Many workplaces present risks to workers beyond physical safety, particularly in the area of occupational hygiene. Workplace health risks can be significantly reduced through employee training, an understanding of potential hazards, knowing when and how to take appropriate action, and conducting occupational hygiene assessments.
Groundswell Laboratories routinely analyses filter, swab and paint samples collected as part of these assessments. Samples are tested for a range of heavy metals and organic compounds to help professional hygienists identify and assess workplace exposures.
The surface preparation of large structures such as bridges, lighthouses, tank farms and dam walls, as well as other specialised equipment, often involves abrasive blasting. These operations typically use a combination of pressurised sand, steel, garnet and water.
Protecting workers and others who may be impacted by these activities is a high priority. Monitoring airborne dust and particulates is an important part of managing these risks. Personal respirable filters and high-volume sampler filters are used to monitor exposure during blasting operations and are routinely analysed by Groundswell Laboratories.
Groundswell Laboratories also analyses waste blasting materials to quantify the presence of heavy metals and tar-like materials, assisting with appropriate waste classification and disposal.
Groundswell Laboratories routinely analyses airborne particulate matter, predominantly consisting of dust particles that can become suspended in the air.
Common sources include mineral processing, bulk material handling, surface mining operations, active quarries, road works, incineration, and natural sources such as wind-blown dust. Airborne dust can become a nuisance by settling on and soiling properties in the vicinity of its source.
Groundswell Laboratories conducts particulate matter analysis in accordance with AS 3580.3.1.
