When construction workers are on the job in Texas, they may face many significant hazards. Workers in other types of industries may also face some risks from construction or renovation work when it is taking place while the company is still open. Environmental contaminants and toxic exposure may be particularly significant concerns, especially if dangerous chemicals are being used in confined spaces with little opportunity to dissipate. In addition, some of the dusts produced during construction work may pose a danger to the lungs. As a result, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health released guidelines to protect both construction workers and other employees during building and renovation jobs.
Several health hazards have been identified at workplaces undergoing renovations. Construction workers are often the most at-risk group as they are closest to the contaminants over a longer period of time. Other workers may also see symptoms, however, when high-emissions building materials are used and dust controls are not in place. Affected workers may begin to experience signs of an occupational illness like nausea, headache, dizziness or fatigue. People may have eye or throat irritations, or they may develop asthma in conditions where mold is present.
OSHA has some workplace safety guidelines and regulations for exposure to certain types of substances and chemicals. For example, any renovation project taking place where asbestos is present must be conducted under strict safety guidelines to avoid asbestos exposure, which can lead to a rare form of cancer called mesothelioma and other occupational diseases.
Toxic exposure or other dangerous circumstances may lead to unknown illnesses, medical expenses and time away from the job, both for construction workers and those in buildings under renovation. Workers injured by construction on the job may consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer about how to receive the benefits they need.