Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is required in construction when workers are exposed to hazardous substances, such as dust, fumes, gases, and vapours, that can cause respiratory problems or other health issues. The specific situations where RPE is needed will depend on the hazards present in each particular construction site.
Examples of construction activities that may require the use of RPE include:
- demolition work, which can create high levels of dust and other airborne debris
- concrete cutting or drilling, which can produce silica dust
- welding or cutting, which can generate fumes and gases
- painting or spraying, which can produce hazardous vapours
Employers are responsible for carrying out a risk assessment to determine if RPE is necessary for a particular job, and for providing appropriate RPE to their workers. Workers should also receive training on the correct use, maintenance, and storage of RPE.
In addition to the use of RPE, activities should consider how the hazardous substances can either be extracted at source such as through the use of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) or through suppressant such as the use of water on grinding wheels.
For further information you can also refer to:
- Construction Dust
- Controlling construction dust with on tool extraction
- Respiratory projection at work – A practical guide
How can MSAFE assist?
MSAFE can assist during our site health and safety inspections. MSAFE qualified health and safety advisors can visit your site and assess compliance during the visit reporting on the need for RPE and control of dust.
