adminsafety on use of used oil.
This week we address preventative measures on handling and storage of lubricants.
Several people requested a detailed analysis on that topic. We will carry out a detailed synopsis on that in future articles, notwithstanding that ours is an awareness campaign and not a substitute of standing regulations that are in or could be in place.
The Environment Management Agency has adequate measures and guidelines in place on preventive measures that are required for oil. The Factories Act also sufficiently addresses this issue.
However, we are baffled by the fact that despite the existence of all these regulations no action is being taken to address the rot at the Willowvale Road open workshop.
We attach great importance to this subject for the betterment of all users and those that may come into contact with oils. Our major concern is on those who keep huge stock of lubricants on their premises or workplaces.
We believe that there is a mechanism that is in place, however, it is merely the implementation of such mechanisms that needs to be enforced.
We strongly encourage and advise that you do not store insulating, refrigeration, grease, white and medicinal oils in an open space.
Inasmuch as you could store other types of oil in an open-air environment ensure that they do not stay there for long as this could result in peeling of paint hence you will not be able to check on all identification marks contained thereon.
For instance, there are instructions on the containers of these oils which specify how the contents should be used and or mixed.
If the paint peels off due to exposure to the open air it will make it difficult to read the label.
This could result in confusion on the part of the users over the proper usage of the product.
We have in the past articles mentioned the aspect of flashpoint which may be defined as the point at which oil burns that is at about 100 DC.
Therefore, do not keep products that have less than 60 degrees Celsius flash point in the open.
Notwithstanding that, we encourage you to keep those that are above this flash point away from heat. As a general rule provide adequate ventilation in case of the potential formation of vapour, mist and spray.
Take all measures to reduce the risk of exposure, in particular to used or waste oil.
Keep these products away from flammable materials, food and beverages. Do take care and note that empty containers may contain flammable or explosive vapour so take care when disposing the containers.
It is encouraging to note that reputable companies issue cautionary statements as per oil containers such as “Caution – keep out of reach of children”.
Close container when not in use.
First aid measures
- Avoid contact with skin and eyes, use impervious gloves when handling engine oil.
- After contact, wash immediately with soap and water. Protect the environment; dispose of in a responsible manner.
- We urge you not to discharge used or waste oil in drains, soil or water. Do not cut or burn empty containers.
- Do not oil soaked cloths and paper or material used to mop up spills as they can cause a fire.
These should be discarded in line with safety precautions immediately after use.
- In the event that that there is spillage collect the spilled product with sand or any other material and do not discard them into drains or sewers as these should be disposed as per EMA regulations.
Most of us are aware of the bush mechanics and those that operate from unregistered premises and the danger they bring upon themselves and the environment.
We have talked about sludge in some of the articles and imagine that dirt coming into contact with your skin. Sludge is a mixture of acids, alkaline, diesel, petrol and oils, therefore imagine this mixture coming in contact with your skin.
This is why we insist on mechanics keeping their work suits or overalls clean. Again first aid is very paramount in this area of operation.
In the event of fire use carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder or foam extinguishers.
We urge you not to use water jet simply because it has a tendency to fuel the fire.
Recently we travelled to Midlands and Masvingo, in particular Bikita. It is amazing how the UAE oils have flooded that area and out of ignorance hardware shops sell these as genuine oils and a 5-litre SAE 40 goes for US$30 yet this is a very hazardous product.
The only exception were a few such as Total, Caltex garages that had good products.
When oil and fuel come in contact with the skin please wash the area with water and soap.
Eyes
If irritation symptoms get medical attention because some oil products contain triaryl phosphate ester open your eye lids and flush the eye with clean water and seek medical attention immediately.
Inhalation
If you find it difficult to breathe or if breathing stops give artificial respiration and obtain medical attention quickly.
Indigestion
Do not siphon oil products using the mouth if it occurs please do not induce vomiting if the oil product contains triaryl phosphate ester.
These are synthetic non aqueous fluids used as fire resistant in industrial application all over the world and if ingested in the stomach this should be washed out at the earliest possible time by qualified medical staff. Triaryl phosphate esters are usually neurotoxic notwithstanding that can depress cholinesterase activity (These are used in fertilizer manufacturing).
We are participating in the Buy Zimbabwe Campaign next Wednesday. Recognition is also made to the efforts being made by the Marketers Association of Zimbabwe to organise this year’s super brand competition.
We will also be participating at the Chitungwiza Expo, so see you there. Come with your questions and we will answer them. We appeal to these institutions in the lubricants industry and the Motor Trade Association to come up with ways of eliminating fake or substandard products in particular products from the United Arab Emirates.
We are prepared to offer our testing facilities for these products to be tested before they can be allowed to enter the country.
- Let’s meet again next week for more tit bits from Obel. Contact us on above numbers and or through G.Mbeya 0774 215 505 and [email protected]. PROUDLY ZIMBABWEAN
Online Reporter