Chemical Safety on Construction Sites

31 Jan 2017

Chemical Safety on Construction Sites

Chemical safety is an important consideration on construction sites. There are also many hazards that may not be obvious, but they can still present a health hazard if they aren’t handled properly.


Chemical Safety

There are many chemicals that can pose a concern on construction sites. Some common chemicals include:


  • Zinc

  • Cadmium

  • Beryllium

  • Mercury


Workers

Workers are responsible for understanding the MSDS for any chemical that they may be exposed to on the jobsite. They should clean up any spills that occur, and they should wear proper personal protective equipment at all times.


Employers

Employers are required to have a written hazard communication program. This should include an inventory of all hazardous chemicals that are used on the construction site. All containers that contain hazardous materials must be labelled with a hazard label, and the employer should be sure that there is a MSDS sheet for each chemical an employee can be exposed to. The employer must also train all employees in the risks of handling hazardous substances as well as proper handling procedures.


Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment, also known as PPE, is required for handling certain types of chemical substances. Gloves, aprons, and eye or face protection may be required. If the chemical releases gas into the air, breathing protection may also be required.


Workers

Workers are required to wear any required PPE. They are required to keep their equipment in good condition, and to notify their employer if there is a problem with the equipment.


Employers

Employers are required to provide any necessary PPE equipment to workers, and to be sure that the PPE meets all safety requirements.


Managing the Issues

Occupational hygiene is about the understanding of potential hazards and risks in the workplace, evaluating the associated levels of risk and putting plans in place to control potential health hazards to ensure worker health and well-being is protected.

There are many aspects to occupational hygiene services, and today the most important work OHSS do is in determining and estimating potential or actual exposures to hazards and then putting plans in place to manage the safety requirements. Occupational hygiene

 


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