Hazardous Substances
Hazardous substances you may use in the building and construction industry include silica dust, asbestos, synthetic mineral fibres (such as fibreglass), cement dust, glue, paint or solvents.
Hazardous substances may cause sudden harm to your health such as dizziness, nausea and itchy eyes or skin. Exposure to dusts and solvents may cause skin diseases like dermatitis and respiratory disease. Some people are more prone to harmful effects from hazardous substances than others.
Your employer should make sure you use hazardous substances according to the manufacturers or supplier's written instructions (the Material Data Safety Sheet or MSDS) while you should follow the agreed safe work procedures for using hazardous substances in your workplace. If you are not sure, ask your supervisor.
Your employer should provide correct personal protective equipment and clothing (PPE) when hazards related to using hazardous substances cannot be eliminated or to increase protection, and also train you in its correct use.
You should and correctly use any items of PPE provided. You may need to use items such as a dust mask or air breathing respirator, gloves and safety glasses when working with hazardous substances or building tasks that generate dust.
