Chemical agents workplace assessment and evaluation in the glass industry is one of the activities that SSV currently carries out, with the aim to investigate the exposure of the workers to chemical agents, assess the related risk, and define possible corrective actions. Risk exposure is mainly related to the type of raw materials used in production, the type of process applied, the type of protection system adopted and, finally, the type of classification available for the specific substance. Such risk assessment is an important step and requires a deep knowledge of the process workflow and related activities. Primary chemical agents that need to be analysed are: respirable crystalline silica (sand); hydrochloride acid and MBTC (hot end); Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (forming); Soluble Nickel (mould soldering); Refractory Ceramic Fibres (insulation), etc. To assess the risk of exposure of these chemicals, different methodologies can be used. This paper presents specific cases, such as Respirable Crystalline Silica, MTBE, and soluble nickel. Finally, an investigation of the main problem linked to the Exposure Scenario under REACH Regulations will be analysed.
