Occupational Hazards & Classification PDF

GROUP ASSIGNMENT GROUP THREE (3) QUESTION OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS AND THEIR CLASSIFICATION I. PHYSICAL II. CHEMICAL III. BIOLOGICAL OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOL AND ITS REPRESENTATION.  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD DEFINED. Occupational hazards refer to risks t...

GROUP ASSIGNMENT GROUP THREE (3) QUESTION OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS AND THEIR CLASSIFICATION I. PHYSICAL II. CHEMICAL III. BIOLOGICAL OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOL AND ITS REPRESENTATION.  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD DEFINED. Occupational hazards refer to risks that workers encounter in various work environments. Understanding these hazards is essential for ensuring workplace safety and health. Occupational hazards are crucial to address because they directly impact the health, safety, and productivity of workers, which in turn affects the overall  REASONS TO MANAGE AND UNDERSTAND OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD I. Worker Safety And Health: Occupational hazards, such as exposure to toxic substances, physical dangers, and repetitive strain injuries, pose serious risks. By identifying and mitigating these risks, employers can help prevent injuries, illnesses, and even fatalities, promoting a safer work environment. II. Productivity and Efficiency: Healthy and safe employees are generally more productive. Injuries and illnesses can lead to absenteeism, reduced productivity, and decreased morale, all of which negatively affect an organization’s efficiency and output.  CON’T III. Legal Compliance: Many countries have strict regulations and laws around workplace safety. Addressing occupational hazards ensures that companies comply with these regulations, avoiding legal penalties, fines, and potential shutdowns. IV. Financial Savings: Workplace injuries and illnesses can be costly due to medical expenses, compensation claims, and lost work time. Proactively managing occupational hazards helps to minimize these costs, ultimately saving the organization money.  CON’T V. Employee Morale and Retention: A safe workplace promotes a culture of care and responsibility, leading to higher job satisfaction and loyalty. Employees are more likely to stay with a company that values their safety, reducing turnover and associated costs. VI. Reputation and Public Image: Companies that prioritize safety and health are often seen as responsible and caring, enhancing their reputation. This positive image can attract customers, investors, and top talent. CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD Occupational hazards are classified into six(6), and they are physical , biological, environmental, chemical , mechanical, or ergonomics and psychosocial hazards. We will talk about three(3) of these; 1. Physical Hazards Physical hazards are environmental factors that can harm an individual without direct contact. These include:  PHYSICAL HAZARD CON’T Noise: Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can cause hearing loss. Vibration: Continuous exposure to hand-arm vibrations can lead to conditions like Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Radiation: This includes ionizing (like X-rays) and non-ionizing (like UV rays) radiation, both of which can have harmful health effects. Temperature Extremes: Exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat stress or heat stroke; extreme cold can cause frostbite or hypothermia. Slips, Trips, and Falls: Poorly maintained surfaces can lead to injuries. Ergonomic Hazards: Poor workstation design can lead to musculoskeletal disorders.  CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD 2. Chemical Hazards Chemical hazards arise from exposure to harmful substances. They can be broadly classified into: Toxic Chemicals: Can cause immediate health effects or long- term harm, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and solvents. Flammable Materials: These include gases, vapors, and liquids that can ignite and cause explosions or fires.  CHEMICAL HAZARDS CON’T Corrosives: These substances can damage skin or materials. Examples include acids and alkalis. Asphyxiants: Gases that can displace oxygen in the air, leading to suffocation, such as carbon monoxide. Respiratory Hazards: Inhalation of fumes, dust, and aerosols can lead to respiratory diseases. CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD 3. Biological Hazards Biological hazards (biohazards) arise from living organisms or their byproducts and include: Bacteria and Viruses: These can lead to infections and diseases, especially in healthcare settings. Fungi: Mold and mildew can cause respiratory issues. Bloodborne Pathogens: Such as HIV and Hepatitis B, pose risks in healthcare and laboratory environments. Insects and Rodents: Can carry diseases and contaminate workspaces. Animal Hazards: Exposure to animals can result in zoonotic diseases.  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOLS Occupational hazard symbols help in identifying risks in the workplace. Below are some common symbols: Skull and Crossbones: The skull and crossbones sign exhibits the extreme dangers of being exposed to an acutely toxic substance or a substance that can make you sick, even fatally so, after a single exposure. Skull and Crossbones  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOLS Flame: This sign features an open flame. It’s used to indicate flammable materials, including self-reacting substances and substances that give off flammable gas.  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOLS Corrosive Substance: The corrosion sign features two test tubes pouring out a liquid that appears damaging, one above a surface and the other above a human hand. It warns against the potential damage that corrosive substances, such as certain acids, can cause.  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOLS Flame over circle: The image of the flame sitting on top of a circle is used for oxidizing substances or substances that give off oxygen or other flammable materials. If these substances get too close to reactive chemicals or an ignition source, they could create fire or an explosion.  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOLS Exclamation mark: A large exclamation mark, this sign warns of things that may be irritating, particularly to the skin, eyes or respiratory system. This mainly includes chemicals and substances, like adhesives and skin sensitizers.  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOLS Radiation Symbol: Consists of three black blades forming a trefoil shape, indicating radioactive materials.  OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD SYMBOLS Biohazard: A symbol that depicts three interlocking circles, warning about biological hazards.  THE END THANK YOUGROUP 3