Page 97 - Safety and health in construction

Health hazards, first aid and occupational health services

17.4. Hazardous substances

17.4.1. An information system should be set up by the competent authority, using
the results of international scientific research, to provide information for clients,
architects, contractors, employers' and workers' representatives on the health risks
associated with the hazardous substances used in the construction industry.

17.4.2. National laws and regulations should require that the manufacturers,
importers and suppliers of hazardous products used in the construction industry should
provide information with the products, in the appropriate language, on associated health
risks and on the precautions to be taken.

17.4.3. In the use of materials that contain hazardous substances and in the
removal and disposal of waste, the health of workers and of the public and the
preservation of the environment should be safeguarded as prescribed by national laws
and regulations.

17.4.4. Hazardous substances should be clearly labelled giving their relevant
characteristics and instructions on their use. They should be handled under conditions
prescribed by national laws and regulations or by the competent authority.

17.4.5. Containers of hazardous substances should carry or be accompanied by
instructions for the safe handling of the contents and procedures to be followed in case
of a spillage.

17.4.6. The competent authority, in consultation with the most representative
organisations of employers and workers, should determine which hazardous substances
should be prohibited from use in the construction industry.

17.4.7. Preference should be given to the application of hazardous substances by
means other than spraying, such as by brush or roller, when feasible.

17.4.8. Where the use of toxic solvents, certain thinners, certain paints or volatile
chemical substances cannot be avoided, special precautions should be taken such as
providing general and local exhaust ventilation, and, if this is not practicable or is
inadequate, respiratory protective equipment should be used. Such measures should be
applied more rigorously in situations when such chemicals are heated or used in
confined spaces. Paints and adhesives which present health hazards should be replaced
with water-dispersed products.

17.4.9. Skin contact with hazardous chemicals should be avoided, particularly
when dealing with chemicals which can penetrate through intact skin (e.g. certain wood
preservatives) or can cause dermatitis (e.g. wet cement). Personal hygiene and the type
of clothing worn should be such as to enable the rapid removal of any chemical from
skin contact. Where allergic effects caused by certain materials could be reduced by
introducing other additives, necessary steps should be taken to make use of these

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