food

HOW WE CAN HELP

Dust and Fume Extraction Systems for the Food Industry

The food industry encompasses a wide range of companies including manufacturers, restaurants, some aspects of farming, and retailers. Food factories, for example bakeries, are particularly at risk from harmful dusts and can benefit from dust and fume extraction.

There are a number of risks within the food manufacturing industry that LEV systems can be used to manage. These risks are posed by dust and fumes and can lead to respiratory illnesses, allergic reactions, cross-contamination, cancer and even explosions.

Dusts likely to require extraction

Examples of materials associated with dust and fume risk in the food industry include:

Custard powder

Instant coffee

Sugar

Dried milk

Potato powder

Soup powder

Vent-Tech has a wealth of experience working with companies in the food sector to manage these risks through effective LEV systems. Some of the high-profile companies we work with include Kanes, Aunt Bessie’s, Jacksons Bakery and Symington’s.

Within the food industry, LEV systems are not only useful for protecting your employees from the risks of hazardous contact with dust and fumes. They can also help with cleanliness which is an important consideration for both hygiene and managing the risk of cross-contamination.

Processes in the food industry that pose dust and fume risks

Bakeries are a good example of the serious risks that dust can pose in the food sector.

Processes such as tipping flour, sifting, mixing and weighing can produce respirable dust. As can sweeping, and flattening or folding flour sacks.

Respirable dust is made of the finest particles. It can infiltrate the lungs of employees causing serious conditions like white lung, also known as baker’s asthma, which is a type of occupational asthma. Occupational asthma accounts for 33% of food industry compensation cases under the Department of Work and Pensions Industrial Injuries Scheme.

Some dusts and fumes are also carcinogens, which means they have been proven to cause cancer. Others, meanwhile are allergens and contain enzymes which can cause allergic reactions and respiratory issues.

Providing the right LEV solution you need to manage dust and fumes in the food industry

Operating in the food industry, you’ll need to adhere to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH).

In areas where employees are exposed to dust or fumes, the implementation of dust and fume extraction systems is likely to be necessary. Staff training will be essential to ensure they understand the risks and adopt best practices.

From performing an initial assessment, we can provide you with bespoke advice, system design, installation, monitoring, testing, equipment and training.

Find out more

Contact us to find out more about LEV systems in the food industry, how we can help you comply with HSE guidelines, and ensure you have a safe working environment in your factory or other work environment. Call us today on 0117 964 7945.

I have worked with Adrian and his team for a number of years, and have found Vent-Tech to be a very trustworthy and professional team – they deliver.

Andrew Keating, Chief Engineer, Premier Foods