Health Hazards: Silica, Lead, Asbestos, and Heat

Silica: respirable crystalline silica PEL is 50 μg/m³ TWA (1926.1153). Action level 25 μg/m³ triggers medical surveillance and exposure assessment. Table 1 lists common construction tasks with required engineering controls — wet cutting, local exhaust ventilation, or supplied-air respirators. Silicosis is irreversible and fatal — prevention is the only cure. Lead: common in structures built before 1978. OSHA 1926.62 requires air and biological monitoring. Blood lead level >40 μg/dL triggers medical evaluation; >50 μg/dL triggers medical removal with pay. Hygiene facilities (change rooms, showers, hand washing) are mandatory. No eating, drinking, or smoking in lead work areas.

Asbestos: found in pre-1980 construction materials. All construction workers who may encounter ACM must have minimum 2-hour asbestos awareness training. Full abatement requires licensed contractors, P100 HEPA respirators, wet methods, and proper waste disposal per EPA NESHAP. Disturbing asbestos during demolition without proper controls is a common and serious violation that endangers workers and future building occupants.

Heat illness: acclimatization over 7-14 days is the most important prevention measure for new workers. Provide water frequently (6-8 oz every 15-20 minutes) — hydration must start before work begins. Provide shade and cooling stations. Implement a buddy system to watch for heat illness symptoms. Heat cramps: treat with rest and fluids. Heat exhaustion: pale/clammy skin, heavy sweating, weakness — move to cool area, loosen clothing, cool water, rest. Heat stroke: hot/dry/red skin, confusion, loss of consciousness, body temp >103°F — CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY, cool rapidly with ice water immersion, this is life-threatening. For supervisors: monitor weather forecasts, adjust work schedules, and have a written heat illness prevention plan.