Heavy Metals in Soil

Heavy metals including lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and chromium are found in contaminated soils.
Sources include former industrial sites, gasworks, landfills, mining areas, and agricultural land.
Exposure occurs through ingestion of contaminated dust, skin contact, and inhalation of soil particles.
Lead affects the nervous system, kidneys, and blood — children and pregnant women are most vulnerable.
Arsenic is a known carcinogen even at low concentrations in soil and groundwater.
COSHH 2002 requires assessment and control of exposure for anyone working in contaminated ground.
The site investigation report identifies the metals present and their concentrations across the site.
Personal protective equipment including coveralls, gloves, and RPE is required for all contaminated work.
Decontamination procedures must be followed before leaving the work area to prevent spreading contamination.
Health surveillance including blood and urine monitoring may be required for workers with repeated exposure.

Cancer risk	Arsenic, chromium VI, and cadmium in soil are proven human carcinogens.
Organ damage	Lead and mercury cause irreversible damage to the brain, kidneys, and nervous system.
Legal duty	COSHH requires specific assessment and controls for work in heavy metal contaminated ground.
Spreading risk	Without decontamination, workers carry contamination to vehicles, homes, and welfare areas.

Do

Don't

Read the site investigation report to understand which metals are present and where.
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, coveralls, and RPE when working in contaminated areas.
Follow the COSHH assessment controls specific to the metals identified on site.
Decontaminate boots, clothing, and equipment before leaving the contaminated zone.
Wash hands and face thoroughly before eating, drinking, or smoking.
Attend health surveillance including blood monitoring if required by the assessment.
Use wet methods to suppress dust when excavating or handling contaminated soil.
Separate contaminated soil from clean material during excavation and stockpiling.
Dispose of contaminated soil through a licensed hazardous waste route.
Report any skin irritation, nausea, or metallic taste to your supervisor.

DON'T handle contaminated soil with bare hands — always wear chemical-resistant gloves.
DON'T eat, drink, or smoke in the contaminated work area.
DON'T take contaminated clothing or boots home — change on site before leaving.
DON'T dry dig contaminated soil without dust suppression measures in place.
DON'T mix contaminated soil with clean material in stockpiles or vehicles.
DON'T assume soil is clean because it looks and smells normal.
DON'T skip decontamination when leaving the contaminated zone.
DON'T ignore symptoms of exposure — metallic taste, headaches, and nausea.
DON'T dispose of contaminated soil in general waste skips or unlicensed tips.
DON'T bypass the COSHH assessment because the contamination appears minor.

See also: Contaminated Land Safety Awareness | Ground Gas Monitoring

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