Many hazards associated with roof system removal and
installation stem from using tools and equipment to perform various
tasks; heights at which work takes place; using chemicals or
hazardous materials; and adverse weather conditions. Additionally,
there may be potentially hazardous processes taking place inside
buildings where roofing work is being performed or at adjacent
buildings. For example, rooftop ventilation outlets may be
discharging gases, vapors and dusts that can harm roofing
workers.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA's)
Hazard Communication standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) requires you to
inform your workers about the hazardous chemicals to which they are
exposed. This can be a nearly impossible task if you are unaware of
the nature of manufacturing or processing operations conducted at a
building on which your employees are working.
However, OSHA's Hazard Communication standard places an
affirmative duty on employers operating the processes conducted
inside buildings to inform other employers working at the site
about precautionary measures needed to protect their employees from
hazardous chemicals.
OSHA also specifies worker exposure to specific gases, vapors,
fumes, dusts and mists exceeding individual concentrations set out
in 29 CFR 1926.55 must be avoided. To avoid exposure, OSHA requires
you to implement administrative or engineering controls in an
effort to reduce air...
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