environments and workforces, embrace the benefits of technology without losing our core skills, expertise and experience?
PARTNERS IN HEALTH: CASELLA & PARK HEALTH & SAFETY
When construction work began on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Olympic Village project in 2005, it is highly likely that no-one at the time could have imagined how this project alone would transform the meaning of the phrase “health and safety” forevermore.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN GIBRALTAR…
In 2016, Gibraltar International Airport achieved record passenger movements, with more than 500,000 passengers travelling through the airport by the end of November – a remarkable figure for the British Overseas Territory just 2.5 square miles in size.
Runway operation in Gibraltar currently requires the territory’s busiest highway to close, causing regular delays for passengers and drivers travelling to and from mainland Spain.
'BREXIT', ‘AMERICA FIRST’ AND THE IMPACT ON ISO
Trade deal negotiations between the USA, the Pacific Rim and Europe and the talks of the standardisation of regulatory controls have abruptly halted and are unlikely to be resumed in the current climate. Does Brexit and America First mean an end to the need for global standards like OHSAS 18001 and ISO 45001?
MINING: WHY MONITORING MATTERS
According to the World Coal Association, there are around 892 billion tonnes of coal reserves worldwide and coal production is showing no signs of slowing down. Ensuring the global workforce of coal miners are protected against workplace exposures should be a priority.
Monitoring solutions have been enforced for many years, originally in the form of background samplers which captured dust in the general work environment. Modern methods such as long wall mining - a mechanised process allowing whole chunks of the wall to be mined in a single slice - provide speed, convenience and higher volumes of coal but as a result, dust in the atmosphere can reach an alarming level. Although more efficient, such modern methods expose workers to harmful substances increasing their risks of developing debilitating or fatal diseases such as Pneumoconiosis, commonly known as, ‘black lung.’
BOHS IGNITE SESSION - WATCH JIM STRUTHERS' PRESENTATION
During the BOHS conference Casella's Jim Struthers took the stage for the annual 'Ignite' sessions, which give presenters 5 minutes to convey their passion and knowledge on a subject to the audience.
Footballer, Jedi or something else entirely?
Watch Jim Struthers brilliant presentation from the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) Ignite sessions. Can technology solve life's big question.. What even is Occupational Hygiene? Within 5 minutes we discuss Casella's own monitoring apps and equipment that can make every worker a 'Virtual Occupational Hygienist'.
Watch the video here.
THE TECHNOLOGY MEGATREND: WHERE DOES HEALTH & SAFETY FIT IN?
In the latest in our blog series first featured on SHP Online, Casella Product Manager Tim Turney looks at the way the technology in our everyday lives has assisted the health and safety profession, and what it might mean for the future of occupational health.
CASELLA LAUNCH GUARDIAN2 - JOIN OUR WEBINARS
We are once again helping our customers reduce environmental risks from large construction projects with the introduction of the Guardian2 environmental site boundary monitor.
CASELLA LAUNCH INTRINSICALLY SAFE APEX2 AIR SAMPLING PUMP
Following a rigorous testing process, Casella has announced Intrinsically Safe approval for its Apex2 personal sampling pump range, with class leading performance and capability.
Instruments supplied for application in atmospheres where there is a risk of explosion must be designed with the appropriate safety requirement critical in achieving IS approval; protecting the equipment and ensuring it is safe to use. Achieving the IS certification for the Apex2 range ensures that monitoring and analysis of dust exposure can be carried out safely and effectively in these areas. The range includes three separate models - the Apex 2, Apex 2 Plus and Apex 2 Pro, with different functionality to meet varying requirements; all designed to monitor workplace dust levels to help protect workers from developing long latency health problems as the result of occupational exposures.
THE CASELLA NOISE COURSE WILL RETURN ON MAY 23RD
If you’re looking to save critical time and money for your business whilst ensuring compliance with Noise at Work Regulations, Casella’s one day noise course is an excellent opportunity.
The Casella Noise Course has been created to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills required to effectively monitor workplace noise.
Led by our noise expert Shaun Knott, the course is an excellent opportunity to ensure compliance with noise at work regulations, whilst also learning some tips and tricks to improve noise regulation in your workplace.
THE HUMAN COST OF OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESSES AND INJURIES
It is often said that the U.S. and the U.K. are two nations divided by a common language. But where noise is concerned, we definitely have agreement on the causal relationship between exposure and hearing loss, which has been observed anecdotally for centuries.
SEE THE BENEFITS OF USING THE APEX2 FOR AIR SAMPLING
We are proud to present our new video for the Intrinsically Safe Apex2, illustrating the features and benefits that make it the ideal pump for air sampling in workplaces of all kinds.
The market leading Apex2 Sampling Pump is now approved for use in explosive environments, from simple air sampling to specialised measurement of dusts, fumes and vapours.
MAKE TECHNOLOGY YOUR COMPANION, NOT YOUR REPLACEMENT
With officially more mobile phones in the world than people, it is clear to see the advancements that technology has made over the past 20 years, integrating into our everyday lives and in many ways becoming a replacement for human intuition.
A report in Forbes magazine suggested that app downloads are expected to reach 268,692 billion by 2017, based on data collected from the Apple app store alone. Whilst this new technology has brought many benefits, we are all aware of the potential negative impact it may have on natural human intellect and on using our own instincts. How can we, as monitors of public environments and workforces, embrace the benefits of technology without losing our core skills, expertise and experience?
PARTNERS IN HEALTH: CASELLA & PARK HEALTH & SAFETY
When construction work began on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Olympic Village project in 2005, it is highly likely that no-one at the time could have imagined how this project alone would transform the meaning of the phrase “health and safety” forevermore.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN GIBRALTAR…
In 2016, Gibraltar International Airport achieved record passenger movements, with more than 500,000 passengers travelling through the airport by the end of November – a remarkable figure for the British Overseas Territory just 2.5 square miles in size.
Runway operation in Gibraltar currently requires the territory’s busiest highway to close, causing regular delays for passengers and drivers travelling to and from mainland Spain.
Do's and Don'ts of Real-Time Air Sampling Casella explores the dos and don'ts of real-time air sampling. Real-time instruments are powerful and of course useful in giving information, but understanding the technology used and where traditional air sampling with a pump is necessary will ensure an accurate measure of exposure.
Wood Dust - Exposure Hazards and Air Sampling Equipment In this article Casella discuss wood dust and introduce the principles of air sampling and the equipment that can be used to measure exposure. Wood dust is a significant risk to a worker’s health. Air sampling is a way to quantify exposure or measure residual risk and ensure control measures are effective.
The Do's and Don'ts of Asbestos Monitoring The inhalation of airborne asbestos fibres in the home or workplace can cause a variety of occupational diseases, which may ultimately lead to premature death. It strength and shape (or aspect ratio) of the fibres which means they tend to remain in the lungs for a long period of time that leads to respiratory diseases. The shape of the fibres does, however, make them distinguishable to the trained eye for counting during analysis.
Casella explore the do's and dont's of Noise Monitoring A common question that often gets asked is, should I use a noise dosimeter or a sound level meter (SLM) to determine noise exposure? Casella explores current occupational noise exposure regulations, and the do's of don'ts of noise measurements within the workplace. Remember, noise monitoring is more than compliance but all about people's health and wellbeing!
No Time Like the Present Hands up to all those who can remember a time before the personal air sampler (PAS)? Not many I guess, but then they only do commerically date back to the early 1960's in Europe and the US, at a time when the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) only had a few hundred members. Casella explores the difference between air sampling pumps and real-time hand held devices.
Noise in the Workplace Terminology Don’t worry there is an awful lot of black art surrounding noise, but you don’t need a Degree in Acoustics to be able to undertake a risk assessment in your workplace. If you are new to noise then this article introduces you to basic terminology such as decibels, frequencies, and other acoustic terms that can affect exposure.
How do you measure HAV? So, the author is back in Devon on holiday and has started to tidy up the green space around the family’s holiday chalet as thoughts turn to Autumn and to putting away the mower and strimmer for the season. The latter got mentioned in a previous article on hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) [1] and again, after just a few minutes use, the tingling sensation could be felt in the fingers and hands!
Casella Acquisition Global occupational hygiene and workplace hazard monitoring expert, Casella, has been acquired by TSI Instruments Ltd, a UK subsidiary of TSI Incorporated. Casella designs and manufactures innovative instruments and systems that protect workers from occupational and environmental health risks, with key specialisms in noise, dust and vibration monitoring.
To HAV and To Hold From This Day Forward? Try before you buy! The weather has most definitely turned autumnal, holidays are now just a photographic memory on the authors’ phone, I’ve just celebrated my 41st Wedding Anniversary, my 3rd Grandchild is due any day soon and thoughts are obviously turning to Christmas; there, I said it!