RISK PROFILE IN PETROL STATION SECTOR

 

 
 
1. SECTOR          : SERVICE STATIONS
2. ISTAT CODES     : G.50.50
3. ISPESL CODE     : 
 
SURVEY ZONE
 
4. NATIONAL          : 
5. REGIONAL         : 
6. PROVINCIAL       : BERGAMO
7. USL               : ASL (Local Health Authority) BERGAMO
8. YEAR OF SURVEY 1999
 
9. NUMBER OF WORKERS
  9A. WHITE-COLLAR WORKERS : 212 men 42 women
  9B. BLUE-COLLAR WORKERS 38 men 
 
10. No.FIRMS        : 122
 
11. SURVEYING UNIT : ASL PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 
                     PROVINCE OF BERGAMO
 
12. REPORTING MEMBER
 
  QUALIFICATION : MEDICAL SUPERVISOR I LEVEL OCCUPATIONAL PHYSICIAN 
  NAME      : PIETRO
  SURNAME   : IMBROGNO
  ADDRESS   : P.S.A.L. SERVICE, ASL BERGAMO, VIA PAGLIA , 40
  ZIP Code  : 24100
  TOWN      : BERGAMO
  PROVINCE  : BG
  TELEPHONE : 035/ 4991126 - 385335
  FAX       : 035/4942179 -385315
  E-MAIL    : bpesenti@asl.bergamo.it
 
13. ACCIDENTS: TOTAL 37 OF WHICH FATAL 0
 
14. OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES 
 

NAME

No. CASES

INAIL CODE

 

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTES:

                                                                                                           

__________________________________________________________________________________

PRODUCTION CYCLE – WORK PHASES

 

MAIN activitIES:

 

 

FUEL RESTOCKING

(1)

                                                                        ê

 

FUEL TANK StoRAGE

(2)

                                                                            ê

 

FUEL DISPENSING TO vehicles

(3)

                                                                            ê

 

SECONDARY ACTIVITIES:

SUNDRY VEHICLE services

(4)

                                                                            ê

 

maintenance AND cleaning SERVICES

(5)

 

 

ADDITIONAL activities: 

 

GARAGE

(6)

                                                                           ê

CAR WASH

(7)

                                                                           ê

 

sale OF CAR products (lubriCant OILS, SMALL accessoriES

radiator AND BRAKE FLUIDS. ETC.) / CAFETERIA service

(8)

 

 

 

 

____________________________________________________________________

************************************

SECTOR DOCUMENT

************************************

The sector under review is concerned with the supply of fuel (petrol, diesel, LPG) to end users – which in this case are the owners and drivers of motor vehicles (automobiles, motorcycles, etc.). Fuel is dispensed via installations located in Service Stations, which are extremely variable. Relations are complex between the management of these stations and the management of companies giving their name to these stations. The corporate set-ups of these companies are also varied. In Italy indeed, where there are estimated to be over 33,000 service stations employing 100,000 workers, the sector is characterised by a significant degree of fragmentation, with many small-sized stations that are frequently run by families or by a small number of partners. Over the past 8 years the sector in question has been the subject of studies and researches to assess pump attendants’ exposure to benzene, this substance being known for its carcinogenicity and in particular its leukemogen effect.

Our scheduled 1995 study too was aimed at making such an appraisal, in particular to estimate the risk of leukaemia among exposed workers (see enclosed report on Measuring exposure to Benzene and estimating the risk of leukaemia among service station workers).

The study later made it possible to combine the information obtained to evaluate exposure to benzene with an analysis on exposure to a number of risk factors in the sector. A total of 122 service stations, or 35% of all stations in the province of Bergamo, were involved in the study, which lasted approximately 48 months (June 1995 – June 1999).

Work was carried out in six stages (see enclosed report):

         I.            census of service stations;

       II.            cognitive inspection and compilation of questionnaires;

     III.            environmental monitoring;

     IV.            biological monitoring;

       V.            processing of data and final report;

     VI.            dissemination of results.

70% of service stations under review were located in built-up areas (Bergamo and neighbouring towns).

90 questionnaires were compiled to assess working activity and reconstruct job tasks, and 90 inspections and environmental surveys were conducted on 49 service stations. 407 analyses were effected to determine the concentration of airborne benzene and methyl benzene (toluene, xylene), and there were 40 measurements of urinary trans-trans muconic acid among exposed workers. 292 pump attendants were identified, 19% of whom worked in small enterprises often run by single families or by a small number of partners. The average number of service station workers was 2.3 (range: 1-5).

The facilities and equipment of service stations usually consist of a demarcated tarmacked area, one or more advertising poles, a covered area (metal canopy resting on one or two pillars), lampposts, fuel pump islands (covered), premium grade, unleaded, (single or double pumps), fuel mixture, diesel, pre-payment machines, underground tanks, a kiosk for the station worker and for the sale of car products, lavatories, and in some cases an area for a hand or automatic car wash, and more occasionally a small garage endowed with hydraulic lift and a cafeteria. Equipment includes portable or fixed tyre pumps, a three-phase tyre remover and a vulcaniser, hand-held or automatic vacuum cleaners for self-service cleaning, portable semi-car lift, spanners, screwdrivers, hammers, special spanners for manhole covers. In all stations there are POS’s for credit and cashomat cards, less often there are PCs, fax equipment and desk calculators.

Documentation controlled above all with reference to safety, health and environmental certification or Testing (1998-1999) in accordance with Legislative Decree 32/98 and subsequent amendments (Legislative Decree 346 of 8/9/1999), not always updated or possessed by the management of Petrol Stations, is listed below:

Layout of Station and Building Permission issued by the local council;

Municipal Authorisation after ASL (Local Health Authority) opinion is passed on compliance with health, safety and environmental legislation;

Installation test report (fire services, Finance Technical Office, LHA) (L.D. 32/98)

Mod. A – lightning protection documentation;

Mod. B – earthing system report (with declaration of conformity in accordance with Law  46/90)

Mod. C – report of outdoor electric installations subject to risk of explosion/fire

Possession of Fire Prevention Certificate;

Fire extinguisher test record;

LPG tank operations report (pursuant to art. 44-46 of RD 824/27);

Safety valve check reports for pressure installations (LPG) issued by ISPESL;

Fuel pumps type approval certificate (Ministry of Transport);

Underground tank sealing certificates (Local Health Regulations)

Authorisation to dispose of water (forecourt) (R.L. 62/85 art. 9) and waste materials

Register of waste materials and drain oils;

Annual waste register report;

Accident register;

Risk evaluation document or self-certification of risk evaluation;

Appointment of Safety and Prevention Officer and Competent Physician (if necessary);

Health authority permission granted for cafeteria (if present)

Licence for washing and garage activities (CE and Authorisation) :

Licence to sell vehicle products.

8 work phases were identified, of which 3 main ones (restocking, storage and dispensing of fuel), 2 secondary phases (sundry vehicle services, maintenance and cleaning) and 3 additional activity phases (garage, car wash, sale of vehicle products and cafeteria service).

The most important risk factors identified in the sector can be broken down into accident-related risks and health-environmental risks.

The most important of the first type are concerned with the presence and handling of dangerous inflammable substances (risk of fire or explosion), rare occurrences but potentially with very serious effects; however our records show that accidents recorded (37 in all) were not serious (slight wounds, bruises, backache) relating to manual activities in the first phase (handling of manhole covers), or in subsequent phases (vehicle services, oil changes, cleaning, engine repairs) and had relatively low prognoses (1 to 7 days).

The number of accidents is undoubtedly underestimated however because of the tendency not to report minor accidents (prognosis from 1 to 4 days) on the part of injured station managers or their partners. Literature on this subject is insufficient to accurately quantify the number of accidents in the sector. The figure does not however appear to be significant (with low frequency and gravity indices).

Of health-environmental risk factors the most important is exposure to benzene (a known carcinogenic agent).

To assess exposure to this risk factor the amount of fuel sold per year by each station was calculated, breaking figures down by fuel type - premium, unleaded, mixture and diesel. In 21 service stations 55 environmental measurements were effected in the period 1995-97, with 17 fixed samplers and 38 personal samplers, to determine the concentration of airborne benzene and methyl benzenes. A total of 155 analyses were performed. Samples of petrol were also collected to determine the concentration of benzene: values of between 0.65% and 3% were recorded (1995). The mean concentration of airborne benzene measured using personal samplers in 1995 was 560 gr./m3 (SD:240) (new proposed TWA - ACGIH limit: 1,600 gr./m3 – 0.5 ppm), and toluene and xylene values were below ACGIH limits for occupationally exposed workers. The mean benzene value was close to the national average, obtained from the AGIP-Petroli study in 1992 (482 gr. /m3) but below the average recorded for service stations in northern Italy (760 g. /m3): the results of fixed sampling (average 110 g./m3, SD 58, Range 19-128 ) are comparable with national average results (average 110 g./m3) . Measurements were repeated in 1996 for stations where values were close to proposed limits; in 1997 values were recorded at 9 new stations after an information campaign on risks and procedures for correct and safe refuelling and after the adoption of preventive measures: the analyses undertaken showed up a significant reduction (p<0.001) or a halving, on average, of the concentration of benzene measured using personal samplers (257.3 g/m3 - SD: 148.2). The concentration of airborne benzene was also calculated to estimate urban atmospheric pollution: moving average values for the measuring period were below the limits of quality objectives set for the period through 31.12.1998 (15 g./m3). Environmental measurements were supplemented by biological monitoring data. The concentration of urinary Trans-Trans Muconic Acid collected at the end of the working shift from 40 petrol pump attendants was calculated (ttMA: 262.7 g./g. creat., SD 204.3); results were compared with those of a control group that was not occupationally exposed (ttMA: 43.56 gr./g. creat., SD 42.15). Biological data (urinary ttMA) confirmed low levels of occupational exposure to benzene, although there was still a significant difference (p<0.001) between occupationally exposed and non-exposed persons. From the study results it may be estimated that the risk of leukaemia among exposed service station workers is very low: this risk, deriving from mean exposure to benzene of 257.3 g./m3, has been estimated at less than 0.5 cases per 1000 persons exposed for a 40-year period.

Data obtained in 1999 (28 stations monitored, 252 measurements, 84 with reference to benzene) showed a further reduction in exposure, especially in stations endowed with vapour recovery plants (83.8 micrg./m3), local vapour extraction systems (93.7 micrg./m3) and self-service installations (18.1 micrg./m3): the risk of leukaemia in the latter cases may be considered as negligible, especially for self-service workers.

1999 environmental data was confirmed by biological monitoring conducted on 20 pump attendants: mean urinary trans-trans muconic acid values collected at the end of the working shift showed on average a further, albeit not significant, reduction in exposure (231.17 micr.g/gr. creatinine). During the latest biological monitoring campaign urinary 1-Hydroxypyrene, urinary 2.5 Hexandione and in an experimental trial urinary Platinum values were determined for the same 20 pump attendants. The results, that are still being analysed and processed statistically, have not shown values deviating from the average for the non-exposed population (0.67 micr./gr./g. creat.) for 1-Hydroxypyrene or beyond limits for exposed workers for 2.5 Hexandione (0.96 mg/gr. creat.). For urinary Platinum, values were all below analytical measurability limits (2.00 ng/ml).

With reference to risks from other chemical substances, measures to reduce exposure to benzene have made it possible to keep under control risks to worker health deriving from other petrol components (methyl benzenes, octane ..., 1-3 butadiene, lead, etc.).

***********************************************************************************************

SECTORAL RISK PROFILE: PETROL STATIONS

____________________________________________________________________

WORK PHASE / RISK FACTORS / PREVENTIVE AND SAFETY MEASURES

WORK PHASE

No.1

ACCIDENT RISKS

SAFETY

AND PREVENTION

MEASURES

HEALTH-ENVIRONMENTAL AND ORGANISATIONAL RISKS

SAFETY

AND PREVENTION MEASURES

Fuel restocking

Sub-phases

arrival and manoeuvring of tankers;

level checks;

manhole cover opening,

loading of tanks - pouring;

manhole checks

cleaning operations 

Structural and machine risks

- knocked down by tanker

- fall from tanker during level checks

- fall into open manholes

- slipping

Risks from load handling

- acute traumas caused by lifting manhole covers and crushing (dorso-lumbar injuries, fingers and toes)

- Electrical risk

Risk of fire and explosion

(in particular for LPG)

- prepare suitable signposting

- observe safety distances

- demarcate area

- protective railings, liftable handrail, walkway to tanker hatches

- inclined footways to allow any spilled liquids to escape

- frequent and adequate cleaning of surfaces, using absorbent material when possible

- use nonslip shoes

use suitable equipment, PPE and correct postures when lifting and handling manhole covers

- observe no-smoking rule

- fire extinguishers within easy reach

- connected earthing system

- active vapour recovery

- vehicle engines switched off

-

Chemical risks

- risk of inhaling solvent vapours and contact with liquids.

- cold burns (LPG)

Postural and load handling risks

- repetitive backbone traumas

Physical risks

- exposure to physical agents (microclimatic factors, traffic noise)

- correct procedures

- suitable PPE and clothes

- safety distances

- information and training on risks.

               

 
1. WORK PHASE       : Fuel restocking 
2. INAIL CODE      : 
3. RISK FACTOR      : Accident, health, environmental and organisational 
4. RISK CODE             : 
5. No. workers:    : 122

PHASE 1: Fuel restocking

Chapter 1 - WORK PHASE

This phase involves a series of sub-phases: arrival and manoeuvring of tanker, level checks, opening of manhole covers, loading of tanks, pouring, manhole checks and cleaning operations:

Chapter 2 – Plant, Equipment and Machinery

This phase involves the tanker, underground tanks, manhole/drain covers, tools to open and move covers, vapour recovery system.

Chapter 3 - The risk factor

The following risk factors are identified:

- accidents

1)       knocked down by tanker;

2)       fall from tanker during level checks;

3)       fall into open manholes;

4)       slip on forecourt on slippery surfaces;

5)       acute traumas caused by lifting manhole covers and crushing (fingers and toes, dorso-lumbar injuries);

6)       risk of fire and explosion.

health, environmental and organisational

1)       risk of inhaling solvent vapours and contact with liquids.

2)       cold burns (exposure to LPG)

3)       repetitive backbone traumas

4)       exposure to physical agents (microclimatic factors, traffic noise)

Chapter 4 - Likely damage

There is a slight likelihood of serious or very serious injuries, including fatal accidents, in this phase due to the risk of fire and explosion, being knocked down by the tanker, falling from heights (from tank hatches on tanker): accidents of this type have not been recorded in the stations surveyed. There is a greater likelihood of slight injuries due to the crushing of fingers and toes and bruises owing to the incorrect handling of manhole covers (22 accidents over past 5 years)

Chapter 5 - Actions

The main actions to counter the risk of accidents are:

- prepare suitable signposting and demarcate the restocking area;

- observe safety distances to avoid getting knocked down during tanker manoeuvres;

- install protective railing when checking tanker levels, with liftable handrail for the walkway along the hatches of the tanker’s tanks;

- use of nonslip safety shoes;

- inclined footways to allow any spilled liquids to escape;

- frequent and adequate cleaning of surfaces, using absorbent material when possible;

- prevent foreign materials from accumulating in wells;

- use of suitable equipment (spanners, cover lifters), PPE (gloves) and correct posture when lifting and handling manhole covers;

- observe no-smoking rule and do not use naked flames;

- type-approved extinguishers, regularly checked, within easy reach;

- connected earthing, and before unloading from tanker use AD pliers to ensure the equipotentiality of metal structures;

- active vapour recovery

- vehicle engines switched off

- use of safety procedures

- information and training on risks.

The main actions to counter the risk of health, environmental and organisational risks are:

- correct procedures to be used by the tanker driver when restocking tanks;

- observe safety distances;

- use the face-mask with active carbon filter during sight controls of fuel levels from the tanker’s hatches;

- prevent workers from staying close to the vents of underground tanks;

- suitable PPE and clothes to protect against cold and rain;

- information and training on risks.

Chapter 6 - Outsourcing

The service station is restocked by suppliers of the oil companies.

Chapter 7 - Reference legislation

R.D. 824/27 (articles 44 -46)

M.D. 31.07.1934

Presidential Decree 547/55

Presidential Decree 303//56

Min. Circ. of 8.7.1970

Legislative Decree 285/92 (Highway Code)

Legislative Decree 626/94

Law no. 413/97

L.D. 32/98

Presidential Decree  37/98

M.D. of 20.10.98

M.D. 246 of 24/5/1999

Documentation to be acquired/available at station

Municipal Authorisation after ASL (Local Health Authority) opinion is passed on compliance with health, safety and environmental legislation;

Installation test report (fire services, Finance Technical Office, LHA) (L.D. 32/98)

Mod. A – lightning protection documentation;

Mod. B – earthing system report (with declaration of conformity in accordance with Law. 46/90)

Mod. C – report of outdoor electric installations with risk of explosion/fire

Possession of Fire Prevention Certificate;

LPG tank operations report (pursuant to art. 44-46 of RD 824/27)

Underground tank sealing certificates (Local Health Regulations)

Authorisation to dispose of water (forecourt) ( L.R. 62/85 art. 9) and waste materials

Fuel pump type approval certificate (Ministry of Transport)

Accident register.

Chapter 8 - External risk

Possible pollution of subsoil, with fuels leaking because of non-airtight tanks or spillage. Atmospheric pollution caused by solvent vapours in the event of spillage and by combustion products in the event of fire.

WORK PHASE / RISK FACTORS / PREVENTIVE AND SAFETY MEASURES

WORK PHASE

2. SAFETY AND PREVENTION MEASURES

 

 

 

 

Tank storage

- check stocks, levels and leakage of underground tanks;

- opening and closure 

manhole cover

Structural risks

- fall into open manholes

- slipping

Risks due to handling of loads

acute traumas (dorso-lumbar) caused by lifting manhole covers and crushing (fingers and toes)

Risks due to moving machinery

- knocked down by vehicles when checking levels

Electrical risk

Risk of fire and explosion

- demarcate area

- keep non-involved persons at a safe distance

- inclined footways to allow any spilled liquids to escape

- frequent and adequate cleaning of surfaces, using absorbent material when possible

- use nonslip shoes

- use suitable equipment, PPE and correct posture when lifting and handling manhole covers

- perfectly balanced position so as not to fall in manhole

- connected earthing system;

- see that no-smoking rule is observed

- fire extinguishers within easy reach.

Chemical risk

- risk of inhaling solvent vapours and contact with liquids.

Postural and load handling risks

- repetitive backbone traumas

- Physical risks

- exposure to physical agents (microclimatic factors, traffic noise)

- correct procedures

- suitable PPE and clothing

- information and training on risks.

 

 
1. WORK PHASE      : Tank storage
2. INAIL CODE     : 
3. RISK FACTOR     : Accident, health, environmental and organisational
4. RISK CODE            : 
5. NO. WORKERS    : 122

PHASE 2: Storage

Chapter 1 - WORK PHASE

This phase involves the opening of manholes, checking stocks, levels and leakage of underground tanks as well as cleaning operations.

Chapter 2 – Plant, Equipment and Machinery

This phase involves underground tanks (for premium and unleaded petrol, diesel and LPG), manhole/drain covers, tools to open and move covers.

The tanks (having capacity of 7, 10 or 15 m3) are generally double-shelled and made out of welded sheet steel with crowned bases. The resulting chamber is filled with inert gas, recorded by a pressure gauge located in a visible position. All the tanks are connected via insulating copper pipes and are connected to the earth ring via a copper cable having a section of 50 mm2. The outside of the tanks is adequately protected against corrosion. Tanks have a manhole fitted to them having an inner diameter of 50 cm, with a screwed flange cover, tightened using a seal, and are equipped with a first-level saturation safety device and devices to achieve a closed cycle in the loading phase. The cover comprises the loading pipe with bronze mouth and fast-acting lid, a suction pipe, bronze foot valve with double seat and filter, safety equipment consisting of saturation unit, saturation pipe, flanged saturator, intermediate flame trap, closed-cycle semiautomatic piston valve connected to the closed-cycle pipe with quick-coupler and lid and an equilibrium pipe terminating on the outside at a height of not less than 2.50m, endowed with terminal flame trap.

The tanks are laid horizontally on a bed of gravel and sand, propped up in sand and buried at a depth so that the upper generator is over one metre from the surface level above.

The manholes are enclosed in brickwork wells, having waterproofed walls using cement mortar, and metal cover (that can be driven over) with an almost airtight seal, and are at the forecourt level. A copper strap for the earthing of tankers via connection with AD-PE pliers is installed inside the wells on the tank dome and connected to earth wires.

The semiautomatic piston valve works as follows: when the cover of the closed-cycle pipe is removed, a spring inside the valve pushes the cut-off, which has the shape of a truncated cone and is fitted with an axial through hole, against the seat, so as to completely close the opening communicating with the equilibrium pipe: thus during loading operations the vapours in the tank flow through the closed-cycle pipe and the connecting hose, ending up in the dome of the tanker.

If the closed-cycle pipe is closed using the appropriate lid, pressure is exerted on the piston functioning in unison with the cut-off which, by compressing the spring, uncovers the opening to the equilibrium pipe, enabling saturation and a balanced pressure for normal tank operations.

The system includes the underground network of pipes of the petrol vapour recovery system, to be constructed in accordance with the technical directives set forth in L.D. 196/05/96 (in Official Journal of 5.7.96) and M.D. 294 of 27.05.96.

Chapter 3 - The risk factor

The following risk factors are identified:

- accidents

1)       fall into open wells;

2)       slip on forecourt on slippery surfaces;

3)       acute traumas caused by lifting manhole covers and crushing (fingers and toes, dorso-lumbar injuries);

4)       knocked down by vehicles when checking levels

5)       Risk of fire and explosion.

health, environmental and organisational

1)       risk of inhaling solvent vapours and contact with liquids.

2)       repetitive backbone traumas

3)       exposure to physical agents (microclimatic factors, traffic noise)

Chapter 4 - Likely damage

There is a slight likelihood of serious or very serious injuries, including fatal accidents, in this phase due to the risk of fire and explosion, being knocked down by the tanker and falling into wells: accidents of this type have not been recorded in the stations surveyed. There is a greater likelihood of slight injuries due to the crushing of fingers and toes and bruises owing to the incorrect handling of manhole covers.

Chapter 5 - Actions

The main actions to counter the risk of accidents are:

- demarcate area;

- keep non-involved persons at a safe distance;

- inclined footways to allow any spilled liquids to escape;

- frequent and adequate cleaning of surfaces, using absorbent material when possible;

- use nonslip shoes;

- use suitable equipment, wheel wrench, PPE and correct posture when lifting and handling manhole covers;

- perfectly balanced position so as not to fall in well;

- see that no-smoking rule is observed;

- observance of safety distances between underground tanks (M.D. 31.07.1934);

- fire extinguishers within easy reach;

- connected earthing system;

- vehicle engines switched off;

- use of safety procedures;

- information and training on risks.

The main actions to counter health, environmental and organisational risks are:

- prevent workers from staying close to the vents of underground tanks;

- use suitable PPE and equipment, wheel wrench for manhole covers;

- put the cover in a safe and stable place on the floor after it has been lifted;

- suitable clothes to protect against cold and rain;

- information and training on risks.

Chapter 6 - Outsourcing

Seal checks and tank maintenance.

Chapter 7 - Reference legislation

R.D. 824/27 (articles 44-46)

M.D. 31.07.1934

Presidential Decree 547/55

Presidential Decree 303/56

Min. Circ. 8.7.1970

Presidential Decree 524 of 8/6/1982

Legislative Decree 626/94

L.D. 196/05/96

Law 413/97

L.D. 32/98

M.D. 20.10.98

M.D. 246 of 24/5/1999

Documentation to be acquired/available at station

Mod. A – lightning protection documentation;

Mod. B – earthing system report (with declaration of conformity in accordance with Law. 46/90)

Mod. C – report of outdoor electric installations with risk of explosion/fire

Possession of Fire Prevention Certificate;

LPG tank operations report (pursuant to art. 44-46 of RD 824/27)

Underground tank sealing certificates (Local Health Regulations)

Installation test report (fire services, Finance Technical Office, LHA) (L.D. 32/98)

Chapter 8 - External risk

Possible pollution of subsoil, with fuels leaking due to non-sealed tanks or spillage. Atmospheric pollution caused by solvent vapours in the event of spillage and by combustion products in the event of fire.

WORK PHASE / RISK FACTORS / PREVENTIVE AND SAFETY MEASURES

WORK PHASE

No.3

ACCIDENT RISK

SAFETY AND 

PREVENTION

MEASURES

HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ORGANISATIONAL RISKS

SAFETY

MEASURES

Supply of fuel

 

Supply of fuel

 

Supply of fuel

Structural and moving vehicle risks

- knocked down by vehicles,

- slipping

- tripping over or pulled by the fuel pump hose (if the vehicle moves suddenly)

Dangerous substances

- inhalation of and contact with vapour and spurts of fuel

cold burns (LPG)

Risk of fire and

explosion

Electrical risk

- sufficient space for queuing and refuelling, keep area unobstructed;

- pay special attention to moving vehicles;

- adequate cleaning of forecourt

- immediately clean up any fuel spills

- use nonslip safety shoes

- if possible use safety gloves

- if possible use automatic dispensing function;

- when dispensing the pump nozzle must be placed firmly in the filler;

- if a full tank is requested, minimise round-up time;

- ensure the tank is filled correctly to prevent accidental fuel spillage;

- stand to one side of the filler to avoid inhaling vapours or contact with petrol;

- remove the nozzle from the vehicle’s filler and return it to the pump column before accepting payment;

- vapour recovery system

- see that no-smoking rule is observed

- dispensing with engine switched off;

- do not keep in pockets cloth imbued with fuel or material that could set off fire (lighters, etc.)

- extinguishers positioned correctly and in good working order (periodical checks)

- updated FPC (Fire Prevention Certificate);

- electrical installation conforming to law provisions;

- CEI standard 64-2 No. 1431 and CEI 64 - 2/A no. 1432

- check earthing

- safety distances (M.D. 31.07.1934, C.M. No. 10 10.02.1969)

Chemical risk

- risk of inhaling vapour of aromatic hydrocarbon mixes

(benzene, toluene, xylene, ethyl benzene) and aliphatic hydrocarbons (hexane, heptane, octane, etc.)

- absorption owing to direct contact of skin and mucous membrane with relative liquid products or with dirty clothes;

- exposure to lead;

- exposure to airborne exhaust fumes from vehicle traffic

Physical risks

- exposure to adverse microclimate

- use of petrol having low benzene (<1% in weight) and aromatic hydrocarbon content (30%)

- endow installations with vapour recovery system incorporated in fuel pump (M.D. 16.05.96)

- local extraction system used with fuel pumps;

- correct safety procedures;

- spread of self-service systems

- if possible use safety gloves

- avoid contamination of clothing;

- immediately change soiled clothes;

- do not use petrol to clean hands, etc.;

- do not smoke or eat with dirty hands and in the workplace;

- if possible use disposable paper to clean hands;

- if possible use automatic dispensing function;

- when dispensing the pump nozzle must be placed firmly in the filler;

- if a full tank is requested, minimise round-up time;

- ensure the tank is filled correctly to prevent accidental fuel spillage;

- stand to one side of the filler to avoid inhaling vapours or contact with petrol;

- persons below the age of 18 not allowed to dispense fuel;

(Legislative Decree 345 of 4 August 1999)

- correct and regular maintenance of installation;

- protection of dispensing area with appropriate canopy and building or prefabricated building for sheltering the attendant and adequate lavatories;

- use suitable protective clothing against rain and cold;

- training and information;

health monitoring depending on risk level.

 

 
1. WORK PHASE      : Dispensing of fuel to vehicles
2. INAIL CODE     : 
3. RISK FACTOR     : Accident, health, environmental and organisational
4. RISK CODE            : 
5. NO. WORKERS    : 292

PHASE 3: Dispensing of fuel

Chapter 1 - WORK PHASE

The following supply methods are possible:

1) traditional method, manual;

2) dispensing using a preset device;

3) self-service dispenser with or without attendant.

Installations may be broken down as follows;

a) existing, not endowed with vapour recovery system (pending upgrading in accordance with M.D. 294 of 27.05.96 and Law 413 of 4/11/97 - M.D. 294 of 27.05.96;

b) existing, recently upgraded;

c) new installations endowed with vapour recovery system;

d) stations with local vapour extraction system.

In this WORK PHASE the attendant, who in most cases is also the station manager, dispenses the amount of fuel requested after having opened the vehicle’s fuel tank, and collects payment after having re-closed the tank.

The time spent close to the source of vapour emission (pump nozzle–tank) is reduced when preset devices are present.

If there are self-service pre-pay installations, the driver of the vehicle performs refuelling operations himself after having paid via cash or magnetic payment card the amounted due in the cashier unit (which accepts banknotes and credit cards) close to the pump. Drivers in difficulty can be helped by station staff if they are present.

In other cases the driver, after having dispensed the desired amount of fuel, goes to the nearby kiosk to make the payment, which is accepted by a member of staff.

Chapter 2 – Plant, Equipment and Machinery

The dispensing area consists of more than one island, above which a metal prefabricated canopy is installed, with a false ceiling made from a self-extinguishing material, the station kiosk, or shop, lavatories and fuel pumps.

The installations chiefly consist of multiproduct pumps (usually 3 in number) for the dispensing of premium and unleaded petrol and diesel, connected to the respective tanks and possibly to the self-service pre-pay units, which accept banknotes and credit cards, and of a single gas-oil mixture pump, connected to the premium petrol tank and the lube oil tank (0.3 m3).

The pumps, endowed with type approval certification, are installed in ad hoc dispensing islands, have electronic heads and are approved in accordance with title 1 chap. XVII of M.D. 31 July 1934.

Connections to electrical and earthing installations conform to CEI Standards 64-2 no. 1431 and CEI 64-2/A no. 1432.

If pumps fail to work properly, antispill valves come into action to interrupt product dispensing.

Internal, external and protection safety distances are within the limits fixed by M.D. 21.07.1934 and by the Circular issued by the Interior Ministry, no. 10, of 10.02.1969.

Chapter 3 - The risk factor

The following risk factors are identified:

- accidents

1)       knocked down by vehicles,

2)       slipping

3)       tripping over or pulled down by the dispensing hose (if the vehicle moves suddenly)

4)       inhalation of and contact with vapour and spurts of fuel, cold burns (LPG);

5)       risk of fire and explosion;

6)       electrical risk.

health, environmental and organisational

1) risk of inhaling vapour of aromatic hydrocarbon mixes (benzene, toluene, xylene, ethylbenzene), aliphatic hydrocarbons (hexane, heptane, octane, etc.) and 1-3 butadiene;

2) exposure due to direct contact of skin and mucous membrane with relative liquid products or with dirty clothes;

3) exposure to airborne exhaust fumes from vehicle traffic;

4) exposure to lead;

5) exposure to unfavourable microclimate.

Chapter 4 - Likely damage

There is a slight likelihood of serious or very serious injuries, including fatal accidents, in this phase due to the risk of fire and explosion and being knocked down by vehicles. Accidents of this type or occupational diseases have not however been recorded at the stations surveyed.

Chemical risk: benzene

Benzene, the content of which in petrol ranges from 0.5% to 3.4% in weight (1-5-19-20-32) is a human carcinogenic agent; exposure to this compound entails the risk of developing leukaemia, in particular acute myelocytic leukaemia. These pathologies were first reported in the 1970s among chemical workers involved in the production of Pliofilm and exposed to concentrations of benzene in the region of hundreds of ppm (28). Benzene is thus placed in group 1 (human carcinogenic agents) by the international agency of research on cancer (IARC). Petrol vapours and exhaust fumes from petrol engines are considered by the IARC as possible human carcinogenic agents (Group 2B), while emissions from Diesel vehicles are classified in the group (Group 2A) of likely carcinogenic agents. Extended exposure to high doses of benzene may also cause Diamond-Blackfan syndrome, leucopenia, thrombopenia, neurotoxic effects (29-42). Human carcinogenicity as a result of exposure to high doses has definitely been shown: studies have indeed shown an epidemiological link between leukaemia and exposure to benzene refer to workers exposed to high doses of benzene, while many doubts remain as to the risk of leukaemia from low levels of exposure. Benzene, whose use as a solvent is now forbidden in the EU, is present in varying concentrations in biological matrices (vegetable), combustion residues and petrol for motor propulsion available on the market. Its ubiquitous presence in the ecosystem means that broad sections of the population are exposed to low doses.

Surveys have been conducted throughout the country in recent years, some of which coordinated by the Higher Institute for Health, on the evaluation of risk associated with exposure to benzene contained in motor fuels. Retrospective mortality studies on 2,665 service station workers in the Latium region (33) showed insignificant increases in tumours of the oesophagus, bladder, encephalon and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, while tumours of the kidney, lung and leukaemia proved to be less frequent than expected; other studies suggested an increased risk of respiratory tumours and of kidney tumours among pump attendants (30-34) but not of acute myeloid leukaemia (27). In a cohort of 23,306 British workers distributing fuel with tankers, modest but significant increases in cases of leukaemia, tumours of the kidney, bladder and prostate were observed (41). A recent meta-analysis carried out on 208,741 workers in the oil industry exposed to generally higher levels than service station workers did not show a significant increase in mortality caused by leukaemia (46). No certain link was demonstrated between exposure to benzene and an increase in leukaemia and death due to leukaemia in ecological studies on the distribution of fuel in 19 European countries (44). In a cohort of 19,000 workers exposed to benzene vapours presumably at concentrations ranging from 500-1000 g./m3 in service stations in 4 northern European countries (343,000 persons/year) there was no proven excess risk of leukaemia in general and of acute myeloid leukaemia in particular (35). Although the above studies did not show a link between leukaemia and exposure to low doses of benzene, it is interesting to mention a recent survey conducted on 65 service station workers in Rome, which showed up a dose-response relationship between urinary excretion of 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosin (8-OHdG, an indicator of oxidative damage of DNA) and an increase in the intensity of personal exposure to benzene (13). The results of nationwide research conducted by AGIP-Petroli (1-39) pointed up exposure of service station workers to a mean concentration of 482 g./m3 (limit proposed by ACGIH for 1997: 1600 g./m3 – 0.5 ppm ). A recent study funded by the Ministry of Employment and the EEC and conducted by the Higher Institute for Health on occupational exposure to benzene of 27 filling station workers showed levels of 1,730 g/m3 ( SD = 5530) and concentrations of benzene in fuels of 2.86% for premium petrol and 2.65% in samples of unleaded petrol. The study also pointed up statistically significant associations between occupational exposure to benzene and the amount of petrol dispensed/amount of benzene present in the fuel sold on the day of monitoring (32). The National Toxicological Advisory Committee (CCTN) estimated the risk of contracting leukaemia for the whole Italian population, relating to exposure to benzene, from a minimum of 17 to a maximum of 246 cases of leukaemia per year, in other words out of 1,000 cases of leukaemia, 3 to 50 would be the result of exposure to benzene from vehicle emissions. The CCTN has also estimated that the additional number of cases of leukaemia per 1,000 persons occupationally exposed for 40 years to a mean concentration of 480 micrograms/m3 (0.16 ppm) of benzene, is between 0.5 and 2.1. (18-23). In Italy there are about 34,000 service stations in which approximately 100,000 workers are employed: an awareness and appraisal of occupational exposure to benzene among pump attendants is very important, both for the type of pathology associated with the substance and for the number of exposed workers, and also because the information that can be obtained from studies on workers may be useful for surveys on levels of exposure of the general population to petrol vapours and vehicle exhaust fumes.

To assess occupational exposure to benzene and estimate the risk of leukaemia among petrol station workers, 122 filling stations were surveyed in the territory under the jurisdiction of ASL Bergamo of the Lombardy Region; in 90 of these stations interviews were conducted after having made a cognitive inspection of the premises, with the compilation of questionnaires; 292 pump attendants were identified. In service stations located chiefly (70%) in built-up areas, where only 19% of workers were employees and 16% were women workers, the amount of fuel sold by each attendant was calculated, breaking results down by fuel: premium, unleaded, mixture and diesel. In 21 service stations 55 environmental measurements were effected in the period 1995-97, with 17 fixed samplers and 38 personal samplers, to determine the concentration of airborne benzene and methyl benzenes. A total of 155 analyses were performed. Samples of petrol were also collected to determine the concentration of benzene: values of between 0.65% and 3% were recorded (1995). The mean concentration of airborne benzene measured using the personal samplers in 1995 was 560 gr./m3 (SD:240) (new proposed TWA - ACGIH limit: 1600 gr./m3 – 0.5 ppm), and toluene and xylene values below ACGIH limits for occupationally exposed workers. The mean benzene value was close to the national average as measured by the AGIP-Petroli study in 1992 (482 gr. /m3) but below the average recorded for service stations in northern Italy (760 g. /m3): the results of fixed sampling (average 110 g. / m3, SD 58, Range 19-128 ) are comparable with national average results (average 110 g./m3). Measurements were repeated in 1996 for stations where values were close to proposed limits; in 1997 values were recorded at 9 new stations after an information campaign on risks and procedures for correct and safe refuelling and after the adoption of preventive measures: the analyses undertaken showed up a significant reduction ( p 0.001) or a halving, on average, of the concentration of benzene measured using personal samplers (257.3 g/m3 - SD: 148.2). The concentration of airborne benzene was also calculated to estimate urban atmospheric pollution: moving average values for the measuring period were below the limits of quality objectives set for the period through 31.12.1998 (15 g./m3). Environmental measurements were supplemented by biological monitoring data: the concentration of urinary Trans-Trans Muconic Acid collected at the end of the working shift from 40 petrol pump attendants was calculated (ttMA: 262.7 g./g. creat., SD 204.3); results were compared with those of a control group that was not occupationally exposed (ttMA: 43.56 gr./g creat., SD 42.15). Biological data (urinary ttMA) confirmed low levels of occupational exposure to benzene, although there was still a significant difference (p<0.001) between occupationally exposed and non-exposed persons. From the study results it may be estimated that the risk of leukaemia among exposed service station workers is very low: this risk, deriving from mean exposure to benzene of 257.3 g./m3, has been estimated at less than 0.5 cases per 1000 persons exposed for a 40-year period.

Data obtained in 1999 (28 stations monitored, 252 measurements, 84 with reference to benzene) showed a further reduction in exposure, especially in stations endowed with steam recovery plants (83.8 micrg./m3), local steam extraction systems (93.7 micrg./m3) and self-service installations (18.1 micrg./m3): the risk of leukaemia in the latter cases may be considered as negligible, especially for workers at self-service stations.

With reference to risks from other chemical substances, measures to reduce exposure to benzene have made it possible to keep under control risks to worker health deriving from other petrol components (methyl benzenes, octane ..., 1-3 butadiene, lead, etc.).

Chapter 5 - Actions

The main actions to counter the risk of accidents are:

- sufficient space for queuing and refuelling, keep area unobstructed;

- pay special attention to moving vehicles;

- adequate cleaning of forecourt;

- immediately clean up any fuel spills;

- use nonslip safety shoes;

- if possible use safety gloves;

- if possible use automatic dispensing function;

- when dispensing the pump nozzle must be placed firmly in the filler;

- if a full tank is requested, minimise round-up time;

- ensure the tank is filled correctly to prevent accidental fuel spillage;

- stand to one side of the filler to avoid inhaling vapours or contact with petrol;

- remove the nozzle from the vehicle’s filler and return it to the pump column before accepting payment;

- vapour recovery system;

- see that no-smoking rule is observed;

- fill tank with engine switched off;

- do not keep in pockets cloth imbued with fuel or material that could set off fire (lighters, etc.);

- extinguishers positioned correctly and in good working order (type approved and regularly checked) and of a sufficient number (e.g. 5): powder-based 6 kg extinguishers having a capacity equal to or above 89 B and C positioned at the feet of pumps, and buckets of sand ( 4 -5);

- updated FPC (Fire Prevention Certificate);

- electrical installation conforming to law provisions;

- CEI standard 64-2 No. 1431 and CEI 64 - 2/A no. 1432

- testing in accordance with Standard CEI 17-13/1 - IEC 439-1 - EN 60439-1

- check earthing;

- pumps type approved in accordance with M.D. 31.07.1934

- observe safety distances (M.D. 31.07.1934, C.M. No. 10 10.02.1969):

- fuel pumps must be placed more than 6 m from railways or tramways crossing ordinary roads;

- railways or tramways on their own tracks must not be in the vicinity of the installation, i.e. at a distance of less than 20 metres;

- there must be a distance of more than 50 cm from one underground tank to the next;

- underground tanks must be placed more than 2 metres from cellars and similar structures;

- between the installation and the perimeter of prison buildings and annexed land there must be a distance of more than 100 metres;

- fuel pump islands must be placed more than 9 metres from areas specifically indicated as car park areas, from motels, catering structures, cafeterias, restaurants, snack bars and fast-food restaurants having a surface area in excess of 20 m2.

The main actions to counter health, environmental and organisational risks are:

- implementation of the provisions of Title VII from art. 60 to 72 of Legislative Decree 626/94 (Protection against carcinogenic agents);

- use of petrol having low benzene (<1% in weight) and aromatic hydrocarbon content (30%);

- equip installations with vapour recovery system incorporated into dispensing pumps (M.D. 16.05.96, M.D. 294 of 27.05.96 and Law no. 413 of 4/11/97 - M.D. no. 76 of 20.01.1999);

- local extraction system within fuel pump;

- safety signposting and labelling;

- spread of self-service systems;

- if possible use safety gloves;

- correct safety procedures;

- avoid contamination of clothing;

- immediately change soiled clothes;

- do not use petrol to clean hands, etc;

- do not smoke or eat with dirty hands and in the workplace;

- use if possible disposable paper to clean hands ;

- if possible use automatic dispensing function;

- when dispensing the pump nozzle must be placed firmly in the filler;

- if a full tank is requested, minimise round-up time;

- ensure the tank is filled correctly to prevent accidental fuel spillage;

- stand to one side of the filler and in a safe position to avoid inhaling vapours or contact with petrol;

- persons below the age of 18 not allowed to dispense fuel;

- correct and regular maintenance of installations;

- protection of dispensing area with appropriate canopy and building or prefabricated building for sheltering the attendant and adequate lavatories ;

- use suitable protective clothing against rain and cold;

- training and information;

- register of exposed workers (art. 70 Legislative Decree 626/94) ;

- health monitoring depending on risk level;

·         having regard to the proposed health monitoring protocol contained in the final document of the regional Benzene Working Group in 1997 (Prof. Apostoli, Prof. Foà, Prof. Ghittori, et al.), having regard to the indications contained in the Guidelines of the Industrial Hygiene and Medicine Unit of the Autonomous Province of Trento for the Evaluation and management of petrol-related risks to the health of service station workers, and having regard to the results of our study, the following health monitoring protocol is proposed, to be implemented according to the levels of exposure, for pump attendants:

1)       for workers in self-service pre-pay stations: no health monitoring;

2)       for other stations:

a) preventive medical checkups, supplemented by

b) complete blood count, creatininemia, ggt, cot, gpt;

c) ttMA at end of working shift.

Regular annual medical checkup inclusive of tests b) and c) :

- annual up to 1 July 2000

(from that date all installations will be endowed with vapour capture systems);

- biennial, inclusive of tests b) and c) for new stations, for everybody as from 1 July 2000;

If after that date the level of exposure does not show up risks to workers’ health (also bearing in mind environmental and biological monitoring), health monitoring (Title VII Chap. III art. 69 of Legislative Decree 626/94) may be suspended by requesting an exemption in accordance with art. 35 of Presidential Decree 303/56 and in the view of the Competent Physician and Employer in accordance with the provisions of Legislative Decree 626/94, and the station manager may also be exempted from keeping the Register of exposed workers pursuant to art. 70 of Legislative Decree 626/94.

Chapter 6 - Outsourcing

Maintenance, cleaning and control of installations.

Chapter 7 - Reference legislation

R.D. 824/27

M.D. 31.07.1934

Presidential Decree 547/55

Presidential Decree 303/56 (art. 35)

M.D.1877654 of 17.06.59

Min. Circ. 8.7.1970

Presidential Decree 524 OF 8/6/1982

M.D. 342425 of 30.07.83

CEI standards 64-2 No. 1431 and CEI 64 - 2/A. 1432

Standards CEI 17-13/1 - IEC 439-1 - EN 60439

M.D. 332746 of 21.11.81

Legislative Decree 277/91

Legislative Decree 626/94 (Title VII art. 60 -72)

L.D. 196/05/96

Law no. 413/97

M.D. 16.05.96

M.D. 294 of 27.05.96 – Law no. 413 of 4/11/97,

L.D. 32/98

Presidential Decree 37 of 12.01.1998

M.D. no. 64 10.03.1998

M. Circular 95.5.1998

M.D. 20.10.98

M.D. 76 of 20.01.1999 ;

M.D. 246 of 24/5/1999

Legislative Decree 346 of 08.09.1999

Legislative Decree 345 of 04.08.1999

Documentation to be acquired/available at station

Mod. A – lightning protection/calculation of lightning documentation;

Mod. B – earthing system report (with declaration of conformity in accordance with Law 46/90)

Mod. C – report of outdoor electric installations with risk of explosion/fire

Possession of Fire Prevention Certificate;

Pump type-approval certificates 

Installation test report (fire services, Finance Technical Office, LHA) (L.D. 32/98)

Accident register

Appointment of Safety and Prevention Officer

Appointment of Competent Physician

Opinions on job fitness

Exposure register

Chapter 8 - External risk

Possible pollution of subsoil, due to spillage and leaking. Atmospheric pollution caused by solvent vapours in the event of spillage and by combustion products in the event of fire.

The risk of atmospheric pollution may be relevant only in the event of uncontrolled fire.

WORK PHASE / RISK FACTORS / PREVENTIVE AND SAFETY MEASURES

WORK PHASE

NO. 4

ACCIDENT RISK

SAFETY AND

PREVENTION

MEASURES

HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ORGANISATIONAL RISKS

SAFETY AND PREVENTION MEASURES

Sundry vehicle services:

- level checks

- tyre checks

- windscreen cleaning

Structural and risks from moving vehicles

and equipment.

- knocked down by moving vehicles;

- burns caused by contact with hot parts of engine and after opening radiator tops (jets of steam or hot water) or with motor oil;

- slipping;

- injuries caused by incorrectly blocked open bonnet;

- injuries caused by contact with moving parts of the engine;

- exploding tyres during checks

- sufficient space and safety for such operations;

- pay attention to moving vehicles;

- adequate procedures

- engine switched off during operations;

- block open bonnet correctly before commencing work in engine area

- allow the engine to cool before opening the radiator top or unscrew it slowly and with due caution, allowing pressure to be released and using safety gloves;

- if not strictly necessary, do not work while the engine is switched on, and do not place hands close to moving parts or to parts that may start moving;

- portable tyre pump conforming to law provisions and regularly checked

Postural risk

- posture;

Chemical risk

- contact with motor oils;

- contact with windscreen cleaning products;

- inhaling solvent vapours from the carburettor or from dispensing activity;

Physical risk

- unfavourable microclimate (high and low environmental temperatures);

- correct and mobile postures;

- use of PPE (safety gloves);

- use of suitable tools to clean windscreen;

- vapour recovery system;

- correct work procedures;

- avoid performing work close to pumps;

- suitable protective clothing in bad weather;

- training and information;

 

 
1. WORK PHASE      : Sundry vehicle services
2. INAIL CODE     : 
3. RISK FACTOR     : Accident, health, environmental and organisational
4. RISK CODE            : 
5. NO. WORKERS    : 292

Phase 4: Sundry vehicle services

Chapter 1 - WORK PHASE

The main activities performed in this work phase are: checking levels, cleaning windscreen and checking tyre pressure: the first two actions are often performed in tandem with fuel dispensing. When checking levels it may be necessary to add radiator fluid, motor oil and brake liquid. The windscreen is cleaned with specific equipment and products (sponges, cloths, window cleaner).

Tyre pressure is checked using a portable or fixed tyre pump.

Chapter 2 – Plant, Equipment and Machinery

The following items are used to clean the windscreen: windscreen sponge with handle, sponges, cloths, windscreen detergents.

Radiator fluids, brake fluids, battery liquids and motor oils for top-ups are used.

To check tyre pressure: a portable tyre pump or fixed tyre pump located in a safe zone.

Chapter 3 - The risk factor

The main accident-related risks are:

- knocked down by other moving vehicles;

- burns caused by contact with hot parts of engine and after opening radiator tops (jets of steam or hot water) or with motor oil;

- slipping;

- injuries caused by open bonnet not correctly blocked;

- injuries caused by contact with moving parts of the engine;

- exploding tyres during checks.

The main health, environmental and organisational risks are:

- postural;

- contact with motor oils;

- contact with windscreen cleaning products (soaps, anionic and cationic detergents, etc.);

- unfavourable microclimate (high and low environmental temperatures);

- inhaling solvent vapours from the carburettor or from dispensing activity.

Chapter 4 - Likely damage

This work phase may be considered low-risk for workers: no occupational disease recorded, 10 minor accidents over past five years, occurring when checking levels (minor burns to forearm/hands, backache) .

No cases were recorded of allergic and irritative dermatitis through contact or of folliculitis of the skin of upper limbs.

Chapter 5 - Actions

The main actions to counter the risk of accidents are:

- sufficient space and safety for such operations;

- signposting and paying attention to moving vehicles;

- adequate procedures

- engine switched off during operations;

- block open bonnet correctly before commencing work in engine area;

- allow engine to cool before opening the radiator top or unscrew it slowly, with due caution, allowing pressure to be released and using safety gloves;

- if not strictly necessary, do not work while the engine is switched on, and do not place hands close to moving parts or to parts that may start moving;

- portable tyre pump conforming to law provisions and regularly checked;

The main actions to counter health, environmental and organisational risks are

- correct postures that are mobile and not prolonged;

- use of PPE (safety gloves);

- use of suitable tools to clean windscreen;

- suitable protective clothing in bad weather;

- vapour recovery system;

- correct work procedures;

- avoid performing work close to pumps;

- training and information.

Chapter 6 - Outsourcing

No

Chapter 7 - Reference legislation

Presidential Decree 547/55

Presidential Decree 303/56

Legislative Decree 626/94.

Law no. 413/97

M.D. 16.05.96

M.D. 294 of 27.05.96 – Law no. 413 of 4/11/97 ,

Some important documents :

Safety and toxicological data sheets for products used

Register of used oils

Register of special waste materials

Chapter 8 – External risk

No or negligible risk for the environment by virtue of the adequate collection of wastewater and waste materials and cleaning of the work area.

WORK PHASE / RISK FACTORS / PREVENTIVE AND SAFETY MEASURES

WORK PHASE

No. 5

ACCIDENT RISKS

SAFETY AND

PREVENTION

MEASURES

HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ORGANISATIONAL RISKS

SAFETY AND PREVENTION MEASURES

Maintenance and

cleaning services:

work on equipment 

to repair simple problems or for cleaning;

regular equipment checks;

cleaning of area, lavatories, kiosk, handling of waste.

Maintenance of installations and repair of major damage (by other firms)

Structural and equipment-related risks

- slipping;

- nips and cuts;

- falls from ladders when cleaning windows and ceilings;

- burns;

Dangerous substances

- contact with skin irritant products;

(handling of waste)

Electrical risk

(electrocution)

Risk of fire

- adequate cleaning of work area;

- use of nonslip shoes;

- use of adequate safety gloves;

- use of steady and solid ladders, not worn and regularly checked and used in an appropriate and safe manner (correct positioning, right inclination, steady base for all feet, correct inclination, correct balancing of body);

- do not use inflammable products;

- adequate maintenance of wastewater treatment system;

- regular checking of sludge and oil levels, removing and disposing of them in accordance with law provisions;

- disconnect installations and equipment on which work is performed from mains;

- compliance with CEI standards and Law 46/90

- equipment endowed with safety certification (CE marking, UNI compliance)

- observe no-smoking rule and do not use naked flames;

- check correct functioning of equipment and installations, reporting anomalies and seeking the intervention of maintenance firms;

- contracting out and safety measures in accordance with art. 7 of Legislative Decree 626/94 (Coordinated work plan)

Postural risk and handling of loads

- (risk of dorso-lumbar injuries);

Chemical risk

- irritative or allergic dermatitis caused by contact with cleaning products;

Biological risk

- biological risk when cleaning lavatories;

- handling of waste;

Physical risks

- unfavourable microclimate;

- correct procedures;

- do not exceed loads of 30 kg

- handle loads with use of aids;

- use of adequate safety clothing and PPE (gloves, boots, safety shoes, etc.)

(endowed with CE marking)

- safety and toxicological data sheets for products used;

-use of adequate safety gloves

- training and information

 

 
1. WORK PHASE      : Maintenance and cleaning services
2. INAIL CODE     : 
3. RISK FACTOR     : Accident, health, environmental and organisational
4. RISK CODE            : 
5. NO. WORKERS    : 150

 

Phase no. 5: Maintenance and cleaning services

Chapter 1 - WORK PHASE

This phase is marked by activity performed by service station staff, with actions on equipment to repair simple faults or for cleaning, regular equipment checks, cleaning of work area, lavatories and kiosk, and larger-scale actions for the regular maintenance and cleaning of installations (nozzles, pumps, tanks, car wash, hydraulic lift, tyre pump, etc.) and to repair major faults, the latter being carried out by specialist external firms, as well as regular checks of electrical and fire prevention systems, including the regular checking of fire extinguishers.

Cleaning operations at motorway or large-sized service stations are performed by external cleaning firms.

Chapter 2 – Plant, Equipment and Machinery

The following items and products are used for cleaning: ladders, mechanical floor sweepers, vacuum cleaners for liquid and dust collection, floor polishers, brushes, cleaners, detergents (alcohol + sodium alkane sulphonate, isopropanol + perfume essences, etc.), detergents, e.g. sodium carbonate + sodium perborate + AND, etc.), soaps, shampoos, disinfectants (formaldehyde, alcohol), descalers, window spray cleaners ( 2-Butoxyethanol) and for furniture (non-ionic surface-active agents, paraffin oil and silicone, isoparaffin), chlorine bleach, strong acid solutions, hydrochloric acid, ammonia with concentration of 3% - 5% - 6%, etc.

Equipment used for the maintenance and repair of installations are those generally used by external firms called upon to intervene.

Chapter 3 - The risk factor

The main accident-related risks are:

- slipping;

- nips and cuts;

- falls from ladders when cleaning windows and ceilings;

- burns;

- contact with skin and mucous membranes irritant products;

- electrical risk;

(electrocution)

- risk of fire and explosion.

The main health, environmental and organisational risks are

- posture and handling of loads, with the risk of dorso-lumbar injuries;

- irritative or allergic dermatitis caused by contact with cleaning products;

- biological risk when cleaning lavatories;

- unfavourable microclimate (sudden heat changes);

- handling of waste.

Chapter 4 - Likely damage

The risks identified for the implementation of preventive measures may be considered as very low. No accident or occupational disease has been recorded over the past 5 years.

Chapter 5 - Actions

The main actions to counter the risk of accidents are:

- adequate cleaning of work area;

- use of nonslip shoes;

- use of adequate safety gloves;

- do not use inflammable products;

- use of steady and solid ladders, not worn and regularly checked and used in an appropriate and safe manner (correct positioning, right inclination, steady base for all feet, correct inclination, correct balancing of body);

- adequate maintenance of wastewater treatment system;

- regular checking of sludge and oil levels, removing and disposing of them in accordance with law provisions;

- disconnect installations and equipment on which work is performed from the mains;

- compliance with CEI standards and Law 46/90

- equipment endowed with safety certification (CE marking, UNI compliance)

- observe no-smoking rules and do not use naked flames;

- check correct functioning of equipment and installations, reporting anomalies and seeking the intervention of maintenance firms;

- contracting out and safety measures in accordance with art. 7 of Legislative Decree 626/94 (Coordinated work plan).

The main actions to counter health, environmental and organisational risks are:

- correct safety procedures;

- do not exceed loads of 30 kg

- handle loads with use of aids;

- use of adequate safety clothing and PPE (gloves, boots, safety shoes, etc.)

(endowed with CE marking)

- training and information

- availability of information from the safety and toxicological datasheets of products used.

Chapter 6 - Outsourcing

The maintenance of installations, and in some cases general cleaning activities, are outsourced. Service station staff ensure that equipment and installations are working properly, reporting any anomalies and seeking the intervention of maintenance firms, with which the Station stipulates a work contract, in which safety measures are specified, in accordance with art. 7 of Legislative Decree 626/94 (Coordinated work plan).

 

Chapter 7 - Reference legislation

Presidential Decree 547/55

Presidential Decree 303/56

Legislative Decree 626/94 (art. 7).

Legislative Decree 22/97 and subsequent amendments.

Chapter 8 – External risk

Possibility of polluting the subsoil due to spillage (fuels) and leakage during cleaning and maintenance operations and to products used for cleaning (soaps and detergents). Atmospheric pollution caused by solvent vapours in the event of spillage and by combustion products in the event of fire.

The risk of atmospheric pollution may be relevant only in the event of uncontrolled fire.

WORK PHASE / RISK FACTORS / PREVENTIVE AND SAFETY MEASURES

WORK PHASE

No. 6

ACCIDENT RISKS

SAFETY AND

PREVENTION

MEASURES

HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ORGANISATIONAL RISKS

SAFETY AND PREVENTION MEASURES

Garage

- Repair of vehicle engines and mechanical parts;

- vehicle servicing;

- level checks and battery charging;

- motor oil substitution;

- pressure checks and tyres substitution;

- storeroom.

- activities using hydraulic lift;

Structural and moving vehicle risks

- knocked down by vehicles in movement or being tested;

Risks from machinery and equipment 

- injuries to upper limbs due to crushing, cuts, entanglement owing to use of manual equipment and contact with cutting parts;

(screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, grinding stones, small drills, portable emery wheel, equipment for loading air conditioning, recipients under pressure for loading oil)

- projection of splinters;

- burns caused by contact with hot parts of engine and after opening radiator tops (jets of steam or hot water) or with motor oil;

- injuries caused by open bonnet not correctly blocked;

Dangerous substances

- spurts/jets of liquids – acid from batteries,

Other risks

- slipping and tripping up;

- injuries caused by contact with moving parts of the engine;

- exploding tyres during checks;

- falling in the hole used for repairs from below;

- dorso-lumbar traumas;

- materials falling from above (from hydraulic lift or storeroom shelves or packaging);

Electrical risk

- electrocution owing to accidental contact with damaged electric cables, equipment in poor condition, portable electric lights)

Risk of fire and explosion (inflammable substances)

- sufficient space and safety for such operations;

- pay attention to moving vehicles;

- signposting and safety notices;

- machinery, tools, equipment installed as recommended by the manufacturer and used in appropriate fashion, accompanied by instruction booklet for use;

- fixed or mobile guards for machine tools;

- use of safety goggles;

- adequate procedures

- engine switched off during operations;

- block open bonnet correctly before commencing work in engine area;

- allow the engine to cool before opening the radiator top or unscrew it slowly, with due caution, allowing pressure to be released and using safety gloves;

- adequate and frequent cleaning of floors;

- use of nonslip safety shoes;

- if not strictly necessary, do not work while the engine is switched on, and do not place hands close to moving parts or to parts that may start moving;

- portable tyre pump conforming to law provisions and regularly checked;

- compliance with UNI standards for work pits for vehicles;

- suitable signposting and protection of pits;

- use of suitable aids and equipment to handle heavy loads;

- use of pedal-operated hydraulic lifts;

- fixed shelving and materials stored in safe position;

use of safe and steady ladders;

- declarations of conformity and regular servicing of hydraulic lifts;

- notices indicating maximum bearing capacity for vehicle hydraulic lifts;

- correct positioning of vehicle on lift, with weight balanced, gear engaged and hand brake pulled;

- care taken with vehicle raising/lowering phases;

- use of wheel-blocking wedges if necessary;

- nobody on board the vehicle when it is on the lift;

- electric system constructed in workmanlike fashion (Law 46/90);

- declaration of earthing system and regular checks (every two years);

- ASL opinion to obtain licence;

- observe no-smoking rule and do not use naked flames;

- avoid the formation of explosive mixes;

- Fire Prevention Certificate if required;

- presence of regularly checked portable or fixed fire extinguishers (A-B-C);

- training of fire prevention team;

- exits unobstructed;

Postural risk and handling of loads

- avoid uncomfortable and forced postures;

- handling of engine pieces;

Chemical risk

- contact with used motor oils;

- degreasers for cleaning of pieces;

- possible asbestos fibres when substituting brakes and clutches;

- vehicle exhaust fumes and gases;

- suitable instrumentation and equipment;

- organise work so as to avoid fixed and prolonged postures

- adequate work procedures;

- do not exceed weights of 30 kg;

- use of suitable aids;

- use of suitable protective clothing and PPE resistant to oils

(safety gloves, shoes, overalls and aprons)

- avoid keeping oil-imbued cloths in overall pockets;

- avoid cleaning one’s hands with the same cloths or pieces of paper used to clean pieces or equipment, do not use abrasive pastes, solvents or emulsions;

- use adequate detergents, such as neutral or slightly acid liquid soaps, and suitable means of cleaning and drying in work places, such as disposable towels, preferably paper towels but always clean. It may be useful to use a suitable brush to clean around one’s nails;

- cleanse skin frequently during work pauses, before eating and urinating, use moisturising emollient creams  after end-of-shift washing in winter months, especially persons with dry skin;

- do not eat in the garage.

- avoid scattering dust and asbestos fibres during the maintenance of brakes and clutches;

- work environments should be well aired and ventilated;

- use of exhaust gas (e.g. CO) extraction system fitted to vehicle exhaust;

- training and information;

- health monitoring only for large-sized garages performing specific activities and with documented estimate of possible health damage (irritative and allergic dermatitis due to contact, dorso-lumbar pathologies or disorders, irritation of respiratory apparatus, carcinogenic risk caused by exposure to API from used oils.

 

 
1. WORK PHASE     : Garage
2. INAIL CODE     : 
3. RISK FACTOR     : Accident, health, environmental and organisational
4. RISK CODE            : 
5. NO. WORKERS    : 12

 

Phase no. 6: Garage

Chapter 1 - WORK PHASE

This activity may be considered as secondary in service stations. Of stations surveyed, only 6 (5%) offered this service. When performed with a certain intensity it may however have an important effect in terms of worker exposure to risk factors. The main activities performed were found to be the repair of vehicle engines and mechanical parts, servicing and fine-tuning, level checks and battery charging, substitution of motor oil, the checking of tyre pressure and tyre replacement. Some of these activities require the use of pits (activity performed from below) or hydraulic lifts.

Chapter 2 – Plant, Equipment and Machinery

The following equipment is used in the garage: screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, grinding wheel, small drills, portable emery wheel, equipment for loading air conditioning, recipients under pressure for loading oil, battery chargers, portable electric lights, hydraulic lifts, portable or fixed tyre pumps, three-phase tyre remover and vulcaniser, system to extract CO from exhaust pipes, compressors to power compressed air system, testers, headlight load levellers.

The following are also used: products for cleaning and degreasing parts (solvents such as turpentine), universal detergents, lubricants for automatic gears and power steering, transmissions, differential self-locking devices, motor propulsion, antifreeze and windscreen detergents.

Chapter 3 - The risk factor

The main accident-related risks are:

- being knocked down by vehicles on the move or being tested;

- injuries to upper limbs due to crushing, cuts, entanglement through use of manual tools and contact with sharp parts (screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, grinding machines, small drills, portable emery wheels, equipment for loading air conditioning, recipients under pressure for loading oil);

- projection of splinters;

- burns caused by contact with hot parts of engine and after opening radiator tops (jets of  steam or hot water) or with motor oil;

- injuries caused by open bonnet not correctly blocked;

- spurts/jets of liquids – acid from batteries,

- slipping and tripping up;

- injuries caused by contact with moving parts of the engine;

- exploding tyres during checks or substitutions;

- falling in the pit used for repairs from below;

- dorso-lumbar traumas;

- materials falling from above (from hydraulic lift or storeroom shelves or packaging);

- electrical risk: electrocution owing to accidental contact with damaged electric cables, equipment in poor condition, portable electric lights;

- risk of fire and explosion (inflammable substances).

The main health, environmental and organisational risks are

- uncomfortable and forced postures;

- handling of engine pieces;

- contact with used motor oils;

- degreasing products for cleaning items (turpentine, trichloroethylene, petrol);

- possible asbestos fibres when substituting brakes and clutches;

- vehicle exhaust fumes and gases (tetraethyl lead, carbon monoxide, benzene and methyl benzenes, hexane, etc.)

Chapter 4 - Likely damage

In the garages of service stations under observation risks may be considered as low once all preventive, organisational and procedural measures are in place and implemented. 3 slight accidents were however recorded for the past 5 years: 1 foreign body in eye, 1 bruised finger, 1 acute backache. No occupational disease was reported or recorded. In 1997 the following biological monitoring tests were carried out on 12 garage workers: Pb emia, ZPP, HbCO, Urinary Trans-Trans Muconic Acid at the end of the working shift to assess exposure to exhaust fumes and gases and petrol vapours: 50% (6 subjects) of HbCO values proved to be above the biological limit for the general population (although 5 of these subjects were smokers). Other values were below the BLV.

Cases of irritative or allergic dermatitis from contact were not encountered.

Chapter 5 - Actions

The main actions to counter the risk of accidents are:

- sufficient space and safety for such operations;

- pay attention to moving vehicles;

- signposting and safety notices;

- machinery, tools, equipment installed as recommended by the manufacturer and used in appropriate fashion, accompanied by instruction booklet for use;

- fixed or mobile guards for machine tools;

- use of safety goggles;

- adequate procedures

- engine switched off during operations;

- block open bonnet correctly before commencing work in engine area;

- allow the engine to cool before opening the radiator top or unscrew it slowly, with due caution, allowing pressure to be released and using safety gloves;

- adequate and frequent cleaning of floors;

- use of nonslip safety shoes;

- if not strictly necessary, do not work while the engine is switched on, and do not place hands close to moving parts or to parts that may start moving;

- portable tyre pump conforming to law provisions and regularly checked;

- compliance with UNI standards for work pits for vehicles;

- suitable signposting and protection of pits;

- use of suitable aids and equipment to handle heavy loads;

- use of pedal-operated hydraulic lifts;

- fixed shelving and materials stored in safe position;

- use of safe and steady ladders;

- declarations of conformity and regular servicing of hydraulic lifts;

- notices indicating maximum bearing capacity for vehicle hydraulic lift;

- correct positioning of vehicle on lift, with weight balanced, gear engaged and

 hand brake pulled;

- care taken with vehicle raising/lowering phases;

- use of wheel-blocking wedges if necessary;

- nobody on board the vehicle when it is on the lift;

- electric installation constructed in workmanlike fashion (Law. 46/90);

- declaration of earthing system and regular checks (every two years);

- ASL opinion to obtain licence ;

- observe no-smoking rule and do not use naked flames;

- avoid the formation of explosive mixes;

- Fire Prevention Certificate if required ;

- presence of regularly checked portable or fixed fire extinguishers (A-B-C);

- training of fire prevention team;

- exits unobstructed.

The main actions to counter health, environmental and organisational risks are:

- suitable instrumentation and equipment;

- organise work so as to avoid fixed and prolonged postures;

- adequate work procedures;

- do not exceed weights of 30 kg;

- use of suitable aids;

- use of suitable protective clothing and PPE resistant to oils (safety gloves, shoes, overalls and aprons)

- avoid keeping oil-imbued cloths in overall pockets;

- avoid cleaning one’s hands with the same cloths or pieces of paper used to clean pieces or equipment, do not use abrasive pastes, solvents or emulsions;

- use adequate detergents, such as neutral or slightly acid liquid soaps, and suitable means of cleaning and drying in work places, such as disposable towels, preferably paper towels but always clean. It may be useful to use a suitable brush to clean around one’s nails;

- cleanse skin frequently during work pauses, before eating and urinating, use moisturising emollient creams after end-of-shift washing in winter months, especially persons with dry skin;

- do not eat in the garage.

- avoid scattering dust and asbestos fibres during the maintenance of brakes and clutches;

- work environments should be well aired and ventilated;

- use exhaust gas (e.g. CO) extraction system that can be connected to the vehicle’s exhaust;

- training and information;

- health monitoring only for large-sized garages performing specific activities and with documented estimate of possible health damage (irritative and allergic dermatitis due to contact, dorso-lumbar pathologies or disorders, irritation of respiratory apparatus, carcinogenic risk caused by exposure to polycyclic aromatics from used oils.

Chapter 6 - Outsourcing

The replacement of tyres and the balancing and servicing of vehicles are carried out by specialist garages (with the exception of two service stations). Car body repairs are carried out by specialist body repair shops.

 

Chapter 7 - Reference legislation

Presidential Decree 547/55

Presidential Decree 303/56

Law 691/82

Law 46/90

Legislative Decree 277/91

Law 95/92

Legislative Decree 626/94

Legislative Decree 22/97 and subsequent amendments.

Legislative Decree 389/97

Presidential Decree 37 of 12.01.1998

M.D. 64 of 10.03.1998

Min. Circular 95.5.1998

Chapter 8 – External risk

There is the possibility of pollution of subsoil, aquifer strata and waterways if the management of the collection, storage and disposal of dangerous waste (used batteries, motor oils, solvents) is poor (Legislative Decree 22/97 – Legislative Decree 389/97 - Law 691/82 Law 95/92)

WORK PHASE / RISK FACTORS / PREVENTIVE AND SAFETY MEASURES

WORK PHASE

No. 7

ACCIDENT RISKS

SAFETY AND

PREVENTION

MEASURES

HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ORGANISATIONAL RISKS

SAFETY AND PREVENTION MEASURES

Car wash

- Hand wash

- Machine wash

Structural risk

- being knocked down by vehicles

- slipping.

Machinery and installations

(automatic car wash with rotating brushes, vacuum cleaner)

- risk of injuries from cuts and jutting and/or pointed parts of vehicles;

- mechanical risk from movement of rotating parts (automatic car wash);

Electrical risk.

- specific car wash area, with sufficient space and demarcated;

- signposting and safety notices;

- area kept free of slippery substances and obstacles;

- vehicles queuing must have their engines turned off and hand brake on;

- use of nonslip shoes/boots;

- use of safety gloves and adequate devices to protect hands during manual car  wash phases;

- comply with instructions supplied by manufacturers of the automatic car wash and vacuum cleaner;

(maintenance handbook – CE marking)

- correct maintenance and checking of the installation’s safety systems;

- Stop/Emergency button to interrupt the wash cycle in the event of an emergency;

- keep out of the way of moving parts during automatic washing;

- nobody should remain on board the vehicle during washing operations;

- earthing and other devices to protect against lightning: certification and regular checks;

- system connected to automatic cut-out apparatus;

- switchboard endowed with switch to cut off power if door opens.

Postural risk

- incorrect posture when cleaning parts inside vehicle;

Physical risk

- noisy automatic car wash installation;

(disturbing workers and the local population)

- unfavourable microclimate (high- low temperatures, water temperature for hand washing),

Chemical risk

- skin and mucous membrane contact with cleaning products (e.g. potassium hydroxide, sodium metasilicate +2-Butoxyethanol, etc.), shampoos, protective tyre polish (diethylene glycol);

- inhaling volatile products (sprays) used to clean windows and inside of vehicles.

- Procedural and organisational measures;

- soundproofing (e.g. semi- or completely-closed cab),

- adequate protective clothing and work equipment;

- suitable water temperature (for hand washing)

- information and training (product safety and toxicological datasheets)

- use of PPE (safety gloves)

- when using volatile products for cleaning the inside of vehicles, keep the doors open.

 

 
1. WORK PHASE      : Car wash
2. INAIL CODE     : 
3. RISK FACTOR     : Accident, health, environmental and organisational
4. RISK CODE            : 
5. NO. WORKERS    : 56

 

Phase no. 7: Car wash.

Chapter 1 - WORK PHASE

This phase is present in 45% of the Service Stations surveyed, 30% of which possess an automatic car wash installation. Activity becomes particularly intense in the warmer seasons and throughout the year at weekends. This phase is usually handled by one or two workers who also attend fuel pumps. After positioning the vehicle in the wash area, the member of staff asks the driver to get out the vehicle before turning on the washing machine. Washing may be limited to external parts only, and upon request may be completed by hand for the inside of the vehicle with the use of vacuum cleaner. Protective polish is always used for the visible part of the tyre rims. A complete car wash takes 20-25 minutes, the external automatic car wash only 7-10 minutes.

Chapter 2 – Plant, Equipment and Machinery

The following equipment is used in addition to the automatic car wash using rotating brushes: vacuum cleaners, cloth-squeezing equipment, sponges, chamois leather or synthetic cloths for drying and polishing, paintbrush for polishing tyres. Cleaning and washing products used include shampoos and detergents based on potassium hydroxide (< 2%), sodium metasilicate +2-Butoxyethanol (10%) and as protective tyre polish a product containing diethylene glycol with 25% concentration.

Chapter 3 - The risk factor

The main accident-related risks are:

Structural risk

- being knocked down by vehicles;

- slipping.

Machinery and installations

(automatic car wash with rotating brushes, vacuum cleaner)

- risk of injuries from cuts and jutting and/or pointed parts of vehicles;

- mechanical risk from movement of rotating parts (automatic car wash);

Electrical risk.

The main health, environmental and organisational risks are:

Postural risk

- incorrect posture when cleaning parts inside vehicle;

Physical risk

- noise from automatic car wash, not such as to result in hearing loss but disturbing for workers (80 Lepd. -dB(A) ) and for the population)

- unfavourable microclimate (high and low temperatures, water temperature for hand washing)

Chemical risk

- possibility of slight irritative or allergic dermatitis, especially due to alteration of the skin’s hydrolipidic film, skin and mucous membrane contact with cleaning and washing products, such as detergents (potassium hydroxide, sodium metasilicate +2-Butoxyethanol, non-ionic surface-active agents, perfumed essences, etc.), shampoos, protective tyre polish (diethylene glycol);

- inhaling volatile products (sprays) used to clean windows and inside of vehicles.

The above risks may be considered as negligible once relative preventive measures are in place.

Chapter 4 - Likely damage

It is difficult to estimate likely damage: Relative data is insufficient.

Non occupational disease was recorded in our survey over the past 5 years, and there were only 2 minor accidents (a slightly twisted ankle - a small subungual finger wound, with prognosis of less than 1 day).

Chapter 5 - Actions

The main actions to counter the risk of accidents are:

- specific car wash area, with sufficient space and demarcated;

- signposting and safety notices;

- area kept free of slippery substances and obstacles;

- vehicles queuing must have their engines turned off and hand brake on;

- use of nonslip shoes/boots;

- use of safety gloves and adequate devices to protect hands during manual car wash phases;

- comply with use procedures supplied by the manufacturers of the automatic car wash and vacuum cleaner;

(maintenance handbook – CE marking)

- correct maintenance and checking of the installation’s safety systems;

- Stop/Emergency button to interrupt the wash cycle in the event of an emergency;

- keep out of the way of moving parts during automatic washing;

- nobody on board vehicle during washing operations;

- earthing and other devices to protect against lightning: certification and regular checks;

- system connected to automatic cut-out apparatus;

- switchboard endowed with switch to cut off power if the door opens.

The main actions to counter health, environmental and organisational risks are:

- procedural and organisational measures;

- soundproofing (e.g. semi- or completely closed cab),

- adequate protective clothing and work equipment;

- suitable water temperature (for hand washing)

- information and training (product safety and toxicological datasheet)

- use of PPE (safety gloves)

- when using volatile products for cleaning the inside of vehicles, keep the doors open.

Chapter 6 - Outsourcing

The car wash installation is maintained by outside firms, usually by the installation’s supplier.

3

Chapter 7 - Reference legislation

Presidential Decree 547/55

Presidential Decree 303/56

Law 46/90

CEI standards

Legislative Decree 277/91

Legislative Decree 626/94

Legislative Decree 22/97 and subsequent amendments

Reg. Law 62/85 - art.9

Chapter 8 – External risk

External risks are chiefly concerned with the possibility of subsoil infiltration and contamination caused by washwater polluted by car wash dirt and products. In addition to general municipal permission for the installation, authorisation must be sought from the local council for the disposal of washwater (wastewater), and sludge settling tanks or the purifier used to recycle washwater must be regularly cleaned.

With reference to noise-related risk when the installation is close to residential areas, noise generated must be measured and reduced if it exceeds the limits fixed for residential or mixed areas (municipal acoustic zoning plan).

WORK PHASE / RISK FACTORS / PREVENTIVE AND SAFETY MEASURES

WORK PHASE

No. 8

ACCIDENT RISKS

SAFETY AND

PREVENTION

MEASURES

HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ORGANISATIONAL RISKS

SAFETY AND PREVENTION MEASURES

Sale of vehicle/other products

- motor oils;

- radiator fluids;

- windscreen wipers

- vehicle air fresheners

- other

other activities

- cafeteria service;

- cash desk.

Structural risks :

- knocks owing to lack of space or obstructions;

- products falling from shelves;

- risk to staff safety from criminals.

Risk of fire;

- storage of inflammable substances;

- Electrical risk

( Law 46/90 – CEI standards)

Electrical equipment, VDT, Cash till, Fax machine, etc.

- dedicated room with suitable surface and working space free of obstructions and bulky materials;

- materials in order on shelves and in a permanent state of equilibrium;

- antitheft system and contract with Security Service if open at night;

- see that no-smoking rule is observed;

- type-approved and regularly checked fire extinguisher;

- fully compliant electric system and earthing;

- switchboard located away from product storage area.

- Postural risk (cashier);

- VDT

Physical risks

- microclimate inadequate (small-sized room)

- lighting inadequate;

Pollutants/chemical risk

- staff exposure to passive smoking (cafeteria)

- training and information;

- dedicated room with suitable surface and sufficient change of air;

- ergonomic chair for computer operator

- correct positioning of VDTs and lighting and sufficient Lux (500-700 lux) (DIN standards)

- ventilation and air conditioning of room and cafeteria, or no-smoking rule (art. 2087 of the Civil Code, Legislative Decree 626/94).

- Operating licence

Health authority licence Law 283/62, Presidential Decree 327/80

 

 
1. WORK PHASE    : Sale of vehicle products (lubricant oils, etc.) / Cafeteria Service
2. INAIL CODE          : 
3. RISK FACTOR          : Accident, health, environmental and organisational
4. RISK CODE                 : 
5. NO. WORKERS         : 92 /  8 (cafeteria workers)

 

Phase no. 8: Sale of vehicle/other products

Chapter 1 - WORK PHASE

Activity entailing the sale of vehicle products may be considered as a marginal phase with reference to exposure to occupational risk factors. The sales point is usually a dedicated area of the kiosk, which is already a small-sized part of the Station. In some cases an ad hoc room is provided, or the sales point is an area of the cafeteria service. In general the following products are sold: motor oils, radiator fluids, windscreen wipers, air fresheners, etc. Another activity is the cafeteria service.

Chapter 2 – Plant, Equipment and Machinery

The main equipment used in this phase is as follows: counter, product display shelving, personal computer, fax machine, cash till, espresso coffee machine, microwave oven, toaster.

Chapter 3 - The risk factor

The main accident-related risks are:

Structural risks :

- knocks owing to lack of space or obstructions;

- products falling from shelves;

- risk to staff safety deriving from criminals.

- Fire risk

- storage of inflammable substances;

- Electrical risk

(Law 46/90 – CEI standards)

Electrical equipment, VDT, Cash till, Fax machine, etc...

The main health, environmental and organisational risks are

- Postural risk (cashier);

- VDT

- microclimate inadequate (small-sized room)

- lighting inadequate;

- Pollutants/chemical risk (cafeteria staff exposure to passive smoking) .

Chapter 4 - Likely damage

Potential damage in this phase derives chiefly from the risk of robbery and cafeteria staff exposure to passive cigarette smoking (relative risk 2 compared with workers not exposed to passive smoking). No accident or occupational disease has been reported or recorded in the Stations surveyed over the past 5 years.

Chapter 5 - Actions

The main actions to counter the risk of accidents are:

- dedicated room with suitable surface and work space and free of obstructions and bulky materials;

- materials in order on shelves and in a permanent state of equilibrium;

- antitheft system and contract with Security Service if open at night;

- see that no-smoking rule is observed;

- type-approved and regularly checked fire extinguisher;

- fully compliant electric system and earthing;

- switchboard located away from product storage area.

The main actions to counter health, environmental and organisational risks are:

- training and information;

- dedicated room with suitable surface and sufficient change of air;

- ergonomic chair for computer operator;

- correct positioning of VDTs and lighting and sufficient Lux (500-700 lux) (DIN standards);

- ventilation and air conditioning of room and cafeteria, or no-smoking rule (art. 2087 of the Civil Code, Legislative Decree 626/94);

- Operating licence;

- Health authority licence Law 283/62, Presidential Decree 327/80.

Chapter 6 - Outsourcing

Cleaning and security firms.

Legislative Decree 626/94 art. 7)

 

Chapter 7 - Reference legislation

Presidential Decree 547/55

Presidential Decree 303/56

Legislative Decree 626/94

Law 283/62, Presidential Decree 327/80.

Chapter 8 – External risk

No external risk if waste from catering activity (cafeteria) is managed correctly.