Uncontrolled exposure to chemicals can have adverse health effects on workers.
Many of the chemicals used in the workplace / Jobsite including mineral oils, mould oils and cement can cause skin problems – which can lead to cancer in extreme cases.
Chemicals, including alkalis, acids and chromates (found in cement) can cause ulcers.
Constant exposure of the skin to wet cement, e.g. screeding, kneeling in wet screed, pouring concrete, or concrete getting into boots, can result in very severe concrete burns to the skin which can result in deep scarring and pain.
Solvents such as paraffin and white spirit dissolve oils within the skin, increasing the chances of infection.
The proper identification and control of chemicals is one of the most critical components of a safety system.
- Always make sure chemical bottles, including secondary containers such as spray bottles and dispensers, are marked with the chemical contents and a clear and legible label.
- Ensure you use an easily identifiable label that clearly denotes and hazards of the product within the container.
- Ensure you know about the various chemicals you utilize and check the original label or MSDS sheet to for information of reactivity with other substances.
- Once a secondary container is designated for a certain chemical, never utilize it for a different chemical component.
- Mixing of bleach and ammonia
- Mixing of bleach and acids (vinegar, some glass cleaners, lime/calcium/rust removers)
- Do not use two drain cleaners together, or use one right after the other.
- Today, check around your work area and ensure all chemical bottles are marked and that you know the hazards associated with each. If you have questions or concerns, see the label, MSDS sheet or your supervisor.
The job specific controls & requirements of this particular with regard to:
- PPE
- MSDS
- Method Statements & Risk Assessments
- Chemical safety training awareness
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