Topic 3.

Hidden Dangers

Hidden Dangers

Now that you have identified some specific risks  in Task 2,  we see if we can find some other hidden dangers.

As mentioned in the last topic, excavation and working at heights are high risk construction work that have Codes of Practice that MUST be
referred to . Now let's look at some more hazards...

Common Hazards in Construction

"The hazards listed below are very specific to Construction workers and includes, but is not limited to:

 Open excavation
 Inhalation of dust fibers, vapours and gases
 Noise and vibration
 Extremes of temperature and humidity
 Bad Housekeeping
 Poor access/egress
 Poor lighting/visibility
 Live power and wiring
 Trips and falls
 Working at heights
 Manual and mechanical handling
 Dangerous goods
 Confined spaces
 Fire
 Drugs and Alcohol
 Hygiene
 Inexperience/carelessness/complacency
 Load shifting equipment
  Pedestrian and public vehicle movements
 Bullying"1

In this session we will be highlighting the dangers of Asbestos and  UV exposure. These hazards are often overlooked because the damage may
be experienced a long time after the initial exposure. Watch the following videos prior to attempting the research task.

Asbestos
Asbestos - in the workplace

Asbestos can cause diseases including lung cancer and  mesothelioma. It is a hidden danger found in many buildings and construction sites so
please watch the following videos and read the resources to find out more.

"Dealing with asbestos in the workplace is the responsibility of the person with all or part of the management and control of that workplace (may
be both building and business owner if premises are leased). The person/s is required to identify or assume asbestos in the workplace, develop an
asbestos register and a written asbestos management plan and ensure the documents are readily accessible.

An asbestos register and a written asbestos management plan are not required in SA if:

 the workplace is a building that was constructed after 31 December 2003, and
 no asbestos has been identified and
 no asbestos is likely to be present.
If you have, or suspect you have, asbestos-containing material in your workplace, there are options for you to deal with asbestos safely. Further
information - http://asbestos.sa.gov.au/

Codes of Practice
There are two Codes of Practice that have been developed to provide practical information, or guidance, on how to meet the requirements of the
regulations. The Codes are not mandatory but provide information to help workplaces achieve safe systems of work. Summaries of these two
Codes have been developed primarily for small businesses that may need to know how to deal with asbestos in their workplace.

 Code of Practice - How to Manage and Control Asbestos in the Workplace

 Summary of Code of Practice - How to Manage and Control Asbestos in the Workplace

 Code of Practice - How to Safely Remove Asbestos

 Summary of Code of Practice - How to Safely Remove Asbestos

Note: Code of Practice - How to Safely Remove Asbestos

In South Australia, air monitoring is required for any licensed asbestos removal work. Because it's a model code which has application in other
states and territories, page 19 of the Code of Practice - How to Safely Remove Asbestos states that air monitoring is not required when
removing more than 10m2 of non-friable asbestos. This is not the case in SA. Air monitoring is required for both Class A and Class B asbestos
removal work." 2

UV Exposure - Skin Cancer

"Outdoor workers in Australia receive five to 10 times more sun exposure than indoor workers, placing them at an increased risk of skin
damage and skin cancer .

In Australia it is estimated that approximately 200 melanomas and 34,000 other skin cancers per year are due to occupational exposure to UV.
Reducing UV risk in the workplace is a joint OH&S responsibility for workers and employers."3

 
The following fact sheet provides information and appropriate CONTROL MEASURES. Some of these are to wear a broad rimmed hat, keep
your skin covered by clothing and use a broad spectrum 30+sunscreen. What are the others?

1. Work safely in the Construction Industry CITB Pocket Book

2.http://asbestos.sa.gov.au/
3.http://www.sunsmart.com.au/communities/workplaces

 Activities and Exercises 

Complete Task - Hidden Dangers -SunSmart / Asbestos

Below is a picture of Asbestos under a microscope.

One piece of this in your lungs is all you need for cancer to begin.

Asbestos
Skin Cancer on head .
  VIDEO Asbestos Safety for Home Renovators in South Australia URL

VIDEO UV. It all adds up. URL

Working safely with Asbestos URL

 This new site has been built by the SA.Gov.Au to make people aware of the dangers of Asbestos

 Skin Cancer and Outdoor Work URL

ASSESSMENT Task 3 - Hidden Dangers - SunSmart/Asbestos