Hazardous Substances are those substances used in the workplace and public environments that are designated by National Occupational Health and Safety Council (NOHSC) "List of Designated Hazardous Substances".
Some substances used at a workplace are highly dangerous and should have clear warnings on their labels, for example, "concentrated sulphuric acid". Many substances however are not obviously hazardous and can sometimes appear unexpectedly, for example, leaking gases. The focus should be on undertaking a risk assessment to identify all potential hazards. Current Workplace Health and Safety legislation and other guideline information assists in the management of hazardous substance use in the workplace and public environments.
Toxic substances can enter the body in three ways. They can be ingested (swallowed), inhaled (breathed in) or be absorbed dermally (through the skin). They can occur in food, in water, the soil and in the air. Products used for cleaning are potentially toxic, as is the fuel used in vehicles. Drugs taken for simple ailments can, in high enough doses, be toxic. Some substances are toxic in very small quantities, however others require large doses to be toxic.
In the past, some products considered to be safe, such as asbestos or lead paint, were freely used. Where research has shown substances to be harmful, efforts are being made to remedy or reduce the potential for harm.
It is generally well understood that it is important for all premises to not only store and use potentially toxic chemicals and other substances safely. However it is not so clear that businesses need to monitor the use of such materials and have in place appropriately documented procedures for action in case of an emergency. It is also important for businesses to be aware of the history of their site and to ensure that staff and the public are safe from exposure to contaminants that are remnants of the past. For further information on site history, contact the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). See the Services Directory for local contact details.
The Department of Industrial Relations website has more information on workplace health and safety including advisory standards, brochures and guides.
Go back to the main Topics page
Copyright | Disclaimer | Privacy | Feedback
|
Other languages
© The State of Queensland (Queensland Health) 2008.
