Hazards
Occupational Hygiene is generally defined as the art and science dedicated to the Anticipation, Recognition, Evaluation, Communication and Control of environmental stressors in, or arising from, the work place that may result in injury, illness, impairment, or affect the well-being of workers and members of the community. These stressors are normally divided into the categories Chemical, Biological, Physical, Ergonomic and Psychosocial.
Hazard
Chemical
A chemical hazard is a type of occupational hazard caused by exposure to chemicals in the workplace. Exposure to chemicals in the workplace can cause acute or long-term detrimental health effects. There are many types of hazardous chemicals, including neurotoxins, immune agents, dermatologic agents, carcinogens, reproductive toxins, systemic toxins, asthmagens, pneumoconiotic agents, and sensitizers. These hazards can cause physical and/or health risks. Depending on chemical, the hazards involved may be varied.
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Hazard
Biological
Biological hazards, also known as biohazards, refer to biological substances that pose a threat to the health of living organisms, primarily that of humans. This can include samples of a microorganism, virus or toxin (from a biological source) that can affect human health. It can also include substances harmful to other animals. Source : Wikipedia
Hazard
Physical
A physical hazard is an agent, factor or circumstance that can cause harm with or without contact. They can be classified as type of occupational hazard or environmental hazard. Physical hazards include ergonomic hazards, radiation, heat and cold stress, vibration hazards, and noise hazards.
Source : Wikipedia
Hazard
Egronomic
Ergonomic hazards are physical conditions that may pose risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system, such as the muscles or ligaments of the lower back, tendons or nerves of the hands/wrists, or bones surrounding the knees, resulting in a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD). Ergonomic hazards include awkward postures, static postures, large forces, repetitive motion, or short intervals between activity. The risk of MSD is often magnified when multiple factors are present or when whole-body or hand/arm vibration, poor lighting, or poorly designed tools, equipment, or workstations produce additional negative interactions with the worker/user. Ergonomic hazards occur in both occupational and non-occupational settings such as in workshops, building sites, offices, home, school, or public spaces and facilities.
Source : Wikipedia
Hazard
Safety
Occupational safety is about potential safety hazards that can cause injury, whereas occupational health addresses potential health concerns.
Flash arc | Small or inadequate walkways | Working at heights |
Exposure to unguarded or unprotected electrical equipment |
Force of movement | Restricted / confined spaces |
Working with high voltage equipment | Repetition of movement | Working with powered equipment Fast moving equipment |
Exposure to Electromagnetic fields | Awkward Postures | Working with unguarded equipment |
Incorrect wiring | Sustained / static postures | Pinch points |
Loose surface conditions | Contract stress | Nip points |
Wet surface conditions | Vibration | Unguarded machines or work areas |
Object(s) on the floor | Poor work station design | Overhead hazards |
Blocked walkways | Lighting conditions | Sharp edges |
Poor design or lay-out of work area | Temperature extremes | Exposure to sunlight / UV radiation |
Uneven surfaces | Humidity extremes |