Construction health risks
- Physical Injuries: Construction sites are often filled with heavy machinery and equipment, leading to the risk of accidents such as falls from heights, being struck by falling objects, or getting caught in machinery. These accidents can result in fractures, sprains, strains, or even more severe injuries.
- Respiratory Hazards: Dust, fumes, and particulate matter are prevalent on construction sites. Workers may be exposed to asbestos, silica dust, welding fumes, and other airborne contaminants that can lead to respiratory issues, including lung cancer, pneumoconiosis (such as silicosis), and occupational asthma.
- Chemical Exposure: Construction materials and substances used on construction sites, such as paints, solvents, adhesives, and sealants, can contain harmful chemicals. Workers may be exposed to these chemicals, which can lead to skin irritation, eye injuries, chemical burns, or long-term health effects.
- Noise Pollution: Construction sites are typically noisy environments due to heavy machinery and power tools. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can result in hearing loss and other hearing-related issues.
- Vibrations: Workers who operate heavy machinery or hand tools that generate vibrations may be at risk of developing conditions like hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), which can cause numbness, tingling, and reduced dexterity in the hands and arms.
- Heat and Cold Stress: Outdoor construction work exposes workers to extreme weather conditions. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heatstroke, while working in cold environments can result in hypothermia or frostbite.
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