The Dangerous Goods You May Have Onsite in Your Business (and How to Manage Them)

What Are Dangerous Goods?

Dangerous goods are substances that are flammable, sharp, corrosive, explosive, oxidizing, or combustible. They can cause explosions, fires, severe injury, large-scale damage, and even death. Certain chemicals also constitute dangerous goods because they can potentially create health issues for your staff, or anyone on site.

Note that dangerous substances can be in gaseous, solid, powder, dust, or in liquid form. Additionally, most types of goods may be diluted or pure.

Essentially, dangerous substances are those that can:

Harm your health
Cause disease
Cause grave injury
Cause any skin or lung irritation
Are flammable or combustible

What Dangerous Goods Do You Commonly Find in the Workplace?

Your workplace is likely not short of dangerous goods. In fact, some dangerous substances are unavoidable, as they are used in cleaning, as pesticides, in manufacturing, production, and more.

Here are some common dangerous goods you’ll find in workplaces:

Chemicals

Depending on the industry you work in, you may be exposed to a range of different chemicals. Arsenic, lead, chromium, cadmium, and more are in use at the workplace. All cleaning products contain these chemicals also. Exposure to chemicals can cause illnesses like cancer, rashes, damage to your organs, and more.

Fumes and Dust

Fumes and dust are common in many workplaces. Especially if you are in the construction industry or working in production, you’ll be exposed to fumes and dust. If you inhale these in large quantities without protective gear, they can cause respiratory illness, cancer, sinus issues, and more.

Biological Agents

Biological agents like bacteria, virus, and fungus are common when you work in a laboratory or a hospital. In any organization, you should also check the drinking water for bacteria or other biological agents. Otherwise, you and your workers will be at risk of contracting Legionnaires or other water-borne diseases.

Sharp Objects

Sharp objects like scissors, knives, metal objects, corners of furniture, broken glasses, cups with cracks, and more can cause injury and blood loss. They could prove dangerous if not stored and used safely. It is also important to deal with any breakages properly for the same reason.

How to Manage the Dangerous Goods in Your Business

Now that you know what dangerous goods are and how they can cause harm, it is important to establish the necessary policies to manage dangerous goods in your business.

Here are some ways to ensure you and your workers are safe.

Labeling

Put warning labels and safety data sheets on all hazardous substances. As an employer, you should label all hazardous goods correctly and have hazard pictograms, signal words, warning statements, and precautionary statements clearly visible.

The safety data sheet should mention the potential health effects, first aid instructions, precautions for use, and more.

Storing Dangerous goods

All dangerous goods should be stored properly in a safe location. Store dangerous goods away from your workers and limit exposure as much as possible.

This doesn’t necessarily need specialist storage solutions – in some cases, plastic crates will do. Designate a person to handle hazardous substances. They should wear proper protective gear and have proper training in handling and storing these goods properly.

Reducing Exposure

Reduce exposure to dangerous goods and hazardous substances as much as possible. You can take the following steps to achieve this:

Train all workers on safety procedures and handling
Supply protective gear such as respirators, gloves, goggles, and overalls
Monitor your workplace and test the air and environment for hazardous substances
Wherever possible, avoid the use of hazardous substances
Ensure proper ventilation

Maintain Records

You must maintain records of all hazardous substances used in your workplace to be aware and take appropriate action if any mishap occurs. Maintain records of risk assessment, air, environmental test results, employees working with carcinogenic substances, and health monitoring details.

Medical Help

If anyone is exposed to hazardous substances or dangerous goods, you need to ensure to provide medical help immediately. Ensure staff is trained in applying first aid and know when and how to seek professional medical health.

Wrapping Up

If dangerous goods such as chemicals, pesticides, e-waste, biological agents, fumes, dust, sharp objects, and more are present on your site your employees could be the first casualties. Therefore, as an employer, you must ensure proper management and storage of dangerous goods and hazardous substances.