Elimination
Abate hazard before work begins
- Making Safety Simpler
BCCSA Search
Biological Hazards
Agents of biological origin that can cause harmful health effects, including microorganisms, toxins produced by organisms, and allergens. They can enter the body through inhalation, skin contact, ingestion, or injection.
Construction Industry Examples
- Mold in damp building materials
- Bird or rodent droppings in attics or crawl spaces
- Sewage exposure during plumbing work
- Contaminated soil or water
- Legionella in stagnant water systems
- Tetanus from rusty nails or metal
Tips on Identifying
- Site History Review
Examine past activities that may have introduced biological hazards. - Visual Inspection
Look for mold growth, standing water, animal droppings, pest infestations, and inadequate ventilation. - Consultation
Engage with site management and workers about known hazards. - Potential Sources
Identify raw materials, water systems, waste areas, and outdoor environments. - Review Safety Data Sheets and Environmental Reports
Analyze SDS and environmental reports for potential biological hazards. - Assess Work Practices and Potential Exposure Routes
Evaluate workplace procedures and routes of exposure to biological hazards. - Evaluate Indoor Air Quality
Assess air quality for potential contaminants and ventilation concerns. - Check for Proper Waste Management
Ensure that biological waste is managed and disposed of safely. - Consider Environmental Testing
Conduct environmental testing to identify potential biological hazards.
Control Method Examples:
More Effective
Substitution
Engineering Controls
Implement ventilation and air movement
Administrative Controls
Restrict work area access, handling procedures, containment practices
PPE
Use appropriate PPE
Less Effective