offences under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
Regulations (COSHH). Thirteen workers were exposed to epoxy resins and
subsequently developed dermatitis.
Staff complained of symptoms such as severe itching, swelling and
rashes on their arms, hands and faces at Vestas Blades factoru in
Newport, Isle of Wight.
Expoxy resins, well known to cause allergic reaction and skin
sensitisation, were used as part of the manufacturing process of wind
turbines, however Vestas Blades, had done little to minimise the risk
of contamination. Due to this, employees' skin was regularly exposed
to the wet resin.
Following a number of reports of workers contracting contact allergic
dermatitis, the HSE launched an investigation whereby inspectors found
that the firm had not taken adequate procedures to reduce the risk of
employee exposure and that the correct PPE had not been issued.
The company risk assessment was found to be insufficient as it did not
consider the high-risk nature of the work and the likelihood of
spillage, splashing and transferral to exposed skin by cross
contamination of the hazardous substance.
HSE inspector Roger Upfold said "Epoxy resins are hazardous substances
with well-known ill-health effects. Skin contact with this type of
substance can result in long term consequences. People who become
sensitised to this type of substance may not ever be able to work
again with the substance without experiencing serious ill-health
effects."
He continued to comment that when using hazardous substances,
employers must assess the risks, and decide upon measures to control
the exposure and manage the risk, which can be done through training,
supervision and by regularly reviewing the practice and taking
necessary action.
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