Health, Safety & Quality Consultancy
Many of the health risks for the construction workforce are not obvious, such as skin cancer and lung cancer, which have been identified as the two main types that affect individuals working within the construction industry. These diseases are not detectable at the time of contraction and can lay dormant for a number of years. They can be caused by exposure to carcinogens and UV radiation, either in solid form or gasses and dust, in the workplace over a prolonged period of time. The construction workforce is at greater risk of developing cancer at work compared with any other industry group by breathing in these substances or absorbing them through the skin.
Asbestos, silica, diesel engine exhaust emissions, paint and prolonged exposure to UV radiation are some of the main risks but these can be appropriately managed to reduce the risk of exposure by following the prevention methods outlined below:
If you need help with introducing safer alternative working methods and control measures, updating procedures, advice on correct PPE or educating the workforce i.e. tool box talks please do not hesitate to contact GD Associates.
IOSH are also running a campaign called ‘No Time To Lose’ which is about raising awareness of occupational cancers and highlights the issue of carcinogen exposure in the workplace. The aim of the campaign is for public policy to support prevention. Businesses can give their support to the ‘No Time To Lose’ campaign by signing up to access free resources which include information packs on solar radiation and diesel exhaust emissions. The resources will help businesses to raise awareness throughout the workforce. New packs are added throughout the year.