By January 1, 2022, the TLVs for dusts deemed to have no specific effects have already been modified. However, these will now be lowered once again, in order to better protect the health of workers exposed to these substances. From July 1, 2023, occupational exposure limit values (OELVs) for dusts deemed to have no specific effects will be lowered in France.
Dusts deemed to have no specific effects are dusts that are not classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction (CMR). However, this does not mean that they are harmless to workers’ health. Indeed, dusts deemed to have no specific effects can cause respiratory irritation and health problems such as lung disease.
What is a VLEP?
An OELV is an occupational exposure limit value that defines the maximum permissible concentration of a substance in the air breathed by a worker over a given period. PELVs are used to protect workers’ health against the harmful effects of certain substances.
There are two types of occupational exposure limit values (OELVs):
Short-term VLEP
The short-term VLEP is a limit value that determines the maximum quantity of a substance that a worker can be exposed to over a short period, usually 15 minutes. This limit value is used to protect the worker against the immediate effects of exposure to a substance, such as irritation or allergic reactions.
Long-term VLEP
The long-term VLEP, on the other hand, is a limit value that determines the maximum quantity of a substance that a worker can be exposed to over a longer period, generally 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week. This limit value is used to protect workers against the long-term effects of exposure to a substance, such as respiratory illness or cancer.
VLEPs are established by public health authorities to protect workers’ health against the harmful effects of certain substances. It is important for employers to be aware of the TLVs applicable to their activities, and to put in place the necessary preventive measures to ensure the health and safety of their workers.
What does this mean?
By July 1, 2023, the companies concerned will have to take the necessary measures to ensure that their workers are protected against the harmful effects of these dusts. This may include preventive measures such as ventilation,extraction at source or in the environment, the provision ofpersonal protective equipment, or limiting dust exposure.
How to comply with VLEP?
OberA’s devices are designed to treat ambient air or air directly at source and eliminate harmful substances, in order to comply with VLEP thresholds and protect employee health. These devices can be used in a wide range of working environments, such as workshops, factories, laboratories, etc.
By complying with VLEP limits, OberA’s devices helpimprove employee productivity. Prolonged exposure to harmful substances can cause fatigue, headaches, irritation or breathing difficulties, all of which can have a negative impact on workers’ performance. By protecting employees’ health, OberA’s devices help to improve their well-being and efficiency at work.
Last but not least, by complying with VLEP limits, OberA’s devicesprevent work stoppages due to health problems caused by exposure to harmful substances. This reduces costs for companies and ensures business continuity.
