The construction industry consistently ranks globally as one of the most dangerous work environments. In fact, OSHA reports that about one in five workers die of a work-related injury in this sector. The World Risk Poll has determined that this industry has the second-highest workplace injury rate worldwide.
Reports indicate that approximately 201 non-fatal incidents were caused by exposure to harmful gases in 2020. Unfortunately, eight deaths occurred during some of these incidents. These deaths and related injuries have made it abundantly clear that harmful gases on construction sites are severely dangerous, and the risks must be managed.
Yet, what gas risks lead to injuries and fatalities on construction sites, and how can they be better managed to prevent dangerous situations? Let’s discuss these risks and how to detect harmful gases in the workplace to better protect workers on construction sites.
Key Takeaways
- Construction sites are often exposed to a variety of gas hazards, including flammable, toxic, and asphyxiant gases.
- Lack of proper gas detection and prevention systems can lead to life-threatening incidents, including explosions and asphyxiation.
- UK regulations, such as COSHH and confined space safety protocols, provide essential guidance for gas risk management.
- Proper storage, handling of gas cylinders, and staff training are vital in preventing gas-related accidents.
- Gas detection, ventilation, and personal protective equipment (PPE) significantly reduce risks.
Types of Gas Risks on Construction Sites
Construction sites are home to a variety of gases that pose significant risks. The most common types include:
Flammable Gases
Flammable gases such as methane, propane, and natural gas are frequently present on construction sites. They are commonly used in heating, welding, and other operations. These gases, when exposed to an ignition source, can lead to catastrophic explosions and fires. According to the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), explosions caused by flammable gases account for around 10% of all reported industrial accidents. This makes them a critical hazard.
Toxic Gases
Toxic gases like carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H?S) are often by-products of machinery and construction activities. Exposure to even low concentrations of carbon monoxide can lead to dizziness, headaches, and nausea. And even higher concentrations can be fatal. The HSE has strict exposure limits for such gases. For example, carbon monoxide levels are not to exceed 20 parts per million (ppm) over an eight-hour period.
Asphyxiant Gases
Gases like nitrogen and argon are non-toxic but displace oxygen in confined spaces, leading to the risk of asphyxiation. In confined or poorly ventilated areas, the oxygen levels can quickly drop, making it difficult for workers to breathe. Asphyxiation remains one of the leading causes of fatal accidents in confined spaces across the UK construction industry.
Dust and Fumes
Fumes from welding, cutting, and construction chemicals like solvents can release harmful gases. These fumes pose health risks to workers. Prolonged exposure to materials like lead or zinc can cause respiratory issues and long-term organ damage.
Common Sources of Gas Hazards
Several sources on construction sites can contribute to the build-up of hazardous gases. Some of the most common include:
Gas Leaks from Equipment
Damaged or poorly maintained equipment, such as gas-powered generators, can leak dangerous gases into the surrounding area. The UK government mandates regular inspections of such equipment to minimise risks.
Fuel Storage Areas
Improper storage or handling of gas cylinders used for welding, heating, and other purposes can result in leaks. Storage areas must be well-ventilated and secure, as required under the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR).
Confined Spaces
Underground tunnels, basements, or enclosed spaces where gases can accumulate without adequate ventilation are high-risk zones. Confined space incidents result in an estimated 15 to 20 fatalities annually in the UK, according to the HSE.
Several gases are found in confined spaces at construction sites. But the ones most at risk of causing injuries and illnesses are oxygen, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide. These gases should always be included in an effective confined space gas monitoring system.
- Oxygen: Too little oxygen in confined spaces can cause fainting or unconsciousness, leading to injuries. Excess oxygen (above 21%) increases flammability, while levels above 23.5% can be fatal.
- Carbon Monoxide: The leading cause of fatal gas poisoning on construction sites. This colourless, odourless gas is dangerous in confined spaces with poor ventilation, especially around gas-powered equipment. Detection requires gas monitors.
- Hydrogen Sulfide: Known for its rotten egg smell, this highly flammable gas is a by-product of decaying matter. Prolonged exposure in confined spaces like pits or tanks can be fatal. Gas detectors and proper ventilation systems like Provac vacuum pumps are essential for safety.
Welding and Cutting Operations
These processes emit toxic fumes and gases, such as ozone and metal oxide particles, which can be harmful when inhaled.
Fine Dust
Fine dust (PM2.5 and PM10) is a serious risk on construction sites. PM2.5 comes from diesel exhaust, while PM10 is generated by activities like cutting materials, demolitions, and grinding. These particles can enter deep into the lungs, causing short-term effects. Effects include respiratory irritation and long-term issues such as asthma, heart disease, and cancer.
According to various scientific studies, it’s been determined that increases in PM2.5 exposure lead to hospital visits and deaths. Scientists have also summarised that long-term exposure to fine dust particles and liquid droplets could be associated with reduced lung function. This leads to a higher likelihood of an individual developing heart disease or cancer.
Health and Safety Risks
Gas hazards on construction sites pose multiple health and safety risks, including:
Explosion and Fire Hazards
Flammable gases like methane and propane can quickly ignite, leading to massive explosions or fires. The 2020 explosion in Avonmouth, Bristol, serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gas-related accidents.
Asphyxiation
In confined spaces, asphyxiant gases like nitrogen can displace oxygen, leading to suffocation. Workers who enter such spaces without proper precautions or equipment are at high risk.
Toxic Poisoning
Exposure to carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and other toxic gases can lead to acute poisoning. If gone undetected, there can be fatal consequences. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and confusion, which can escalate to loss of consciousness or death.
Chronic Exposure
Long-term exposure to low levels of toxic gases can lead to serious health problems, including respiratory issues and organ damage. For instance, continuous inhalation of welding fumes can lead to chronic bronchitis and lung damage.
Regulations and Safety Standards
Organisations working in the construction sector can prove their credibility and safety standards by gaining ISO certification. In the UK, recognised safety certifications include the NEBOSH, IOSH and CIOB courses. They all offer varied health and safety training for those in the sector to further their understanding of working safely in their given field.?
In the UK, strict regulations govern the management of gas risks on construction sites. These include:
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
COSHH regulations require employers to assess the risks associated with hazardous substances, including gases, and to implement measures to control exposure. Employers must ensure proper ventilation, provide PPE, and conduct regular risk assessments.
Confined Space Regulations 1997
This legislation mandates that employers conduct thorough risk assessments of confined spaces, ensuring that proper precautions, such as gas monitoring and rescue plans, are in place.
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR)
DSEAR outlines how to prevent fire and explosion risks associated with the storage and use of flammable gases on construction sites.
How To Track Hazardous Gases
As is evidenced, gases pose serious risks to construction workers. Often gases are found naturally occurring at construction sites, used for processes, and generated from equipment and vehicles. Unfortunately, exposure to these gases is hazardous to workers’ health, so we need to track these gases to negate the risks.
Understanding where gases are coming from and detecting them can protect the lives of construction workers on sites. Calibration and maintenance are a thing of the past. Fortunately, there are more effective ways to track gases at construction sites.
Below we have discussed a few ways harmful gases can be tracked at construction sites, and some might surprise you.
1. Gas Monitoring Network
A gas monitoring network is arguably the best way to track harmful gases at a construction site. Modern gas monitory systems utilize a network of cloud-connected devices, including a complex variety of personal wearable devices, area monitors, and online dashboards.
This entire network of devices works with one another to provide full visibility of gases, thus providing safety to construction workers. Yet, how does it all come together to provide a clear picture of whether or not workers are at risk of harmful gases?
Simple – the data compiled and streamed from each of these devices in the network deliver powerful reporting capabilities to a supervisor’s fingertips.
A fully operational gas monitoring network allows supervisors to receive real-time compliance updates. These updates confirm successful bump and calibration checks across all devices. The network also displays charge levels for each device, whether they are on or off. This visibility helps ensure devices are active and workers stay safe throughout a shift.
2. Personal Portable Gas Detectors
Often for construction worker safety, a gas detector is the first line of defence when facing unknown environmental hazards that are invisible to an individual’s senses. Due to this, most companies utilise portable gas detectors as part of an employee’s PPE equipment to keep them safe.
These gas monitors are known as a personal four-gas monitor system. They continuously evaluate a construction worker’s working environment for multiple gas hazards like oxygen, NO2, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide.
Ultimately, these systems provide comprehensive gas detection coverage to prevent injuries, illnesses, and death from toxic or explosive ambient gases.
3. Area Monitors
Another simple way to monitor and detect harmful gases on construction sites is to use area detectors specifically designed to monitor VOCs. Area monitoring is set up on the perimeters of a construction site and is used to protect a large group of workers.
Unlike other methods of tracking and detecting dangerous gases, area monitors can withstand harsh weather conditions and can be left on site for long durations. Additionally, these nifty devices come in broad size ranges with different sensor types, so they’re ideal for various construction sites.
Emergency Response Procedures
In the event of a gas leak, fire, or explosion, immediate action is required:
- Evacuation Plans: Workers should be familiar with evacuation routes and procedures in case of gas-related emergencies.
- Emergency Drills: Regular drills ensure that everyone knows their role during an emergency.
- First Aid Measures: Workers exposed to toxic gases should receive medical attention immediately, and first aid kits should be readily available.
Conclusion
Gas risks on construction sites pose serious safety and health hazards, but with the right preventative measures, these risks can be minimised. Adhering to UK regulations, conducting regular risk assessments, and ensuring proper training are key steps in maintaining a safe working environment. Gas-related accidents may be catastrophic, but they are largely preventable with proactive safety management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dangerous gas on construction sites?
Flammable gases like methane and propane, which can cause explosions, are among the most dangerous.
How can gas leaks be detected early?
Using gas detection systems, including portable monitors and alarms, can help detect leaks before they become dangerous.
What should workers do if they suspect a gas leak?
Workers should evacuate the area immediately, avoid igniting any flames, and report the issue to site management for investigation.
What are the legal responsibilities for gas safety on construction sites?
Employers are legally required to assess risks, provide proper equipment, and ensure the safety of workers through compliance with regulations like COSHH and DSEAR.
