Workers tasked with clearing Madeira's roadsides, identifiable by their high-visibility vests, frequently operate noisy and vibrating machinery without adequate protection.
Observations reveal a lack of hearing protection, eye protection, cut-resistant gloves, reinforced boots, and dust masks. Exposure to noise levels between 95-112 decibels, far exceeding European legal limits, can lead to permanent hearing loss within minutes. Vibration from brushcutters and edgers poses risks of hand-arm vibration syndrome, a progressive and irreversible condition.
Insufficient eye protection exposes workers to flying debris, while inhaling dust and exhaust fumes can cause respiratory issues. Inappropriate footwear on uneven terrain increases accident risks. These hazards are well-documented in road maintenance globally and necessitate full personal protective equipment (PPE), standard in much of Western Europe.
