The Brief
Vital Earth operate a large In-Vessel Composting (IVC) facility in Derbyshire and approached WRM with concerns about Health & Safety for their staff. Vital Earth wanted to understand the risk that dust levels on their site posed to their employees. Vital Earth asked WRM to advise on the potential risks and also to provide bespoke occupational dust monitoring at their site to ascertain the level of dust that their employees were exposed to.
Development Of Methodology
There is currently no standardised methodology for occupational dust monitoring. Therefore, WRM developed a unique, bespoke methodology, based on common principles of similar monitoring methods for environmental contaminants. WRM staff are members with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, adding credence to the methodology that has been developed.
Review of Risk
WRM conducted a comprehensive literature review to accurately research the risks posed to an individual’s health by the presence of airborne dust. This review helped guide the development of the methodology and has enabled Vital Earth to better understand and manage their Duty of Care to their employees.
Monitoring Regime
WRM provided Vital Earth with multiple rounds of monitoring following our bespoke methodology. Monitoring visits involve the use of industry best equipment, liaison with the individual being monitored and frequent communication with the Site Manager to ensure that the monitoring meets all their needs.
Laboratory Analysis
WRM work in partnership with UKAS-accredited laboratories, which is key for accurate analysis of samples collected during monitoring. Working with a UKAS –accredited laboratory ensures that the results are valid, accurate and therefore, provide certainty for Vital Earth.