Workforce wellbeing: RPE matters

For all business owners, the health and safety of employees is paramount, especially so for businesses operating in high-hazard industries. And, with the introduction of tougher sentencing guidelines earlier this year, failure to place workforce wellbeing as a top priority could have serious ramifications for those who do not comply.

One of the top concerns for organisations operating in hazardous industries is airborne contamination from harmful dust, mist and fumes that could be breathed in by employees irreversibly damaging their respiratory systems. This is why prevention is key and respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is such a key consideration when workers risk contact with harmful airborne pollutants. 

When ensuring that the entire workforce is adequately protected, employee age must be taken into consideration, particularly with average age of the working population becoming older. In the UK, almost 23 % of workers are aged over 60, and this figure is set to rise to 31% per cent by 2020. How does this specifically relate to RPE? Well, older workers may experience a decline in aerobic and cardiovascular functions, with respiratory capacity changes that result in increased lethargy and the need for more frequent rest breaks. 

The optimum RPE solution for the whole workforce could be Powered Air Respirators (PAPR) and Scott Safety has developed a range of sophisticated models. As a global leader in the design, manufacture and sale of high-performance respirators, the company is committed to providing the wearer with the ultimate protection and comfort, enabling them to focus on the job at hand and not have to worry about their RPE. 

Scott Safety's latest PAPR – Duraflow – is a reactive respirator that intelligently monitors the air flowrate continuously in real time to ensure that the user receives the correct airflow at all times, thereby remaining fully protected during the most arduous of tasks. This technology combined with its lightweight but durable construction, means that the Duraflow is suitable for those who work in the most demanding environments such as mining and chemical industries – keeping them safe and cool.

Ergonomically designed, Duraflow features a simple user interface but with a sophisticated flow control mechanism behind the scenes. It incorporates audio and visual diagnostic alerts that warn of a drop below the correct flowrate or when the powerful lithium-ion battery needs re-charging. Featuring IP67 rated ingress protection with decontamination kit fitted, the unit can also be submerged when cleaning is required.

The versatile PAPR is compatible with a wide assortment of Scott Safety headtops and filters that can be selected based on the individual user’s needs and by the determined hazard level. It is also important to remember that to reduce any additional respiratory burden to the user, it is advisable to change filters regularly in accordance with the work risk assessment. For any business that is unsure about the type or level of filter required for a particular task, Scott Safety is able to offer guidance and has made available its SureLife software which can be found online by visiting www.scottsurelife.com.

As with any health and safety equipment purchase, cost of ownership is an important deciding factor for many businesses. The Duraflow is a cost-effective solution both in terms of initial purchase and replacing filters, all without compromising on high-level protection.