Hazardous Substances and COSHH in Construction

In this section, we explore hazardous substances on construction sites and the basics of COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations). These regulations are designed to protect workers from substances that can harm health if not managed correctly.

What Are Hazardous Substances?

Construction work often involves exposure to a wide range of hazardous substances, including:

• Chemicals and solvents
• Dusts such as silica and wood dust
• Fumes from welding or cutting
• Paints, adhesives and sealants
• Fuels, oils and cleaning products

If not handled properly, these substances can cause serious short-term and long-term health problems.

How Hazardous Substances Enter the Body

Hazardous substances can enter the body in several ways:

• Inhalation – breathing in dust, fumes or vapours
• Skin contact – direct contact with harmful substances
• Ingestion – swallowing substances accidentally

Understanding these routes of exposure is key to controlling the risk.

Health Effects of Hazardous Substances

Short-Term Effects

• Eye, nose and throat irritation
• Headaches and dizziness
• Breathing difficulties

Long-Term Effects

• Dermatitis and skin conditions
• Occupational asthma
• Lung disease
• Cancer
• Chemical burns

Some health effects may take years to develop, making control measures even more important.

What is COSHH?

COSHH regulations require employers to:

• Identify hazardous substances
• Assess the risks they pose
• Implement effective control measures
• Provide information, training and supervision

This includes reviewing Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to understand hazards and safe handling procedures.

Common COSHH Hazards in Construction

Typical hazardous substances found on construction sites include:

• Silica dust from cutting or drilling
• Wood dust
• Cement
• Isocyanates in paints and foams
• Welding fumes
• Fuels and oils
• Sealants and adhesives

Never assume a substance is safe simply because it is commonly used.

Control Measures for Hazardous Substances

To reduce exposure and protect workers, a range of control measures should be used:

• Ventilation and extraction systems
• Dust suppression methods such as wet cutting
• Using safer alternatives where possible
• Appropriate PPE, including gloves and respiratory protection
• Safe storage and clear labelling of substances

Workers must always follow the control measures provided and avoid creating unnecessary dust or fumes.

Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs)

Some substances have Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs), which set the maximum amount of a substance workers can be exposed to safely.

Employers must ensure that exposure levels are monitored and kept below these limits.

Health Surveillance

For certain hazardous substances, health surveillance may be required. This is particularly important where there is a risk of:

• Asthma
• Dermatitis
• Other long-term health conditions

Regular checks help identify problems early and protect worker health.

Conclusion

Hazardous substances are a significant risk in construction, but with proper understanding, assessment and control, these risks can be effectively managed. Following COSHH principles helps protect both immediate and long-term health on site.