Construction and Renovation

Construction and renovation activities can introduce a variety of potential environmental, health, and safety concerns that were not present prior to these activities. These concerns may be due to: (1) disruption of materials found within the building (e.g., asbestos, lead paint, excessive nuisance dust); (2) operations performed by the contractor (e.g. noise); or (3) materials brought into the area by the contractor (e.g., paint or adhesive vapors).

Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be identified and appropriately controlled prior to the start of work, and any residual issues are generally of a comfort or nuisance nature, not a health hazard. A renovation is inherently disruptive, dirty and noisy. It is not possible to completely eliminate all of these issues - but they can be minimized.

Remember that your eyes, ears, and nose can be extremely effective tools for identifying certain conditions. If you detect a condition you believe could be unsafe, avoid the area and immediately contact your supervisor, building manager, project coordinator, or the Office of Environmental Health & Safety at 785-3550.