Hazardous Chemicals

The construction industry brings a challenging mix of traditional hazards mixed with the new.
Besides age-old threats of lead, silica, and asbestos workers must contend with hazardous
modern chemicals and advanced material.
The dynamic nature of constantly changing construction sites brings many challengesnone as
perilous as exposure to hazardous chemicals. These chemical hazards can be in the form of
dusts, fumes, gases and vapors. And all can give rise to severe health disorders, such as
poisoning, asphyxiation and cancer. Other injuries may include: severe burns, disfigurement,
internal organ damage, neurological injury, birth defects, and respiratory problems.

How Toxic Chemicals Enter The Body

A chemical can cause injury in various ways depending on its form. The routes into the body are
by inhalation or breathing in, ingestion or swallowing and absorption through the skin.
Inhalation or breathing in is the most important route of entry. Some toxic gases and vapors
cause irritation in the nose and throat and give warning of their presence. Others, however, do
not and penetrate deep into the lungs or blood stream.
Ingestion or swallowing is possible where chemicals such as lead-based paints are handled then
the handler eats something or smokes without first washing his/her hands. Toxic vapors
contaminate drinking or eating utensils, or when meals are eaten onsite.

Construction Accidents In Confined Spaces

Workers who have to enter confined spaces are exposed to even greater hazards, such
as the possibility of no oxygen, toxic fumes from welding and soldering, and electrical shockall
of which, can cause bodily injury, illness, or death. The media constantly shares stories of workers
injured and killed from a variety of atmospheric factors and physical agents. Throughout the
construction job site, contractors and workers encounter both inherent and induced hazards in
confined workspaces.
Inherent hazards can be electrical, chemical, or mechanical associated with specific types
of equipment and the interactions among them. These hazards usually cannot be eliminated, so
sites need a higher emphasis on hazard control methods.
Induced hazards are induced from incorrect decisions and actions that occur during the
construction process.

Hazardous Agents
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publish various guidelines related to
chemical handling, chemical storage and chemical exposures. Heres an excerpt of their welding
hazardous (both chemical and physical) agents:

Chemical Agents
Zinc: Used in the manufacture of brass, galvanized metals, and various other alloys. Inhalation of
fumes can occur when welding or cutting on zinc-coated metals. Exposure can cause metal fume
fever.
Cadmium: Used as a rust-preventive coating on steel and as an alloying element. Acute
exposures can produce severe lung irritation, pulmonary edema, and death. Long-term exposure
can result in emphysema and can damage the kidneys. OSHA estimates about 70,000 employees
in the construction industry have been exposed.

Beryllium: Used as an alloying element with copper and other base metals. Acute exposure can
result in chemical pneumonia. Long-term exposure can result in shortness of breath, chronic
cough, and significant weight loss, accompanied with fatigue and general weakness.
Iron Oxide: Iron is the principal alloying element in steel manufacture. During the welding
process, iron oxide toxic fumes arise from both the base metal and the electrode. The primary
acute effect of this exposure is irritation of nasal passages, throat, and lungs.
Mercury: Compounds used to coat metals to prevent rust or inhibit foliage growth (marine
paints). Under the intense heat of the arc or gas flame, mercury vapors will be produced.
Exposure may produce stomach pain, diarrhea, kidney damage, or respiratory failure. Long-term
exposure may produce tremors, emotional instability, and hearing damage.
Lead: The welding and cutting of lead-bearing alloys or metals whose surfaces have been painted
with lead-based paint can generate lead oxide fumes. Inhalation and ingestion can cause lead
poisoning. Lead adversely affects the brain, central nervous system, circulatory system,
reproductive system, kidneys, and muscles.
Fluorides: Fluoride compounds are in the coatings of several types of fluxes used in welding.
Exposure to these fluxes may irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Repeated exposure in air over a
long period may cause pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) and bone damage.
Chlorinated Hydrocarbon Solvents: Various chlorinated hydrocarbons are used in degreasing
or other cleaning operations. The vapors are a concern in welding and cutting because the heat
and ultraviolet radiation from the arc will decompose the vapors and form highly toxic and
irritating phosgene gas.
Phosgene: Formed by decomposition of chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents by ultraviolet
radiation. It reacts with moisture in the lungs to produce hydrogen chloride, which in turn
destroys lung tissue. For this reason, any use of chlorinated solvents should be well away from
welding operations.
Carbon Monoxide: Is a gas usually formed by the incomplete combustion of various fuels.
Welding and cutting may produce significant amounts of carbon monoxide. In addition, welding
operations that use carbon dioxide as the inert gas shield may produce hazardous chemical
concentrations of carbon monoxide in poorly ventilated areas caused by a breakdown of
shielding gas.
Ozone: Ozone (O3) is produced by ultraviolet light from the welding arc. Ozone is produced in
greater quantities by gas metal arc welding (GMAW or short-arc), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW
or heli-arc), and plasma arc cutting. Ozone is a highly active form of oxygen and can cause
irritation to all mucous membranes. Both nitrogen dioxide and ozone may have long-term effects
on the lungs.
Nitrogen Oxides: The ultraviolet light of the arc can produce nitrogen oxides (NO, NO2), from the
nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O2) in the air. Nitrogen oxides are produced by gas metal arc welding
(GMAW or short-arc), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW or heli-arc), and plasma arc cutting. High
concentrations can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and fluid in the lungs (pulmonary
edema).

Physical Agents
Ultraviolet radiation (UV): Is generated by the electric arc in the welding process. Skin exposure
to UV can result in severe burns. Many arc welders know the condition arc-eye, a sensation of
sand in the eyes.
Infrared Radiation: Exposure to infrared radiation (IR), produced by the electric arc and other
flame cutting equipment may heat the skin surface and the tissues immediately below the

surface. Most welders protect themselves from IR (and UV) with a welders helmet (or glasses)
and protective clothing.
Intense Visible Light: Exposure of the human eye to intense visible light can produce adaptation,
pupillary reflex, and shading of the eyes. In the arc welding process, eye exposure to intense
visible light is prevented for the most part by the welders helmet. However, some persons have
sustained retinal damage resulting from careless viewing of the arc.
If you or a loved one has been injured because of exposure to hazardous chemicals or physical
agents where inappropriate safety or lack of training was the cause, you may be able to get just
compensation. Consult the experienced injury attorneys at Seeger Weiss today. Begin by filling
out this form.
Seeger Weiss LLP
http://www.seegerweiss.com/personal-injury/workplace-injuries/construction-accidents/hazardouschemicals/

Philippine Priority Chemical List

The Philippine Priority Chemicals List (PCL) is a list of existing and new chemicals that DENREMB has determined to a potentially pose unreasonable risk to public health, workplace, and the
environment. Among the chemicals in PCL, DENR-EMB determines which chemicals should be
regulated. In addition, DENR-EMB imposes special reporting requirements that apply only to
chemicals included in PCL. This is an essential aspect of the PCL process since these reports will
enable DENR-EMB to obtain the necessary information concerning the priority chemicals and their
uses. Such information will assist DENR-EMB in making informed decisions on which chemicals
should be regulated.
Assessment of the potential hazards and risks posed by each chemical in PCL is not an easy
process. It not only requires knowledge of the toxicity of a substance, but also other
characteristics of a substance that may influence the severity and duration of adverse impacts.
These include a chemicals persistence and tendency to bioaccumulate through the food chain.
The following criteria has been established by DENR-EMB for PCL based on the selection criteria
and used in other industrial nations such as Australia, Japan, Canada and the United States. In
addition, qualitative and quantitative information that is unique to the Philippines such as
chemicals use and management, production quantity, percentage of release, occupational
exposure, disposal methods, and technical and economic feasibility of its regulation are
considered:
Persistence refers to the property of a substance whose half-life in water, sediment, soil, or air
exceeds duration of fifty (50) days. Sludge may be used as a surrogate for sediment. Metals are
considered to be persistent in all media.
Toxicity refers to the quality of a substance which meets any of the following criteria:

Acute lethality

Chronic or sub-lethal toxicity

Teratogenicity

Carcinogenicity

Bioaccumulation potential is the measure of a substances ability to bioaccumulate in the food

chain.

Requirements in Compliance with the PCL Rules

1. Duly filled-up Application Form.
2. Completed/filled-up and duly notarized Annual Report Form of the Applicant.
The template may be downloaded from the EMB website @ emb.gov.ph.
3. Summary of the previous years Importation, Handling/Transport, Distribution,
Storage, Use and Waste Disposal Data for the regulated PCL chemical(s) of
the Applicant.
4. DENR-EMB Identification Number as Hazardous Waste Generator issued to the
Applicant by the EMB-Regional Office where the storage facility is located.
5. Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC)/Certificate of Non-Coverage
(CNC) granted to the Applicant by the EMB-Regional Office EIA System (PD
1586).
6. Flow Diagram of Activities and Operations and/or its processes involving the
regulated PCL chemical(s) of the importer-distributor and user-manufacturer
which shows the entry of such chemical(s) and the potential or possible
discharge and emission there from of generated toxic and hazardous wastes,
if any.
7. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) of the regulated PCL chemical(s)
8. Proof of Applicants basic awareness and knowledge on the risks and hazard
potentials involved in the handling/transport, storage, use, manufacture
and/or disposal of generated wastes of the regulated PCL chemicals either
through Training Modules or any Training Certifications.
9. Discharge Permit (if necessary)
10.Permit to Operate for Air Pollution Control Device (ACD) and Air Pollution
Source Installation (APSI) if necessary)
11.List of users/clients of the regulated PCL chemicals for importer/distributor.
12.Chemical Management Plan
13.Contingency and Emergency Plan
14.Monitoring Results for groundwater and surface water of discharge (effluent)
and emission with respect to the potential contamination of the involved PCL
chemical(s), or alternatively for gaseous/vapor emission the OSH Centerissued Certification for its conformance to the requirements for safe work
place conditions shall be submitted to support the application.
15.Photos of Storage Facility
16.Processing Fee (P500.00/chemical)

Philippine Priority Chemical List

CAS Registry No.

Chemical Name

108-90-7
CHLOROBENZENE

1,4-

106-93-4
DIBROMOETHANE

1,2-

95-50-1
DICHLOROBENZENE

0-

106-46-7
DICHLOROBENZENE

1,4-

107-06-2
DICHLOROETHANE

1,2-

122-66-7
DIPHENYLHYDRAZINE

1,2

108-46-3
HYDROXYPHENOL

3-

7647-18-9
PENTACHLORIDE

ANTIMONY

7440-38-2
COMPOUNDS

ARSENIC

1332-21-4

ASBESTOS*

71-43-2

BENZENE

7440-41-7
COMPOUNDS

BERYLLIUM

7440-43-9
COMPOUNDS
56-23-5
TETRACHLORIDE*

76-06-2
18540-29-9
COMPOUNDS

CHLOROPICRIN
CHROMIUM

57-12-5
COMPOUNDS*

CYANIDE

64-67-5

DIETHYL SULFATE

106-93-4
DIBROMIDE

ETHYLENE

75-21-8

ETHYLENE OXIDE

111-30-8

GLUTARALDEHYDE

50-00-0

FORMALDEHYDE

9002-83-9

HALONS*

118-74-1
HEXACHLOROBENZENE
67-72-1
HEXACHLOROETHANE
302-01-2

HYDRAZINE

CADMIUM

7439-92-1
COMPOUNDS

LEAD

CARBON

149-30-4

MBT

594-42-3

MERCAFTAN

CHLORINATED
ETHERS

PERCHLOROMETHYL
CHLOROFLUORO

CARBONS*
67-66-3

CHLOROFORM

7439-97-6
COMPOUNDS

MERCURY

74-87-3

METHYL CHLORIDE

75-09-2
METHYLENECHLORIDE

1336-36-3
BIPHENYLS

2385-85-5

MIREX

POLYCHLORINATED
1,1,1

-TRICHLOROETHANE**

87-86-5
PENTACHLOROPHENOL

79-01-6
TRICHLOROETHYLENE

127-18-4
PERCHLROETHYLENE

TRIBUTYLTIN

108-95-2

PHENIC ACID

7782-49-2

SELENIUM

75-44-5

PHOSGENE

75-01-4

VINYL CHLORIDE

85-44-9
ANHYDRIDE
59536-65- 1
BIPHENYLS

PHTHALIC
POLYBROMINATED

Toxic Chemistry: Chemicals in Construction

Introduction

Introduction: Toxins and Toxicology

Only since WWII has toxicology made any impact on chronic chemical
poisoning. With a vast number of compounds at large, regulation can only
play catch-up.

Regulations and Prohibitions

The REACH Regulation
REACH is a European Union regulation concerning
the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation & restriction of CHemicals.
The Substitute it Now! (SIN) list
The SIN list is a list of chemicals judged by the environmental NGO Chemsec
to be Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs).
The 'Red List' of materials
The International Living Building Institute, a US-based sustainable building
certification programme, has developed the Red List of materials that are
not to be used in construction.

Hazardous chemicals in construction and

associated products
Alkylphenol
Alkylphenols are a component in phenolic resins, but they can also be found
in adhesives, paints and coatings and high performance rubber products..

Asbestos
The history of the use of asbestos culminated in one of the greatest public
health tragedies of modern times. Exposure to the former wonder mineral
continues to be the cause of one of the most pernicious forms of cancer.
Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A is used as a hardener in making polycarbonate plastics and
epoxy resins. Common BPA products include water bottles, baby bottles,
food storage containers, household electronics, plastic lenses and DVDs.
Cadmium
Most commonly used in the production of nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd)
rechargeable batteries and as a sacrificial corrosion-protection coating for
iron and steel. Other uses include alloys, coatings (electroplating), solar
cells, plastic stabilisers, and pigments.

Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE)

CPE is a versatile material that when compounded with other materials,
achieves different properties and products. It is widely used as a
thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), rubber and modifier for resins (PVC, PE and
ABS)
Chlorobenzene
Chlorobenzene's most high-profile application was in the production of the
pesticide DDT. Modern uses are as a solvent in the manufacture
of adhesives, paints, paint removers, polishes, dyes, and drugs.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
CR is used mainly in the rubber industry but is also important as a raw
material for adhesives and has different latex applications such as moulded
foam, rubber sheeting, sound insulation and gaskets.
Chloroprene
CR is used mainly in the rubber industry but is also important as a raw
material for adhesives and has different latex applications such as moulded
foam, rubber sheeting, sound insulation and gaskets.
Chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE)
CSPEs weatherability, UV stability and adhesion capability have made this
material very popular as a commercial roofing material. Other applications
include wire and cable sheathing and paint.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is used in a wide spectrum of products. In construction,
formaldehyde is still widely used as a binder in insulation products as well
as commonly as an adhesive in wood panel products.
Halogenated flame retardants
Flame retardants (FR) are compounds that when added to manufactured
materials, such as plastics and textiles, and surface finishes and coatings
that inhibit, suppress, or delay the production of flames to prevent the
spread of fire.
Hexavalent chromium (aka Chromium-6 )
It's corrosion resistance make it a first choice as an alloy or plating in the
production of stainless steel. Hexavalent chromium is used to produce CCA
(chromated copper arsenate) that is applied as a preservative in the
treatment of structural timber.
Lead
Lead comes with a long history of use, but in recent times we have become
aware of its potential to render harm to humans. However, it still plays a
role in the construction industry, primarily in roofing applications.

Mercury
Though previously applied to a wide spectrum of products and processes,
mercury's toxicity has become highly restrictive of general useage.

Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs)

PFCs are used to make stain, heat and water-resistant products including
fire protection agents, floor polishes and paints. They are also used to
manufacture non-stick coatings.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
PCBs are synthetic organic chemicals that were manufactured for use in
various industrial and commercial applications - including oil in electrical
and hydraulic equipment, and plasticisers in paints, plastics and rubber
products. Useage has become severley restricted in recent years.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Such is the height of the PVC industry's econmic profile, that critiicism from
GreenPeace and others has provoked the producers of PVC into a series of
intense and acrimonius confrontations.
Polyvinylidene Chloride (PVDC)
Polyvinylidene Chloride is synthesised from ethylene dichloride. Introduced
by DOW Chemicals in 1939, the PVDC monomer is used in the manufacture
of barrier coatings, fibres and plastics.
Pthalates
Phthalates are esters of phthalic acid and are most commonly found in
plastics, and primarily, in PVC as plasticisers to increase their flexibility,
transparency, durability and longevity.
Short-Chain Chlorinated Paraffins (SCCPs) (aka Chlorinated alkanes)
SCCPs are found world-wide in the environment, wildlife and humans. They
are bioaccumulative in wildlife and humans, are persistent and transported
globally through the environment

Possibly hazardous materials and products

Vinyl (PVC) Flooring and Pregnancy
Women exposed to high levels of a chemical commonly used in vinyl
flooring and PVC are more likely to have high blood pressure during
pregnancy

In The US Standards of Hazardous Chemical Substances and Toxic

Materials, they had the training certification or compliance training

for handling & approval for safety in constructions & manufacturing

facilities.
OSHA Construction Chemical Hazards and Toxic Substances
Online Training Certification

This online course provides basic safety training on chemical hazards and toxic substances
used in the construction industry. The course will cover the responsibilities of employers and
employees, health hazards from chemicals and toxic substances, hazard controls, and federal regulations
that protect employees from these hazards. This course is designed to help you achieve a greater
understanding of chemical hazards and how you can protect yourself from these hazards.

Hazardous substances in construction work.

Rhl R1, Kluger N.
Author information
Abstract
The most hazardous chemicals used in construction, including materials with transdermal effects,
carcinogens, embryo toxins, mutagens, and neurotoxins, are also included. These include solvents,
primers and adhesives, wood dust, plastic woods, sealing agents, wood protectants, insulation, and
products used for structural engineering.

Potential Chemicals Found in Building Materials

Asbestos
Chromated copper arsenic (CCA) in pressure treated wood
Formaldehyde
Perfluorinated compounds, including PFOA
Phthalates
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs)
Additional Resources

Asbestos
Asbestos fibers are strong, heat resistant, chemical resistant, and useful in providing heat insulation.
Therefore, their most common uses include floor and ceiling tiles, plasters, insulations, adhesives,
wallboard, roofing materials, fireproofing materials, and cement products. Asbestos is a known
carcinogen, and inhalation of asbestos fibers is known to cause respiratory problems and lung diseases
such as Asbestosis, Mesothelioma, or Lung cancer. All three of these diseases experience delayed
development and the diseases may not manifest for 10-40 years after the initial asbestos exposure.

Asbestos that is intact, undisturbed, and in overall good condition does not necessarily pose a problem to
human health. Deterioration and damage releases fibers into the air. A professional is needed to remove
or repair asbestos-containing materials that are damaged or will be disturbed during a home improvement
project.

Chromated copper arsenic (CCA) in pressure treated wood

Chromated copper arsenate (CCA) is a pesticide/preservative used to prevent rotting in lumber designed
for outdoor use. CCA contains arsenic, chromium, and copper and was widely used for residential
purposes in the United States from the 1970s until EPA phased it out in 2003. CCA-treated wood can be
found virtually anywhere outdoor lumber is being utilized, such as play sets, decks, and picnic tables.

CCA-treated wood can be hazardous to human health because arsenic is a known carcinogen. Exposure
to arsenic can cause cancer of the lung, bladder, skin, kidney, prostate, and nasal passage. Arsenic
exposure can also lead to nerve damage, dizziness, and numbness. Arsenic can leach to the surface of
the treated wood, becoming accessible for absorption through exposed hands and skin touching the wood
surface and, especially in the case of children, ingestion through normal hand-to-mouth behavior. Arsenic
can also leach into the ground surrounding the location of the treated wood.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is used widely to manufacture building materials and numerous household products. It is
also a by-product of combustion and certain other natural processes. Thus, it may be present in
substantial concentrations both indoors and outdoors. In homes, the most significant sources of
formaldehyde are likely to be pressed wood products made using adhesives that contain ureaformaldehyde (UF) resins. Pressed wood products made for indoor use include particleboard, hardwood
plywood paneling, and medium density fiberboard, which contains a higher resin-to-wood ratio than any
other UF pressed wood product and is generally recognized as being the highest formaldehyde-emitting
pressed wood product.

Formaldehyde is also used to add permanent-press qualities to clothing and draperies, as a component of
glues and adhesives, and as a preservative in some paints and coating products. Formaldehyde, a
colorless, pungent-smelling gas, is a known respiratory irritant and carcinogen. It can cause watery eyes,
burning sensations in the eyes and throat, nausea, and difficulty in breathing in some humans exposed at
elevated levels (above 0.1 parts per million).
Perfluorinated compounds, including PFOA
Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are a family of fluorine-containing chemicals with unique properties to
make materials stain and stick resistant. PFCs are used in wide array of consumer products and food
packaging, such as microwave popcorn bags, pizza boxes, and cleaning and personal-care products like
shampoo, dental floss, and denture cleaners. Even Gore-Tex clothing contains PFCs. Although these
chemicals have been used since the 1950s in countless products, theyve been subjected to little
government testing.

There are many forms of PFCs, but the two most notorious are:

PFOA or perfluorooctanoic acid, used to make Teflon products. PFOA is broadly toxic. It does not
break down in the environment and has a half-life in the body of more than four years. PFOA is a
likely human carcinogen; it causes liver, pancreatic, testicular, and mammary gland tumors in
laboratory animals.

PFOS or perfluorooctane sulfonate, a breakdown product of chemicals, was used until 2002 in
the manufacture of 3M's Scotchgard treatment, used on carpet, furniture, and clothing. PFOS
causes liver and thryoid cancer in rats. PFOSs half-life is estimated at more than 8 years.

Phthalates
Phthalates, called plasticizers, are a group of industrial chemicals used to make plastics like polyvinyl
chloride (PVC) more flexible or resilient. Building materials are the largest end use for PVC. Major uses of
flexible PVC in buildings include carpet backing, resilient flooring, wall coverings, acoustical ceiling
surfaces, upholstery textiles, roof membranes, waterproofing membranes, and electrical cord insulation.
Phthalates are nearly ubiquitous in modern society, and can also be found in toys, food packaging, hoses,
raincoats, shower curtains, vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, hair spray, and shampoo. Certain
phthalates are known or suspected endocrine disruptors, meaning they impact and alter the human
hormone system. Phthalates are also suspected to be potent reproductive toxins, especially in boys.
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
PBDEs are used as flame retardants in plastic building materials and are particularly widespread in
polyurethane foam products (insulation and cushions). In May, 2010, the EPA released an exposure
assessment for PBDEs, providing information on the extent to which humans are exposed to and have a
body burden of the chemicals. Key routes of human exposure are thought to be from their use in
household consumer products, and their presence in house dust, and not from dietary routes. PBDEs
have been associated in animal studies with liver toxicity, thyroid toxicity, developmental and reproductive
toxicity, and developmental neurotoxicity.
Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs)
SCCPs' primary use is as a lubricant and coolant in metal cutting and metal forming operations so they
may be present in the life-cycle of metal building products. The second most significant use is as a
secondary plasticizer in PVC in many of the same applications as the phthalate plasticizers listed above.
To a lesser extent it is also used in other plastics, including acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resins (ABS),
unsaturated polyester resins, polyethylene, polypropylene, and urethane foam for rubbers, paints,
adhesives, caulks, and sealants as either plasticizers or flame retardants.

Although no studies have been completed on humans, SCCPs are classified as toxic to aquatic
organisms, and carcinogenic to rats and mice.

What are chemical hazards and toxic substances?

Chemical hazards and toxic substances pose a wide range of health hazards (such as irritation,
sensitization, and carcinogenicity) and physical hazards (such as flammability, corrosion, and reactivity).
This page provides basic information about chemical hazards and toxic substances in the workplace.
While not all hazards associated with every chemical and toxic substance are addressed here, we do
provide relevant links to other pages with additional information about hazards and methods to control
exposure in the workplace.

How does OSHA regulate worker exposure to chemicals?

Worker education and training (Hazard Communication Standard)
29 CFR 1910.1200, 1915.1200, 1917.28, 1918.90, and 1926.59
OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is designed to ensure that information about chemical
and toxic substance hazards in the workplace and associated protective measures is disseminated to
workers.
In order to ensure chemical safety in the workplace, information about the identities and hazards
of the chemicals must be available and understandable to workers. OSHA's Hazard
Communication Standard (HCS) requires the development and dissemination of such information:

Chemical manufacturers and importers are required to evaluate the hazards of the chemicals
they produce or import, and prepare labels and safety data sheets to convey the hazard
information to their downstream customers;

All employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces must have labels and safety data
sheets for their exposed workers, and train them to handle the chemicals appropriately. The
training for employees must also include information on the hazards of the chemicals in their work
area and the measures to be used to protect themselves.

For more information see OSHA's Hazard Communication and What is Hazard Communication? pages.

Allowable airborne concentrations

Employers are required to identify and evaluate the respiratory hazard(s) in their workplaces. Various
types of Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) have been established by a number of organizations, and
are listed on many of OSHAs Safety and Health webpages on chemical hazards and toxic substances.
Here is an explanation of some of the different levels.

OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs).

29 CFR 1910 Subpart Z, 1915 Subpart Z, 1926 Subparts D and Z

OSHA sets enforceable permissible exposure limits (PELs) to protect workers against the health effects of
exposure to hazardous substances, including limits on the airborne concentrations of hazardous
chemicals in the air. Most OSHA PELs are 8-hour time-weighted averages (TWA), although there are also
Ceiling and Peak limits, and many chemicals include a skin designation to warn against skin contact.
Approximately 500 PELs have been established.
Most of OSHAs PELs for General Industry are contained in 1910.1000 Air Contaminants, and are listed
by chemical name in Tables Z-1, Z-2, and Z-3. The standards for Marine Terminals and Longshoring both
incorporate the General Industry standards (1910 Subpart Z).
Most of OSHAs PELs for Shipyard Employment are contained in 1915.1000 Toxic and Hazardous
Substances, and are listed by chemical name.
Most of OSHAs PELs for Construction are contained in 1926.55 Gases, Vapors, Fumes, Dusts, and
Mists, and are listed by chemical name.

However, many of these limits are outdated. Also, there are many substances for which OSHA does not
have workplace exposure limits.
To provide employers, workers, and other interested parties with a list of alternate occupational exposure
limits that may serve to better protect workers, OSHA has annotated the existing Z-Tables with additional
selected occupational exposure limits. OSHA has chosen to present a side-by-side table with the
California/OSHA PELs, the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limits (RELs) and the ACGIH TLVs. The
tables list air concentration limits, but do not include notations for skin injury, absorption or sensitization.

California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) Permissible

Exposure Limits (PELs).

Cal/OSHA has established an extensive list of PELs (Cal/OSHA AC-1 Table ) that are enforced in
workplaces under its jurisdiction. Cal/OSHA PELs are promulgated under statutory requirements for risk
and feasibility that are no less protective than the OSH Act. Though not enforceable in establishments
outside of Cal/OSHAs jurisdiction, these PELs can provide information on acceptable levels of chemicals
in the workplace. Of all the states that have OSHA-approved State Plans, California has the most
extensive list of PELs.

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Recommended

Exposure Limits (RELs).

NIOSH RELs are Federal agency recommendations established according to the legislative mandate for
NIOSH to recommend standards to OSHA. RELs are recommended exposure limits for hazardous
substances in the workplace to protect worker health. In developing RELs and other recommendations to
protect worker health, NIOSH evaluates all available medical, biological, engineering, chemical, and trade
information relevant to the hazard. NIOSH transmits its recommendations to OSHA for use in developing
legally enforceable standards. NIOSH also publishes its recommendations in publicly available sources
such as the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards, Criteria Documents, Current Intelligence
Bulletins, Alerts, Special Hazard Reviews, Occupational Hazard Assessments, and Technical Guidelines.

ACGIH Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) and Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs).

ACGIH is a private, not-for-profit, nongovernmental corporation. It is not a standards setting body.

ACGIH is a scientific association that develops recommendations or guidelines to assist in the control of
occupational health hazards. TLVs and BEIs are health-based values and are not intended to be used
as legal standards.
Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) refer to airborne concentrations of chemical substances and represent
conditions under which it is believed that nearly all workers may be repeatedly exposed, day after day,
over a working lifetime, without adverse effects.
Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs) are guidance values for assessing biological monitoring results
concentrations of chemicals in biological media (e.g., blood, urine). BEIs represent the levels of
determinants that are most likely to be observed in specimens collected from healthy workers who have
been exposed to chemicals in the same extent as workers with inhalation exposure at the TLV.

Since ACGIH TLVs and BEIs are based solely on health factors, there is no consideration given to
economic or technical feasibility. ACGIH does not believe that TLVs and BEIsshould be adopted as
standards without an analysis of other factors necessary to make appropriate risk management decisions
(e.g., control options, technical and economic factors).
For more information on TLVs, please go to the TLVs and BEIs Guidelines page. The TLVs and
BEIs are copyrighted by ACGIH and are reprinted on OSHAs Annotated PELs page with ACGIHs
permission. The TLVs can be purchased in their entirety on the ACGIH website. Permission must be
requested from ACGIH to reproduce the TLVs and BEIs. A link for a permission request form appears
on OSHAs Annotated PELs page.
The ACGIH TLVs are widely recognized as authoritative, and are required to be included on safety data
sheets by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.
What other common terms are used when discussing chemical hazards or toxic substances?
Action level
An airborne level, typically one-half of the PEL designated in OSHAs substance-specific standards, 29
CFR 1910, Subpart Z , calculated as an eight (8)-hour time-weighted average, which initiates certain
required activities such as exposure monitoring and medical surveillance.
Ceiling Limit
The exposure limit a workers exposure may never exceed.
Sampling and Analytical Error
A statistical estimate of the uncertainty associated with a given exposure measurement.
Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL)
The average exposure to a contaminant to which a worker may be exposed during a short time period
(typically 15 30 minutes).
Time-Weighted Average (TWA)
The average exposure to a contaminant over a given period of time, typically 8-hours. For examples of
how a TWA is calculated, see the OSHA Technical Manual.
How do I control chemical hazards and toxic substances?
It is OSHA's long standing policy that engineering and work practice controls must be the primary means
to reduce employee exposure to toxic chemicals, where feasible. Respiratory protection is required to be
used if engineering or work practice controls are infeasible or while engineering controls are being
implemented. For more information on engineering controls/administrative controls see the Controlling
Exposures page.

What are the requirements for respirator use?

When effective engineering controls are not feasible, or while they are being instituted, appropriate
respirators shall be used. Employers must provide appropriate respiratory protection at no cost to

workers, provide appropriate training and education regarding its use, and ensure that workers use it
properly. (See 29 CFR 1910.134 or OSHA's Respiratory Protection Safety and Health Topics Page)
Where can I find other information relating to specific chemicals?
First, explore this Safety and Health Topic webpage that includes links to much of the related information
available from OSHA, in addition, near the top of this page is a list of other Safety and Health Topic pages
which address specific chemicals. Other sections contain information or links on subjects such as
laboratory safety, and Hazard Communication or Process Safety. The OSHA Occupational Chemical
Database has over 800 entries with information such as physical properties, exposure guidelines and
emergency response guidance. The OSHA Chemical Sampling Information file contains information on
sampling and analysis of approximately 1500 substances.
The NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards contains information on several hundred chemicals
commonly found in the workplace; The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Toxic Substance
Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Substances Inventory lists information on more than 62,000 chemicals or
chemical substances; EPAs new ChemView database provides information on test data and
assessments; some libraries maintain files of material safety data sheets (MSDS) for more than 100,000
substances.

Cement is often supplied as a powder, which is mixed with other materials and water. Many types of cement
powder can cause allergic reactions upon skin contact and are irritating to skin, eyes, and lungs, so handlers
should wear a dust mask, goggles, and protective gloves, unlike the worker pictured here[1][2][3]

Philippine Inventory of Chemicals and Chemical Substances

The Philippine Inventory of Chemicals and Chemical

Substances (PICCS) is a list of all existing chemicals and

PICCS UPDATING:

chemical substances used, sold, distributed, imported,

Updating of the PICCS is done semi-annually and includes all

processed, manufactured, stored, exported, treated or

new chemicals that have been issued a PMPIN Clearance

transported in the Philippines. The chemicals and chemical

Certificate.

substances in the inventory were nominated by the

industries themselves. The first PICCS was published by
DENR-EMB in 1995 and subsequently PICCS updates
were published 2000, 2002, 2005 and 2008.
PICCS contains the following information:

All these new chemicals are submitted for verification of their CAS
Registry Name and CAS Registry No. with the Chemical Abstract
Service in the USA. Any correction is consulted with the notifier of
the chemical.
Database version PICCS

Chemical name and the Chemical Abstract Service

number (CAS No.), a uniquely identifying number assigned
to a particular chemical or chemical substance.
CAS Registry Index names that are assigned to

Exemptions to PICCS and the PICCS Updating Rules:

chemicals in accordance with International Union of Pure

and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature.
Common name of the chemical or chemical substance,

EXEMPTION TO PICCS

Non-chemical substances

Naturally occurring substances

Mixtures

Radioactive substances, pesticides, drugs,

only if different from CAS Registry Index name.

PURPOSE OF PICCS:
PICCS was developed to provide government, industry,
and the public with a core inventory of all existing
chemicals and chemical substances in the country. It
serves as a guide for manufacturers and importers of
chemicals. Manufacturers and importers need not notify

foodstuffs, and consumer products that are

regulated by other laws in the Philippines

By-products

and secure clearance from DENR-EMB before they

manufacture or import chemicals included in PICCS;
provided that these chemicals are not in PCL and not are

EXEMPTION TO THE PICCS UPDATING

subject to CCOs. Chemicals and chemical substances not

included in PICCS cannot be manufactured or imported

distributed (not imported) for market test and

unless the proponent follows the PMPIN notification

research and development in quantities less than

assessment process as discussed in the subsequent

1,000 kg per year

sections of this manual.

Small-quantity chemicals manufactured or

*Fuel additives are required to be reviewed under

Republic Act 8749, the Clean Air Act over if the Chemical
ingredients are already in PICCS.

American workers use tens of thousands of chemicals every day.

Businesses can improve worker well-being through eliminating
or reducing hazardous chemicals, consider using the OSHA
Toolkit: Transitioning to Safer Chemicals.

Occupational Safety & Health Administration

OSHA's Chemical Related

Safety and Health Topics Pages
Transitioning to Safer Chemicals: A Toolkit for Employers
and Workers

Arsenic

Asbestos

Asphalt fumes

Benzene

Beryllium

1-Bromopropane

1,3-Butadiene

Cadmium

Chromium

Diacetyl

Diesel exhaust

Ethylene oxide

Formaldehyde

Hexavalent chromium

Hydrogen sulfide

Isocyanates

Lead

Mercury

Metals, toxic

Metalworking fluids

Methylene chloride

Silica, crystalline

Solvents

Synthetic mineral fibers

Toluene