Exposure to Hazardous Materials During Renovation for Existing Structures
SourceDuring renovation or rehabilitation of existing structures, workers are routinely exposed to hazards not previously considered in the work place such as lead, mold, asbestos, and emissions of volatile organic compounds, polychlorinatedbiphenyls and dusts. The sources of these exposures can be PCBs in transformers, lead in paints, asbestos in floor covering, fluorescent light fixtures, plumbing systems, fireproofing, building siding, roofing paper, and mastic. All of these materials have the potential to cause real immediate or latent harm to workers. This paper advocates the generation of a standard guidance checklist and assessment of risk for building interiors. Using such a risk assessment checklist prior to any rehabilitation and restoration project may reduce worker exposure and limit residual contamination from affecting subsequent occupants.