The transition period for new global labelling and classification requirements for hazardous chemicals starts January 2021. By Meg Crawford

Before the introduction of the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), hazard classifications for workplace chemicals differed all over the world. As a result, what was considered carcinogenic or flammable in one country wasn’t necessarily the same elsewhere. In response to this labelling chaos, the United Nations developed an internationally agreed set of standards for labelling chemicals for use across the globe. The key elements of the GHS included standardised safety data sheets (SDS), hazard testing criteria and warning pictograms.

Australia implemented the 3rd revised edition of the GHS (GHS 3) at the start of 2012. Since that time, GHS 3 has been the only system in Australia that could be used for developing labels and safety data sheets (SDS) for hazardous chemicals used in the workplace. However, in those eight years, we’ve lagged a little behind GHS developments internationally. In light of this, from 1 January 2021, Australia will commence a two-year transition period (wrapping up 31 December 2022) allowing for the implementation of the 7th revised edition of the GHS (GHS 7). Originally, the transition period for GHS 7 was slated for a 1 July 2020 start, but in recognition of the COVID-19 impact on businesses, the date has shifted back.

“Moving to GHS 7 under the model work health and safety laws keeps Australia up to date with our trading partners and international best practice for chemical assessment and hazard communication,” says Michelle Baxter, CEO, Safe Work Australia (the government statutory body, established in 2008 to develop national policy about workplace health and safety and workers’ compensation). “GHS 7 brings improvements that will continue to protect the health and safety of Australian workers.”

WHAT IS GHS 7?

While GHS 7 has a greater impact for manufacturers and importers of hazardous chemicals, suppliers and users must also be aware of the proposed changes. “GHS 7 brings changes to the classification and labelling requirements for aerosols, flammable gases and desensitised explosives,” Baxter explains. “There are also changes to the precautionary statements on hazardous chemical labels to provide more accurate information about how to eliminate or minimise the risks posed by chemicals.”

“Essentially, the changes relate to the introduction of some new hazard categories and classes for certain substances, including desensitised explosives, pyrophoric gases, chemically unstable gases and non-flammable aerosols,” adds Global Spill & Safety director Brad Lowson. “In addition to that, there are some updates to the precautionary statements, and that’s mainly around eye irritation. It really is a revision more than an update. The fundamentals are largely the same.”

GETTING READY FOR COMPLIANCE

The bulk of responsibility for implementing the GHS 7 changes falls with manufacturers and importers. “If you manufacture or import chemicals, you should review the changes to determine if the classification requirements for any of your products have changed,” Baxter urges.

However, users aren’t let off the hook entirely. That said, the steps during the transitional period are pretty straight forward, and Lowson has some useful tips to assist. “First of all, check that your labelling and SDS match up on your hazardous chemicals,” he says. “Next, check their dates. Particularly towards the end of December 2022, you need to check in with your suppliers and make sure that they’re  observing the new requirements. Also, make sure that you have an appropriate person in your business to manage the updates to your labels and SDS. You need someone to champion that.”

As a director of a company with 30 years’ experience in providing Australian manufactured storage solutions for dangerous goods, Lowson’s next suggestions relate to the safe storage and control measures that should underpin the use of chemicals governed by GHS 7. “As always, make sure that your hazardous chemicals are stored safely and securely, and you have the correct spill equipment on hand so you can deal with any incidents safely and efficiently. Also, make sure that the storage and handling methods are up to date, meeting any new information or safety requirements or standards.”

USING HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS COVERED BY GHS 3

Happily, there’s no need to throw the baby out with the bathwater just yet, if you’re using chemicals governed by GHS 3. “During the transition period, users of hazardous chemicals don’t have to relabel or dispose of existing stock,” Lowson explains. “It’s okay to keep using, handling and storing them, so long as they’re labelled in accordance with GHS 3 and manufactured and imported before 1 January 2023.

“After 1 January 2023, companies shouldn’t be accepting anything that’s not classified or labelled in accordance with GHS 7 or has an SDS that’s not drawn up to comply with GHS 7. It’s really going to be at the back end of 2022 that people will need to pull their socks up and make sure everything is in line.”

Go to safeworkaustralia.gov.au/ghs-7-transition for more information.

One of the ways you can judge how well a welding machine will perform is by looking at its duty cycle.

Duty cycle is the percentage of time that a machine will safely operate (or weld) within a certain time period, at a given amperage. For example, the Weldforce WF-205MST multi-function welder has a duty cycle of 200 Amps @ 30%. This means that it will operate at 200A for 3 minutes within a 10-minute time period. For the remaining time, the machine will switch to thermal overload to cool down.

All welding machines are (or should be) fitted with thermal overload protection which means the machine will cut out when internal critical components reach a certain temperature, to prevent damage. The machine will then re-start when it returns to a safe temperature. Duty cycle will change at different amperages. At higher amperage output the machine will heat up more rapidly, and the duty cycle will reduce. At lower amperages, the duty cycle will increase.

For example—if we look at the WF- 205MST machine again;

Duty cycle at 200 amps = 30%

Duty cycle at 145 amps = 60%

Duty cycle at 110 amps = 100%

 IS DUTY-CYCLE THE BEST WAY TO JUDGE THE PERFORMANCE OF A WELDING MACHINE?

The answer to this question is both yes and no! Duty cycle rating—providing that it is accurate and not over-rated (as is sometimes the case)—is a useful indication of how a welding machine will perform in terms of output and capacity (or productivity). However, duty cycle should not be considered in isolation.

Just as you would (normally) not make a decision to purchase a motor car based only on it’s top speed (say without considering aspects like handling, acceleration, safety, etc) in the same way, there are other factors to be considered when it comes to welding machines.

Firstly, the welding process itself can alter the importance of duty-cycle. Having a higher duty cycle can be important for MIG welders but may be less important for Stick/MMA and TIG. The subject of power draw, power supply and the efficiency of the welder also add another dimension to the duty-cycle subject. This is especially the case with phase (240V) welding machines, where the machine (according to the AS60974-1 standard) must have an effective input current draw (I1eff) equal to or less than the rated power supply that the machine is designed to operate on—commonly either 10A or 15A.

Often, this requirement is the restriction (or “ceiling”) on duty-cycle, more so than what the machine is actually capable of. For example, the Weldforce WF-180MST MIG welder, has a duty cycle of 10% at maximum output of 180A. This machine is actually capable of significantly higher dutycycle, but in order to be suitable for 10A power supply the ouput and duty cycle have been restricted, or capped. This is why machines with greater efficiency offer an advantage (especially 240V 10A/15A single phase machines). Through greater efficiency they can deliver a higher output and duty cycle, from the same level of power input.

The following machines by Weldclass incorporate “PFC” technology, which greatly increases efficiency and gives them a higher duty cycle; Weldforce WF-205MST and WF-255MST MIG/Stick/TIG welders, and the Cutforce CF-45P Plasma Cutter.

There is nothing more Australian than throwing a snag on the BBQ, and there is nothing more enjoyable than spending a summers day out on your deck with family and friends. However, while the Aussie sun can be great, it can also be harsh on your timber decking. Timber decks exposed to the elements are at risk from harmful UV rays, which can not only lead to cosmetic problems, such as discoloration and greying, but structural issues as well.

Impact-A’s new Deck Envy rejuvenates, cleans and restores natural timber. It contains surfactants to remove dirt, oil, grease, algae and mould while restoring the natural colour to your timber. It is biodegradable and Australian Made, so you know it’s ideal for Aussie conditions.

Deck Envy is also perfect for preparing your deck before applying the topcoat. It can be used on existing timber to ensure a clean surface before oiling or staining and is ideal for removing naturally occurring tannins in new timber.

Deck Envy is easy to use. Simply mix one part Deck Envy to four parts water, then using a stiff brush, scrub the mixture into the area to be cleaned. Wait 10 minutes, then hose off. Depending on the stain, you may need to repeat the process.

Breathe new life into your deck with Impact-A Deck Envy and be the envy of your neighbours for years to come.

Available from your local CSS Member store.

Suitable for a range of tasks and trades

When you’re on the jobsite you’re already working hard and you need your tools to work as hard as you are. The aLine CL-5DG green beam crossline laser is one such tool. The CL-5DG is a highly versatile laser that is suitable for a range of interior set-out tasks.

The aLine CL-5DG is an accurate, self-levelling crossline laser with a green beam. The CL-5DG is equipped with two 180° horizontal/vertical lines, plus five perpendicular dots over the interior fit-out area. “The aLine CL-5DG shows off its versatility within the marketplace with its ability to be used by a variety of trades, including plasterers, tilers, cabinet maker, carpenters and electricians. Whether its transferring points from the floor to the ceiling or checking plumb or level,” said David Gentle, Business Manager – Building, Position Partners.

“The CL-5DG has the flexibility to easily handle interior setout tasks accurately and is easy to use with its bright green beams and dots. You can also lock the compensator so that the lines can be used for manual grade tasks.”

The aLine CL5DG laser features a working range of 30m and an accuracy of plus/minus 3mm at 10m. The kit includes: CL-5DG green beam crossline laser; magnetic wall mount; green target; instruction manual; soft carry case. The C-L5DG laser also comes with a two year warranty for your peace of mind.

For more information about the aLine CL-5DG green beam crossline laser, visit www.alinelaser.com.au

Bison boots have hit the shores of Australia and we are stoked to tell our story.

When it comes to boots, our philosophy is Fit, Grip, and Comfort. Our BISON Chief Footwear Designer, Maurice Keats, has had a long career in designing footwear for elite athletes and sport-shoe brands around the world. He is passionate about comfort and safety working together to ensure the needs of the modern industrial worker is catered for.

THIS IS WHERE OUR FIT, GRIP AND COMFORT PHILOSOPHY BEGINS… 

FIT – We’ve created a wide and an extra wide last to enable wearers with broader feet to reduce their standard boot size (length).

It is a common problem when your feet don’t conform to a standard width. Often the only solution is to wear boots one to two sizes larger than required to accommodate a wider foot. The extra length of an ‘up-sized boot’, creates a range of health and safety issues. An oversized boot is a potential trip hazard, which may lead to injury or worse. Boots that are too long increase your chance of toe injury under impact, because your toes are no longer under the protection of the safety toe cap.

We believe your work boots should work for you. That is why we have two sized lasts for our XT boots. Our Standard XT last suits feet of all sizes including those that lean towards wide. Our XT EXTRA WIDE last accommodates for the widest of feet and those who want extra room for big socks.

GRIP – We formulated the Bison Grip nitrile rubber sole in our XTs. This has a multi- directional tread pattern that is more grippy than any other boot we tested, in both wet and dry conditions. We’ve also added a rocker bottom (at heel and toe), and a forward pitch to reduce heel strike, slip risk, and wearer fatigue.

COMFORT – Our market first “IMFLEX” penetration resistant midsole uses thermoforming technology. Thermoforming allows for increased flex across the forepart of the foot and additional cushioning under the heel. Flex in the forefoot reduce wearer fatigue in the arches, feet, and ankles and Cushioning at the heel reduces the risk of heel strike injury. Anti-penetration soles have never felt so good!

And to top it all off we’ve added a state-of-the-art foot bed. Our foot bed is equipped with athletic arch support, compression resilient cushioning, plus an innovative use of channels and holes to encourage air circulation around the foot. Bison XT boots, with a 30-day comfort guarantee, you can’t afford not to give them a go?

Whether you’re repairing an ageing asset or rectifying defects in a new construction, there is a concrete repair solution for every purpose. To help contractors get repairs done right the first time, Fosroc is on hand with product selection and application advice.

“Depending on the defect and the age of the structure, every repair is different. Using the right products and applying them correctly is crucial to avoiding a cycle of repairing the repair,” says Hamid Khan, Fosroc’s ANZ Specification Manager for Concrete Repairs and Grouts. Here are Hamid’s top solutions for five common concrete defects.

NON-MOVING STRUCTURAL CRACKS 

“Cracks provide easier access to oxygen, moisture, chlorides and other corrosive agents that create conditions suitable for accelerating the electrochemical corrosion process,” says Hamid. Non-moving structural cracks in critical elements can be treated with low viscosity epoxy injection or gravity feed methods. Hamid recommends seeking Fosroc’s advice if you are unsure, as it is crucial to diagnose the defect correctly.

Solution: Nitofill LV is injected into concrete cracks to consolidate the structure and protect the reinforcement. This two-part epoxy base and hardener comes in an easy to use dual cartridge pack. Conbextra EP10 is ideal for gravity feed repairs in concrete slabs.

HONEYCOMBING

“Honeycombing is a typical defect in new constructions, often revealed when the formwork is removed,” says Hamid. “If it is not treated properly, it creates an ingress risk from moisture and corrosive agents.”

Solution: Fosroc’s market-leading Renderoc range is ideal for replacing the damaged concrete. The extent and depth of the honeycombing will determine the best product. For patch repairs, Renderoc HB40 Plus and Renderoc HB70 Plus are extra high build mortars that can be applied by hand. When recasting is required, Renderoc LA55 Plus is a fluid microconcrete for large volume structural repairs. Guncrete E is recommended for large vertical and overhead repairs, with a dry-spray application.

LOW COVER, CORROSION & SPALLING

“Low cover is an inadequate distance between the reinforcement and the outer surface of the concrete, exposing the steel to corrosive elements,” Hamid explains. “As steel rusts, it increases in volume, and this expansive pressure results in concrete spalling.” Spalling symptoms range from rust stains to flakes or chunks of concrete breaking off.

Solution: The first step is to control the corrosion. Fosroc’s Nitoprime Zincrich is an anti-corrosion primer formulated for use with Renderoc mortars. Once the barrier protection is applied, Renderoc and Guncrete E repair mortars can be used to increase concrete cover or replace the damaged concrete. Fosroc’s Patchroc range offers fast-setting mortars for floors and pavements. Renderoc ST 06 is ideal for reinstating cover on vertical and overhead surfaces.

CHEMICAL ATTACK

Aggressive chemicals from a variety of sources can contaminate concrete and weaken the cement matrix.

Solution: The following mortars offer excellent surface protection. Renderoc G is a geopolymer acid resistant repair mortar and lining for use in highly corrosive environments. Renderoc CAC offers superior biogenic corrosion resistance for sewer infrastructure while epoxy based Nitomortar 908 is for general purpose patch repairs in aggressive environments.

WATER LEAKAGE

Filling cracks and pores quickly is the best strategy to keep concrete dry and reduce the risk of early onset corrosion and concrete deterioration.

Solution: Fosroc’s hydrophilic and hydrophobic polyurethane injection resins eliminate leaks in reinforced concrete structures. Nitofill PU150 is a hydrophilic flexible polyurethane grout for sealing leaks in cracks and joints. For large cracks and voids, Nitofill PU130 is a hydrophobic polyurethane semi-flexible grout.

For more construction solutions, visit Fosroc’s new ANZ website at www.fosroc.com.au

Generation upgrades to DEWALT® XR® FLEXVOLT

Thanks to revolutionary new Brushless motor and battery technology, and a combination of improved electronics, software and controls, DEWALT® has released four Ultra High Power 54V XR® FLEXVOLT cordless tools that set new standards in performance – delivering up to 47% more power* compared to previous models. First launched in 2016, DEWALT XR FLEXVOLT tools transformed the cordless market and are already recognised for being the most powerful in the industry. Each tool is engineered to provide the performance of corded models with the freedom of cable-free operation – meeting the demands of construction professionals working in the toughest, most extreme and remote conditions. The next generation Ultra High Power products continue the XR FLEXVOLT legacy of efficiency in heavy applications, with additional power and extensive runtime.

First in the new lineup is the DEWALT 54V XR FLEXVOLT DCS578 184mm Circular Saws, which are up to 47% more powerful* than their predecessors. With a 64mm depth of cut at 90°, these heavy-duty saws feature an AirLock™ dust port, an electronic safety brake and rapid, tool-free adjustment.

The second updated tool to incorporate the advanced new features is the DEWALT 54V XR FLEXVOLT DCG418 125mm Angle Grinder, an ergonomically-engineered grinder that couples outstanding performance with unbeatable user protection and comfort. This upgraded model delivers up to 30% more power than the previous model.

Lastly, offering extraordinary cutting power, a premium, well-balanced body design and sculptured rear handle, the DEWALT 54V XR FLEXVOLT DCS389 Reciprocating Saw performs with up to 19% more power than its precursor, to tackle the most challenging cutting applications.

Picture yourself looking at the top of a communications tower knowing you need to drill four 14mm holes to attach a bracket to the tower. You need to climb up the tower with a 12kg magnetic based drill on your back just to drill the hole and then work out how to thread it. It is heavy, dangerous work. Then along comes the Versadrive by Alpha; your job just got a whole lot easier, and faster!

Versadrive by Alpha is the 1st modular cutting system in the world that allows cutting tools to be used across multiple tool platforms such as impact wrenches, drills, and drivers along with rotary drills, magnetic based drills and pillar drills.

This innovative system features a range of impact rated and rotary rated cutting and threading tools coupled with a collection of specially designed and engineered adapters to rapidly fit power tools providing fast tool changeover. The tools in the range have been engineered and tested to outperform and outlast comparable products. They guarantee faster cutting, longer wear life and are designed to maximise performance.

Versadrive tools save time, increase productivity and save money! When you get to the top of the tower with your Versadrive kit you can use your standard, portable power tools to get the job done fast and more importantly, safely.

Investing in Versadrive by Alpha cutting & threading tools removes the challenges of on-site drilling, hole-making and threading in one easy system.