There are several common hazards on abatement / remediation jobsites.  These hazards can be categorized as Physical, Biological or Chemical.

The focus of this piece will be “Chemical Hazards”.

Consideration of the chemical hazards at an abatement / remediation job site is a vital component of job site safety. Unlike physical or biological hazards, chemical hazards may not be visibly apparent. Some examples of chemical hazards include: oxygen deficiency, combustibility, flammability, gas and vapor explosions, corrosivity, reactivity, and compatibility. Each one of these hazards can be influenced by site conditions (temperature, confinement, etc.), work practices, lack of training, improper engineering controls, misuse or ignorance of the chemicals or products used. These factors can work together or independently to produce disastrous results.

Here are some ways to avoid potential “Chemical Hazards” on a job site:

Company Safety Programs, hazardous material awareness training, and onsite “tailgate” safety meetings

Use of detection or exposure monitoring devices (i.e. Oxygen or Carbon Dioxide sensors)

Use of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for specific safety information relative to the chemicals or products used on site.

Selection and use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (i.e. chemical resistant gloves, eye protection and respirator use)

What’s at stake?

• Employee injury or death
• Loss of production
• Potential OSHA investigation / violations
• Property damage
• Potential legal ramifications