Lesson Summary
• Plumbers have to work with hazardous chemicals and materials. Working with these materials – if not done properly -- can cause both health problems (skin or eye irritation, breathing difficulties) and environmental hazards (fire, explosions).

• It is important that plumbers know in advance the kinds of hazards they are likely to be exposed to when working on a specific project.

• A strong hazard communication program (HazCom program) helps workers to understand how to protect themselves. It will also include material safety data sheets that help workers to identify the hazards.

• NFPAs four-color diamond label is usually found on containers. Each color of the label represents a hazard whereas numbers zero to four indicate increasing hazards.

• Work zone safety can be ensured by using proper signs, signals, tags, and barricades. Moreover, work areas such as floors, platforms, scaffoldings, roofs represent their own set of hazards. A plumber should always be well-informed about the guidelines to working safely.

• It is also important to know the safety guidelines that pertain to operating motorized vehicles and equipment.