Objective
Background This project addresses a problem faced by many European SME s in the wool processing sector. Wool processors are aware that wool process dust can have an adverse affect on the health of their employees and they need to quantify the level produced in their processes. It is also known that wool process dust may cover produced in their processes. It is also known that wool process dust may contain many hazardous chemicals within the dust and the type and extent of these chemicals will vary from process to process.
Objectives Work is necessary to answer many of the outstanding questions in this area and to assess the risks which are currently present and to provide guidance on how to reduce the production of wool dust. This background work is vital before further environmental standards are imposed on the wool processing industry. The objectives of this project are to measure dust levels in various woollen processes in several different European mills and to identify those which generate the largest volumes of dust.
Work programme Changes will be tried and/or recommended which have the potential to reduce dust levels and result in economic savings. Dust levels will be measured using sampling devices carried by mill personnel. Dust collected will be further analysed using sophisticated equipment which will characterise the dust (particle size etc) and any hazardous components. The project has been carefully planned to answer the various industry questions and will provide the industry with a Code of Practice which it needs to proceed with confidence in this area with minimum trouble and costs. In addition the social and environmental benefits which should result will be of immeasurable value.
State of progress Just started.