The Reality of Exposure

 

During water blasting and surface preparation, a complex and hazardous mixture of contaminants is released into the breathing zone: 

 

• Antifouling paint particulates (commonly copper, zinc, and legacy tin-based compounds) 

• Aerosolised marine growth (barnacles, shell fragments, and biological matter) 

• Residual coatings from older vessels, including potential tributyltin (TBT) 

• High levels of overspray and mist, creating a persistent inhalation hazard 

• Fibreglass and composite dust generated during repair and preparation activities.

 

This is not a controlled, dry dust environment. It is a dynamic aerosol exposure, heavily influenced by changing winds, proximity of workers, and confined working spaces. 

 

Understanding the Health Risks

 

The health risks associated with these exposures are dangerous because they are often cumulative rather than immediate: 

 

• Inhalation of metals and metal-containing particulates, including copper, zinc and legacy tin compounds.

• Respiratory irritation, sensitisation, and the potential development of occupational asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions.

• Long-term systemic accumulation leading to neurological or organ damage 

• Uncertain, high-risk exposure profiles when working on older, legacy vessels

 

Why Traditional Respiratory Protection Often Fails

 

While many sites provide respirators that meet AS/NZS 1716 certification, compliance on paper does not always translate to actual protection in the field. Common failure points include: 

 

• Fogging and reduced visibility when used alongside eye protection 

• Heat and moisture build-up during physically demanding labour 

• Inadequate face seal, particularly due to facial hair or incorrect sizing 

• Incompatibility with other required PPE (e.g., hard hats or earmuffs) 

• Worker non-compliance, such as removing or adjusting equipment mid-task to catch their breath 

 

Standards such as AS/NZS 1715 and ISO 16975-3:2023 (Fit testing procedures) make it clear that fit, compatibility, and wearer acceptance are fundamental to achieving actual protection. 

 

Selecting Protection That Matches the Task

 

Effective respiratory protection in this environment requires alignment with both standards and practical realities. Typical approaches include: 

 

• Tight-fitting respirators compliant with AS/NZS 1716. 

• Integrated respirator systems to seamlessly address PPE compatibility issues. 

• Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR), which excel in high-moisture and high-effort environments by providing positive airflow, reducing user fatigue, and reduction in fogging. 

 

Selection must always consider the specific contaminant type, work duration, environmental conditions, and individual user fit. 

 

Fit Testing, Training, and Programme Management

 

Respiratory protection does not start and end with issuing a box of equipment. 

 

• Fit testing confirms seal effectiveness at a single point in time. 

• Training ensures correct understanding and ongoing, safe usage. 

• Maintenance ensures ongoing, reliable equipment performance. 

 

Importantly, fit testing is a snapshot. Day-to-day protection depends entirely on correct use and consistent workplace behaviour. 

 

Building Capability, Not Just Compliance

 

What is often missing in the maritime sector is structured training that connects regulatory standards to real-world deck work. Effective training should cover: 

 

• The "Why": Understanding exactly what hazards are being inhaled. 

• Limitations: Knowing what the equipment cannot protect against. 

• Donning & Doffing: Correct wearing, seal-checking, and field maintenance. 

• Expectations: Setting realistic comfort and operational expectations in harsh marine environments. 

 

By utilising flexible respiratory training programmes—delivered either on-site or online—marina operators can ensure their crews are not just equipped, but truly capable. 

 

Final Thought

 

Respiratory protection in marina environments is not a tick-box compliance exercise. Exposure is often invisible, risk accumulates over time, and protection only works when it is understood and used correctly. Standards provide the framework; training and real-world application determine the safety outcome.