Are We Overlooking Safety? Struggles with Proper Mask Use on Construction Sites

Respirator and Dust Mask Issues in Construction Sites

I have the same problem in all our subcontractor sites, including ours (self-performance). Let's address the issue.

In construction, we always face different kinds of issues. Over the last couple of months, we have been specifically monitoring respirator and dust mask issues in our work areas. They are using respirators and dust masks for all purposes. Unfortunately, our EHS guys (including me) often forget to read the instructions. How many of our guys read the instructions or ask for manuals when inspecting something in work areas? Anyone?

In my workplace, they are using some chemicals for fixing tiles and silicon sealant for finishing, etc. However, all the employees assigned to the job are using the same respirator or mask for all tasks. When I reviewed the MSDS, the manufacturer clearly recommends what type of mask we need to use, including models. Just a couple of weeks ago, we had a meeting with our supervisor regarding this issue and how they can choose the right PPEs for the job. After the meeting, I visited one site, and it shocked me to see they were using a different mask that does not meet the manufacturer's requirements. Again, I called the supervisor, and he argued with me.

1. For example, in one area, it's like a hall with more than 20 employees working on different activities such as tiling, finishing, and plumbing. They are using different types of chemicals, which require different types of respirators or masks for each activity. However, they are using the same respirator or mask while cleaning the area, but they are supposed to use different masks.

I strongly believe this leads to occupational diseases in the future. Even if my employee suffers after 5 years, I am solely responsible for them, even though they aren't in my company anymore. They do not understand, and despite explaining many times, it happens again and again.

We cannot monitor 1000+ employees one by one at all times; it's not possible.

I discussed this issue with my colleagues, and most of them advised me that I am making a small issue seem like a disaster. Guys, please advise me if I am wrong in this case.

Note: We are providing masks for all activities in our workplace, but our employees fail to use them.

Your suggestions are most welcome. Thanks in advance.

Regards,

I suggest the following:

1. You can't always expect the job supervisor to refer to the MSDS or manufacturer's instructions before selecting suitable respiratory protection. For this, you have to conduct a detailed study (HIRA) of all your activities and compile a list. Identify which respiratory protection is needed for which job, how long it should be used, etc. You may use the attached format.

2. Once the list is ready, hand it over to your supervisors. Clearly advise/train them on which PPE is for a particular job. You can expect results from this.

3. Conduct a training program for workers covering specific jobs, hazards, and the importance of using the right type of respiratory protection. The training level should be such that the worker feels empowered to demand the right type of respiratory protection for the job. If they do not receive it, they can escalate the issue to their superiors.

These are my suggestions. Please let me know if this will work for you or not.

Regards,

I apologize for the delay in my reply and for not being very participative in the forum recently due to my involvement in the EHS and OHSAS audits last week. Regarding your issue, I have some comments to share and would also like to offer some of my experiences that might provide you with useful insights.

Use of PPE

There is significant resistance to the use of PPE.

Personal Life Examples:

- Helmets while driving two-wheelers: Most individuals view it as a response to police enforcement and fines rather than a safety measure. Only a small percentage wear helmets voluntarily.

- Talking on mobile phones while driving two and four-wheelers: Despite the well-known dangers, few people comply with this safety regulation.

- Fastening seat belts while driving four-wheelers: This practice is mainly followed in cities where it is mandated by the RTO.

Professional Life Examples:

Encouraging workers to use PPE in the industry poses a challenge for management. In cases of incidents involving falling objects, management often immediately emphasizes the importance of wearing helmets.

In my opinion, companies should conduct hazard identification regarding falling hazards and the issues associated with helmet use. Some concerns regarding helmets in the Indian subcontinent include discomfort due to sweating and itching, hindered hearing, and potential issues like dandruff and dermatitis if helmets are shared among employees.

Preventing falling hazards at the source can render helmets unnecessary. For instance, by implementing anti-fall measures on EOT crane platforms in workshops, the risk of falling objects can be mitigated without relying solely on helmets.

PPEs are typically considered the last line of defense, with emphasis placed on elimination, substitution, and engineering controls first. Modifying crane platforms can serve as an engineering control measure. Therefore, I recommend conducting a detailed Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) and adopting Hazard Communication (HAZCOM) practices to enhance hazard awareness and acceptance.

In a previous role, we encountered hazards related to VOCs, with impotency being a major concern after prolonged exposure. By providing training to workers based on the MSDS and communicating the risks effectively, we observed positive changes in behavior, with workers using masks regularly and requesting replacements as needed.

Specific training can significantly impact safety practices and hazard awareness. These are my perspectives, which may differ from others, but I have seen positive outcomes by following this approach.

Thanks & Regards,
Sudhir

Dear Raghu, Dipil, while I was writing a reply on this thread, which took some time, Mr. Dipil replied in between and also commented on HIRA. I am sure Hazard Identification and Communication will give positive results. Thanks, Mr. Dipil, for your reply.

Thanks & Regards,
Sudhir

Dear Sir, Thank you for sharing a detailed write-up with us. What stands out to me is your vast experience in different fields. Your real-life experiences are valuable to us. It's nice to have a senior member like you in the forum. Keep on sharing and thanks.

Dear Mr. Raghu, Mr. Dipil,

I forgot to mention the quality of the mask. This is a competency issue. For selecting the correct type of mask, read the MSDS, contact reputable companies, and select the proper mask.

The following incident happened when I was working in Production. We had subcontracted the painting activity. The masks were issued to the painting contractor's employees. He regularly used the mask, but under the mask, he used to cover his nose with a handkerchief.

When we implemented OHSAS, we conducted HIRA, and the suitability of this mask was checked. Then, we realized that the particular mask was not suitable for the painting application. I studied the particle size of the fumes during painting and procured a suitable mask. The same painter was given the new mask, and feedback was taken. His feedback was in Hindi, "sir abhi paint ka smell nahi aata, pahle wale mask me se paint ka smell aata tha isiliye mai rumal bandhata tha."

The selection of proper PPE also changes the attitude of the workmen.

Thanks and Regards,

Sudhir

Please ensure the comfort of the employees while they are using masks. If an employee faces any inconvenience, they are unlikely to continue using the mask. Therefore, it is essential to conduct a Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA). If your selection process is accurate, employees should undergo training. During the training, focus not only on how to use masks and why it is important but also on the potential consequences of failing to use them. Remember, imposing fines on employees should be the last resort.

Regards,
Vijay

Dear Dipil,

First of all, thanks for your quick response, and sorry for the delay in replying. I was obstructed by some of our sub-contract issues. I will reply to you in a couple of hours.

Dear Sudhir, nice to see your professional example. Thanks for your participation amidst your busy schedule. Again, thanks. I will revert back to you in a couple of hours. Keep in touch.

His feedback was in Hindi, "Sir, abhi paint ka smell nahi aata, pahle wale mask me se paint ka smell aata tha isiliye mai rumal bandhata tha."

I had been facing such kinds of issues in my earlier projects too. Thanks for sharing. Keep in touch.

Thank you for your participation on this thread and for providing a short yet very useful piece of information. I will definitely incorporate this in our upcoming programs. Keep in touch.

First of all, thanks for your quick response, and sorry for the delay in replying. I was obstructed by some sub-contract issues. We have implemented what you suggested in our projects. The problem is with the multi-skilled workers we are using in our project. They are all-rounders, rotating through different tasks, and often forget to use the right PPE—90% of the time, they forget. It's a management issue. I discussed it with my management, and they asked me to prove it with any previous incidents, occupational health reports, etc. No one has been injured, affected, or reported any issues in this case, but I strongly believe it will happen if it continues in the workplace. However, I failed to prove this to management.

Note: We have provided enough training to employees, and it has been documented. Management strongly believes that we can change everything through training and is ready to spend whatever we request in the training area (funds, facilities, etc.).

I strongly believe training can't change everything

What I understood or learned from this issue is that multi-skilled workers are the problem. Am I right? We need to do some modifications in this case, and if I need to take any steps, I should conduct a cost analysis in this area. I hope it's not only a safety issue; management planning has failed in manpower distribution in this area, leading to a safety issue. This is the root cause of the problem, am I right?

Now, speaking as an engineer:

- If we are going to conduct training for all, it costs:
- Infrastructure (we need to provide it on-site; some sites have infrastructure)
- Trainer hours (if they need to spend more hours, they need to be paid extra)
- Multi-skilled workers (it will waste time and delay the schedule)
- Again, the trainer (he needs to spend time preparing presentations in different languages due to other nationalities) etc.

It's better to hire skilled workers for particular jobs. It will save money and time, and it's easier to monitor. Moreover, they know the nature of their work and can easily choose the right PPE.

This is what I thought in this case. I am awaiting your reply on this matter. One thing I always remember in my career and work for is:

"Achieve the company goal and fulfill the client/customer requirement." That is the main reason the company hires us; this is also part of my job.

Team, please someone guide me on the cost analysis subject. I am eager to learn.

Thanks in advance.

I am not aware of the international standards of HSE for such works as I have little exposure to overseas working environments. In India, tasks like tile fixing and silicon sealant sealing are considered normal operations where only nose masks are used, not respirators. I need to check the MSDS before providing further comments.

Regards,
Pon

Dear Raghu,

As the laborers engaged are from economically backward backgrounds and are illiterate, we can only explain to them the consequences of not using proper nose masks or respirators. Even some painters doing spray painting will not use any mask. Even if you explain, they will take it lightly and not respond properly. In the workers' minds, they think that these are all formalities to be adopted to satisfy the safety personnel and not for their safety. That's the reason these types of lapses are taking place.

Regards

Such training need not be a classroom session. This can be done in 10 to 15 minutes in the shop itself. Involve nearby workmen, supervisors, and even senior management members. Explain hazards, consider engineering controls, and explain them. Still, communicate to them the advantages of using PPEs. You may convey why it is important to test poison.

Thank you.

Recently, we conducted a PPE survey in our plant. Here, I am sharing the PPE selection survey report, which was carried out by M/s Joseph Leslie at our plant. Based on that, we recommend to our management to take the necessary procurement actions accordingly. Hope it will be useful.

Regards,
AJAY

I have worked in the compliance arena for a long time. The biggest problem is that no company or employer is willing to spend a penny on health and safety. Manufacturing jobs have been sourced to China and India simply because companies can save money by bypassing social, environmental, or health and safety norms. Once the employer is willing to invest money, educate the employees, and adhere to NIOSH norms, improvements can be made.

Regards.