Flour dust exposure is the leading cause of occupational asthma in the UK. Workers in bakeries and flour mills are 80 times more likely to develop asthma than the general population. Studies indicate that at least 10% of bakers suffer from occupational asthma due to continuous exposure to flour dust.
It has been known since Roman times that flour dust can cause lung disease, and modern research shows that natural enzymes in the flour are primarily to blame. Are your workers at risk of inhaling flour dust? If you notice the following signs, it’s time to assess your air quality:
- Clouds of flour dust particles visible in a shaft of light.
- Flour deposits on surfaces above 2 meters.
What Causes Flour Dust Exposure and How It Affects Workers
Exposure to excessive flour dust can lead to respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, itchy eyes, and a blocked nose. Symptoms often go unnoticed for years, but if the symptoms worsen during the working week and ease during weekends, the issue is likely related to air quality at work.
Once asthma fully develops, the most effective solution is usually to change occupations, which is why early intervention is critical.
Effective Dust Control Measures with LEV Systems in Bakeries
To control flour dust exposure, bakeries need effective dust management strategies. General ventilation systems aren’t enough; LEV systems (Local Exhaust Ventilation) are essential, especially around weighing stations and dough-making machines. For a thorough evaluation of your LEV systems and to ensure compliance with COSHH regulations, R&B Industrial offers expert COSHH LEV Testing.
An LEV system captures airborne flour dust at the source, preventing it from circulating throughout the bakery. Without such a system, workers are at high risk of inhaling harmful particles, which can lead to serious long-term health issues, including occupational asthma.
Why Relying Solely on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Isn’t Enough
The use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as disposable particle masks, is often seen as a temporary fix. However, according to the COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) guidance, relying on respiratory protective equipment (RPE) should be a last resort. Employers must prioritise engineering controls, such as LEV systems, over PPE.
Properly designed and maintained LEV systems are far more effective at preventing flour dust exposure than PPE alone. These systems not only protect workers but also help bakeries comply with health and safety regulations.
Legal Obligations and Best Practices for Bakeries
Under UK law, employers must reduce workers’ exposure to flour dust “as low as reasonably practical” (ALARP). They are also required to:
- Perform regular health surveillance on exposed workers (typically annually).
- Monitor airborne dust levels in the workplace through a competent occupational hygienist.
- Implement safe working practices, including proper handling and disposal of flour bags, cleaning procedures, and the use of LEV systems.
At R&B Industrial, we offer comprehensive assessments, tailored solutions, and LEV system installations to meet regulatory standards.
Why It’s Crucial to Control Flour Dust Exposure and Invest in LEV Systems
In addition to the moral duty of protecting employees, poor management of flour dust exposure can be costly. Aside from HSE fines, compensation claims, and reputational damage, businesses may face significant financial losses due to the need to recruit new staff, retrain, and deal with health-related issues. Costs can easily reach hundreds of thousands of pounds if an employee must change occupations due to health concerns.
By investing in an LEV system, bakeries can not only avoid costly fines but also provide a safer, healthier workplace for their employees.
How R&B Industrial Can Help Protect Your Workers from Flour Dust Exposure with LEV Systems
At R&B Industrial, we offer expert assessments and practical, cost-effective solutions to help bakeries manage flour dust exposure. Our services include LEV system installations, face-fit testing for RPE, and regular servicing to ensure compliance with regulations. Our qualified engineers provide ongoing support to maintain a safe working environment.
Conclusion
If you’re concerned about flour dust exposure in your workplace and want to explore LEV systems as part of the solution, get in touch with R&B Industrial for a comprehensive assessment and tailored solutions to improve air quality and protect your workers’ health.