Manufacturing

Toluene, xylene, MEK, and other solvents from spray painting, coating, degreasing, and cleaning operations. Spray booth design and LEV effectiveness are critical controls. TWA and STEL sampling required for most solvents.

Grinding, machining, and thermal cutting of metals generate inhalable and respirable metal particulate. Hexavalent chromium from stainless steel processing requires separate filter sampling.

Presses, grinders, CNC machines, and compressors generate continuous noise exposure. Octave band analysis required for hearing protector selection in mixed-frequency environments.

MDI and TDI from polyurethane foam, adhesives, and spray coatings. Respiratory sensitiser — once sensitised, any exposure can trigger severe asthma. Very low WES values.

Typical Worker Groups

Common similar exposure groups (SEGs) assessed in this industry.

Regulatory Context

Manufacturing operations must comply with the WHS Act 2011, WHS Regulations, and the Code of Practice for Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace. Air monitoring against WES is required when there is uncertainty about whether exposure standards are being exceeded. Health monitoring is mandatory for workers exposed to chemicals listed in Schedule 14 of the WHS Regulations.