Primary Industries

Home > Primary Industries > Primary Industries (240 hours) > Compulsory units > Install, maintain and repair fencing > Install, maintain and repair fencing

Hazardous substances

Another area of machinery that poses significant risks is the fuel and oils needed to run them. They are rated as hazardous substances because of their potential harm. In addition, hydraulic oil lines and hoses work under very high pressures which can be a hazard to operators. Fuels are also classed as dangerous goods because of their potential to cause fires and explosions.

The chemicals used to treat fence posts are also hazardous due to their toxicity.

Hazard	Fuels and oils
Risks	Explosion, fire, poisoning and physical injury
PPE	Gloves, eye protection
Risk controls	Label all containers properly. Follow regulations regarding transport, storage and handling. Use appropriate signage on bulk tanks and stores. Ensure MSDS sheets are accessible and that workers can implement appropriate control measures.

Hazard	Posts treated with copper chrome arsenate (CCA)
Risks	Poisoning
PPE	Gloves, dust mask
Risk controls	Avoid skin contact with treated timbers. Wear dust mask when sawing or drilling posts to avoid inhalation of dust. Do not burn posts.

Back to Safe fencing
Back to Important notes
Back to Install, maintain and repair fencing