The rubber industry uses both natural and synthetic rubber. Tyres and tyre products account for approximately 60% of the synthetic rubber and 75% of the natural rubber used, and this industry employs about half a million workers worldwide. Important non-tyre uses of rubber include automotive belts and hoses, gloves, condoms and rubber footwear. Occupational health and safety in the rubber industry are major concerns.
The first section of this book describes the rubber industries and rubber users industries whilst the remainder of the guide presents specific health and safety issues which are of interest to both employers and employees.
This report takes a broad overview of the rubber industry and highlights the key concerns over safety that are currently being raised. Legislation in the UK and USA is discussed in depth. Safety of processing equipment is discussed as are the measures that can be taken to avoid injury from machinery. Rubber dust and fume exposures during rubber processing are considered to be general health hazards. Chemicals used in rubber manufacture/processing, particularly solvents have been responsible for many health effects in the rubber industry, these are outlined here. Recommendations for handling rubber chemicals are given.
This book is a must-have for anyone working in the rubber industry whether as a producer of rubber or as a user of rubber to make end-use products. Both employers and employees working with rubber will find this book of interest.
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