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Case Studies

Occupational Hygiene - Noise - Ergonomics

Case Study – Noise

Dewing Ergonomics and Safety were contracted to undertake a noise survey for a large winery that operated a packaging plant where cask wine bladders were filled.  During the initial noise survey, it was determined that a major component of the noise levels were due to compressed air exhausting from open air lines.  Using the hierarchy of risk control, engineering controls were recommended to reduce the noise transmitted.  The maintenance personnel at the winery fitted silencers on the end of air lines to suppress the noise.  Another noise survey was conducted and the findings showed that the overall noise in the packaging plant had reduced by approximately 3 decibels.  This was a significant change as a reduction in 3 decibels represents a halving of the noise energy.

If you require an assessment of noise in your workplace, please contact Dewing Ergonomics and Safety.

Case study - Noise

Case study – Ergonomics

An ergonomic/manual handling issue arose in the machining section of an engineering company.  Steel circular disks weighing greater than 30 kg had to be machined on a lathe.  The employees usually lifted the disks by hand from the pallet and then onto the chuck of the lathe.  This required heavy lifting, moving the disk from a horizontal to a vertical position and twisting and reaching.  Dewing Ergonomics and Safety were asked to assess the ergonomic/manual handling issue and determine if a simple cost-effective strategy could be identified.  An ergonomic/manual handling assessment was conducted and it was clear that a material handling solution was required.  A device connected to an overhead crane with a magnetic manipulator was determined as the best option.  This was subsequently purchased by the company and resolved the ergonomic/manual handling issues.

If you require an ergonomic/human factors assessment in your workplace, please contact Dewing Ergonomics and Safety.

Case Study – Ergonomics

Case study – Occupational Hygiene

The handling of grain and hay generates dust.  Employees working in proximity can inhale the dust and this can lead to respiratory symptoms and conditions.  A company specialising in the handling of hay participated in a survey to monitor the levels of dust.  The employees were fitted with samplers and pumps and the dust was measured over a number of hours.  The controls in place to reduce exposure to dust including extraction systems and personal protective equipment were reviewed.  The findings showed variable levels of dust depending on the particular activities of the employees.  The results were compared with the standards set by Worksafe Australia.  Recommendations to reduce employee exposure to levels of inhalable dust were detailed and subsequently implemented by the client.

If you require an assessment of occupational hygiene hazards including dust, fume, vapours and mist in your workplace, please contact Dewing Ergonomics and Safety.

Case Study – Occupational Hygiene