Page 69 - Best Practice for Construction Projects

Exposure to dust, fumes and chemicals

• Many construction activities carry occupational health hazards which
must be managed just like any other hazard we encounter on a
construction project.
• Construction materials (solvents, paints or chemicals) that may be
hazardous to health must be approved by Jacobs HSE before use.
• It is important to first identify the health hazard you could be exposed to
(Dust, Fume, Vapours). Are there exposure limits for the particular
product or chemical you could be exposed to?
6. Welfare and Health
• Elimination is the best control measure. Can a less harmful material be
used?
• Can local exhaust ventilation be set up to extract harmful fumes or dust?
Many power tools can have extract systems attached to the tool.
• If you are using hazardous materials, read the Label or Safety Data
Sheet (SDS). This will give you important information on how to use,
store and dispose of the chemical or material that you are using along
with what hazards are likely during use.
• Always use the materials or chemicals in accordance with the Safety
Data Sheet.
• The Safety Data Sheet will also outline the PPE required for safe
handling and use of the chemicals or materials.

• If you are required to wear a respirator, you must be trained in how to fit
the mask or respirator.

• Store all PPE safely and in a clean area after use. Always inspect your
PPE/RPE before use.

• You must consider others that may be in your work area or that may be
exposed to harmful dusts or fumes. Do you need exclusion zones or
barriers set up so as to exclude others from the work area?

8 Visual Standards | Feb. 2019