THE FILTER
SPECIAL CONFERENCE EDITION November 2023
The Filter for 2023 What’s in this edition 4
Welcome blog
20
Industry Updates
5
President’s Message
23
Annual AIOH Conference
6
Health Alerts
40
ANSTO
42
AIOH24 - Coming Up
43
AIOH Events Snapshot
44
Jobs board
46
Occupational Hygiene; Around the world
47
AIOH Updates
10
14
16
19
Members Spotlight Membership Acredited Univerities The AIOH BPCS
WELCOME TO THE FINAL EDITION OF THE FILTER FOR 2023! What an amazing year we have had so far, and there is still so much to look forward to. Not only is the 2023 AIOH conference THE event to be at this December, it is also expected to have the biggest turn out yet. If you haven’t gotten your sticky little hands on the program yet, you are missing out! Check out all of the exciting details in our very special Conference Edition. Now’s the time to get the craft supplies out of the junk drawer to start your 3M night costume design – we can’t wait to see all of the amazingly creative outfits – here’s looking at you GCG! We also want to acknowledge and celebrate a very big milestone in our journey towards protecting workers and creating healthier workplaces – we have officially reached 1500 members!! What an amazing achievement. The Communication and Marketing Committee would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the creation and distribution of The Filter Magazine this year. We are growing – fast – and we are looking forward to next year being bigger and better than ever before. Kelly, Ash, Hamish, Cecilia & David
The AIOH wishes to thank Kelly & Ash for their incredible year as Co Chairs of Marketing & Communications
PRESIDENTS MESSAGE This year, we celebrate the 40th Annual Conference of the AIOH, and wow – we’ve grown. Born in 1982, as the love child of Science and Engineering, from 1985, we were schooled under the guidance of the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission. We grew strong in an era when there was chemical manufacturing and oil refining in Australia. Then in the 1990s, we spent our troubled teen years amidst the ‘recession we had to have’.
TRACY BENCE
In 2005, we saw the abolition of the NOHSC and then saw the dwindling numbers of government hygienists during the 2010s. We stood up tall during the worst of the pandemic and spoke boldly against the resurgence of occupational respiratory diseases in 2019 - 2022. We’ve just hit the milestone of a whopping 1,500 members – told you we’ve grown! In 2023 we stand as a robust, dynamic, vibrant, resilient, and effective peak body dedicated to advancing occupational hygiene, sharing our science, and advocating for worker health protection. It is humbling and thrilling that so many of you want to be part of the AIOH, and we are deeply grateful for all of your support. As we enter the next stage of the AIOH, I warmly invite each of you to be part our future. Stay tuned as we evolve our Institute into a centre for excellence, growing and developing the occupational hygiene profession. We continue to play an integral part in sustaining safe and healthy workplaces. ALL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS HERE
IMPORTANT
HEALTH ALERTS SWA Recommends The Prohibition of The Use of Engineered Stone
Decision Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) The Decision RIS was developed by Safe Work Australia at the request of WHS ministers and was informed by stakeholder consultation, independent economic analysis, and an expert review of evidence. The Decision RIS recommends a prohibition on the use of all engineered stone, irrespective of crystalline silica content, to protect the health and safety of workers. The recommendation for a prohibition is based on the following: Engineered stone workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) are significantly over-represented in silicosis cases. Engineered stone workers are being diagnosed with silicosis at a much younger age than workers from other industries. Engineered stone is physically and chemically different to natural stone. The high levels of RCS generated by working with engineered stone, as well as the differing properties of this RCS, are likely to contribute to more rapid and severe disease. There is no toxicological evidence of a ‘safe’ threshold of crystalline silica content in engineered stone, or that other chemicals found in engineered stone do not pose a health risk to workers. Silicosis and silica-related diseases are preventable. However, a persistent lack of compliance with, and enforcement of, the obligations imposed under WHS laws across the engineered stone industry at all levels have not protected workers from the health risks associated with RCS. Safe Work Australia provided the Decision RIS to Commonwealth, state and territory work health and safety (WHS) ministers on 16 August 2023 for their consideration. Image by vwalakte on Freepik
Questions and answers Decision RIS: Next steps I work with engineered stone, or previously did… Information for businesses Information for consumers and the general public Information from WHS regulators
Decision RIS: Next steps I work with engineered stone, or previously did… Information for businesses Information for consumers and the general public Information from WHS regulators
SWA says that this Decision RIS builds on the evidence and analysis previously considered by WHS ministers in, and should be read in conjunction with, the Decision Regulation Impact Statement: Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica at work. The Decision RIS: Prohibition on the use of engineered stone and responses to the public consultation can be downloaded from the Safe Work Australia website. The AIOH responded to the Safe Work Australia consultation in April 2023. Members are encouraged to read AIOH’s detailed submission here. You can also view the AIOH webinar, Update on Engineered Stone and The complexity of it’s health effects, to gain an appreciation of the material and exposure science.
In her October President’s message
More information
on silicosis prevention, Tracey
Decision Regulation Impact
Bence reminds members that the
Statement: Prohibition on the use
timing of a decision by WHS
of engineered stone
ministers on the prohibition is
Crystalline silica and silicosis
unknown at this point, and is a
Crystalline silica and silicosis –
matter for government. Information
Impact analysis and consultation
on meetings of WHS ministers can
Crystalline silica and silicosis –
be found on the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations website. .
Recommendation on a prohibition on the use of engineered stone WHS ministers’ meeting 27 October 2023 – Communique
IMPORTANT
HEALTH ALERTS Safety Alert provided by Worksafe Victoria
Lithium-ion battery fires WorkSafe is issuing a reminder about the risks of using, storing and charging equipment that has lithium-ion batteries.
Background
Safety issues
Lithium-ion batteries are found in many products. These products may be used, stored or charged in a workplace or an area under the management and control of an organisation. Lithium-ion batteries may be used in equipment including:
When overheated, lithium-ion batteries of all sizes can catch fire. The fire is often hard to put out and the smoke from the fire can be toxic.
handheld power tools light electric vehicles (LEVs) (electric scooters and e-bikes) electric plant (forklifts, elevating work platforms and earth moving equipment) passenger vehicles (hybrid and full electric vehicles) power supplies (generator systems and battery systems) heavy vehicles (trucks and buses)
Common reasons lithium-ion batteries may overheat and catch fire include: damage using incorrect charging equipment Larger battery packs can pose a significant risk if the lithium-ion battery overheats and catches fire. Some sprinkler systems may Image source: ABC NEWS not be capable of suppressing or controlling a large lithium-ion battery fire.
Legal Duties Employers have duties under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004. They must, so far as is reasonably practicable, provide and maintain a working environment that is safe and without risks to the health of employees and independent contractors. This includes providing employees with the necessary information, instruction, training, or supervision to enable them to do their work in a way that is safe and without risks to health. Employers must also ensure that persons other than employees are not exposed to risks to their health or safety arising from the employer's conduct.
Ensure employees and health and safety representatives are consulted when identifying or assessing hazards or risks and making decisions about risk control measures. The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 requires employers to ensure that employees and persons supervising the employees are trained and given information and instruction about hazards related to plant, including: the processes for identifying hazards and controlling risk; and safety procedures associated with using the plant at the workplace; and the use, fit, testing and storage of PPE, if relevant
Recommended ways to control risks To control the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries overheating and catching fire, employers should: Remove lithium-ion batteries from areas where a lithium-ion battery fire could be a hazard. For example: do not store or charge removable battery packs or LEVs in offices or other spaces near people. Provide a dedicated charging area that is separate from areas where people work. Ensure equipment is kept within fire resistant areas. For example: equipment could be stored or charged outdoors (where appropriate) or in an area covered by working smoke alarms and suitable sprinkler systems. Prevent the use, storage or charging of electric plant or passenger vehicles in enclosed and restricted spaces, unless the fire detection and suppression system is suitable for the special fire hazard (a lithium-ion battery fire). Systems that are suitable for lithium-ion battery fires may be similar to systems used in other high-risk areas and should have additional fire suppression capability (such as an increased number of sprinkler heads). If you are unsure if the sprinkler system is suitable, seek advice from an appropriate specialist, such as a fire engineer, and upgrade the fire system (if needed).
Where appropriate, replace lithium-ion batteries with other batteries or power sources that are less likely to overheat and catch fire. Install "Smart Chargers" that monitor lithium-ion battery status and automatically disconnect the power if a fault is detected. Ensure there is an easily accessible way, to remotely disconnect or isolate battery chargers if the equipment catches fire. For example: consider installing e-stops and isolators at distribution boards and automatic disconnection systems that are triggered if a fire alarm activates. Place charging equipment away from emergency exits and evacuation routes. Keep charging equipment out of direct sunlight and away from areas where it can be exposed to heat or moisture. Charge equipment using an original or an approved charger. Monitor or watch equipment while charging. Inspect equipment and charging cables for damage before and after use. Have emergency response plans that address the risk of a lithium-ion battery fire. Emergency response plans should include clear instructions that people should: evacuate the area via a suitable route not attempt to extinguish a fire involving lithium-ion batteries
.
Only use insulated tools when working on lithium-ion batteries. Provide PPE to employees involved in the servicing and maintenance of equipment with lithium-ion batteries. Always seek advice from equipment suppliers and manufacturers about the type of PPE that should be supplied for each task.
John Padgham
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
MAIOH, COH Senior Advisor Transport & Main Roads QLD AIOH: EHG & M&Q
Becoming a COH Consulting at GCG, I was lucky enough to be surrounded and supported by a team of amazing COHs who I saw as the zenith professionals. They taught me everything I know about hygiene and instilled a sense of curiosity and pride in my work. Becoming a full member was a goal, but the idea of joining the ranks of my mentor COHs and those I'd read about at university? It was ridiculous that I was even allowed to try. I tried anyway. The COH preparation videos gave exam instructions, but that alone wasn't enough. Alongside my new AIOH mentor, Liam Wilson, I practised questions in a quiet café whenever he was available. I even roped my Dad in to give me mock exams. Meanwhile, my AIOH Hygiene Basic Principles textbook lost any resale value with my scrawled notes and dog-eared pages. After months of prep, I was still unsure about the whole thing. I paid my way to the 2022 Sydney conference and set off with preparation notes in hand (or so I thought). As it turned out, I’d left them on the plane. With only a couple of hours before my exam, I frantically scribbled the words “anticipation, recognition, evaluation and control” on a hotel notepad. When I entered the exam room, my nerves amplified on seeing a screen full of legendary hygienists ready to administer the exam. Without scaring anyone off, I nearly cried and walked out of the room in the middle of the exam. I was devastated, convinced I’d failed miserably. And after consoling with a fellow examinee over a few beers, we belligerently decided we didn’t want to be COHs anyway. The rest of the conference was an exciting introduction to the broader hygiene committee. By the grace of the spirit of Pam de Silva, I somehow passed (um, I may have danced for joy with Dad). It’s now a badge I wear with pride, and I do my best to maintain the esteem my fellow hygienists have given the COH title.
Based on my story, you might not trust my advice (sensible). But, for what it’s worth – if you’re considering applying for your COH, I have two suggestions: 1. Practise
No matter the extent of your technical knowledge or field experience, you’ve never had to solve hygiene problems in this setting. There are no workers to talk to and no workplaces to walk around and observe. It’s just you, the examiners and the questions. Practise explaining your problem solving and hygiene skills. The best way to do this? Sign up for an AIOH mentor to practice with a seasoned professional.
2. Believe in yourself.
It’s a lot easier to provide clear answers if you’re not sniffling through tears like me. You’ve made it to this point in your career, so odds are – you have what it takes. And even if you don’t pass the first time (most don’t), collect yourself, practise more and try again.
I’ve since learned that becoming a COH isn’t the pinnacle or endpoint in the professional journey of a hygienist. Yes, it’s the highest recognition of competency, but ultimately – it’s a stepping stone. The joy and struggle of the occupational hygiene profession is that it's filled with endless learning. Contributing to the AIOH Trite as it may sound, contributing to the institute has been incredibly rewarding. It’s also facilitated invaluable connections with people I might never have connected with. Although I’m still relatively new to the institute, it’s clear it only takes a single step to get started. There’s no shortage of generous people willing to help. Start to finish I started by emailing the chairperson of every AIOH committee. After a few “thanks but no thanks,” Alicia Gorman (Membership Committee) and Neil Golding (General Counsellor), provided incredible support and encouragement. Pretty soon, I was on the Membership and Qualifications committee, where Michael Shepherd (then chairperson) again graciously gave his time and guidance. I now volunteer with M&Q and the Emerging Hygienist Group, and I’ve presented at a few conferences. I also do my best to mentor and advocate for occupational hygiene more broadly. While I have a sense of duty to give back to the organisation, I also love working with such impressive people. There are multiple ways to get involved – join one of the standing committees, become an SLO (chapter meetings), help organise or present at conferences, and mentor emerging hygienists. You won’t regret immersing yourself in this community. Presenting at AIOH Conference The biggest project I’ve ever undertaken was initially unrelated to the AIOH (or work). It was motivated by my dissatisfaction with available methods of determining how many samples to take for an exposure monitoring program. As hygienists, we assert ourselves as the scientists of the health and safety world, but we pick our sample sizes on a whim. To tackle this, I decided to program a calculator. The only problem? I knew nothing about programming or statistics! I spent 100s of hours studying, Googling, coding, testing, and debugging. I was so engrossed that over several months, I spent most evenings and weekends on an idea not guaranteed to work. Presenting in front of peers for the first time was intimidating. Unlike training general workers, a room full of hygienists knows when you’re missing the mark. Again, I worried over nothing – it was a fantastic experience, and I felt unbelievably supported. It’s so rewarding to feel like you’ve contributed to the field.
John Padgham
MEMBERS SPOTLIGHT
CONGRATULATIONS AIOH
MEM
WE HAVE REACHED
BERS
We welcome our newest members in Provisional & Full levels and we congratulate our members progressing through our Professional membership.
MEMBERSHIP
(Details correct as of 4th October 2023)
L L FU NAME
Previous Level
NAME
Previous Level
Tenielle Hosking
Provisional
Craig Wright
Provisional
Sage Robinson
Student
Alan Barker
Provisional
Ashley Lyons
Provisional
Hamish Rae
Provisional
Sanu Babu Niraula
Provisional
Paul Paciullo
Associate
Meghan Brooks
Provisional
Shevan Mahamad
New
Jonathan Oravec
New
Johannes Barnard
New
Bryce Bell
Associate
Miriska Gerber
New
Nwakamma Ahubelem
Provisional
Brayden Briggs
Provisional
VI
O PR
L
NA
O SI
NAME
Previous Level
NAME
Previous Level
Guilherme da Silva Reis
New
Paul Sessarego
Associate
Melody Mohammadi
Associate
Sofea Jazmeen
Associate
Michael Faga
New
Chandnee Ramkissoon
Associate
Masoud Neghab
New
Sidney Pierantozzi
Associate
Hector Tomas Huercio
New
Luciano Contisciani*
Associate
Jessica Waller
New
Lachlan Anderson*
Associate
Brendan Egberts
Student
Welcome to our newest AIOH Student & Associate members.
Apply to join or upgrade via our online form.
TE
A CI
SO S A
Geethma Perera
Masoud Neghab
Aaron Gray
George Saric
Matthew Boules
Adam Bergman
Georgia Khatib
Matthew Skuse
Adebola Rasheed Adeiye
Henry Lake
Michael Purcell
Christopher McCormack
Sarah Wright
Claudette Leigh Connie Dineen Craig Perry
Kial Hulls
Shani Troubady Sharee Reddacliff
Kirsten Bromfield Kylie Parker
Daniel Young
Shivaram Lakshminarayanan
Leon Herden
David Cleveland
Stavros Vrantsis
Lillian Tama
David little
Tasiano Enrico
Aiman Baihaqi Hj Rusli
Jake Hearn*
Paul Anderson
Akleshwar Chand
James Piltz
Peter Bukowski
Alan Ozolins
Jarrad Way
Peter Kucha
Amanda Wong
Jason Marshall
Rachael Corroon
Anna Minuzzo
Joost Van Rooij
Rachael Murphy
Ashley Collins
Joshua Ivins
Rhiarn Hoban
Barbora Gallagher
Joshua Orr
Ricardo Peralta
Brendan Pritchard
Josiah Padget
Ryan Grob
Gaby Rey Carrizo
Chelsea Boyd
Karl Heiderich
Samuel Amoo
Gary Lux
ST
Seamus De Paor
Kathleen-Jane Hotere
Drew Bettison
Lily Nott Logan Tibbetts
Thomas Davis
Elizabeth Ayoola Elliot Riley
Louise Cruse
Thomas Flux Tracey Haverhoek
Floyd Pasfield
Lucinda Ireland Luke McKee
Valerie Ramage
Mary-Louise Dixon
Vladimir Tomin Woon Ling Chew
NT E D
U
Balkis Afzal
Donna Jamieson
Feiyang Chen
Clint Caldicott
Nur Faiza Sahfri
Chloe Insley
Soraya Canvin
Kirsten Doherty
Daniel Del Prete
Seth Ligman
Ciaran Convery
Taj Allinson
Melinda Gardner
Neil Short
The AIOH is the largest organisation representing professionals working in occupational hygiene in Australia. Membership of AIOH is open to both professional occupational hygienists and to those with an interest in worker health protection and a healthier work environment. Membership provides a wide range of benefits including professional development opportunities and discount offers.
WELCOME ABOARD
Aaron Drake
ACCREDITED UNIVERSITIES
Edith Cowan University Updates from ECU Adelle Liebenberg FAIOH, Certified Occupational Hygienist (COH)®
Publication, graduation and registration We are thrilled to announce that three of our PhD candidates submitted their PhD’s in July 2023: (Awarded) Dr Roberta Selleck submitted her thesis: A Critical Control Approach to Preventing Fatalities in Construction (Submitted) Adelle Liebenberg (FAIOH, COH) submitted her thesis: Occupational Hearing Loss in Australian Mining: Prevalence, Management and Prevention. (Submitted) Garry Dine submitted his thesis: Occupational Health and Safety Hazards Affecting Environmental Health Officers Numerous staff and students are graduating this year, with the Graduation Ceremony scheduled for Sunday, 4 February 2024 at 2pm. We encourage all graduates to attend the ceremony and be part of this special event in what promises to be one of our largest graduating cohorts. We‘re also excited to have a booth at the upcoming AIOH Annual Conference 2023 and hope to see you all there! Watch this space: Look out for our Creative Thinkers banners – we have lots to share! Adelle Liebenberg, Jacques Oosthuizen, Marcus Cattani, and Melinda Gardner are just some of our teaching staff attending the conference and the booth.
Check your inbox! Our alumni even at the Conference has been scheduled (light refreshments will be provided) Where: Left Bank Melbourne When: Saturday, 2 December 2023 Time: 17:30 – 19:00 All students and Alumni will receive an email with a registration link shortly, so keep an eye on your inbox – we need you to register for catering purposes!
The University of Wollongong: Transforming your Career Jane Whitelaw FAIOH, Certified Occupational Hygienist (COH)®, CIH®
With the 2023 Conference fast approaching we are all challenged to be Future Ready and I look forward to hearing from the great line-up of speakers and networking with you all. UOW has offered an accredited Master of Occupational Hygiene for 15years and equipped many of our current and emerging leaders who not only make a real difference in protecting worker health but volunteer selflessly to build our Institute and the profile of our profession.
When we were planning our Conference Exhibition, we reflected on what our key mission was, ie not just to deliver a world class Occupational Hygiene Program, build a strong alumni network or even to inspire students to be lifelong learners; we aim to transform your career! Did you know that the first Transformers movie came out in 2007? - the same year as UOW launched their Master of Occupational Hygiene. Since then, we have helped hundreds transform their careers through our education and mentoring; providing a boost towards attaining that coveted COH status. Are you looking to transform your career? Enrolments for Autumn 2024 are now open so apply now for the dual accredited Master of Occupational Hygiene. If you have decided to pursue a career in Occupational Hygiene and have only completed the AIOH Basic Principles Course, but have workplace experience, you might choose to get started with a Graduate Certificate in Occupational Hygiene. Commonwealth Supported Places are available for domestic students, making study very affordable; eg a Graduate Certificate of 4 subjects costs as little as $4,000 in fees and can be completed part-time in 1 year. Our courses integrate practical hands-on time and networking with practising COHs to focus Occupational Hygiene techniques and apply skills and knowledge to a broad range of workplace issues. Our support and networking is legendary! Contact Jane Whitelaw for more information, or APPLY NOW. Above image: Last year’s AES Post graduate Award winner, Ben Govan, is also working hard to transform his career through study at UOW and is pictured networking with some of our 2023 intake (front right) at a recent course dinner.
Here’s what Kate Cole OAM, our immediate past President had to say “Attending the University of Wollongong to obtain my Master’s degree in Occupational Hygiene was a pivotal point in my career. It didn't just equip me with knowledge, it sparked a life-long commitment to worker health and safety. Today, that spark fuels action, driving every project I undertake”.
IMAGES KATE COLE AT AIOH HEADQUARTERS & ONSITE
University of Queensland: Exciting Quarter for UQ Students: Field Days, Site Visits, and Research Milestones
Dr Kelly Johnstone - Program Director
ACCREDITED UNIVERSITIES
The Occupational Hygiene students of The University of Queensland (UQ) have had a busy quarter. In September, they had a practical noise monitoring field day, where students had the opportunity to put their learning into real-world practice under the experienced guidance of Beno Groothoff. The students also enjoyed a hands-on demonstration from 3M’s Paul Thomson, of the E-ARfitTM system. In October, they had a site visit to Simtars, which included a tour of their dust laboratory, spectrophotometry lab, and other scientific facilities. Our group is pleased to announce the publication of a new paper by one of our PhD students, Amelie Reitmayer. The paper reviews the current body of knowledge on the potential health effects of dynamic indoor temperatures. Paper reference: Reitmayer, A., Johnstone, K. R., Madigan, C., Cook, M. M., & Arsenijevic, S. (2023). How do dynamic and time-dependent indoor temperature patterns impact on the health of office based workers? - A scoping review. Building and Environment, 244, 110745. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2023.110745 Applications are now open for 2024 studying part-time or full-time in UQ’s Master of Occupational Hygiene and the Dual Master of Occupational Hygiene/Occupational Health and Safety Science programs. Commonwealth-supported places are available for domestic students. Program Director – Dr Kelly Johnstone E: k.johnstone2@uq.edu.au P: +61 7 3346 7816
Quick links For more information about studying occupational hygiene at UQ visit our website:
Master of Occupational Hygiene Dual Master of Occupational Hygiene / Occupational Health and Safety Science
The Basic Principles of Occupational Hygiene (BPC) course provides an introduction to occupational hygiene and is an ideal first step for professionals looking to further their knowledge in this area. Learn how to recognise occupational hygiene hazards, and learn skills to be able to select the appropriate equipment to measure specific occupational hygiene hazards; devise a suitable sampling strategy; present results in a useful format; and recommend suitable control strategies.
THE AIOH BPC What an exciting time for BPC! The course is in such high demand there has recently been two courses held back-to-back in Perth, and a private course run in Sydney. During this time, we’ve had more than 50 students attend! It is amazing to see so many people wanting to learn more about Occupational Hygiene from our experienced AIOH BPC facilitators: Jen Hines, Linda Apthorpe, Julia Norris, Kerrie Burton, and Daniel Cronje. Our suppliers again went above and beyond to provide our students with equipment to undertake the practicals. Airmet and AES provided equipment, and 3M also providing a hands on practical experience with respirator and hearing protection fit testing demonstrations. We are very grateful for their continued support.
Here’s a word art cloud map of what our students say about the AIOH BPC!
INDUSTRY COLOR ATLAS OF FUNGAL SPORES: A LABORATORY IDENTIFICATION GUIDE BOOK by American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 2023 This comprehensive color atlas and manual serves as an invaluable resource for identifying fungal spores.
It contains descriptions of over 500 species and nearly 1,000 color images, and it stands as one of the most extensive illustrated manuals in its field to be published in recent years. The authors have collected images through their microscopic examinations spanning two decades, and among them are several unique and groundbreaking visuals. Furthermore, the book incorporates revised and updated scientific nomenclature for these spores, ensuring accuracy and relevance. Designed as a laboratory manual for fungal spore identification, this publication is an essential tool for professionals in environmental microbiology laboratories, aeromycologists, aerobiologists, bioaerosol scientists, indoor air quality experts, as well as graduate students conducting lab work or research. Image source: ACGIH® Facebook page
HCIS Update The Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS) has been updated with 301 entries of new or amended data. Accessing the data updates 1. Go to the “Search Hazardous Chemicals” page of the HCIS 2. Click on “Show Advanced Search” and change the “From date” to 09/08/2023 to see the new chemical entries or updated classifications of existing entries About the data updates The new data has been sourced from the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) and follows recommendations made to Safe Work Australia by the Australian Inventory of Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS). Classification information in HCIS is provided for guidance only. It is the duty of the manufacturer or importer of hazardous chemicals to determine if their product is a hazardous chemical, and if so, to classify it accordingly to GHS 7. For more information, see Chemicals | Safe Work Australia or if you are unable to access Image source: SafeWork SA website HCIS, please contact chemicals@swa.gov.au
UPDATES Safe Work Australia Published Guidance on Asbestos Registers in the Workplace 4th September 2023 An asbestos register is a workplace safety management tool that records the location, type, condition and date of identification of all asbestos and asbestos containing materials at your workplace.
If you are a person with management or control of a workplace building, structure or plant built or installed before 2004, or in Queensland built before 1990, you must ensure that an asbestos register is prepared and kept at the workplace. This guide will help you understand: • what an asbestos register is and when your workplace needs one, and • how to develop and maintain a comprehensive asbestos register. Asbestos registers at the workplace Safe Work Australia Image source: SafeWork Australia Website
New WHS data website released by Safe Work Australia
This data website allows you to explore work health and safety and workers’ compensation data collected by Safe Work Australia on work-related fatalities, injuries and illnesses.
Website users can now create their own charts and tables to explore insights into WHS data by industry, occupation, year, and mechanism of injury in an intuitive, user-friendly way. There are a range of dashboards available for users, by industry and topic: • The National Return to Work Survey • Traumatic Injury Fatalities • The National Dataset for Compensation-based Statistics (NDS) • Agriculture • Road transport • Mining • Construction • Healthcare and social assistance • Manufacturing, and • Quad bike fatalities. Users can find and interpret the data they need to discover new insights that tell their story. Explore Our Data. Your Stories. at: https://data.safeworkaustralia.gov.au Image source: SafeWork SA website
New hearing test requirements begin 1 January 2024 Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the biggest cause of permanent hearing loss in Australia. But it’s also the most preventable. Following public consultation held in late 2022, the NSW Government has approved the commencement of Clause 58 of the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulation 2017.
From 1 January 2024, employers are required to provide hearing tests for workers who frequently use hearing protection to control noise that exceeds the noise exposure standards*.
More information Find more information on Clause 58 and the new hearing test requirements here, or contact SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50. *Please refer to Clause 58 Audiometric Testing
INDUSTRY
CONTINUED
Communication toolkit SafeWork NSW have created a communication toolkit to help you share information about the changes with your networks. The toolkit contains a range of resources, including: newsletter and website content social media content poster and A4 fact sheet.
Image source: Medical News Today
Guide for testing and remediation of methylamphetamine and illicit drug residues in residential properties The Department of Health has published a guide on the procedure for the testing and remediation, including validation, of residences contaminated by manufacturing or smoking illicit drugs.
You can download the PDF HERE, however it is recommended that you use this link Illicit drug contamination (health.wa.gov.au) as it provides access to all supporting documents and information and this main landing page link will also remain consistent (the pdf link may change).
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ANSTO Radiation and Safety Professionals Trained in the Basic Principles of Occupational Health and Hygiene 9-13 October 2023
The High Reliability team at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) engaged the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists (AIOH) to provide the Basic Principles of Occupational Hygiene Course from 9-13 October 2023. Dr Jennifer Hines and Dr Kerrie Burton delivered the training to a team of Radiation and Safety professionals. The course equipped attendees with skills to identify and mitigate diverse occupational health hazards. Certified Occupational Hygienist Mark Reggers from 3Ms Personal Safety Division shared insights about respiratory and hearing protection. The ANSTO staff provided highlights in their feedback about the course content and its impact on their roles. Course coverage High Reliability at ANSTO provides many core services that assist in the service delivery of ANSTO complex operations. Our capabilities include provision of training and safety systems to our people and subject matter expertise in Work Health and safety. This includes risk management of conventional safety hazards, emergency planning, occupational hygiene and worker health & wellbeing. It also extends to Radiation Protection Services, including expert advice on radiation safety, emergency planning and response. This course is in the training portfolio for the High Reliability team, providing participants with the ability to describe the general basic approach to the recognition of occupational health hazards, i.e., chemical hazards (solvents, adhesives, paints, toxic dusts, etc.), physical hazards (noise, radiation, heat, etc.), biological hazards (infectious diseases), ergonomics (heavy lifting, repetitive motions, vibration) and psychological risk factors.
The contribution and some take homes from attendees:
1.Wholistic Understanding of Work Health: “Working in WHS, it is part of our role to ensure we are enabling organisations to meet their regulatory compliance, but we often do not have the specialisation that an occupational hygienist can provide. This course highlighted the core roles, strategies, and tools an occupational hygienist would use to identify and measures hazardous exposures outside of just risk assessment. This enables us to provide better guidance, verification of controls, and better engage with hygienist for complex tasks. Anyone working in the safety space should consider this 5-day course essential to their role.” Rhiarn Hoban, WHS Advisor, Work Health and Safety ANSTO 2.Practical Experience & Future COH: “I recently completed the AIOH basic principles’ course, facilitated by Dr Jen Hines and Dr Kerrie Burton. The content was extensive, and the facilitators, also ensured that the information was contextually relevant to occupational hygiene practise in my workplace. In my current role, this course has made me more confident in determining and practising exposure monitoring techniques through the practical experience that was also provided in this course. This course was a pivotal step in furthering my career, becoming a more informed safety professional, and further inspiring me to become a certified hygienist in the future.” Soraya Canvin WHS Advisor (HAZMAT Occupational Hygiene) , Work Health and Safety
By Dr Carmen Naylor, Leader Human Health Monitoring ANSTO | AIOH General Councillor
3.Advocacy of Worker Health Protection: “I work as a nuclear safety case assessor at ANSTO and hold a Graduate Diploma in OHS. I review the high-level safety impacts for industrial, radiation and nuclear safety on a day-to-day basis. The Basic Principles course builds on the knowledge from my OHS diploma and take my abilities to the next level to give better safety outcomes to ANSTO workers. The Basic Principles course demonstrates the crucial capabilities Occupational Hygienists bring for important projects and gives me the understanding to imbed this into ANSTO safety case reviews. The tools and understanding from this 5-day course give me the tools and expertise to review these cases and challenge the impact on human health for occupational illness and diseases.” Gary Lux WHS Advisor, Nuclear Assurance
4.Occupational Health Fundamentals & Career Development: “The Basic principles of occupation hygiene was a fantastic course to compliment my existing knowledge gained from my development role as a Nuclear Safety Technician. The course taught me fundamental concepts, and information relating to workplace health exposures, how to prioritise occupational health risks using a risk-based approach, and how to advise workers and managers on controls relating to chemical, biological and physical hazards in the workplace. I’m excited to enter the occupational hygiene space as apart of my development role and the course was a great introduction to occupational hygiene.” Waylon King, Nuclear Safety Technician, High Reliability
5.Recognition, Evaluation and Control of Health Hazards: “I found the AIOH Basic Principles of Occupational Hygiene course very informative and it gave me a really high level overview of occupational hygiene principles. I am a project manager looking after management and remediation of asbestos and other hazardous materials at ANSTO. In our daily operations, my team is consistently having to address and control different hazards located on site ranging from asbestos to lead, metal contaminants, mould, noise just to name a few. The course has equipped us all with more knowledge around the controls of these hazards, specifically the appropriate equipment that can be used to sample/measure specific hazards in the workplace. I would recommend this course to anyone that would like to have a broader understanding of how recognition and controlling of hazards is paramount in keeping workers safe.” Barbora Gallagher, Project Manager (HAZMAT), Work Health & Safety
Thanks to course coordinators Jen and Kerrie, and our safety equipment suppliers Active Environmental Solutions, Air-Met and 3M for all the practical equipment and Michelle Portelli at the AIOH Office for their time and support. Our only disappointment was we were hoping for more exam questions on radiation protection. Lastly – best of luck to everyone eagerly awaiting their exam results.
COMING UP IN ‘24
The AIOH are preparing for 2024. Lock some key dates into your calendar as the AIOH prepares for a massive 2024.
Basic Principles Course Occupation Hygiene 2024 State
START DATE
END DATE
MAR
BRISBANE
MON 18TH
FRI 22ND
MAY
PERTH
MON 6TH
FRI 10TH
MAY
SYDNEY
MON 27TH
FRI 31ST
JULY
MELBOURNE
MON 15TH
FRI 19TH
Certification Exam Dates 2024
JULY
BRISBANE
MON 29TH
AUG FRI 2ND
SEPT
PERTH
MON 9TH
FRI 13TH
COH Exams dates will be advised to applicants closer to the exam dates.
SEPT
SYDNEY
MON 23RD
FRI 27TH
OCT
MELBOURNE
MON 21ST
FRI 25TH
Stay connected to keep track of the events coming up, via the AIOH Events webpage
MARCH
BRISBANE
JUNE
SYDNEY & MELBOURNE
NOVEMBER
PERTH
Additional information on Certification can be found via our Certification website page Dates may change with short notice
Learn from leading experts. AIOH offers Member & Non-member rates.
Registrations for all BPC’s will open in Mid Jan 2024. For bulk bookings, please contact conference@aioh.org.au Proposed dates only
Our Monthly Webinar series will continue in 2024. Webinars & Masterclass sessions will be confirmed closer to the date.
FEB
FRI 23RD
MAR
FRI 22ND
APR
FRI 19TH
MAY
FRI 24TH
JUN
FRI 28TH
JUL
FRI 26TH
AUG
THUR 29TH
SEP
FRI 20TH
OCT
THUR 31ST
Dates may change with short notice
Chapter Meetings State
Proposed Dates
VIC
MAR 13TH
JUL 17TH
OCT 23RD
QLD
MAR 20TH
JUL 31ST
SEPT 11TH
NSW
MAY 29TH
SEPT 26TH
OCT 17TH
SA
APR 10TH
JUL 11TH
OCT 16TH
WA
MAR 4TH
MAY 6TH
SEPT 9TH
TAS
MAY 15TH
AUG 8TH
ACT
TBC
TBC
TBC
NZ
TBC
TBC
TBC
All listed dates are proposed, keep an eye out on your emails & AIOH Events page for additional details. If you would like to be a presenter for a Webinar or Chapter Meeting, please contact the AIOH at admin@aioh.org.au
AIOH EVENTS
Webinars & Masterclasses
THANK YOU
Jobs Board
A big thank you to all the companies who utilised the AIOH Jobs Board over 2023. The AIOH can assist with advertising to our members and subscribers. We offer this service to ensure that you reach a captive audience and increase your likelihood of finding the perfect addition to your team. By providing a customised broadcast email to over 5,000 subscribers and placing the advertisement on our exclusive members only jobs board, you will maximise your reach to the right candidate.
Head to the AIOH website if you are looking for a change of scene or for more details on advertising current vacant positions.
Advertise with us in 2024 AIOH is expanding its offerings . advertising opportunities will be available in 2024. Sample of options below.
For more information on AIOH advertising, please contact admin@aioh.org.au QUARTERLY MAGAZINE The AIOH ‘The Filter’ Magazine is digitally published quarterly and sent to the membership by email and hosted on the AIOH website. The AIOH provides exclusive advertising opportunities for up to six (6) advertisements per Newsletter issue. A client may only publish one (1) advertisement per issue with limitations on the number of times in any year that same client can advertise in that medium
AIOH WEBSITE AIOH website advertising opportunities are visible to all website visitors depending on their search requirements. There are three (3) opportunities for AIOH website advertising: Careers in Hygiene, Service and Equipment Providers, ‘Careers in Hygiene’ provides for an alternative to Broadcast Emails for posting occupational hygiene related vacancies.
All Advertising is to comply with the AIOH Advertising Policy and subject to availability
AROUND
OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE
THE WORLD Tickets are now available for the 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, which will be held at the International Convention Centre Sydney on the 27 November 2023. The World Congress is hosted by the International Labor Organization, the International Social Security Association and SafeWork NSW, with an aim to create international connections, hear different perspectives, and learn new skills to lead safety and health in the future of work. Your ticket grants you access to a series of social events designed to help you network and connect with fellow work health and safety experts. Across the four days, you'll have your pick of over 30 workshops, 24 symposia, six technical sessions, and three keynote speakers. For more details, visit www.safety2023sydney.com
AIOH House will be closed over the holiday break FRI 22nd DEC 2023 MON 8th JAN 2024.
UPDATES & REMINDERS
AGM PROXY AIOH YOU LOGO THANK TOUSE OUR CODE OF ETHICS AIOH OFFICE TEAM The team AIOH wishes to extend its FORat THEIR WORK thanks to all its members and OVERorganisations. 2023. affiliated We also extend a huge thank you for the continued support of our volunteers. We couldn't have don't it with out you! Warmest regards, the AIOH STAFF
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AIOH Annual General Meeting Date: Tuesday 5th December 2023 Time: 1630 AEDT; 1530 AEST; 1600 ACDT; 1500 ACST; 1330 AWST] Location: River Room, Crown Melbourne, Whiteman Street, Vic 3006 (200 person capacity) Format: Hybrid; Face-to-Face and online hosted by Vero Voting Returning Officer: Vero Voting Proxy deadline: 16:00 AEDT, Monday 4th December 2023 Recorded: Yes Invited: All members are encouraged to attend and participate at this AGM. Voting: R ules and Statement of Purpose restricts voting to Full and Fellow (including Retired Full and Fellow) who are in good standing Key information relating to this AGM including registration, proxies, annual reports, agenda will be issued at least two weeks before meeting.
Is your Membership renewal due? Head to the MYAIOH and see your membership expiry date, AIOH Invoices will be located on your members dashboard.
AIOH UPDATES
AIOH OFFICE HOLIDAY HOURS
THANKS FOR READING If you are interested in adding an article to The Filter in 2024 drop us an email admin@aioh.org.au