Improving workshop air with EHC exhaust filters
While the introduction of electric vehicles into the workplace has reduced the amount of exhaust fumes, they have not gone away altogether, observes exhaust filter provider K C Business Services Ltd – particularly where larger heavy-duty vehicles and machines are being used.
“Exhaust fumes are not only a problem for people in immediate contact but also people who use the building after, as the particles in the exhaust are deposited upon work surfaces and building decoration,” said the company.
“The common perception amongst people who are unaffected by engine exhaust emissions – often those working away from the problem, is that with modern vehicles and machines these have been eliminated.
“The truth is that although there has been marked reductions in engine emissions they are still there. Most of the emissions equipment fitted to engines only work to their full capacity once they reach a certain temperature; starting from cold they are not at their most efficient.”
The company highlights the health concerns surrounding exhaust fumes, which can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract, adding that many of their component substances are listed as hazardous air pollutants, with some classified as carcinogenic.
“People working in vehicle workshops, bus garages, construction sites, manufacturing premises are all at increased risk to exposure,” it added.
“Most people think they have no problem. One way to identify exhaust fume problem is to take a look at the decoration of the building. Soot and dust build up, air conditioning outlets with soot stains, fog on windows and computer screens… if there are signs of contamination in these places, workers are at risk, and it is also on clothing worn by customers and employees.
“There are a few ways of reducing exposure to exhaust fumes, there is the traditional fixed extraction systems where fan draws the fumes via a hose and blows them to the outside. This involves modification to the fabric of the building with ducting and hose reels being added.”
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) advises that relying on open vehicle access doors should not be the sole means of fume ventilation, the company points out.
“The modern way of reducing exhaust fumes is to capture then at source by fitting a filter system. EHC Teknik manufacture exhaust particulate filters for temporary and permanent fitting to vehicles, or anything with an engine, so that they can be used inside buildings.
“Such vehicles can include cars, vans, trucks, forklift trucks and even construction equipment. The main function of these filters is to remove the particulates in the smoke, but also, they reduce the emission gases…
“As well as a large range of standard items the company will also make one off bespoke items, and because they work with many leading manufacturers, newer vehicles are also catered for.”
More information on EHC exhaust filters is available from official UK agent K C Business Services Ltd.
