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にほんブログ村
Hello there. I’m Yasui, running a one-man company mainly engaged in inspections of high-pressure gas equipment.
Starting today, I’m attending a two-day training course on Special Chemical Substances and Tetraalkyl Lead Work Supervisor Skills. The course is hosted by the Gifu Labor Standards Association Federation, and since this was the only time they were holding it locally, I decided to attend—even in the middle of the busy season.
During the lectures, I realized something: “Hey, I’ve handled this chemical before… and wait, isn’t this one of those substances that could cause health hazards?”
There were a few like that.
For example, trichloroethylene, commonly called Triclene, used for degreasing and cleaning. I remember being told once to wash the inside of a container with it.
I’m not stupid enough to blindly handle substances I’ve never even heard of, so I immediately looked it up on the spot.
It was listed as a Class II substance, which already gave me a bad feeling. I recall thinking, “This looks dangerous—I don’t really want to touch it,” even though I’d been asked to use it.
Later, I found out that it was indeed classified as a special controlled substance.
Looking back now, I can’t help but feel frustrated.
Like, “Seriously? In this day and age, is that the only option for degreasing?”
If it truly is the only choice, then the least you can do is warn people about the risks. And since handling it requires a certified supervisor, that should have been properly considered from the start.
It’s not about “not knowing is bad,” as if to say “the fooled one is at fault.”
The one who withholds information is worse. The one who deceives is at fault. That should go without saying.
When we were working on piping around a furnace, I remember the refractory workers inside applying insulation—this fluffy white material.
It looked like ceramic fiber, and since they were cutting it, dust was flying everywhere during the work.
That’s exactly the kind of situation that should have been reconsidered. If it can harm others’ health, then it must be communicated, and precautions must be taken.
In our own line of work, things like spray cans fall into this category, and depending on the gases we handle, some can be extremely dangerous.
Even when we outsource work to partner companies, it’s essential to share SDS (Safety Data Sheets) and create an environment where everyone can work safely and stay healthy.
That’s the era we’re entering.
From a law-driven model to a self-driven one.
Times are changing, and so must we.
Thank you for reading all the way to the end!
See you again!
