Issues

Introduction

AFSCME represents over 40,000 water and wastewater treatment workers. They face exposure to flammable, explosive or poisonous gases, hazardous confined spaces, infectious diseases, temperature extremes, slip and fall hazards, excessive noise and unsanitary workplaces. According to the National Safety Council (1996), water and wastewater treatment workers suffer disabling injuries and illnesses at almost five times the rate of the average industrial worker. These figures do not tell the whole story on the dangers for these workers as they do not include the close calls.

Many of the dangerous conditions that water and wastewater treatment and maintenance workers face can be eliminated. Other risks can be significantly reduced. Together, you and your co-workers — acting through your union — can improve your working conditions.

This manual contains information that will help you to identify and correct the main health and safety hazards within your facility. It covers the hazards associated with confined spaces, lockout/tagout, process safety, infectious disease and chemical hazards. It also presents solutions to these problems including personal protective equipment, health and safety committees, contract language concerning health and safety issues, and where applicable, OSHA protection.

Action must be taken to make sure that workers are trained and equipped, and that all measures have been taken to make the workplace safe. Some employers attempt to cut corners, risking workers’ lives. It is essential that workers know the laws they are covered by, how to use them and how to work with their union to make their workplace safe. AFSCME’s health and safety staff is ready to provide assistance on health and safety issues. AFSCME has also published a general health and safety manual titled Safe Jobs Now, provides health and safety training, and publishes fact sheets and updates on health and safety problems.

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