Why this matters
Unlike physical injuries that show immediately, COSHH exposure damage often takes years to appear. Silicosis, asbestosis and occupational asthma can be diagnosed decades after the exposure that caused them. Workers exposed today may not see consequences until retirement.
Key hazards and controls
Hazard 1: Silica dust from cutting blocks, bricks or concrete
Control: Water suppression, on-tool extraction, FFP3 masks, RPE face fit testing
Hazard 2: Isocyanates in spray paints and adhesives
Control: Forced ventilation, air-fed RPE, exclusion zones during application
Hazard 3: Lead paint on older buildings
Control: Survey before disturbance, wet methods, P3 masks, washing facilities
Hazard 4: Asbestos in any building pre-2000
Control: Asbestos survey before any work, licensed contractors for ACMs
Hazard 5: Solvents in paints, adhesives and cleaners
Control: Ventilation, organic vapour respirators, skin protection
Hazard 6: Cement dermatitis
Control: Waterproof gloves, barrier creams, immediate hand washing after contact
Key messages
- 1.Hierarchy of control: eliminate, substitute, engineer, administer, PPE - in that order
- 2.PPE is the LAST resort, not the first
- 3.Face fit testing is required for tight-fitting RPE - your mask must fit YOU
- 4.Silica is the new asbestos - lung disease takes decades to show
- 5.Read the safety data sheet before using any hazardous substance
Signs of trouble (for supervisors)
Things to spot during site walks that suggest the message has not landed:
- !Visible dust clouds during cutting or grinding
- !Workers using disposable masks instead of fitted FFP3 RPE
- !Strong solvent smells suggesting inadequate ventilation
- !Workers eating or drinking in contaminated work areas
- !No washing facilities available before breaks
Questions to ask workers
Use these in your daily walkrounds and toolbox talks:
- Q.What hazardous substances are you using today?
- Q.Where is the safety data sheet for those substances?
- Q.Have you been face fit tested for the mask you are wearing?
- Q.What is the ventilation arrangement in this work area?
- Q.Where do you wash before breaks?
UK legislation
- SSControl of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002
- SSControl of Asbestos Regulations 2012
- SSControl of Lead at Work Regulations 2002
- SSHealth and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
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