Hazardous Chemicals

About this topic

Construction sites are full of chemicals, paints, solvents, fuels, adhesives, concrete and silica dust. Used carelessly, they can cause burns, poisoning, and long-term illness. The White Card (CPCWHS1001) covers how to identify hazardous chemicals and work with them safely.

Identifying hazardous chemicals

Hazardous chemicals are labelled under the globally harmonised system (GHS), using standard pictograms (such as the flame for flammable or the skull for toxic) and signal words like DANGER or WARNING. Always read the label before using any product, and never use a chemical from an unlabelled container.

The Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Every hazardous chemical must have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), a document that explains the hazards, the PPE required, safe handling and storage, first aid, and what to do in a spill. The SDS must be readily accessible to workers who use the chemical. Knowing how to find and read the SDS is a key skill the test checks.

Controlling the risk

Apply the hierarchy of control: substitute a safer product where possible, use ventilation or extraction to control dust and fumes, wear the PPE the SDS specifies, store chemicals correctly and keep incompatible ones apart, and know the spill and first-aid procedures before you start. Silica dust in particular requires strict dust controls.

Key facts to remember

• Every hazardous chemical must have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
• The SDS must be readily accessible to workers using the chemical.
• Read GHS labels and pictograms before use; never use unlabelled containers.
• Use the PPE and controls specified in the SDS.
• Store chemicals correctly and keep incompatible chemicals separated.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?
A document supplied for every hazardous chemical that sets out its hazards, the PPE required, safe handling and storage, first aid, and spill procedures.

What do the diamond-shaped chemical pictograms mean?
They are standard GHS hazard symbols, for example a flame for flammable, a skull for toxic, or a corrosion symbol for corrosive substances.

Where do I find chemical safety information on site?
From the product label and the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which must be readily accessible to anyone using the chemical.

How are hazardous chemicals controlled?
By substituting safer products where possible, using ventilation, wearing the specified PPE, storing them correctly, and following the SDS spill and first-aid procedures.

Sample exam questions

Try these example questions, then practise the full set with our free quiz.

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