Chemical safety

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When handling chemicals, it is important that workers protect their hands.

Mercury can be found in a variety of products, including barometers, blood pressure measurers, batteries and some types of lightbulbs. The Illinois Department of Public Health states that workers can be exposed to mercury through breathing vapors, direct skin contact, or by eating food or drinking water contaminated with mercury.

Many workers use cleaning products every day as part of their job responsibilities. Common cleaning products may seem harmless, but they can lead to serious health problems if mishandled.

Chemicals used to manage insects, rodents, weeds, molds and germs all have the potential to cause harm to workers. Pesticides come in different forms, including sprays, liquids, powders, granulates, baits and foggers.

Painters commonly use products such as paint strippers that may contain toxic, flammable or combustible chemicals.

Gasoline and other flammable liquids should only be stored in approved containers based on specifications developed by the Department of Transportation, OSHA, the National Fire Protection Association and the American National Standards Institute.

Working with chemicals and solvents in the workplace can expose workers to a host of health hazards. Being properly trained in how to handle these hazardous materials is vital.

Working on jobsites painted before 1978 can pose risks associated with lead-based paints. Workers need to be aware of safe practices in removing this paint to avoid the health risks that come with lead exposure both during and after work has taken place.

Canned air is commonly used in offices to clean dust from equipment such as computers and shredders. These products often are used without incident; however, lack of training in proper use can lead to flash fires and injuries, warns the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.