Hazard Communication
Health Hazard Pictogram
Long-Term Exposure Risks
Long-Term Exposure Risks
OSHA 1910.1200 · GHS Health Hazard = Carcinogen, Reproductive Toxin & Organ Damage
The GHS health hazard pictogram — the figure with a starburst on their chest — identifies chemicals that cause serious long-term health effects: cancer, reproductive harm, damage to organs. These effects don't appear immediately after a single exposure. They develop over years of repeated, low-level exposure. On NYC construction sites, these are the chemicals that quietly end careers and lives.
What the Health Hazard Symbol Covers
- Carcinogens: Known or suspected to cause cancer — silica, benzene, asbestos, diesel exhaust, some paint strippers
- Reproductive toxins: Harm to fertility or the developing fetus — lead, certain solvents, some adhesives
- Specific target organ toxins (single exposure): A single exposure damages a specific organ — carbon monoxide (heart), toluene (CNS)
- Specific target organ toxins (repeated exposure): Repeated exposure causes progressive organ damage — the most common mechanism on construction sites
- Respiratory sensitizers: Cause occupational asthma after repeated exposure — isocyanates in spray foam, certain resins
Why "I Feel Fine" Is Dangerous
- Occupational cancer from silica, asbestos, or benzene can take 10–40 years to develop after initial exposure
- Workers feel perfectly normal during the exposure period — until they don't
- OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) are not safe levels — they are regulatory minimums. Best practice is to minimize all exposure, not just comply with the PEL
Medical Surveillance — NYC High-Risk Trades
- Workers exposed to asbestos, lead, or silica above action levels are entitled to periodic medical exams at employer expense
- NYC Local Law requires specific monitoring for certain contaminants at renovation and demolition projects
- Report any symptoms — unexplained shortness of breath, persistent cough, neurological changes — to your union and a physician immediately
Discussion Questions
- Name three chemicals on this site that carry the health hazard pictogram. What is the specific long-term hazard for each?
- A worker says "I've been breathing this dust for 10 years and I'm fine." Why is this reasoning dangerous?
- What is the difference between OSHA's PEL and what is actually considered "safe" exposure?
- If you are exposed to a respiratory sensitizer (like spray foam isocyanates) repeatedly, what condition might develop over time?
Sign-Off
Project Address
Date
Time
Foreman / Supervisor
SSM / SSC Name & License No.
Worker Attendance
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