Research Note: Video exposure monitoring for transfer of knowledge in chemical hazards to small enterprises

Abstract

Despite the development of effective control technology, occupational exposure to silica and wood dust is a significant important problem for many small enterprises in wood working and quarrying industries. Tens of millions of workers’ occupations involve hazardous silica dust exposure and within the European Union alone, about 3.6 million workers are exposed to inhalable wood dust. The present study used the visualisation method PIMEX for transfer of knowledge in how health risks may be reduced. Typical work situations observed to cause high dust exposures were recorded. The results demonstrate that appropriate use of generally available technology and knowledge can significantly reduce worker exposure. The PIMEX-video monitoring method is a useful tool in knowledge transfer and also is seen to improve worker’s as well as manager’s motivation to use available knowledge. Case studies of the application of the technology have been made available on Internet. Visualised presentations using the PIMEX recordings are seen to be more effective compared to the more traditional training materials.