Hazardous Chemicals in Construction Industry

Hazardous materials in construction industry

Hazardous Building Materials

General recognition of health risks associated with hazardous building materials is required for construction and demolition/renovation projects. The requirement to determine the presence of hazardous substances/materials including conditions in the structure, and all parts of the site, which may be hazardous to the health of the site personnel or the public if disturbed by the stripping or demolition should be conducted prior to any works commencing.  

Most Common Hazmats

• Asbestos

• Lead, Mercury and other Heavy Metals

• PCBs • Radioactive Materials / Radon Gas

• Mould / Microbial Growth

• Crystalline Silica

• Explosives and Combustibles

What is Asbestos?

• Asbestos ore (Calcium or Magnesium Silicate) is a fibrous fireproof rock found naturally in the earth’s crust.

• Asbestos fibres are microscopic; when bundled together become useful in a variety of products.

How is it used?

Asbestos has been called the “magic mineral” because of its wide variety of desirable physical properties including:

• heat resistance

• electrical resistance

• chemical resistance

• good tensile strength

• flexibility

• thermal and acoustic insulation

• naturally occurring Because of these unique properties, asbestos was used in a wide variety of commercial products.

Health Effects Associated with Exposure to Asbestos

Exposure Pathways Inhalation of fibers Irritation to the skin Ingestion leads to Lung Cancer, Mesothelioma and Pleural Plaques.

Heavy Metals

Lead – In Buildings

– Paint

– Sheeting for acoustic insulation

– Radiation shielding – Masonry plugs for fasteners

– Glazes and ceramics

– Pointing mortar

– Lead pipe and solder

– Residue present in firing ranges, soldering operations, foundries

– Batteries in alarm and telecom systems

Health Risks of Lead

Exposure through inhalation or ingestion

• Inhalation unlikely unless activity disturbs lead –...