Psychosocial Hazards in the Workplace

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is a common sign of exposure to chemical hazards in the workplace?

Enhanced cognitive function

Improved respiratory system

Increased energy levels

Accumulation of dust or oils (correct)

What is a way to reduce physical workload?

Hire more workers

Decrease break times

Substitute heavy manual tasks with machines (correct)

Increase overtime

Which of the following is a control measure to minimize contact with hazardous chemicals?

Ignoring the hazardous chemicals

Increasing work schedules

Changing work processes to minimize contact (correct)

Providing personal protective equipment

What is the primary goal of ergonomic hazard reduction?

To prevent musculoskeletal disorders Signup and view all the answers

What is a way to minimize fatigue?

Provide sufficient breaks Signup and view all the answers

What can be used to reduce ergonomic hazards?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What can be used to cushion loads carried on the shoulder?

Shoulder pads Signup and view all the answers

What is the hierarchy of control in OHS?

Elimination, substitution, engineering, administrative, and work practice controls Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace?

To prevent exposure to hazardous chemicals Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a psychosocial hazard?

Workplace bullying Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to store heavy objects at waist height?

To reduce lifting hazards Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a psychosocial hazard?

Bullying Signup and view all the answers

What can be a measure to prevent and control psychosocial hazards?

Establishing clear job descriptions and tasks assignments Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern of biological hazards?

Threat to the health of living organisms Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential effect of psychosocial hazards?

Depression Signup and view all the answers

Why is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) used?

To reduce exposure to risk factors Signup and view all the answers

What can be a method to reduce workplace stress?

Provide training in coping skills and individual stress management Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Reducing Poor Posture

Provide adjustable tables and chairs to accommodate workers of different sizes and shapes, promoting neutral postures
Substitute heavy manual tasks with machines to reduce physical workload
Improve work scheduling to minimize excessive overtime or shift work, which can cause fatigue
Increase staffing to reduce individual workloads
Provide sufficient breaks, allowing for adequate recovery time to reduce fatigue
Ensure all loads are labeled with their weight
Store heavy objects at waist height
Train workers on safe use of lifting and carrying devices
Provide PPE, such as knee pads and shoulder pads, to address ergonomic problems

Preventing Psychosocial Hazards

Definition: Intentional usage of power that harms individuals physically, mentally, spiritually, or socially
Examples: Bullying, harassment, aggression, violence, discrimination, victimization, and long working hours
Effects: Work-related stress, depression, hypertension, heart disease, and mental illness
Prevention and control:
- Ensure sufficient breaks
- Avoid long working hours
- Focus on clarity and objectives around work expectations
- Establish clear job descriptions and task assignments
- Report incidents of inappropriate comments and behaviors
- Investigate complaints concerning harassment and take appropriate measures
- Develop and implement policies on dealing with violence and harassment, absence management, and early intervention stress management
- Provide training in coping skills and individual stress management

Biological Hazards

Definition: Biological substances that pose a threat to human health
Examples: People, plants, and animals can be biological hazards
Include risks from the biosphere

Hazard Types

Chemical hazards: Exposure to chemicals in the workplace
Ergonomic hazards: Poor posture, body movements, and physical workload
Psychosocial hazards: Intentional harm to individuals
Biological hazards: Biological substances threatening human health

Chemical Hazards

Definition: Occupational hazard caused by exposure to chemicals in the workplace
Examples: Liquids, gases, vapors, mists, solvents, paints, and vanishes
Signs of exposure:
- Dust, mist, smoke in the air
- Accumulation of dust or oils
- Unusual smells
- Unusual tastes
- Burning in the eyes
- Nose, throat irritation
- Feel better when away from the workplace
Effects:
- Poisoning
- Respiratory system diseases (e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Skin irritation
- Burns

Controlling Chemical Hazards

Hierarchy of control in OHS:
- Elimination/Substitution: Use safer methods
- Engineering Controls: Change work process to minimize contact with hazardous chemicals
- Administrative and Work Practice Controls: Adjust work schedules to avoid overexposure

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers the definition and examples of psychosocial hazards, including bullying, harassment, and long working hours. It also explores the effects of these hazards, such as work-related stress and mental illness, and discusses ways to prevent and control them.