What is Construction and Infrastructure Industry?
Infrastructure construction and civil engineering companies build large buildings, bridges, dams, pipelines, road networks, ports, railways, and aqueducts.
In the construction industry, many building materials can be a source of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.
What are the Risks?
Volatile organic compounds emit toxic compounds and can originate from insulation, wood panels, paint, mold release compounds and other building materials. Pollutants from floors, ceilings and walls increase the health risk to individuals as it impacts on the indoor air quality of buildings. These pollutant act by creating a displacement reaction with the air, this is when a more reactive element displaces, or pushes out, a less reactive element from a compound (Air). This displacement reaction can cause asphyxiation.
To monitor the atmosphere and detect unwanted exposure to toxins a Portable Gas Monitor or a VOC Gas Monitor (if required) would be essential.
Common hazardous substances emitted from building materials include formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, phenol, glycol ethers and methylene chloride. All detectable by a Portable Gas Monitor or a VOC Gas Monitor.
What are the risks of VOC Exposure?
Extended exposure to VOCs can have a negative effect on an individuals health in the construction industry. These health problems can range from minor to major, these include; asthma, skin irritation, headaches, nausea, confusion, eye irritation, cancer and death.
Unfortunately, the effects of VOCs can vary considerably from person to person. Some may suffer multiple symptoms, others may have no apparent effect.
Either way exposure of VOCs are harmful and should be avoided whenever possible. While not all organic compounds are classified as VOCs, adequate air quality monitoring is necessary to improve the environmental and health conditions throughout the construction industry. Gas detection equipment is essential to properly monitor and detect the present gases on-site. We would recommend a VOC Gas Monitor and DustTrak Aerosol Monitor to assist with detection.
Railway Construction
Railway Construction can be both above ground level and within tunnels and underground works, this is classed as a confined space.
A confined space is a closed or partially closed structure and most of severe or lethal accidents that occur while entering these areas are linked to combustible gas, toxic or asphyxiating (lack of oxygen) gases. These will be one of the main risks to evaluate when operating in tunnels and underground work, we would recommend the use of Portable Gas Monitors and Area Gas Monitors.
Health and safety is a top priority on all demolition sites in the UK, this is managed by having the following considerations and applications.
Site regulation, proximity and procedures - This will be bespoke due to site variables
Risk Assessments and Method Statements - Including Exposure Control Plans
PPE - Hard Hat, Safety Glasses, High-Visibility Vest/Jacket, Safety Gloves, Steel-Toe Capped Boots
Training and Qualifications - Internal and External Training, Refresher Courses
Safety Monitoring Instrumentation – Fixed Gas Detection System, DustTrak, Portable Gas Monitor, Area Monitor, VOC Monitor
Waste Disposal Management - Correct Waste Disposal depends on the Waste contents and volume of waste
Clear and Clean Site - This simply means you have the facilities to allow individuals to work safely, this will include self care facilities to allow breaks in a controlled environment.
Environmental Monitoring in Construction
Environmental monitoring in construction provides essential measurement and analysis of environmental conditions. This monitoring is carried out to ensure construction projects make minimal environmental impacts and remain compliant with environmental regulations.
Environmental monitoring not only reduces the environmental impacts of construction work, but also assists with protection against potential claims so you can protect your business while also recording and reducing emissions. This monitoring is essential to provide data to mitigate risks and avoid costly project delays due to local or national regulations.
Our Safety Monitoring Instrumentation can assist with detection and analysis of the following;
"I think I may need Safety Instrumentation Monitoring, but I don’t know anything about it!"
You don’t need to understand Safety Instrumentation Monitoring to be safe at work! If you are unsure whether you need a monitor, please call one of the team on the below number.
Call The Team: 01489 326031
You cannot create the need for Safety Instrumentation, the need is either there or isn’t – that why the best way to make sure you are keeping yourself and your own team as safe as possible is to give one of our experienced team members a call! You can speak to us about your site and our team will be able to advise you based off extensive working knowledge, existing and pre-existing clients/projects and industry specific hazards. Our team remain informed in the world of Safety Instrumentation so that we can provide up to date advice in line with best practices. This means whenever you speak to our team you know you are receiving updated support from people who care.
"Our work should enrich our lives, not cost them" - Alex Graft (Managing Director)