Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Protecting employees involved in site-clearing from irritant and toxic plants is essential because these natural hazards can pose serious health risks. Workers may come into contact with plants that cause skin irritations or other adverse reactions. For example, plants such as poison ivy or poison oak contain oils that can lead to severe allergic reactions, while certain other vegetation can cause respiratory issues if spores are inhaled.

While heavy machinery, inadequate lighting, and slippery surfaces are also significant safety concerns that should not be overlooked in a construction environment, the specific nature of site-clearing tasks makes the risk of exposure to hazardous plants particularly relevant. The nature of this work often involves clearing vegetation and may place workers in direct contact with these plants, which underscores the importance of implementing protective measures, such as training, personal protective equipment (PPE), and awareness of local plant types, to minimize these health hazards effectively.