October 2020

32 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk October 2020 Health & Safety – Dust & Fume Extraction SPECIAL FOCUS T he novel coronavirus can be transmitted via surfaces recently contaminated with viruses. The same is true for allergens. Today, more than 150 million Europeans suffer from chronic allergic diseases, with predictions that by 2025, half of the entire population will be affected. This presents a particular issue for food processing. Individuals may be allergic to a product as a whole or ingredients, mainly proteins, contained in a food product. Given the current frontline medical pressures, the importance of allergy management must not be overlooked. According to Phil Brown, Managing Director of Sparc Systems, confusing guidance, weak legislation, and multi-function food production sites can pollute the entire supply chain. ““The current COVID-19 pandemic has placed greater emphasis on sanitation and best practice in food factories,” says Brown. “Taking preventative measures when it comes to cross contamination of any kind and re-doubling hygiene and sanitation efforts will always help to combat the risk of allergen, pathogen or bacteria contamination.” Food and beverage manufacturers have a Airborne hazards in the factory – more than COVID-19 responsibility to identify allergens that are contained in their products. This responsibility extends to isolating them from other non- allergen products processed in the same facility. But although producers are active in ensuring they source allergen-free products, problems may still occur on the supplier side, especially when sourcing from multiple or multi-function sites. For example, dairy-free products are still often produced at sites that make dairy products. Some might not have dedicated dairy-free machinery and zones. Although thorough clean-downs flush away residual dairy With many factories being redesigned to be COVID-safe, staff returning to work, and with some key staff still not in post, it is easy to lose focus on some of the other airborne hazards lurking in factory environments, which are as dangerous as ever. Andy Pye looks at a few of these. Engineers wearing-disposable face- mask shields to protect against COVID virus or airborne dust.