Baseline Occupational Hygiene Monitoring Program

James Cook University and Site Health

Over several years, Queensland Fertilizer Operations has developed a close working, training and research-based relationship with James Cook University (JCU) in North Queensland.

During 2002, we undertook a detailed baseline site health assessment, in conjunction with our workforce and the university. The purpose of the study was to identify existing and potential health issues and to involve our workforce in maintaining their own health through perception surveys and feedback sessions.

The results of this survey were used to develop a baseline monitoring program for atmospheric contaminants, including dust, ammonia and hydrogen fluoride. This random monitoring program was completed in 2004. Over 900 samples were collected across all areas of the operation. One test result for respirable dust and silica exceeded the exposure standard. This result was inconsistent with other monitoring results and is believed to be an isolated occurrence. Noise exposure was found to regularly exceed the standard . In response to the elevated noise exposure a noise management plan is being developed.

Research on hydrogen fluoride has been prioritized and an acute exposure study is being coordinated by JCU. Previous exposures over 6-8 hours were typically below the level at which the WMC standard requires action, however there is potential for acute exposures when opening vessels and working in confined spaces. To determine the level of exposure these tasks are part of a biological monitoring program, involving pre and post-exposure urine analysis and personal gas monitoring.

The results of the baseline program have been used in the design of the routine monitoring program for 2005 commencing in January.

Fatigue Study

Fatigue has been identified as a potential contributing factor to occupational injury and illness, however there is very little research of the impacts and outcomes of this syndrome in industrial settings.

In response to these concerns, a comprehensive needs-assessment of fatigue has been developed and conducted by the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine at JCU at the WMC Fertilizers Phosphate Hill site. A total of 55 staff from the four production crews participated in the study throughout the 28 days of their roster during the period from July to October 2004. The study comprised the following measurements:

• a baseline questionnaire detailing demographics, lifestyle factors and signs and symptoms of fatigue-related health events
• an assessment of the prevalence of individual of fatigue components such as energy, exertion, discomfort, motivation and sleepiness
• reaction time tests at the start and finish of each shift
• a diary of work, rest, leisure and physical activity.

The site-specific diagnosis of the workforce represents the most comprehensive for any industry anywhere in the world, and will serve as the basis for the development of a fatigue management plan at the Phosphate Hill site.

Fitness For Work

We continued our program of site-wide drug and alcohol screening of all personnel on site. We conducted two blanket drug screenings and periodic random screenings for alcohol and drugs in 2004. There have been improvements each year. View 2004 Fitness for Work test results.

All positive results were dealt with as per QFO Fitness For Work procedure, with WMC employees and contractors undertaking counselling and return-to-work plans prior to returning to site. Although the numbers of positive drug and alcohol tests remain low (2%), Fitness For Work will still remain a focus point at QFO. In 2005, QFO will be rolling out a Supervisor Fitness For Work program, to encourage supervisors to be more involved in Fitness For Work.

Injury Management

Our fly-in fly-out employees and contractors return to their homes away from the site on completing a shift cycle at Phosphate Hill. In these circumstances, injury management can be a challenge. To assist us in this process, we have appointed a company doctor and a physiotherapist to provide consistency of care. Appointed in 2004, the physiotherapist visits the site to understand the roles that currently injured people would be required to undertake and to suggest appropriate alternatives to assist with effective rehabilitation. Our fitness provider, Trench Sport, complements the rehabilitation process with tailored strengthening programs.

Fitness and Lifestyle Programs

There are extensive sporting facilities at Phosphate Hill including a gymnasium, indoor cricket nets, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, swimming pool and a full sized oval.

Our fitness and lifestyle provider conducts fitness tests, personal training and organises different sporting activities each day. Different health promotions are also run each month, to assist people to develop a healthier lifestyle. In 2004, topics included healthy eating choices and foot care with a visiting podiatrist.

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