Industrial Hygiene in Construction

A suggestion brought to one of my postings was, “how do you control the exposures?”. The answer, …in my best legalese was, “it depends”.

There are many ways to control the exposures.  However, as an general rule there is a method of approach that is best. OSHA describes it in some of their rule-language (such as lead 1926.62, and others).  So the first step in controlling an exposure is:

1. Engineering controls

What this means is: Can we remove the hazard from the employee. The best method is elimination. Using a different product that is less harmful can sometimes be discussed. Next, can we control the substance so that it is not harmful- like using a local exhaust ventilation? Can we use water to control airborne releases? Engineering controls should always be considered first. I suggest that when you have an exposure situation, have your safety committee brain-storm these types of controls and document them. OSHA has issued citations for employers who choose NOT to consider this control.

2. Administrative controls

These types of controls are a bit harder to describe. Suppose your worker must go into a high noise area multiple times during their shift – the answer might be limiting their time in this area. And possibly allowing other employees to “share” this exposure during their shift.  Another example would be having a protocol that minimizes airborne exposure by a method of work that is enforced by management.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

This should be used as a last-resort. Most times it’s not. The reason it is NOT used is usually because of convenience.  However, there are many ways this control can fail including, improper use, breakthrough, permeation, penetration, degradation, and failure.

I was requested to perform training for a management team (VPs, Estimators, Superintendents, PMs, PEs) on health topics. The request was specific: asbestos, lead, silica and mold/ IAQ (indoor air quality). I was given an hour, which is hardly enough time. However, the audience took well to it.  I was impressed with the questions and discussion that followed the training. Here are some highlights from that training that the management team adopted as policy. Most of these can be considered tips for good management of IH programs.

ASBESTOS:

• Before the project begins we will have (in writing) an asbestos survey
• As a contractor you typically sub the abatement work
• Employees need awareness training at some level (usually class IV)
• Any asbestos found is to be sampled (by an inspector) and NOT to be touched

LEAD:

• Before the project begins we will have (in writing) a lead survey of the building
• As a contractor we must manage lead on the project (no abatement usually)
• Any lead found on the jobsite WILL BE controlled
• Employees need awareness training – site specific
• Lead ACTIVITY (s)  must be characterized and assessed for possible exposures – and further steps

SILICA:

• There is/will be silica on our jobsite
• We WILL take steps to control the silica exposure when it occurs
• Employees will be trained as to the dangers of silica

MOLD/ IAQ:

• We will manage any mold/fungus found onsite
• We will have a plan for how we handle the situation as we arises
• We will be sensitive to any health or mold/fungus concerns