Document Status
Current
Supplement
Core Supplement
Series
Construction Information Sheet
Abstract
Solvents are chemical substances. In construction products they act as carriers for surface coatings such as paints, varnishes, adhesives and pesticides. The most common solvents encountered in construction are: white spirit - found in paints, varnishes and cleaning products; xylene - found in paints, adhesives and pesticides; 1-butanol - found in natural and synthetic resins, paints and lacquers. Many construction products contain mixtures of solvents. Exposure to solvents can have serious effects on workers' health. Anyone who uses solvents, or is responsible for managing of supervising their use, should be aware that they may be a hazard to health and that safe working practices must be used to minimise the risk. This sheet advises on how to use solvents safely.
History
Supersedes the 1998 edition.
Subjects
- Coverings and surface finishes
- Surface finishes
- Paints/varnishes
- Materials
- Special subject areas
- Dangerous substances (asbestos, explosives, etc)
- Health and safety
Publisher History
The Health and Safety Executive work to protect the health and safety of people in the workplace by minimising risks. They achieve this through research, information and advice, promoting training, new or revised regulations and codes of practice, inspection, investigation and enforcement.