TOOLBOX TALK TOPIC: HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

 Industrial chemicals can be described by their effect on the worker or by the

physical form of the chemical. Chemicals can enter the body by inhalation,
ingestion, or skin absorption. Toxic chemicals can cause a variety of harmful
effects on different parts of the body, including acute, local, chronic and
systemic effects.

 There are a number of factors that determine the type of toxic effect a
chemical can have on you, including the form of the chemical, route of entry,
and individual response to the chemical. Workers may show different
physiological responses to industrial chemicals.

Chemicals in Common Use on Construction Sites include:

- Flammable Liquids
- Adhesives/Epoxies/Resins/Catalysts
- Mortar/Brick Cleaners and Other Acids
- Paints
- Household Chemicals etc.

IMPORTANT
 Check Labels on Containers and Follow Instructions
 Obtain Material Safety Data Sheets for all chemicals available on site
 Wear/Use Prescribed Protective Equipment
 Decant Outside Store
 Keep Containers Closed when not in Use
 Apply Segregated Storage Methods
 Do Not Store Chemicals in Unmarked Containers
 Know Emergency Procedures

TEST – ANSWER TRUE OR FALSE

1. Do not Store Chemicals in Unmarked Containers. True or False

2. Workers don’t show different physiological responses True or False

to industrial chemicals.

3. You don’t have to know emergency procedures. True or False