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Legislations & Resources

EMPLOYEES HEALTH

Medical Health Surveillance for Employees and Employers Exposed to Solvents in the Workplace

Welcome to Employees Health Surveillance on-site nationwide for Individuals and Workplaces.

Book in your Hazardous Substance Medicals today by contacting our medical reception nationally on 1300 880 804, simply CLICK HERE to get in touch with our team, or fill out the contact form at the bottom of this page, and we will assist you promptly.

WHS Regulation 368 Duty to provide health monitoring

Exposure to solvents in the workplace can pose significant health risks to employee. This initiative not only ensures the safety and well-being of employees but also helps employers comply with regulatory requirements, thereby fostering a safer and more productive work environment.

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Importance of Medical Health Surveillance

Long-term Health Risks of Solvent Exposure

  • Liver and kidney damage, neurological disorders, respiratory issues, and increased risk of cancer.

Early Detection and Prevention

  • Regular health checks can identify symptoms of solvent exposure early.
  • Preventative measures can be implemented to avoid severe health outcomes.

Regulatory Compliance with Safe Work Australia Regulations

Safe Work Australia Regulation and Code of Practice

  • Compliance with Safe Work Australia regulations and the Code of Practice for hazardous substance exposure is mandatory.
  • WHS Regulation 368 specifies the duty to provide health monitoring for employees exposed to hazardous chemicals.

Health Monitoring Requirements

  • Schedule 14, table 14.1 (reproduced at Appendix A of this Code) outlines the type of health monitoring required for each hazardous chemical listed.
  • Health monitoring includes specific tests and assessments based on the type of solvent and level of exposure.

Components of an Effective Surveillance Programme

Health Monitoring

  • Baseline health assessments for new employees.
  • Periodic medical examinations focusing on respiratory, neurological, and dermatological health.
  • Biological monitoring (e.g., blood and urine tests) to detect solvent levels in the body.

Record Keeping and Reporting

  • Maintain detailed records of exposure incidents and health surveillance results.
  • Regularly review and update safety protocols based on surveillance data.

Education and Training

  • Informing employees about the dangers of solvent exposure.
  • Training on safe handling practices and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Why Choose Our Medical Health Surveillance Programme?

Expertise and Experience

  • Our team consists of seasoned occupational medical  professionals with extensive experience in managing solvent exposure risks.
  • We stay updated with the latest regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

Comprehensive and Customised Solutions

  • Tailored surveillance programmes to meet the specific needs of your workplace.
  • Comprehensive services ranging from risk assessments to health monitoring and employee training.

Employee Well-being Focus

  • Commitment to the health and safety of your workforce.
  • Proactive approach in preventing occupational illnesses and enhancing overall well-being.
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Get Started with Our Programme

Step 1: Initial Consultation

  • Contact us to schedule an initial consultation.
  • We’ll discuss your specific needs and outline how our programme can help.

Step 2: Custom Plan Development

  • Our experts will develop a customised health surveillance plan tailored to your workplace.
  • Includes detailed risk assessments, monitoring schedules, and training programmes.

Step 3: Implementation and Support

  • We assist with the implementation of the surveillance programme.
  • Ongoing support and updates to ensure continuous protection for your employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the long-term effects of solvent exposure?

Long-term exposure to some solvents may affect the nervous system, liver and kidneys, and can cause dermatitis from repeated skin contact. A few solvents, such as benzene, are known carcinogens. The risk depends on the solvent, how much is inhaled or absorbed through the skin, and for how long.

What are the symptoms of exposure to solvents?

Short-term symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, light-headedness, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin. High exposures can cause loss of coordination or unconsciousness. Workers with symptoms should leave the area, get fresh air and seek medical advice.

How long do the effects of solvent exposure last?

Short-term effects such as headaches and dizziness often ease once the person is away from the exposure. Symptoms that persist or return, or effects after repeated exposure over many years, should be assessed by a doctor. Health monitoring can help detect changes early.

Which solvents require health monitoring?

Benzene is listed in Schedule 14 of the model WHS Regulations. Other solvents, such as toluene, xylene, styrene, MEK, dichloromethane, trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene, require health monitoring where there is a significant risk of exposure and valid tests are available, often including urine or blood tests.

What does a solvent medical involve?

A solvent medical may include a medical and occupational history, an examination focusing on the nervous system, skin and respiratory system, and biological monitoring such as urine tests timed to the end of a shift. Employees Health can run these onsite for printing, manufacturing, cleaning and laboratory workforces anywhere in Australia.

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