Unexpected Finds Protocol

An unexpected finds protocol (UFP) can be prepared to manage the risks of disturbing Contaminated Soils (heavy metals & hydrocarbons), Groundwater, Buried Building Materials, Underground Storage Tanks (UST) with associated lines, Asbestos, Odors, and Staining located on site during day-to-day activities. An UFP covers the risks and controls to be implemented whilst working in proximity to identified / unidentified materials.

The UFP outlines the management practices required of the client and its contractors in relation to the potential of working near but not limited to Contaminated Soils (heavy metals & hydrocarbons), Groundwater, Buried Building Materials, Underground Storage Tanks (UST) with associated lines, Asbestos, Odors, and Staining and the procedures to follow if so.

Health Risks of potential Unexpected Finds

Examples include but are not limited to;

• Health Effects of Exposure to Asbestos

Asbestos presents a hazard only if fibres of respirable size become airborne and there is the potential for workers to inhale them. The release of asbestos fibres from materials and substrates is dependent on the amount of disturbance impacted upon these materials (cutting, abrading, crushing, etc). The danger of airborne asbestos is that fibres are not visible to the naked eye and the long duration required between exposure to asbestos and the onset of disease.

• Health Effects of Exposure to Heavy metals specifically Lead

Exposure to lead can have significant health effects, particularly on the nervous system, cardiovascular system, kidneys, and reproductive system.

• Health Effects of Exposure to Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed of hydrogen and carbon atoms, and they can be found in various forms, including gases, liquids, and solids.

Exposure to hydrocarbons can have various health effects, depending on the type of hydrocarbon, the route of exposure, the duration and intensity of exposure, and individual susceptibility.