Who is at risk?
All of us at some point will probably encounter a renovation in an old building, house, or manufacturing facility. Who is at risk? In a residential setting the family who lives in the property, their pets, and any guests that they may have over. You, your workers, and potentially everyone’s families and pets.
The problem with the hazards we face on renovation jobs is it usually poisons us through dust. The contaminant, once exposed, will grow smaller and smaller over time. This allows it to get airborne much easier. Once this happens our modern heating and cooling systems will draw the contaminants in, and then distribute them throughout the interior of the property.
Types of Hazards
In no way can this list be all inclusive. However, typical environmental hazards you will encounter on renovation jobs include asbestos, lead, mercury, and silica. Furthermore, different chemical products used can be toxic.
Protection Methods
Protecting yourself is simple. Conduct a thorough job safety analysis prior to starting work. Detail the hazards your job will face and plan to protect everyone. Protection methods include using plastic sheeting to build containments, selecting the proper eye protection, coverall suit, and respiratory protection. Developing cleaning procedures that include specific times and tools to be used. For example, wet Swiffer wipes will trap the dust in the pad while you clean. This would be extremely useful when dealing with an airborne contaminant. Every project and facility will be different, if you aren’t sure about a hazard please give us a call 877-209-9648 and we will be happy to investigate it for you. Everyone on your crew should be trained on the hazards they will be facing, how to protect themselves, and how to get themselves, and the supplies and tools they used to complete the project clean prior to leaving the project or facility.
What types of hazards have you encountered on past renovation jobs? How did you tackle the challenges you faced? What did you enjoy or not enjoy about the process?
Click here to download our free safety meeting on Typical Renovation Job Hazards.
By: Scott Teepe Jr