Hazardous Materials & Chemicals

Scott Asprey, RIBA safety educator

Did you know that both your employees and all your sub-contractors are required to have a list of all chemicals and be trained on hazardous materials…?

Section 1910.1200 or Construction 1926.59 (5th most cited infarction by OSHA)

A list of hazardous substances used on the work site and readily available to all personnel on site

Written communication program addressing SDS sheets and requirements on labeling containers

Every container (no matter how big or small) requires a label with product identified and hazard warnings specific to health and physical hazards. When was the last time you read the back of a WD 40 can?

Respirators protect workers against insufficient oxygen environments or harmful dusts, fogs, smokes, mists, gases, vapors, and sprays. These hazards may cause cancer, lung impairment, other diseases, or death (listed on all SDS sheets). And again, SDS’ are needed from all sub-contractors, and they must be supplied to the general contractor, and readily available always.

Remember, it’s your responsibly for the safety and training of all your employees and to supply a job site free from all recognized safety and health hazards. If you’re the general contractor, you are responsible to be sure all subs are following your safety program, which involves HAZARDOUS MATERIAL and CHEMICALS.

“Safety is the job!” – Scott Asprey