OHS measurements and harmful factors

Measuring the parameters — concentration and intensity — of harmful physical, chemical or biological factors, where they occur in a company or at a workstation, is an obligation on the employer. The results form the basis for the occupational risk assessment.

Harmful factors

We measure harmful factors in the working environment on the basis of Polish Standard PN Z-04008-7:2002/Az1 and the applicable legislation. Using these documents we determine the scope and method of air quality testing and the methods and criteria for assessing the compounds that may occur at the workstation.

We carry out testing of the working environment by personal dosimetry, a method particularly expected by inspection bodies such as the sanitary inspectorate and the environmental protection inspectorate.

Lighting

Lighting measurements are carried out on the basis of Polish Standard PN-EN 12464-1:2012 "Light and lighting — Lighting of work places — Part 1: Indoor work places", using a calibrated digital lux meter with a photometric head.

Microbiological air quality

We carry out microbiological testing to determine the microbiological cleanliness of the air, with quantitative and qualitative determination of the microorganisms present. Testing is based on Polish standards and on the applicable provisions of labour law. Samples are collected by the aspiration and sedimentation methods, using high-quality equipment and culture media.

Noise

Working with a number of laboratories accredited by the PCA, we have extended our activity to noise measurements:

• environmental noise measurements — industrial, road, rail and aircraft noise,
• noise measurements at workstations, including in production rooms.

For acoustic measurements in the environment we mainly use sound level meters with 4 m and 10 m tripods and all-weather kits.

Microclimate at the workstation

A suitable microclimate in the working environment is an important factor affecting employees' health, wellbeing and productivity. Employees are usually unaware of its influence for as long as conditions allow them to function normally — which is precisely why it is worth measuring.

VICESIMA offers testing that establishes the current state of the microclimate and discusses the possible results, so that you can decide what to do with them.