Guide to Working Safely with Industrial Solvents

Because working with many of the different types of industrial solvents that are available can be harmful to the body, and even your health, and there is an aspect of danger involved due to the chemical laden solvent, the following information will act as a guide to help you safely work with solvents. The specific aim, or goal, of the information that will be provided below is to optimize safety of workers who regularly expose themselves to industrial solvents on a daily basis, and to offer advice and precautions to help minimize and altogether avoid risks associated with chemical exposure. If you have been following the Ecolink blog site then you should already be familiar with industrial solvents, and how some solvents present an element of danger due to its chemical toxins. Therefore, this blog will proceed directly into the best ways to work safely with industrial solvents.

First and foremost, you should come to know everything you can regarding the type of industrial solvent your employer is using, so you understand the element of risk involved. Get as much information and training on the industrial solvent as you possibly can.

Make sure your employer knows and understands what elements of risk, if any, are involved with the industrial solvent they have agreed to use, along with any hazards involved with exposure to the chemical. There is no excuse for an employer to be uniformed about the risks involved with exposure to industrial solvents.

A reputable supplier should provide documents containing all use and health information concerning the industrial solvent. Read it thoroughly and follow any advice given by the supplier.

If the industrial solvent being used is potentially harmful, request that your employer seek an eco friendly, green alternative to minimize or eliminate any risk taken when handling industrial solvents.

If toxins are released into the air when the industrial solvent is in a gaseous or vapor state, make sure the facility where your work is outfitted with the proper ventilation systems and respiratory equipment, along with ensuring only the required minimum amount of solvent is in use for the operation to progress and be deemed a success.

Avoid skin contact by wearing the necessary protective equipment, at all time.

Avoid working in confined spaces. If a confined space is the only location to perform the work, request that your employer find another location that offers a wide open space.

After the work is complete, make sure to wash yourself thoroughly, even if you were wearing the required protective clothing.

Do not use any devices or items that could antagonize the industrial solvent in use, meaning do not use equipment that could cause some type of reaction that would make the industrial solvent even more dangerous.