European directives are already looking to aid and assist the shoe repairer when it comes to the subject of dust, chemical products and noise.  As European directives filter down to National directives it becomes clear that making rules is a different story to enforcing them.  Experience tells us that in small, owner/operator businesses, required changes tend to happen very slowly, if at all.

It is important to stress that the directives are not punitive measures designed to stifle business, but information designed to protect the repairer and his health, should not be disregarded.  New synthetic materials are being developed constantly, but are you aware of the consequences in using and scouring these materials?  For instance, how do they react at high friction?   What is the effect of the fumes they produce?  How much dust does it produce?  What will be the effect of these fumes and fine dust to someone who inhales them?  We consulted leading European expert, Mario van Oorschot about these problems and possible solutions.

Chemical Materials

The basic regulations concerning dust are being outlined in the European directive 96/62EG regarding air quality. This regulation was revised in 2000 on the subject of solvents in glue. In 2005, the maximum allowable levels of arsenic, cadmium, mercury and aromatic carbon monoxides were determined.  Many of these substances may be part of new synthetic materials used in the shoe industry.  Because one does not always know exactly which materials contain what kind of substances, Europe has initialised REACH, which stands for Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals. They force producers to list all materials and substances that are being used in their products. This way, the shoe repairer knows what kind of materials they are using and what kind of danger and/or consequences they may have.

Noise Control

The European noise regulations declare that you should not be exposed to a level of 80dBa for more than 8 hours. If longer than 8 hours, one is obliged to wear protection. On scientific advice this may soon be reduced to 75dBa.  Being exposed to high noise levels will, over time cause loss of concentration and tiredness.

Dust extraction

This subject is by far the most important for all operators within our industry. The dust and waste produced from materials in shoe repairing, manufacturing, are carcinogenic, poisonous. Therefore, greater attention should be paid to how you must deal with it.  Dust extraction systems, used on machinery, generally are of two types.  The pressure system and the vacuum system.

The pressure system being the industry standard, worldwide for many years.  The vacuum system however is an advanced system bringing new technology to the market.  The main difference is the shape of the extractor fan and where it is positioned. In the case of a pressure system, the extraction fan is positioned before the filter unit, resulting in a less powerful performance. In the case of a vacuum system, the extraction fan is positioned behind the filter unit, thus offering extraction four times more powerful than the alternative.  Another beneficial advantage of this system is that the extraction fan uses curved blades because it is not transporting dust.  This offers a much higher level of performance and a noise level that is significantly lower.

These A-class machines, manufactured by Jos America and sold exclusively in the UK by Standard Engineering Ltd are manufactured using high quality sensors to operate the automatic valve system on each individual suction channel. The sensor only activates the valve of the suction channel that is being used, the others remain closed, therefore giving maximum suction at that point.  A major benefit to the operator and his environment.  The valve automatically closes once you stop or change to a different scouring belt.

Working comfort

Whilst developing these different extraction systems, the manufacturer also needs to take the noise levels into account.  There is already sufficient noise in a shop or in a working environment. To create a pleasant and safe working area, you need to consider a number of elements. Temperature, noise, air quality, light, resonance and workspace. It is very important to consider all these factors when planning a new or refurbished installation.   Always consult professionals when trying to create a pleasant, healthy, efficient and optimal working environment for both you and your staff.  You will experience the difference!