Hidden Dangers: Chemical Toxicity on Construction Sites

While most workers understand the imminent risk of physical injury present on construction sites, they may not be aware of all the ways these toxins threaten their physical health. The chemical dangers on construction sites extend far beyond widely-known hazards, such as asbestos and lead poisoning. Because most contagions in construction are airborne, knowledge of the most damaging toxic chemicals commonly present on construction sites will allow workers to more proactively defend their health in these high-risk areas.

Breathing in, swallowing, and absorption through the skin are the most frequent ways toxins enter the body. Even forgetting to wash their hands before lunch can expose site workers to a range of dangerous chemicals. Construction procedures creating exposure to lesser known toxic substances include:

1. Rust-protection coating on steel

Cadmium, the chemical for protecting against rust, is used in most steel products on construction sites. This common element leads to severe lung irritation and emphysema, as well as pulmonary edema—a difficult breathing condition caused by too much fluid in the lungs. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates exposure to nearly 70,000 construction workers.

2. Brass, metal, and alloy manufacture

Zinc is used in most metal manufacture that necessitates cutting or welding. The fumes caused by cutting and welding zinc-based material has been known to cause “metal fume fever,” a flu-like illness resulting in nausea, muscle aches, joint pain, shortness of breath, and pneumonia. This condition is serious, requires immediate medical attention, and can take 2 to 3 weeks of recovery time.

3. Beryllium production, smelting, refining, and alloying

Beryllium is used as an alloying element with copper and other metals in a variety of industries, such as medical, aerospace, and telecommunication. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure leads to shortness of breath, chronic cough, weight loss, weakness, and— most notably— lung cancer. The danger of beryllium has led to OSHA enforcing stricter regulations in handling the chemical to protect workers from its life-threatening effects.

Statistics Of Chemical Toxicity on Construction Sites

Construction sites are inherently high-risk environments, presenting a multitude of dangers that extend beyond the obvious threats of heavy machinery and elevated work surfaces. A significant but often overlooked risk is chemical exposure, which can have severe consequences for workers’ health. Construction workers routinely encounter a wide array of hazardous substances, including solvents, adhesives, treated wood, insulation materials, and various types of dust generated from concrete and metalworking. Understanding this threat is crucial as it poses a serious challenge to worker safety.

Many Occupational Illnesses Come From Chemical Exposure

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that around 17% of all occupational illnesses within the construction industry result from chemical exposure. The range of illnesses linked to this exposure is alarming, encompassing skin disorders such as dermatitis, respiratory conditions including chronic asthma, and long-term ailments like chronic bronchitis and certain types of cancer.

Harmful Efeects May Not Be Seen For Years

One of the most significant challenges with these exposures is that their harmful effects can remain latent, surfacing months or even years after an individual’s initial contact with hazardous substances. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has reported that more than 2.3 million workers are exposed annually to crystalline silica dust, a prevalent compound found in concrete, brick, and other construction materials. Prolonged exposure and inhalation of this dust can lead to silicosis, a progressive and debilitating lung disease that can ultimately prove fatal.

Lead Paint Exposure

Similarly, exposure to lead remains a concern, particularly in the context of renovations of older buildings that may contain lead-based paints. Despite stringent regulations intended to minimize lead exposure, the potential for lead toxicity exists, which is associated with severe neurological damage, developmental issues, and kidney dysfunction. Moreover, a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene reveals that construction workers are five times more likely to develop occupational asthma compared to those in other sectors.

This increased risk is directly associated with exposure to isocyanates, which are commonly found in polyurethane-based products such as various paints, foams, and varnishes used in construction. These chemicals can trigger severe respiratory reactions, compounding the health threats faced by workers in this industry. Fortunately, there has been noticeable progress in raising awareness about these risks and implementing safety measures to mitigate them.

Material Safety Data Sheets Help Reduce Exposure Risk

The integration of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) — documents that provide critical information about hazardous substances — along with job-site air monitoring systems and the adoption of enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE), has been instrumental in reducing exposure risks. Despite these improvements, smaller firms often experience the highest rates of chemical-related injuries and illnesses, primarily due to limited safety resources and training.

Emphasizing Chemical Safety

These statistics are more than mere numbers; they represent the real lives and experiences of individuals who navigate dangerous conditions daily to construct our cities and infrastructure. Emphasizing chemical safety through comprehensive training, effective engineering controls, and proactive health surveillance is essential. It is not just a matter of regulatory compliance; it is a fundamental moral responsibility to protect workers. Every construction site tells a unique story, and it is paramount that none of those stories concludes prematurely due to preventable exposure to toxic substances. Ensuring the safety and well-being of construction workers ultimately benefits society as a whole, promoting a healthier, safer workforce.

Contact Our Construction Accident Lawyers in Detroit

Toxic chemicals present an uncalculated danger because a worker may have no idea they are receiving dangerous exposure. Sadly, the symptoms of such toxic exposure can arise immediately or years later, making it difficult to prove dangerous conditions on a construction site caused your injuries. However, enlisting the experience of a well-versed construction accident attorney at Ravid & Associates will make all the difference in obtaining just restitution for illnesses suffered in the workplace. If you believe workplace conditions caused your illness or injury, don’t hesitate to contact our compassionate legal team at (248) 948-9696 for diligent investigation in your case.