Protecting Workplaces with Composite Dust Extraction

With an increase in the use of composite materials, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber and reinforced plastics in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and wind energy, while offering unparalleled strength and versatility, the machinery processes produces hazardous composite dust.

The composite dust created from milling, grinding and polishing is not only combustible, but a risk to workers health. The fine particles and fibers generated from these processes, especially when it comes to fiberglass, can easily enter the lungs or cause skin irritation. Lubricants and production required during manufacturing processes can release harmful gases, further increasing the risks to workers health in workplaces.

The Dangers of Composite Dust

• Respiratory risks: Damage to the lungs from the inhalation of fine particles.
• Skin irritation: Fiberglass dust can penetrate the skin, resulting in irritation or eczema-like reactions.
• Explosiveness: Accumulation of composite dust is highly combustible, posing fire and explosion risks.
• Downtime: Poor dust management leads to equipment failure, stoppages in production, and a negative impact on product quality.

Composite Dust Regulations

When working with materials that produce composite dust, you must be aware of the following regulations, laws, and requirements.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002

As an employer, you are required to:

• Assess the risks to your employees from hazardous substances such as composite dust.
• Implement control solutions such as Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV).
• Regularly monitor the environment so exposure limits are not exceeded.

Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

This act requires employers to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. Effective dust extraction systems are vital to meeting this requirement to prevent respiratory issues and other health problems.

Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR)

Composite dust is combustible, posing serious fire and explosion risks. DSEAR mandates employers to assess and control these risks through the installation of appropriate dust extraction systems.

Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs)

The UK enforces strict exposure limits for composite dust:

• Inhalable dust: 10 mg/m³
• Respirable dust: 4 mg/m³

Employers must monitor and manage dust levels to remain within these limits.

British Standard BS EN 16770

Outlines safety requirements for dust extraction systems, ensuring they effectively capture hazardous dust and operate safely.

The Benefits of Composite Dust Extraction

• Improve Work Conditions: Protect employees from harmful dust and fumes.
• Optimise Uptime: Avoid production downtime caused by dust-related equipment failure.
• Ensure compliance: Avoid fines and penalties by conforming to UK laws and regulations.
• Prevent Explosive Hazards: Reduce the risk of explosion or fire caused by combustible dust.

Nederman: Your Partner for Composite Dust Extraction

Nederman provides tailored solutions for effective composite dust extraction, to meet your workplace needs and UK regulatory requirements. Our advanced dust extraction systems protect workers, reduce downtime, and maintain compliance across industries.

Why Choose Nederman?

• Effective Source Capture Technology: Extract composite dust directly at its source to minimise risk to workers health and explosion risks.
• High and Low Vacuum Systems: Flexible options for single workstations or entire production lines.
• Global Expertise: Our systems are trusted by composite manufacturers worldwide.
• End-to-end service: System design, installation, and maintenance, including ongoing LEV testing.

Ready to Protect Your Workplace?

Nederman design their composite dust extraction systems with your industry’s needs and UK regulations in mind. Whether your industry be aerospace, automotive, or any other composite-related sector, Nederman will provide you with compliant safety and efficiency.

Contact Nederman today and learn how we can help safeguard your workers, production and bottom line.