COSHH and Accident Reporting Flashcards

What does COSHH stand for in an Irish construction context?

Answer: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

COSHH stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health. In Ireland, it is addressed under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Chemical Agents) Regulations and requires assessment and control of hazardous substances.

What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and why is it required for substances used on a construction site?

Answer: A document provided by the manufacturer that details the hazards, safe handling, storage, and emergency measures for a chemical substance

An SDS (previously called Material Safety Data Sheet/MSDS) provides essential information about a chemical's hazards, exposure limits, PPE requirements, storage, disposal, and emergency procedures. It must be available on site for every hazardous substance.

What is silica dust and why is it particularly hazardous on construction sites?

Answer: Fine dust produced when cutting, grinding, or drilling concrete, stone, or brick — causes incurable silicosis (scarring of the lungs)

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is produced when materials containing quartz are cut, ground, or drilled. When inhaled deeply, it causes silicosis — irreversible and progressive scarring of the lung tissue. It also increases lung cancer risk.

What is the correct method for mixing cement on a construction site to minimise COSHH risks?

Answer: Use mechanical mixing, ensure workers are upwind, wear RPE and gloves, and minimise manual handling of dry cement

Cement dust is corrosive and can cause cement burns, dermatitis, and lung damage. Mechanical mixing, positioning workers upwind, using RPE, and wearing impermeable gloves and arm protection minimise exposure.

Which of the following conditions must be reported to the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) in Ireland under the Reporting of Accidents regulations?

Answer: All fatal accidents and accidents causing incapacity for more than 3 consecutive days

Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act and associated regulations, fatal accidents must be reported immediately. Non-fatal accidents that result in an injured person being unable to work for more than 3 consecutive days must also be reported to the HSA.

What is the purpose of an accident investigation on a construction site?

Answer: To determine the root cause of the accident so that corrective actions can be taken to prevent recurrence

Accident investigation aims to identify the underlying causes (unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, management failures) and implement corrective measures. The goal is prevention, not blame. Blaming individuals often obscures systemic causes.