Research on the Hazardous Risk of Chemical Handling in the Construction Industry through Analysis of Work Environment and Behavior

This study analyzed the handling of chemical substances and their associated hazards in the construction industry. Construction sites, due to their complex processes and overlapping work environments, are highly prone to industrial accidents. Among these, explosions, fires, chemical leaks, and occupational diseases occur infrequently but can cause significant damage when they do.<br/> The study examined materials such as insulation, cement, asphalt, fuels, gases, welding rods, paints and organic solvents, identifying paints and organic solvents as the most hazardous. Organic solvents, being highly volatile, easily create flammable atmospheres that have a high potential to cause explosive fires. Exposure to these substances can also lead to severe health issues, including central nervous system toxicity and skin irritation.<br/> Focusing on painting tasks, the study identified the root causes of accidents. First, fire risks increase during mixed operations, due to contractor’s pressure to meet tight project deadlines. Institutional reforms are required to mitigate this pressure. Second, most ignition sources were found to be electrical equipment, suggesting that the use of explosion-proof electrical devices should be considered. Third, ventilation and protective equipment are essential to reduce flammable atmospheres and exposure risks. However, small construction companies are unaware of the existence of safety management fees, so strengthening publicity about this is necessary. Fourth, unsafe behavior is often due to a lack of safety awareness. The implementation of BBS(Behavior Based Safety) programs can help foster a stronger safety culture and encourage voluntary behavior corrections. In addition, managers' lack of management behavior has also been shown to be a major cause of unsafe behavior, so it is necessary to strengthen managers' management capabilities and improve the work environment accordingly.