Human Resource Management - Safety And Health at Work - A232 Lecture 10 - 2024 PDF

Human Resource Management Safety and Health at Work A232 Lecture 10 DR. Ali Nasser AL-Tahitah...

Human Resource Management Safety and Health at Work A232 Lecture 10 DR. Ali Nasser AL-Tahitah [email protected] UNIVERSITI SAINS ISLAM MALAYSIA 1 |2024 What is Safety and Health at Work? Safety and health at work involve ensuring that the work environment is free from hazards and promoting the physical and mental well-being of employees. Ensuring workplace safety and health is a shared responsibility mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, which holds both employers and employees accountable. Despite ongoing efforts, work-related accidents in Malaysia remain a concern, partly due to under- reporting and the previous exclusion of foreign worker data from statistics. Example from textbook Daud Sulaiman, previously from NIOSH, was a passionate believer in safety. He emphasized that a genuine safety culture must start from the top management. Key points from his perspective include: Top Management Commitment: A safety culture requires a policy initiated by top management, with a dedicated budget for safety training, personal protective equipment (PPE), and procedures. Zero Tolerance for Unsafe Practices: There should be zero tolerance for unsafe acts and conditions, focusing on the wide base of the accident pyramid filled with unsafe acts, conditions, and near misses. Management's Role: Management must demonstrate a commitment to safety, showing workers that they value safe practices over merely getting the job done on time. Safety as a Value: Safety should be ingrained as a core value, not just a priority. Accidents at Work Malaysia has one of the highest rates of industrial accidents, though the number is decreasing yearly. Small- and medium-sized industries and young migrant workers are most at risk due to hazardous manual jobs and language barriers. Fatality Rates Despite efforts, Malaysia's occupational fatality rate remains high, with 7 deaths per 100,000 workers in 2006, double the ILO's ratio. Recent rates show some improvement, but the target of 3.5 fatalities per 100,000 workers by 2010 has not been met. Consequences of Workplace Accidents Accidents result in significant financial costs, including medical bills and increased insurance premiums. They also cause production losses, lowered morale among workers, and negative publicity. Key Takeaways Ensuring workplace safety is essential to mitigate these severe impacts. Effective safety practices and clear communication are crucial to protecting workers, especially in high- risk industries. Types and Causes of Accidents Accidents may be categorized by their impact or severity, in which case the following descriptions may be used: Near Miss: An incident where no one was injured or hurt, although there may have been damage to property. These incidents are important to report as they can provide insights into potential hazards and prevent future accidents. Non-Fatal Injuries: First-Aid Treatment: Injuries that require simple medical attention, such as bandaging a cut or treating a minor burn. Temporary Disability: Injuries that prevent employees from working for a short period. This could include sprains, minor fractures, or minor burns that heal with time. Permanent Disability: More severe injuries that result in long-term or permanent inability to work. This could include severe spinal injuries, loss of limbs, or significant vision or hearing loss. Fatal Accidents:Accidents that result in the death of one or more workers. These are the most severe and often lead to significant legal, financial, and emotional consequences for the workplace and the families involved. Types and Causes of Accidents, cont.. 1. Technical Causes: Faulty Machinery and Equipment: poorly maintained machines that can cause accidents. Regular maintenance and checks are necessary to prevent such issues. Electrical Hazards: Risks from exposed wires, or improper use of electrical equipment. These can lead to shocks, burns, or fires. Toxic or Boiling Liquids: Handling dangerous substances can cause chemical burns or poisoning. Proper training and protective gear are essential. Types and Causes of Accidents, cont.. 2. Human Causes: Unsafe Acts: Actions such as ignoring safety protocols, not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), or engaging in horseplay around machinery. These behaviors can lead to preventable accidents. Fatigue, Boredom, and Low Morale: Long hours, uninteresting tasks, and poor working conditions can lead to decreased attention and increased accident risk. Fooling Around Near Machinery: Engaging in playful behavior or not paying attention near dangerous equipment can lead to serious injuries. 3. Environmental Causes: Hazardous Workplace Conditions: Slippery floors, poor lighting, and cluttered walkways can contribute to accidents. Regular inspections and housekeeping are crucial to mitigate these risks. Types and Causes of Accidents, cont.. ❖ High-Risk Situations: Production Machinery: High-risk due to moving parts and operational hazards. Proper guarding and training are necessary. Walkways and Climbing Areas: Increased risk of falls and related injuries. Ensuring secure handrails and non-slip surfaces can help reduce these risks. Use of Hand Tools: Risk of cuts, bruises, and other injuries. Proper training and maintenance of tools are essential. Electrical Use: Danger of electrical shocks and burns. Proper insulation, grounding, and following electrical safety protocols are necessary. Toxic or Boiling Liquids: Risk of burns and poisoning. Using appropriate PPE and following safety procedures for handling these substances is vital. Types and Causes of Accidents, cont.. ❖ Human Factors: Unsafe Behavior: ❑ Ignoring safety protocols and equipment leads to many preventable accidents. Encouraging a safety-first mindset is critical. Poor Judgement: ❑ Misjudging speed and distance, often due to distraction or inexperience, can lead to accidents. Training and supervision can improve judgement skills. ❑ Drinking and drug abuse impairs cognitive and physical functions, increasing accident risk. Implementing strict policies and support programs can address these issues. Psychological Issues: Stress, worry, depression, and nervousness can distract workers and decrease their focus on safety. Providing mental health support and creating a positive work environment are essential. Types and Causes of Accidents, cont.. ❖ Commuting Accidents: Increasing Trends: ❑ The increased use of motorcycles due to lower costs and traffic congestion has led to a rise in commuting accidents. Promoting safe driving practices is crucial. Severe Outcomes: ❑ Young workers often suffer multiple major injuries in motorbike accidents, requiring long-term financial and medical support. Education and training on safe riding can help reduce these incidents. Safety Programs: ❑ Employers are offering training on safe driving skills to high-risk groups, including young male employees and motorbike riders. ❑ Coordination among multiple safety agencies is necessary for effective prevention programs. ❑ Common causes of commuting accidents include mobile phone use while driving and driving under the influence of alcohol. Strict enforcement of laws and awareness campaigns can help reduce these behaviors. Occupational Diseases and Health Issues Occupational diseases, unlike accidents, often develop over long periods and can be harder to identify and treat, sometimes appearing long after an employee has left the job. Organic chemicals and toxic substances Example: Asbestos, once widely Common Health Hazards at Fumes, dust, and smoke used in building materials and car Work: Radiation and infection parts, has caused numerous cancer Noise and vibration cases. Although banned in the late Extreme temperatures 1970s, its effects are still felt today. Role of Human Resource Staff: HR must collaborate with safety experts to identify and minimize health risks Health. specific to their workplace. Recommendations include: Risks from IT Equipment: Removable keyboard, Extensive research shows that Adjustable screen and brightness controls prolonged use of computers can affect health. Comfortable, adjustable chair Rest periods: 15 minutes after every 2 hours of use Passive smoking and poor air quality Back pain from unsuitable furniture and heavy lifting Current Health Concerns in Dermatitis from chemical contact Malaysia: Blood-borne diseases (HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B) Ensuring a Safe Workplace Employers must continuously ensure compliance with safety laws and go beyond them to promote a safe and healthy work environment, which in turn boosts productivity and commitment. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, organizations with more than five Safety Policies employees must draft, disseminate, and revise a safety policy. This process highlights the importance of workplace safety and health. Commitment Statement: The organization's dedication to providing a safe and healthy workplace. Key Elements of Responsibility: Assigns safety responsibilities to all employees at all levels. Safety Policies Implementation Procedures: Details on procedures and structures for safe work practices. Distribution: Copies of the policy are given to all employees and displayed in common areas. Dissemination Discussion: Regular discussions to ensure employees understand and follow the safety policy. and Review Review: Periodic reviews to maintain relevance, especially after major organizational changes. Securities Commission (SC), Petronas Bhd. - Silterra (M) Sdn. Bhd. Examples - These companies have established safety policies that serve as examples of effective workplace safety practices. Safety Programmes Element Details Involvement from all levels of employees, starting with top Total Commitment management. Appointed Safety Officers Specific individuals are designated to handle safety and health issues. Record Keeping and Analysis Systematic documentation and analysis of safety-related records. Extensive Training Comprehensive training programs for all employees. Ongoing campaigns to raise awareness among workers about safety and Awareness Campaigns health issues. Incentive and Reward Schemes Programs to reward employees for adhering to safety practices. Personal Protective Equipment Provision of necessary protective gear to employees. (PPE) Disciplinary Systems Established disciplinary procedures to enforce safety regulations. Please refer to the textbook for more details, Pages “262-269” Summary of Actions Required by Employers in Order to Comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 To comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, employers must do the following: Ensure the safety of all employees and any other person at the workplace, as far as is practicable. Draft and disseminate a safety policy if the organization has more than five employees. Appoint a safety committee if the organization has 40 or more employees. Appoint a dedicated, qualified safety and health officer if the organization falls within the scope of the relevant regulation. Provide appropriate training, supervision and information to employees concerning safe work practices. Report serious accidents to the Department of Occupational Safety and Health. Sexual Harassment at Work Understanding Sexual Harassment at Work Sexual harassment at work can cause significant issues, including difficulties concentrating, performance problems, and stress-related medical conditions. In environments where harassment is tolerated, victims often resign instead of reporting the behavior, leading to a loss of valuable employees. Employers should take proactive steps to prevent harassment and establish systems for handling complaints. Although definitive statistics in Malaysia are lacking, sexual harassment is not a new issue. Historical instances, like the 1950 tappers' strike in Perak, highlight its longstanding presence. Studies show that harassment can affect both men and women, but male victims are less likely to report due to fear of ridicule. To combat this, the Malaysian Ministry of Human Resources issued a Code of Practice in 1999, recommending zero-tolerance policies and clear grievance procedures. Violence at Work Employers must ensure a safe and violence-free workplace for all employees. While Malaysia is generally less likely to violence compared to other countries, violent behavior in society is increasing. For example, road rage and armed robberies are on the rise, with incidents of violence reported in the media daily. Convenience stores and jewellery shops are frequent targets, resulting in injuries and sometimes fatalities among employees. Violent behavior at the workplace, including threats of violence, is a serious misconduct warranting disciplinary action. Employers should implement proactive measures to prevent workplace violence. This includes establishing policies and procedures, often overseen by a Security Manager or HR department, to mitigate risks. Workplace violence encompasses physical harm, harassment, and bullying, and can involve colleagues or external individuals. Many cases, especially verbal abuse, go unreported due to fear or lack of knowledge on how to report. Violence at Work Addressing Workplace Violence Workplace violence can stem from various causes. Certain jobs, such as those in jewellery shops, banks, and hospitals, are more exposed to external acts of violence, particularly during robberies. However, even typically peaceful workplaces can experience violence due to employee anger or stress. Capozzoli and McVey (1996) categorize workplace violence into: Violence originating in and occurring at the workplace, e.g., revenge by an employee. Violence originating at the workplace but occurring outside, e.g., after-hours conflicts. Violence originating outside but occurring at the workplace, e.g., domestic disputes or robberies. Wellness Programs and Stress Management Wellness Programs: Systematic efforts to promote healthy lifestyles among employees. Benefits: Reduce absenteeism, lower medical costs, and improve productivity. Employee Participation: Crucial for program success; programs forced upon employees tend to fail. Stress Management Impact of Stress: Linked to poorer physical and mental health, affecting productivity. Causes: Job insecurity, poor supervision, and long working hours exacerbate stress levels. Employer Responsibility: Recognize and manage workplace stress for a healthier workforce. Training: Employees should be trained to recognize and manage stress symptoms. Examples of Wellness Activities: Fitness classes, nutrition talks, stress management sessions, regular medical check-ups, and smoking cessation campaigns. Drug & Alcohol Policies, Ergonomics, and Covid-19 Response Drug & Alcohol Policies: Strategies: Risk assessment, policy dissemination, education, training of supervisors, and rehabilitation assistance. Testing: Guidelines for drug testing procedures and employee privacy. Ergonomics Definition: Study of workplace conditions fitting job demands to worker abilities. Importance: Prevents musculoskeletal issues and enhances productivity. Examples: Adjustable seating, regular breaks, training for heavy lifting, and use of ergonomic tools. Covid-19 Pandemic Challenges: Misinformation, vaccination hesitancy, mental health impacts, and legal uncertainties. Employer Actions: Communication of health updates, risk assessments, sanitation measures, policy reviews, and flexible work policies.  ‫ص‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ل‬‫ع‬ ‫والله ا م با واب‬ ‫‪Thank You‬‬ ‫‪2‬‬ ‫‪0‬‬