The Chemwatch Risk Assessment module uses the Control Banding methodology. Control Banding is an assessment method used to manage workplace risks by grouping chemicals according to similar physical and chemical characteristics, taking into account how the chemical will be handled or processed and what the anticipated exposure is and determining a set of controls to prevent harm to workers. 

 

Generally, risk assessment starts with hazard identification, and hazard grouping and aims at determining appropriate ways to eliminate and/or control the risk. Factors that influence the degree of risk include:

 

  • How much a person is exposed to a hazard?
  • How the person is exposed, e.g., inhalation, skin contact, ingestion, etc?
  • How severe are the effects under specific conditions of exposure?



The Chemwatch model is the default risk assessment matrix (based on the Control Banding model). There are five risk levels (bands), each mapped to a specific colour coding and control type, and the risk assessment period is set to 5 years by default. 

 


Nonhazardous chemicals pose no risk; hence, controls will not be applicable; and the band will default to a grey icon=0. If a Risk Matrix customisation is required, contact your Chemwatch System Administrator for more details.


The"Containment" control for a very high risk means that a control strategy for containing exposure must be applied to reduce the risk to a minimum. 


Containment involves enclosing processing equipment to restrict the spread of air contaminants to the workplace environment and isolating the work from sources of heat or fire, e.g., open flames, oxides, etc., Containment is ideal for situations for the worker in limiting exposure to hazardous chemicals whilst maintain PPE requirements. The following control approaches for containment must be considered:


  • Worker access
  • Design and equipment
  • Maintenance
  • Examination and testing
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Cleaning and housekeeping
  • Training and supervision
  • Employee checklist


The system has a CTRLDOCS button that allows users to download control documents that provide details about a variety of control approaches for reference.



Here's an example of control documents for the above material used for mixing (task) generated by the system.

  • C300, C301 for control approach
  • G201, G215, etc., guidance sheets
  • RPE3 for respiratory protection