Quiz 2 for LT Risk Mgt

Occupational Health and Safety Law in the Philippines

• RA 11058 (An Act Strengthening Compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Standards and Providing Penalties for Violations Thereof) establishes legal framework for occupational health and safety (OSH) in the Philippines.
• Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) (D.O. 198-18) guides the implementation of RA 11058.
• Joint and solidary liability: Employers, project owners, contractors, subcontractors, and supervisors share responsibility for OSH compliance and penalties.
• Incentives: Employers and workers can receive incentives for OSH compliance, including training, protective equipment, and recognition.
• Inter-Government Coordination: A Joint Coordinating Committee harmonizes government agencies' policies related to OSH.
• Penalties for Violations:
  • Willful non-compliance: P100,000 daily until full compliance.
  • Repeat violations: P100,000 plus 50% for each instance.
  • Violations leading to death, serious injury, or illness: P100,000.
  • Refusal to access workplace, provide records, obstruct investigation, misrepresentation, retaliatory measures: Additional P100,000 fine.
• Enforcement: DOLE Regional Offices enforce the law.
• Effectivity: D.O. 198-18 took effect on 25 January 2019.

Workplace Accidents

• Accidents in the workplace are a major concern in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry.

Occupational Health and Safety

• Ensuring a safe and healthy working environment is crucial for the industry.

Occupational Health and Safety Law in the Philippines

• RA 11058 (An Act Strengthening Compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Standards and Providing Penalties for Violations Thereof) is the primary legislation for workplace safety.
• The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 11058 are outlined in D.O. 198-18.

Key Points of RA 11058 and its IRR (D.O. 198-18)

• Joint and Solidary Liability: Employers, project owners, contractors, subcontractors, and supervisors are all held accountable for OSH standards compliance.
• Incentives: Employers and workers demonstrating OSH compliance can receive benefits like training, protective equipment, and recognition awards.
• Inter-Government Coordination and Cooperation: A Joint Coordinating Committee is established to harmonize OSH-related policies and ensure effective implementation of the law.
• Penalties for Violations:
  • Willful Failure: P100,000 daily fine until full compliance, starting from the date of the issued notice.
  • Repeated Violations: The initial fine amount is increased by 50% for each subsequent violation.
  • Violations Resulting in Death, Serious Injury, or Illness: P100,000 fine is imposed.
  • Refusal to Cooperate: An additional P100,000 fine is charged for refusing workplace access, withholding records, obstructing investigations, making false statements, or taking retaliatory actions.

Enforcement and Effectivity

• The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Offices enforce the law.
• DOLE D.O. 183-17 guides the implementation of DOLE D.O. 198-18.
• The OSH Law IRR, DOLE D.O. 198-18, came into effect on January 25, 2019.

Safety Management Systems

• Safety Management Systems (SMS) is a comprehensive management system focused on managing safety elements in a workplace.
• Ensure everyone in the organization can recognize and understand real or potential hazards and associated risks.
• Prevent or control operational hazards and associated risk.
• Train employees at all levels of the organization so they can demonstrate the importance of correcting potential hazards they may be routinely exposed to as well as how to protect themselves and others.

Components of SMS

• Planning: Top management should set up an effective health and safety management system to implement the safety and health policy which is proportionate to the hazards and risks.
• Organization: Includes the involvement of employees and their representatives in carrying out risk assessments, deciding on preventive and protective measures and implementing those requirements in the workplace.
• Control: Clarifying health and safety responsibilities and ensuring that the activities of everyone are well coordinated.
• Monitoring: Top management should measure what they are doing to implement the health and safety policy, to assess how effectively they are controlling risks, and how well they are developing a positive health and safety culture.
• Review: Involves reviewing the system of the whole health and safety management including the elements of planning, organization, and control and monitoring to ensure that the whole system remains effective.

Definition of Terms

• Safety: Freedom from accident. The control of hazards to attain an acceptable level of risk.
• Incident: An event that may or may not result in loss.
• Accident: Unplanned, undesired event, not necessarily injurious or damaging, that disrupts the completion of an activity.
• Hazard: Any potential or existing condition in the workplace that, by itself or by interacting with other variables, can result in death, injuries, property damage, and other losses.
• Hazard Control: Developing a program to recognize, evaluate, and eliminate (or at least reduce) the destructive efforts of hazards arising from human errors and from conditions in the workplace.
• Loss Control: Accident prevention, achieved through a complete safety and health control program.
• Risk: Chance of physical or personal loss.

Human Costs of Hazards

• The effect of an accident to a worker entails a lot of losses in terms of:
  • Disability (temporary or permanent)
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of income; loss of earning capacity
  • Change in social life
  • Death

Economic Costs of Hazards

• Direct Costs:
  • Medical Costs
  • Insurance premium
  • Employee compensation
  • Regulatory penalties
• Indirect Costs:
  • Investigation of the incident
  • Cleaning up of incident site
  • Disruption in production
  • Repair/ replacement of damaged materials/ equipment
  • Training of new/replacement employees
  • Poor employee morale leading to low production
  • Environmental litigation
  • Ecological remediation
  • Marketing efforts to project image

Struck Against/By Objects

• Ensure goods and materials are stacked properly to prevent objects from falling and striking workers.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, to guard against impact injuries.
• Avoid rushing through swing doors with trolleys, as this can cause collisions and potential harm.

Burns and Scalds

• Organize the work area to prevent contact with flames and hot objects.
• Avoid reaching across hot surfaces.
• Keep floors clear of obstructions to prevent spills or falls.
• Use gloves to handle hot objects.
• Ensure hot liquids are stored at safe temperatures, and pots and pans are handled with care.
• Do not open cookers or steam ovens that are still pressurized, and open lids away from yourself.
• Turn on hot water faucets slowly to prevent scalding.

Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls

• Avoid creating obstacles in work areas and floors to prevent tripping hazards.
• Keep floors and stairs dry and clean.
• Wear appropriate footwear for the floor surface, such as non-slip work shoes.
• Ensure carpets and rugs are free of holes and loose edges.
• Maintain adequate lighting to improve visibility.
• Hang power cords out of walkways to prevent tripping.
• Guard elevated platforms to prevent falls.
• Provide alternative safety measures, such as safety harnesses.

Safe Use of Ladders

• Inspect ladders before and after each use for defects such as broken rungs, loose hinges, or missing screws.
• Set ladders on a stable and level surface using slip-resistant heels or have someone hold the ladder.
• Maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times, using two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot.
• Face the ladder when standing on it, climbing up or down, and gripping both sides with both hands to maintain three-point contact.
• Stay within the side rails of the ladder and avoid stretching to reach objects on either side.
• Move the ladder to the desired position instead of stretching.
• Use barricades and warning signs to keep vehicle and pedestrian traffic away from ladders.

Preventing Noise Hazards

• Some Noise Control Solutions:
  • Replace noisy machinery with quieter options.
  • Keep noise sources away from hard walls and corners, as these amplify sound.
  • Isolate or enclose noisy machinery.
  • Construct suitable noise barriers to absorb sound.
  • Line interior surfaces with sound-absorbing materials.
  • Maintain machinery and equipment regularly to minimize noise levels.

Extreme Temperature

• Avoid suffering a Heat Related illness by:
  • Wearing appropriate clothing to regulate body temperature.
  • Drinking water and resting in cool areas.
  • Improving ventilation in the workplace.
  • Being aware of emergency first aid procedures for heat-related illnesses.

Electrocution

• Report any damaged plugs, wires, or electrical equipment immediately.
• Ensure faulty equipment is removed from use until it is repaired, and label the faulty equipment or remove the plug.
• Keep power cords away from heat, water, and oil to prevent damage.
• Handle electrical appliances with care and avoid cleaning them with flammable or toxic solvents.
• Do not overload electrical outlets.
• Pull the plug, not the cord, when disconnecting electrical appliances.
• Establish lockout-tagout procedures for the repair and maintenance of electrical equipment.

Fire and Explosion

• Fire extinguishers are designed to put out small fires, not large ones.
• Extinguishers are labeled A, B, C, D, and K, with combinations indicating the types of fires they can be used for.
• Fire extinguishers must be recharged and refilled professionally after any use, even if they are only partially used.
• Fire extinguishers should be serviced and checked semi-annually by an authorized agent.
• Extinguishers should be installed away from potential fire hazards, near exits and in visible locations.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

• Pull the pin
• Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle.
• Sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the fire until it is extinguished.

Chemical Hazards

• Ensure all chemicals have Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and containers are properly labeled.
• Always follow instructions on chemical product labels.
• Wear appropriate PPE, such as rubber gloves, when handling chemicals.
• Wear splash-proof eye protection when handling chemicals that may splash.
• Ensure rubber gloves are free of holes, tears, or thin patches, and replace them if necessary.
• Never mix cleaning chemicals, especially concentrates.
• When diluting chemicals, always add concentrate to water, not vice versa.
• If cleaning chemicals are splashed onto skin or eyes, flush the affected area immediately with running water.

Workplace Violence

• Dealing with Irate Customers - steps to follow when dealing with an upset customer:
  • Avoid escalating the situation by remaining calm and polite.
  • Try to calm the customer by speaking in a soothing tone and acknowledging their frustration.
  • Ask polite questions to gather information about the issue and understand their perspective.
  • Seek assistance if you cannot calm the customer.
  • Work towards a solution to the customer's problem, if possible.
  • If you are unable to resolve the issue, escalate it to a supervisor or colleague who can handle it.

Ergonomic Stresses

• Musculoskeletal injuries affect the body's movement or musculoskeletal system, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.

Awkward Postures

• Use tools that allow for neutral body positioning, such as height-adjustable work benches and chairs.
• Don't overstretch, reach only as high as is comfortable.
• Use lift devices or step stools to avoid bending or reaching overhead.
• Perform work at the proper heights:
  • Above the elbows with elbow support for precision work.
  • At the elbows for light work.
  • Between the waist and elbows for heavy work.

Awkward Sitting Positions

• Avoid bending forward and to the sides.
• Don't slouch.
• Ensure your chair is the correct height.
• Avoid work with shoulders and arms raised to prevent neck and shoulder pain.

Repetitive Movements

• Prevent disorders from repetitive movements by:
  • Positioning hands and wrists comfortably.
  • Reducing repetition by pacing work at a comfortable rate.
  • Varying tasks and taking breaks to use different muscles.
  • Using ergonomically designed tools.
  • Maintaining tools in good working condition.
  • Taking micro-pauses to allow muscles to rest for 5-10 seconds.

Occupational Health and Safety Law in the Philippines

• RA 11058 (2018) strengthens compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSH) and provides penalties for violations.
• D.O. 198-18 is the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of RA 11058.
• Joint and Solidary Liability: Employers, project owners, contractors, subcontractors, and workplace managers are jointly and solidarily liable for compliance with OSH standards and penalties for violations.
• Incentives: Qualified employers and workers will receive incentives for complying with OSH standards. These may include training, additional protective equipment, technical guidance, and recognition awards.
• Inter-Government Coordination: A Joint Coordinating Committee will be established to ensure effective implementation of RA 11058 and its IRR. This committee will harmonize policies and guidelines related to OSH across government agencies.
• Penalties for violations:
  • Willful failure to comply with OSH standards or orders: P100,000 daily fine until compliance.
  • Repeated violation of the same prohibited act: P100,000 fine plus 50% for each repeated violation.
  • Violation that exposes workers to death, serious injury, or serious illness: P100,000 fine.
  • Refusal to allow workplace access, provide records, or obstruct investigation: P100,000 fine.

Enforcement and Effectivity

• The DOLE Regional Offices have jurisdiction over workplace enforcement.
• The procedure for implementing D.O. 198-18 is governed by DOLE D.O. 183-17.
• The OSH Law IRR (D.O. 198-18) became effective on January 25, 2019.

Occupational Health and Safety in the Philippines

• The Occupational Safety and Health Standards are enforced by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), ensuring workplace safety.
• Republic Act (RA) 11058 strengthens compliance with OSH standards and establishes penalties for violations.
• The Department Order (D.O.) 198-18, the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 11058, came into effect on January 25, 2019.

Joint and Solidary Liability

• Employers, project owners, contractors, subcontractors, and managers are all held jointly and solidarily liable for OSH compliance.

Incentives

• Employers and workers who demonstrate exceptional efforts in maintaining OSH standards may receive various incentives, such as training, equipment, guidance, and recognition awards.

Inter-Government Coordination and Cooperation

• A Joint Coordinating Committee is established to ensure effective implementation of RA 11058 and its IRR.
• Its purpose is to harmonize OSH-related policies, guidelines, and mandates across different government agencies.
• DOLE collaborates with several government agencies including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Transportation (DOTR), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG-LGUs), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and others.

Penalties for Violations

• Willful failure or refusal to comply with OSH standards or compliance orders can result in a penalty of up to P100,000 daily until full compliance with the standards.
• Repeat violations of the same prohibited act incur an additional 50% penalty for each instance.
• Violations resulting in death, serious injuries or illness carry a penalty of P100,000.
• Additional penalties of P100,000 apply for refusing workplace access, withholding records, obstructing investigations, misrepresentation, and retaliatory measures such as termination, wage reduction, or discrimination.

Enforcement and Effectivity

• The DOLE Regional Offices with jurisdiction over the workplace are responsible for enforcing OSH standards.
• The procedures for implementing D.O. 198-18 are outlined in D.O. 183-17.
• The OSH Law IRR (D.O. 198-18) took effect on January 25, 2019.

Safety Management System

• A comprehensive business management system designed to manage safety in a workplace.
• Aims to:
  • Recognize and understand potential hazards and risks.
  • Prevent or control operational hazards and associated risks.
  • Train employees to identify and correct potential hazards.
• Consists of five key elements:
  • Planning: Implementing a safety and health policy proportionate to the hazards and risks.
  • Organization: Engaging employees in carrying out risk assessments, deciding on preventive measures, and implementing them in the workplace.
  • Control: Clarifying responsibilities and ensuring coordination of activities related to health and safety.
  • Monitoring: Measuring the effectiveness of the safety and health policy, assessing risk controls, and developing a positive health and safety culture.
  • Review: Reviewing the entire system regularly, including planning, organization, control, and monitoring to ensure its effectiveness.

Fundamental Concepts of Safety Management

• Safety: Freedom from accidents, achieved by controlling hazards to an acceptable level of risk.
• Incident: An event that may or may not result in loss.
• Accident: An unplanned event, not necessarily injurious or damaging, that disrupts an activity.
• Hazard: A potential or existing condition in the workplace that can result in death, injury, property damage, or other losses.
• Hazard Control: A program to identify, evaluate, and eliminate or reduce hazards caused by human errors or workplace conditions.
• Loss Control: Accident prevention achieved through a comprehensive safety and health control program.
• Risk: The chance of physical or personal loss.

Human and Economic Costs of Accidents

• Human Costs:
  • Disability (temporary or permanent)
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of income
  • Changes in social life
  • Death
• Economic Costs:
  • Direct Costs:
    • Medical costs
    • Insurance premiums
    • Employee compensation
    • Regulatory penalties
  • Indirect Costs:
    • Investigation of the incident
    • Cleaning up the incident site
    • Disruption in production
    • Repair or replacement of damaged materials/equipment
    • Training of new employees
    • Low employee morale leading to decreased production
    • Environmental litigation
    • Ecological remediation
    • Marketing efforts to project a positive image

Iceberg Principle

• Only a small portion of the total costs of accidents is visible (direct costs), while the majority is hidden (indirect costs).

Safety is Everyone's Responsibility

• Every employee plays a role in promoting workplace safety.

Safety Management System

• Safety management systems aim to identify, prevent, and control hazards and associated risks in the workplace.
• Safety management systems are designed to ensure all employees understand real and potential hazards.
• Safety management systems are a comprehensive business management system designed to manage safety elements in a workplace.
• Employees at all levels are trained to recognize and correct potential hazards in the workplace.

Safety Management System Elements

• Planning: Establish an effective health and safety management system aligned with the safety and health policy, proportionate to the hazards and risks.
• Organization: Involve employees and representatives in risk assessments, preventive measures, and implementing requirements in the workplace.
• Control: Clarify health and safety responsibilities and ensure everyone's activities are well-coordinated.
• Monitoring: Measure the effectiveness of the implementation of the health and safety policy in controlling risks and developing a positive health and safety culture.
• Review: Regularly review the entire health and safety management system including planning, organization, control, and monitoring to ensure its effectiveness.

Definition of Terms

• Safety: Freedom from accidents and the control of hazards to achieve an acceptable level of risk.
• Incident: An event, that may or may not result in a loss.
• Accident: An unplanned, undesired event that disrupts the completion of an activity. It may or may not result in an injury or damage.
• Hazard: A potential or existing condition in the workplace that, by itself or in combination with other variables, can lead to death, injury, property damage, or other losses.
• Hazard Control: Developing a program to recognize, evaluate, and eliminate (or at least reduce) the harmful effects of hazards arising from human errors and conditions in the workplace.
• Loss Control: Accident prevention achieved through a comprehensive safety and health control program, also known as accident prevention.
• Risk: The chance of physical or personal loss.

The Cost of Occupational Health and Safety

• Human Costs: Accidents lead to various losses for workers including:
  • Disability (temporary or permanent)
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of income and earning capacity
  • Changes in social life
  • Death
• Economic Costs: The economic cost of accidents and illnesses are much higher than often realized.
  • Direct Costs:
    • Medical costs
    • Insurance premiums
    • Employee compensation
    • Regulatory penalties
  • Indirect Costs:
    • Investigation of the incident
    • Cleaning up the incident site
    • Disruption in production
    • Repair/replacement of damaged materials/equipment
    • Training of new/replacement employees
    • Low employee morale, leading to lower production.
    • Environmental litigation
    • Ecological remediation
    • Marketing efforts to project image

Struck Against/By Objects

• Safely stack goods and materials
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment
• Avoid rushing through swing doors, especially with trolleys

Burns and Scalds

• Organize work areas to prevent contact with flames and hot objects
• Do not reach across hot surfaces
• Keep floors clear
• Use gloves for handling hot objects
• Ensure safe temperature levels for hot liquids
• Ensure that the handles of pots and pans do not stick out from the counter or stove
• Do not open cookers and steam ovens that are still pressurized
• Open lids towards the direction away from you
• Open hot water and hot liquid faucets slowly

Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls

• Avoid creating obstacles in work areas
• Keep floors and stairs dry and clean
• Wear appropriate footwear to minimize slips
• Ensure carpets and rugs are free of holes and loose edges
• Create and maintain proper lighting
• Hang power cords over aisles or work areas to prevent tripping
• Ensure elevated platforms are guarded against falls
• Provide alternatives like safety harnesses

Safe use of Ladders

• Inspect the ladder before and after each use
• Do not use defective ladders
• Set ladders on a stable and level surface
• Maintain three points of contact when using ladders
• Face the ladder when standing on it and when climbing up or down
• Stay within the side rails
• Move the ladder to the preferred position instead of stretching
• Use barricades and warning signs to keep vehicle and foot traffic away from ladders

Preventing Noise Hazards

• Replace noisy machinery
• Keep sources of noise away from hard walls
• Isolate or enclose sources of noise
• Construct suitable noise barriers
• Line interior surfaces with sound absorbing materials
• Maintain machinery and equipment regularly
• Duration of exposure and the noise level are key factors in noise related illness.

Extreme Temperature

• Wear appropriate clothing
• Drink water and rest in a cool area
• Improve ventilation
• Be aware of emergency first aid procedures
• Report any damaged plugs wires, electrical equipment

Electrocution

• Report any damaged plugs, wires, or electrical equipment
• Ensure faulty equipment is taken out of use until repaired
• Keep power cords away from heat, water and oil
• Do not clean electrical equipment with flammable or toxic solvents.
• Do not overload electrical points.
• Pull the electrical plug, not the cord.
• Establish a set of lockout-tagout procedures for the repair and maintenance of electrical equipment.
• Sound the alarm to inform other staff and customers
• Ensure that people are leaving the building
• Do not allow anyone to go back into the building

Fire and Explosion

• Fire extinguishers are designed to put out small fires, not large ones
• Extinguishers are labeled A, B, C, D, and K
• Fire extinguishers must be recharged/refilled professionally after any use
• Fire extinguishers are to be serviced and checked semi-annually
• Extinguishers should be installed away from potential fire hazards

How to use a Fire Extinguisher

• Pull the pin
• Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the handle
• Sweep from side to side

Chemical Hazards

• Ensure every chemical has a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
• All containers must be properly labeled
• Always follow instructions for using cleaning chemicals
• When handling substances, especially concentrates, wear appropriate PPE.
• Never mix cleaning chemicals
• When diluting always add the concentrated liquid to water, not the water to the concentrate
• If cleaning chemicals are accidentally splashed onto your skin or eyes, flush the infected area with running water.
• Seek medical advice if irritation persists.
• Use a scoop when dispensing powders.
• Open windows or air vents for adequate ventilation.
• Store chemicals as manufacturers advise, for example, away from heat, sunlight, and foodstuffs.
• Check chemical containers regularly for damage or leakage.
• Dispose of chemicals properly following instructions.

Biological Hazards

• Wash your hands frequently.
• Never handle broken glass with your bare hands.
• Use tongs or pliers, or a broom and dustpan to pick up broken glass.
• Place the broken glass in a separate and secure container.
• Don't compress garbage or reach into garbage containers with your bare hands.
• Remove the contents by lifting out the bag or liner.
• Hold garbage bags away from the body.
• Contaminated laundry should be appropriately identified.
• Always wear rubber or latex gloves when handling used linen or cleaning the bathroom.
• For protection from blood spatters, wear eye and face protection.
• Always discard the gloves after use or after a contamination incident.
• Remove gloves in a way that prevents your unprotected skin from contacting the outside, or contaminated portion of the gloves.
• If the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth are affected, flush with lots of clean water.
• If there is a wound, allow it to bleed freely. Then wash the area thoroughly with non-abrasive soap and water.
• If an area of non-intact skin is affected, wash the area thoroughly with non-abrasive soap and water.

Manual Handling

• Assess the weight of the load.
• Make sure you can lift the load without over-exertion.
• Do not lift objects beyond your physical strength.
• Get help if needed.
• Use mechanical aids such as trolleys, pushcarts, hoists or conveyors.
• Push rather than pull objects.
• Use the muscle power of the legs, not the back when lifting.
• Prepare for the lift by warming up your muscles.
• Stand with your feet over the object and bend your knees.
• Use a wide stance to gain balance.
• Keep the load as close to the body as possible.
• Keep your back comfortably straight.
• Hold the object securely.
• Make sure you can see over the object while carrying it.
• Avoid sudden movements or jerking.
• Avoid twisting and bending to the side while lifting.
• Do not bend over when setting a load down.
• Small steps are best when walking with a load.
• Don’t store heavy items in small, confined areas.
• Wear proper gloves or other personal protective equipment.
• Wear safety shoes to protect your feet.

Ergonomic Stresses - Prolonged Standing

• Most jobs in the hotel industry involve standing work for many hours.
• Standing for a long period of time can contribute to aches and pain in the lower limb..

Preventing disorders from Prolonged Standing

• Use foot rails or footrests to shift body weight from one leg to the other.
• Change working positions frequently.
• Controls and tools should be positioned so the worker can reach them easily without twisting or bending.
• Avoid overreaching.
• Wear shoes with well-cushioned insteps and soles.
• Wear shoes that allow your toes to move freely.
  • DO NOT wear shoes with heels higher than 5 cm (2 inches).

Workplace Hazards and Their Control

• Workplace hazards can be categorized into four main categories:
  • Unsafe acts
  • Unsafe conditions
  • Ergonomic stresses - includes manual handling and prolonged standing
  • Biological hazards

Unsafe Acts

• Unsafe acts occur when employees disregard established safety standards, rules, or policies.

Unsafe Conditions

• Unsafe conditions are physical or chemical properties that can lead to accidents or injury.

Hierarchy of Controls

• The hierarchy of controls describes a prioritized approach to eliminating or minimizing workplace hazards:
  • Elimination: Removing the hazard entirely.
  • Substitution: Replacing the hazard with a safer alternative.
  • Engineering controls: Modifying the workplace to prevent the hazard.
  • Administrative controls: Changing work practices to reduce exposure to the hazard.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE): Providing employees with equipment to protect them from the hazard.

Workplace Hazards and Their Control

• Cuts:

  • Use knives with care - use the right knife for the job, use a proper cutting board, ensure knives are sharp, store knives properly, cut away from your body, wear protective gear like mesh gloves, wash and clean knives separately from other utensils.
  • Use machinery with care - avoid loose clothing or jewelry, ensure safety guards are in place, follow operating instructions, avoid reaching into moving parts, use a pusher/tool, switch off equipment before cleaning.

• Struck Against/By Objects:

  • Prevent being struck - stack goods and materials properly, use appropriate PPE, avoid rushing through swing doors, especially with trolleys.

• Burns and Scalds:

  • Handle hot items with care - organize work area to prevent contact with flames and hot objects, don’t reach across hot surfaces, keep floors clear, wear gloves, ensure safe temperature levels, ensure pot and pan handles don’t stick out, do not open pressurized cookers or steam ovens, open lids away from your body, open hot water faucets slowly.

• Slips, Trips, and Falls:

  • Prevent slips, trips, and falls - avoid creating obstacles, keep floors and stairs dry and clean, wear appropriate footwear, ensure carpets are secure, provide proper lighting, hang power cords securely, guard elevated platforms against falls, provide safety harnesses.

• Safe Use of Ladders:

  • Inspect ladder before and after each use.
  • Do not use defective ladders.
  • Set ladders on stable surfaces.
  • Maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times.

• Fire and Explosion:

  • Fire extinguishers are designed for small fires.
  • Fire extinguishers are labeled A, B, C, D, and K.
  • Fire extinguishers must be recharged/refilled professionally after any use.
  • Fire extinguishers should be serviced and checked semi-annually by an authorized agent.
  • Fire extinguishers should be installed away from potential fire hazards.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

1. Pull the pin from the fire extinguisher.
2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
3. Squeeze the lever to release the extinguishing agent.
4. Sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the entire base of the fire.

• Chemical Hazards:

  • Safe work practices when working with hazardous chemicals - ensure every chemical has a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and all containers are properly labeled, follow instructions, wear PPE when handling concentrates, wear eye protection, use gloves, never mix chemicals, always dilute concentrate with water, flush infected areas with water if a splash occurs, use a scoop for powders, open windows or vents, store chemicals as advised.

• Biological Hazards:

  • Preventing exposure to HIV/AIDS, and Hepatitis B and C - wash hands frequently, handle broken glass with tongs or pliers, place broken glass in a secure container, remove garbage bags without touching contents, handle contaminated laundry appropriately, wear gloves when handling used linen or cleaning bathrooms, wear eye protection for splashes, discard gloves properly, flush eyes and mouth with water if affected, allow wounds to bleed freely and wash thoroughly, wash non-intact skin.

• Manual Handling:

  • Preventing injuries from manual handling - assess the weight, get help if needed, use mechanical aids, push instead of pull, use leg muscles to lift, warm up muscles before lifting, use a wide stance.

Ergonomic Stresses

• Manual Handling:

  • Keep the load close to the body, keep back straight, hold object securely, be able to see over the load, avoid sudden movements, avoid twisting, avoid bending over while setting down the load, take small steps when walking with a load, store heavy items in accessible areas, wear proper gloves or PPE.

• Prolonged Standing:

  • Preventing disorders from prolonged standing - use foot rails or footrests, change positions frequently, position tools for easy access, avoid overreaching, wear cushioned shoes.

• Prolonged Sitting:

  • Adjust chair for proper posture, take breaks to stretch and move, use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, avoid crossing your legs, support your back with a lumbar pillow.

Workplace Hazards and their Control

• Injuries and diseases in the workplace occur due to unsafe acts and unsafe conditions.
• Unsafe acts occur when employees do not follow established standards, rules, or policies.
• Unsafe Conditions are the physical or chemical properties of a material, machine, or the environment that could cause injury, property damage, operational disruption, or other losses.

Hierarchy of Controls

• After identifying potential hazards, assess the risks to workers.
• Eliminate or minimize the risks.
• Educate and train workers in safe work practices and procedures.

Cuts

• Use knives with care, use the right knife for the job, always use a proper cutting board, store knives in a proper rack with the blade pointed down in a visible place, cut away from your body, use protective gear such as mesh gloves, wash and clean sharp tools separately from other utensils.

Use Machinery with Care

• Do not wear loose or frayed clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts, ensure that safety guards are in place before operating any machinery, follow the operating instructions from the manufacturer or supplier, do not try to reach into any moving parts of the machinery with your fingers, use a pusher/tool to avoid contact, make sure equipment is switched off prior to cleaning.

Struck Against/By Objects

• Ensure goods and materials are stacked properly, make use of the appropriate personal protective equipment, do not rush through swing doors, especially with trolleys.

Burns and Scalds

• Organize your work area to prevent contact with flames and hot objects, don't reach across hot surfaces, keep floors clean, use gloves for handling hot objects, ensure safe temperature levels for hot liquid like oil or boiling water, ensure that the handles of pots and pans do not stick out from the counter or stove, do not open cookers and steam ovens that are still pressurized, open lids towards the direction away from you, open hot water and hot liquid faucets slowly to avoid splashes.

Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls

• Avoid creating obstacles in work areas and floors, keep floors and stairs dry and clean, wear footwear appropriate to the type of floor surface like non-slip working shoes or use anti-slip flooring, ensure carpets and rugs are free of holes and loose edges, create and maintain proper lighting, hang power cords over aisles or work areas to prevent tripping accidents, ensure elevated platforms are guarded against the fall of persons, provide alternatives like safety harnesses.

Safe Use of Ladders

• Inspect the ladder before and after each use, do not use defective ladders, set ladders on a stable and level surface using slip-resistant heels or ask someone to hold the ladder, maintain three points of contact when using ladders, this means two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot are always in contact with the ladder.

Fire and Explosion

• LPG/Gas Safety

  • Know where the gas shut off valve is and how to use it
  • It should be located in a safe area (away from heat) with proper signage
  • Store all cylinders (full or empty) in an upright position externally in a secure well-ventilated area
  • Do not store below ground level, or adjacent to openings of buildings or drains
  • In rooms where LPG appliances are used, ensure plenty of high and low level ventilation and provide a readily accessible isolation point to switch off the supply quickly in case of an emergency
  • Turn off cylinder valves at the end of each working day
  • Keep storage areas clear of combustible materials and ignition sources and clearly mark with warning such as no smoking and fire procedure signs
  • Provide and maintain suitable fire fighting equipment, e.g. dry powder extinguishers, and ensure it is readily accessible.

• In Case of Fire

  • Do not panic, be calm, but act quickly
  • Know the types of fire extinguishers and how to use them
  • Take note of the location of the fire extinguishers and alarms
  • If the fire is small and localized, put it out with a fire extinguisher
  • If the fire is large, don’t risk your safety, don’t attempt to fight it with a fire extinguisher
  • Sound the alarm to inform other staff and customers
  • Make sure that people are leaving the building
  • Do not allow anyone to go back into the building

Fire Extinguishers

• Fire extinguishers are designed to put out small fires, not large.
• Extinguishers are labeled A, B, C, D, and K, a combination of these letters to indicate what type of fire it can be used for.
• Fire extinguishers must be recharged/refilled professionally after any use, a partially used one is as good as an empty one.
• Fire extinguishers are to be serviced and checked semi-annually by an authorized agent.
• Extinguishers should be installed away from potential fire hazards and near an exit.

How to use a fire extinguisher

• Step 1: Pull the pin
• Step 2: Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
• Step 3: Squeeze the handle
• Step 4: Sweep from side to side

Chemical Hazards

• Make sure every chemical has a Material Safety Data Sheet and all containers are properly labeled.
• Always follow instructions and information in the use of cleaning chemicals.
• When handling substances, especially concentrates (if unavoidable), always wear PPE, e.g. rubber gloves, if there is any danger of splashing, wear eye protection suitable for splash risks, e.g. goggles or visors, ensure that rubber gloves are free from holes, tears or thin patches, if any of these faults are present ask for a new pair.
• Never mix cleaning chemicals, when diluting always add the concentrated liquid to water, not the water to the concentrate.
• If cleaning chemicals are accidentally splashed onto your skin or eyes, flush the infected area with running water, seek medical advice if irritation persists.
• If you are dispensing powders, always use a scoop, never use your hand.
• Open windows or air vents for suitable ventilation, a suitable fume mask and goggles may also be required depending on manufacturer’s instruction.
• Always store chemicals as manufacturers advise, for example away from heat, sunlight, foodstuffs.
• Check chemical containers regularly for damage or leakage.
• Ensure chemicals are disposed of properly by following the instructions given in the safety data sheet.

Biological Hazards

• Preventing exposure to HIV/AIDS, and Hepatitis B and C
  • Wash your hands frequently
  • Never handle broken glass with your bare hands, use tongs or pliers or a broom and dustpan to pick up the glass, place the broken glass in a separate and secure container.
  • Don’t compress garbage or reach into garbage containers with your bare hands, remove the contents by lifting out the bag or liner, hold garbage bags away from the body.
  • Contaminated laundry should be appropriately identified
  • Always wear rubber or latex gloves when handling used linen or cleaning the bathroom
  • For protection from blood spatters or splashes into the eyes or mouth eye and face protection should be worn
  • Always discard the gloves after use or after a contamination incident, remove gloves in a way that prevents your unprotected skin from contacting the outside, or contaminated portion of the gloves.
  • After handling contaminated items, or objects that may be contaminated, wash your hands before touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • If the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth are affected, flush with lots of clean water at a sink or eyewash station.
  • If there is a wound, allow it to bleed freely, then wash the area thoroughly with non-abrasive soap and water.
  • If an area of non-intact skin is affected, wash the area thoroughly with non-abrasive soap and water.

Workplace Hazards and their Control

• Workplace hazards can be categorized into four main categories: Unsafe Acts and Unsafe Conditions.
  • Unsafe Acts occur when employees do not follow established standards, rules or policies.
  • Unsafe Conditions are physical or chemical properties that could result in injury, damage to property, operational disruption or other losses.
• Workplace hazards can be controlled using the Hierarchy of Controls, which involves:
  • Identifying potential hazards
  • Assessing risks to workers
  • Eliminating or minimizing risks
  • Educating and training workers in safe work practices and procedures.

Common Workplace Hazards:

• Cuts: Use knives with care, select the appropriate knife for the job, use a proper cutting board, ensure knives are sharp, store them safely, cut away from the body, use protective gear (mesh gloves), wash and clean separately.

• Machinery: Wear appropriate clothing and jewelry, ensure safety guards are in place, follow operating instructions, do not reach into moving parts, use a pusher, switch off equipment before cleaning.

• Struck Against/By Objects: Stack goods and materials properly, use appropriate personal protective equipment, avoid rushing through doors, especially with trolleys.

• Burns and Scalds: Organize the work area to prevent contact with flames and hot objects, don't reach across hot surfaces, keep floors clear, use gloves, ensure safe hot liquid temperatures, position pot/pan handles safely, avoid opening pressurized cookers, open lids away from you, open hot water slowly.

• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Avoid creating obstacles in work areas and floors, keep floors and stairs dry and clean, wear appropriate footwear, ensure carpets and rugs are safe, maintain proper lighting, prevent power cord tripping hazards, ensure elevated platforms are guarded.

• Ladders: Inspect ladders before and after each use, do not use defective ladders, set up ladders on stable and level surfaces, maintain three points of contact while using ladders.

• Fire and Explosion (Specifically LPG/Gas Safety): Know the gas shut off valve location and how to use it, store cylinders safely in a well-ventilated area, ensure adequate ventilation in LPG appliance rooms, turn off valves at the end of each workday.

• Fire and Explosion (In Case of Fire): Remain calm, walk, not run to exits, know how to use fire extinguishers, be aware of extinguisher and alarm locations, use a fire extinguisher for a small fire, evacuate for large fires, seek medical advice if irritation persists.

• Chemical Hazards: Use a scoop for dispensing powders, open windows and vents, use a fume mask and goggles, store chemicals as advised, check containers regularly for damage or leakage, dispose of chemicals properly.

• Biological Hazards: Wash hands frequently, avoid handling broken glass with bare hands, use tongs for broken glass removal, dispose of broken glass in a separate and secure container, avoid direct contact with garbage, wear gloves for handling used linen and bathroom cleaning, wear eye and face protection, dispose of gloves after use, flush affected mucous membranes with water, allow wound to bleed freely and wash it thoroughly, wash non-intact skin thoroughly.

• Manual Handling: Assess the weight of the load, get help if necessary, use mechanical aids, push rather than pull, use leg muscle power, prepare for the lift by warming up muscles, maintain a wide stance, keep the load close to the body, keep back straight, hold the object securely, check for slipping, maintain visibility, avoid sudden movements, avoid twisting and bending, avoid bending over to set down the load, take small steps when walking with a load, do not store heavy items in confined areas, wear appropriate gloves and safety shoes.

Ergonomic Stresses:

• Prolonged Standing: Shift weight to relieve back and leg stress, change positions frequently, position controls and tools for easy access, avoid overreaching, wear shoes with well-cushioned insteps and soles, wear shoes that allow toes to move freely, avoid shoes with heels higher than 5 cm.

Explore the framework established by RA 11058 to enhance occupational health and safety standards in the Philippines. The quiz covers the implementing rules, penalties for violations, and the responsibilities of employers and workers. Understand the incentives available for compliance and the inter-government coordination involved in OSH.