[PIO] Protection of workers from fumes due to the mixing of chemicals in swimming pools (KXPAY/16)

In view of the start of the tourist season and the expected increase in the use of chemical products in hotels and other tourist facilities, the need to take all necessary measures to protect workers and third parties from exposure to fumes that may be caused by incorrect handling of these products is stressed.

In the past, incidents of release of fumes due to incorrect mixing of chemical products used for disinfection/cleaning of swimming pools have been reported which endangered the lives of workers and hotel guests. Unfortunately, despite repeated warnings, such dangerous incidents continue to occur repeatedly and cause anything from simple inconvenience to serious respiratory or even skin problems for those affected.

The Labour Inspection Department stresses that chemicals should be used with care and always in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. In particular, products used for disinfecting/cleaning swimming pools can, as a result of mixing incompatible chemicals, lead to the release of hazardous substances.

To avoid corresponding hazardous incidents, the employer should carry out a workplace risk assessment based on appropriate and up-to-date Safety Data Sheets (SDS) of the chemicals used. Based on the information in the SDSs, workers should be trained by the employer in the correct working method and appropriate precautionary and personal protection measures should be taken in the mixing area. It should be noted that all products used should be labelled to convey the necessary information on the hazards of their use while being stored in an appropriate storage area. The provision of PPE is an obligation of professionals who supply/supply chemicals to other persons.

To deal with the possibility of an emergency, the employer should have an appropriate action plan that includes evacuation procedures, appropriate fume and chemical spillage detection systems and personnel trained in first aid having all first aid resources available.

To assist employers in preparing the necessary risk assessment, the Department of Labour Inspection reminds that for small hotels there is a free interactive tool (OiRA) available at the following link:

https:/oiraproject.eu/en/oira-tools?text=&&field_sector%5B219%5D=219&sort=date

(MΓ/ΣΧ)
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