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It can also be used by workplaces undertaking:
• anodizing or hot-dip galvanising
• electroless plating
• metal finishing.
Galvanising and electroplating work uses hazardous chemicals according to Schedule 14.
Regulation 368: Health monitoring must be provided for workers where exposure to a hazardous chemical contained within Schedule 14 of the WHS Regulations presents a significant risk to the worker’s health.
Schedule 14 is a list of hazardous chemicals requiring health monitoring and their associated types of health monitoring. These chemicals include chromium, cadmium and arsenic which are commonly encountered during galvanising and electroplating.
Health monitoring must also be provided for workers using hazardous chemicals not listed in Schedule 14 where there is a significant risk to the workers’ health from exposure to the hazardous chemical and there are valid techniques to detect adverse health effects or a
valid biological monitoring procedure is available.
Some examples of common hazardous chemicals used in galvanising and electroplating that may pose a significant risk to workers’ health and types of health monitoring can be found in Table 3. For further information, see the guidance on health monitoring for exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Chromium* compounds
Ulceration of nose/skin
Skin sensitisation
Occupational asthma
Occupational cancer
Skin inspection
Respiratory testing
Blood tests
Nickel
Dermatitis
Occupational cancer
Occupational asthma
Skin inspection
Respiratory testing
Blood tests
Acids/Alkalis
Degreasers/Cleaners
Dermatitis
Burns and Ulceration
Eye/nose/throat irritation
Skin inspection
General health check
Trichloroethylene
Dermatitis
Eye/skin irritation
Occupational cancer
Skin inspection
General health check
Cyanide solutions/sludge
Poisoning
Dermatitis
Headaches/Nausea/Dizziness
Skin inspection
General health check
Cadmium* containing
powders/solutions
Poisoning
Respiratory effects
Anaemia/Liver dysfunction
Respiratory testing
Blood tests
Cadmium* oxide
Occupational cancer
Blood tests
Respiratory testing
Platinum salts
Occupational asthma
Respiratory testing
Oxides of nitrogen
Respiratory effects
Respiratory testing
Copper compounds
Dermatitis
Eye/skin irritation
Gastrointestinal effects
Skin inspection
General health check
Blood tests
Arsenic*
Haemolytic action on blood
Peripheral nervous system testing
Skin inspection
Urinary inorganic arsenic
* Schedule 14 hazardous chemicals
Health monitoring, also known as health surveillance, is a crucial practice aimed at ensuring the well-being of workers exposed to hazardous chemicals, metal fumes, silica, or asbestos in their workplace environment. This proactive approach involves the continuous monitoring of workers’ health status by experienced doctors to detect any changes or adverse effects resulting from occupational exposure.
Why is Health Monitoring Important?
Exposure to hazardous substances poses significant risks to workers’ health, including respiratory issues, cancer, and long-term health complications on body organs. Health monitoring allows early detection of any health effects associated with exposure, enabling timely intervention and the implementation of necessary control measures to mitigate risks.
Our Specialist Team is Here to Help
If you have concerns or questions about workplace exposure to hazardous substances, our Specialist Services Team at Employees Health is here to assist you. Our team of experts is available to discuss your concerns and provide guidance on health monitoring protocols tailored to your specific workplace environment.
Our experienced health monitoring doctors carefully assess several factors to determine the most suitable monitoring approach for your workers:
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Specialist Services Team if you need assistance or guidance regarding workplace exposure. We’re committed to ensuring the health and safety of your workforce and are here to support you every step of the way.
Your workers’ health and well-being are our top priority.
Handling finished galvanised steel is generally low risk. The main health risk arises when galvanised metal is heated, welded or cut, which releases zinc oxide fume that can cause metal fume fever. In galvanising plants, workers may also be exposed to acids, fluxes and other chemicals used in the process.
Drinking milk is a long-standing workshop belief, but it is not a recognised control measure in Australian WHS guidance. The model Code of Practice for welding processes relies on eliminating or reducing fume exposure through measures such as removing coatings first, local exhaust ventilation and respiratory protection.
Zinc oxide fume can cause metal fume fever, a flu-like illness with fever, chills, aches, a metallic taste and fatigue. Symptoms usually start several hours after exposure and typically settle within a day or two. Workers with repeated or persistent symptoms should see a doctor, and the cause should be investigated at the workplace.
Chromium, cadmium and arsenic compounds used in plating are listed in Schedule 14 of the model WHS Regulations. For inorganic chromium, the minimum requirements include a physical examination with emphasis on the respiratory system and skin, and weekly skin inspection of the hands and forearms by a competent person. Nickel is not in Schedule 14, but health monitoring may still be needed where exposure poses a significant risk and valid tests are available.
Electroplating can involve corrosive acids and alkalis, cyanide solutions, and metals such as chromium, nickel and cadmium, some of which can cause skin ulcers, sensitisation, asthma or cancer. The level of risk depends on the chemicals used and how well tanks, ventilation and handling are controlled. Employees Health can provide onsite health monitoring tailored to the chemicals in your plating line.
