Health and Saftey Notes (Comp)

CHEPTER-1
Classification of Health Hazards

What is a hazard?
A hazard is generally anything that can hurt you or make you ill.The meaning of the word hazard can be confusing.
Often dictionaries do not give specific definitions or combine it with the term "risk". For example one dictionary
defines hazard as "a danger or risk" which helps explain why many people use the terms interchangeably.There are
many definitions for hazard but the more common definition when talking about workplace health and safety is!
A hazard is any source of potential damage harm or adverse health effects on something or someone under certain
conditions at work. "asically a hazard can cause harm or adverse effects #to individuals as health effects or to
organizations as property or e$uipment losses%. &ometimes a hazard is referred to as being the actual harm or the
health effect it caused rather than the hazard. For example the disease tuberculosis #T"% might be called a hazard by
some but in general the T"'causing bacteria would be considered the "hazard" or "hazardous biological agent".
What's the difference between hazards at work and in everyday life?
(ou deal with hazards in your life every day walking across busy streets driving and playing
sports. )enerally you don*t worry too much about these situations. +hy, "ecause you*ve learned
from an early age how to deal with everyday hazards.(ou*ve learned from your own experiences
and you*ve been trained by parents teachers and coaches. -unicipalities install traffic lights and
pedestrian crossings car manufacturers install safety e$uipment. (ou might have taken driver*s
training and you probably wear protective gear playing sports.
But you haven't been trained how to recognize, assess and control hazards found in the
workplace. That*s one of the reasons why young workers are so likely to be in.ured at work.
(ou need to do some $uick studying about workplace hazards so you*re as comfortable with
spotting hazards and dealing with them at work as you are at home in the car and on the street.
How can reco!nize hazards at work?
The first step to protecting yourself is being able to recognize hazards in the work you*re
assigned and in the conditions you*re working in. There are four main types of hazards!
Physical hazards are the most common and will be present in most workplaces at one time or
another. They include unsafe conditions that can cause in.ury illness and death.
They are typically easiest to spot but sadly too often overlooked because of familiarity #there
are always cords running across the aisles% lack of knowledge #they aren*t seen as hazards%
resistance to spending time or money to make necessary improvements or simply delays in
making changes to remove the hazards #waiting until tomorrow or a time when "we*re not so
busy"%.
/one of these are acceptable reasons for workers to be exposed to physical hazards.
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By Wajid Ali CBIT College Batkhela
0xamples of physical hazards include!
electrical hazards! frayed cords missing ground pins improper wiring
unguarded machinery and moving machinery parts! guards removed or moving parts that
a worker can accidentally touch
constant loud noise
high exposure to sunlight1ultraviolet rays heat or cold
working from heights including ladders scaffolds roofs or any raised work area
working with mobile e$uipment such as fork lifts #operation of fork lifts and similar
mobile e$uipment in the workplace re$uires significant additional training and
experience%
&pills on floors or tripping hazards such as blocked aisle or cords running across the
floor.
"iolo!ical hazards come from working with animals people or infectious plant materials. +ork
in day care hospitals hotel laundry and room cleaning laboratories veterinary offices and
nursing homes may expose you to biological hazards.
The types of things you may be exposed to include!
blood or other body fluids
fungi
bacteria and viruses
plants
insect bites
Animal and bird droppings.
Er!ono#ic hazards occur when the type of work body position and working conditions put
strain on your body. They are the hardest to spot since you don*t always immediately notice the
strain on your body or the harm these hazards pose. &hort'term exposure may result in "sore
muscles" the next day or in the days following exposure but long term exposure can result in
serious long'term in.uries.
0rgonomic hazards include!
poor lighting
improperly ad.usted workstations and chairs
fre$uent lifting
poor posture
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awkward movements especially if they are repetitive
repeating the same movements over and over
having to use too much force especially if you have to do it fre$uently.
Che#ical hazards are present when a worker is exposed to any chemical preparation in the
workplace in any form #solid li$uid or gas%. &ome are safer than others but to some workers
who are more sensitive to chemicals even common solutions can cause illness skin irritation or
breathing problems.
The to$ic effects of che#icals
As explained above the effects of chemicals can be either acute or chronic depending on the
concentration and length of exposure. 2hemicals may also produce different effects for different
modes and types of exposure. The effects of chemicals can be categorized into the following
groups!
causing irritation3
allergies3
lack of oxygen3
systemic poisoning3
cancer3
damage to the unborn foetus3
effects on the future generations3
4neumoconiosis #dusty lung%.
"eware of!
li$uids like cleaning products paints acids solvents especially chemicals in an
unlabelled container #warning sign5%
vapours and fumes for instance those that come from welding or exposure to solvents
gases like acetylene propane carbon monoxide and helium
flammable materials like gasoline solvents and explosive chemicals.
The +orkplace 6azardous -aterials 7nformation &ystem #+6-7&% is designed to make sure
you have the information you need to evaluate any hazards and take action to protect yourself.
What if reco!nize a hazard at work?
&ome hazards such as unguarded machinery pose immediate dangers! a worker could lose a
finger or arm. Other types of hazards such as ergonomic hazards can in.ure a worker over a long
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period of time but the full extent of the damage #such as chronic strain or muscle impairment%
may not show up until after several months or years of exposure to the hazard.
"oth types of hazards need to be fixed. &ome re$uire immediate attention because exposure to
them can cause in.ury to you and fellow workers /O+. They can be $uickly fixed by cleaning
up the floor putting a guard back on or installing a guardrail for instance. 6azards that can hurt
you in the long term also need to be identified and reported promptly. 7nterim solutions should be
sought right away such as rotating tasks with other workers but permanent elimination of the
hazard may take a little more time to achieve.
Once you*ve recognized a hazard assessing its potential to cause in.ury and the extent of the
hazard is a necessary step in determining how the hazard can be addressed.
CHEPTER-%
&'(RCE& ') R&*
What is risk?
Risk is the chance or probability that a person will be harmed or experience an adverse health
effect if exposed to a hazard. 7t may also apply to situations with property or e$uipment loss.
For example! The risk of developing cancer from smoking cigarettes could be expressed as
"cigarette smokers are 89 times #for example% more likely to die of lung cancer than non'
smokers". Another way of reporting risk is "a certain number "(" of smokers per 8:::::
smokers will likely develop lung cancer" #depending on their age and how many years they have
been smoking%. These risks are expressed as a probability or likelihood of developing a disease
or getting in.ured whereas hazards refer to the possible conse$uences #e.g. lung cancer
emphysema and heart disease from cigarette smoking%.
Factors that influence the degree of risk include!
how much a person is exposed to a hazardous thing or condition
how the person is exposed #e.g. breathing in a vapour skin contact% and
how severe are the effects under the conditions of exposure.
+echanical hazards
-achinery and e$uipment have moving parts. The action of moving parts may have sufficient
force in motion to cause in.ury to people. +hen assessing machinery and e$uipment for possible
mechanical hazards consider!
; machinery and e$uipment with moving parts that can be reached by people
; machinery and e$uipment that can e.ect ob.ects #parts components products or waste items%
that may strike a person with sufficient force to cause harm
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; machinery and e$uipment with moving parts that can reach people such as booms or
mechanical appendages #arms%
; mobile machinery and e$uipment such as forklifts pallet .acks earthmoving e$uipment
operated in areas where people may gain access.
2ommon mechanical hazards and associated risks for machinery and e$uipment are shown
below.
Hazard Risk
<otating shafts pullies sprockets and gears 0ntanglement
6ard surfaces moving together 2rushing
&cissor or shear action severing
&harp edge = moving or stationary 2utting or puncturing
2able or hose connections &lips trips and falls #e.g. oil leaks%
Electricity in the Work,lace-
This page provides general information on electrical hazards within the workplace and does not
provide information on necessary precautions to prevent contact and minimise danger from
contact with overhead and underground power lines.
4laces of work generally have power nominally supplied at 9>: volt #single phase% and ?:: volt
#> phase% although some larger workplaces will receive electricity at a higher supply voltage. The
information below relates to workplaces using 9>: and ?:: volt supplies.
The main hazards with electricity are!
contact with live parts causing shock and burns
faults which could cause fires3
fire or explosion where electricity could be the source of ignition in a potentially
flammable or explosive atmosphere e.g. in a spray paint booth.
The risk of in.ury from electricity is strongly linked to where and how it is used and there is
greater risk in wet and1or damp conditions.
"asics of Contact with Electricity-
7t is the level of voltage the body is exposed to and the resistance to flow of electrical current
offered by the body that determines the impact of exposure to electricity. The following factors
determine the severity of the effect electric shock has on your body!
The level of voltage
The amount of body resistance you have to the current flow
The path the current takes through your body
The length of time the current flows through your body
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7f a worker has come into contact with electricity the worker may not be able to remove
themselves from the electrical source. The human body is a good conductor of electricity. 7f you
touch a person while they are in contact with the electrical source the electricity will flow
through your body causing electrical shock. Firstly attempt to turn off the source of the
electricity #disconnect%. 7f the electrical source can not readily and safely be turned off use a
non'conducting ob.ect such as a fibreglass ob.ect or a wooden pole to remove the person from
the electrical source.
Radiation in the Work,lace
(ou are probably familiar with a few uses of radiation like x'rays and nuclear power. "ut did
you know there are lots of ways radiation is used in the workplace, <adiation is used to spay
health products to treat cancer and other diseases to measure the moisture content of soil at
construction sites to locate leaks in pipelines and defects in welds to make fluorescent bulbs last
longer to make lightning rods work better''the list goes on and on. <adiation is a tool that is
used for great benefit to our society. "ut radiation can be harmful if it isn*t controlled. @o you
know the hazards of radiation and how to protect against them,
-any people think radiation is some type of chemical or gas. 7t isn*t. Although some chemicals
or gases may be "radioactive"''they emit radiation''radiation itself is simply energy. There are
many types of radiation. &ome types of energy can be seen or felt such as visible light and
infrared radiation. &ome types cannot be detected without special e$uipment. The type of
radiation we will discuss is known as "ionizing" radiation. 7onizing radiation cannot be seen or
felt. 7t must be detected with special e$uipment. 7onizing radiation unlike infrared microwave
lasers and most ultraviolet radiation is energetic enough to remove electrons from their orbit
about the nucleus of an atom. 7onization changes the atom. 7f the atom is part of a living cell
those changes could cause a health effect.
(ou are probably familiar with x'ray radiation. A'rays pass through ob.ects and expose film.
@ense areas absorb the x'rays so they appear lighter on film than non'dense areas which allow
the radiation to pass through. This is why x'ray radiation is useful in many applications from
medicine to security to radiography of welds and other critical structures. A'rays are ionizing
radiation. )amma radiation is similar to x'ray radiation. The other types of ionizing radiation are
actually small energetic particles known as alpha and beta particles. Another type of particle
radiation is the neutron. All these types of radiation can cause change to the body*s cells.
7n order for radiation to affect the body a person must be exposed to it. <adiation exposure may
occur from radiation sources located outside the body known as "external exposure" or it may
occur from sources of radiation located inside the body known as "internal exposure." 7nternal
exposure results from the inhalation ingestion or other uptake of radioactive material by the
body. <adioactive material is material which emits radiation such as radioactive uranium
radium cobalt and thorium.
6ealth effects of radiation exposure have been studied for years. 7t is very clear that at high
levels of exposure serious health effects occur. These health effects are destruction of bone
marrow incapacitation of the digestive and nervous systems birth defects in children born to
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exposed mothers and increased incidence of cancer in exposed populations. A localized
exposure could result in the loss of a hand or foot. These effects are clearly evident at high
exposures such as those produced by an atomic bomb detonation or serious accident involving
radioactive materials. 6owever these exposures are much much larger than those encountered
in the workplace. 7n fact the health effects of low exposures such as those received in the
workplace aren*t as obvious as those from high exposures. They*re really not obvious at all.
<adiation exposure at the occupational level does not cause obvious bone marrow damage or
digestive or nervous system effects. 7t has not been shown to cause cancer or birth defects.
Bocalized low exposures to the hands and feet and arms and legs do not cause obvious harm. To
be on the safe side information from persons exposed to high levels of radiation has been used to
predict possible health effects to persons exposed to low levels. &ince high exposures cause a
significant increase in the incidence of cancer low'level exposure may cause a small increase in
the risk of cancer. To minimize this risk occupational radiation exposures are limited to very low
levels.
2ompanies and other institutions that use radiation are regulated by the /uclear <egulatory
2ommission the @epartment of 0nergy or their state radiological control agency. 4ersons who
work with radiation must be trained in radiation risks and radiation safety practices. They are
taught to minimize their exposure by using these techni$ues!
Ti#e''@ecrease the amount of time spent near a radiation source.
.istance''7ncrease distance between yourself and a radiation source.
&hieldin!''Cse appropriate shielding to reduce radiation exposure.
@epending on the type of radiation used other specific safety rules apply. For example persons
who work with radiography sources must wear an alarming radiation measurement device to
warn them when the radiation level exceeds a certain level. They must also never ever assume
the radiation source is shielded without checking it with a radiation detector''at a safe distance
from the source. &ome of the highest accidental radiation exposures #well in excess of regulatory
limits% have occurred in the radiography industry. These accidents have caused serious local
in.uries and have even been fatal.
4ersons with a potential for internal exposure are also taught to use respirators or other protective
e$uipment to minimize their uptake of radioactive material. &ome other techni$ues for
minimizing potential internal exposure are!
/o eatin!0 drinkin!0 s#okin!0 or cos#etic a,,lication in areas where radioactive materials are
used.
Check the work area fre12ently for "contamination"''radioactive material which has spilled
into the work area''and clean it up immediately.
(se !loves0 res,irators0 and other ,rotective e12i,#ent as re$uired. Cse it consistently and
don*t take shortcuts.
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0veryone who works with radiation should also know their institution*s radiation safety
procedures including what to do during an emergency.
3E/T45T'/
What are the ,roble#s?
4oor workplace ventilation is a hazard that affects the health of 2C40 members. 2ost'cutting
measures and employer inaction hamper the fight for properly ventilated workplaces.
2C40 members work in different settings which means members experience general and local
ventilation systems. )eneral ventilation supplies and removes air in large workplaces such as
hospitals schools and office buildings. These systems are commonly known as heating
ventilating and air conditioning #6DA2% systems. An 6DA2 system draws in fresh outside air
and mixes it with indoor air. This air mixture is heated or cooled and then filtered before it is
circulated throughout a workplace.
6DA2 systems can have significant problems!
Only a limited amount of fresh outdoor air actually gets into the workplace. -ost 6DA2
systems only allow for 9: per cent outdoor air mixed with E: per cent re'circulated
indoor air in sealed buildings.
6DA2 systems are limited in controlling contaminants because they donFt remove them.
7nstead contaminants #pollutants% are mostly spread throughout the workplace for long
periods of time.
+orker exposures are difficult to control near the contaminant source with 6DA2
systems because there is no direct ventilation of the contaminant.
The amount of air re$uired to remove a contaminant may be so large that no 6DA2
system could handle the volume of air exchange.
-any 6DA2 systems have fixed settings that donFt allow workers to control ventilation
rates.
Bocal ventilation controls and removes contaminants at the source. 2ross'draft tables vacuum
purge systems and fume hoods are examples of local ventilation. Bocal ventilation systems are
usually set up with a hood that captures contaminants. A fan or a blower draws the contaminant
through the ductwork to the air cleaner. Air cleaners include filters precipitators cyclones
scrubbers and electrostatic chargers. The contaminant is filtered and the exhaust air is expelled
outside.
Bocal ventilation systems can also have problems!
Bocal ventilation re$uires careful design and installation.
Fre$uent and effective testing and maintenance are re$uired for local ventilation.
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The system removes the contaminated air but sometimes not enough intake air is
supplied resulting in a negative airflow. This negative airflow can cause contaminated air
to re'enter the workplace through the exhaust ducts.
+orkers are generally not allowed to control local ventilation rates.
46HT/6 ER6'/'+C&
What are so#e of the #ost co##on li!htin! ,roble#s?
4oor lighting can cause several problems such as!
insufficient light ' not enough #too little% light for the need
glare ' too much light for the need
improper contrast
poorly distributed light and
Flicker. #sparkle twinkle%
What sho2ld yo2 know abo2t ins2fficient li!ht?
4oor lighting can be a safety hazard ' mis.udgement of the position shape or speed of an ob.ect
can lead to accidents and in.ury.
4oor lighting can affect the $uality of work specifically in situation where precision is re$uired
and overall productivity.
4oor lighting can be a health hazard ' too much or too little light strains eyes and may cause eye
discomfort #burning etc.% and headaches.
How #2ch li!ht is needed for vario2s sit2ations or activities?
The amount of light we need varies and depends on!
the type of task being done #such as demands for speed and accuracy%
type of surfaces #does it reflect or absorb light%
the general work area and
the individual*s vision.
The amount of light falling on a surface is measured in units called lux. @epending on the factors
noted above ade$uate general lighting is usually between G:: and 8::: lux when measured HI
cm #>: inches% above the floor.J
How do yo2 test and correct for ins2fficient li!ht ,roble#s?
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To detect insufficient light try the following!
+ipe light fixtures with a damp cloth to check for cleanliness. An evenly deposited film
of dust is hard to detect by sight alone.
-easure the average illumination throughout the workplace. 2ompare this to the
recommended levels.
Book for shadows especially over work areas and on stairways.
Ask workers if they suffer from eye strain or s$uint to see.
+orkers should sit in their normal working positions during measurement to give you accurate
results.
To correct insufficient light!
<eplace bulbs on a regular schedule. Old bulbs give less light than new ones so replace
them before they burn out. Follow manufacturers* instructions.
2lean light fixtures regularly. @irt on light fixtures reduces the amount of light given off.
Bight fixtures with open tops allow air currents to move dust up through the fixture so
dust and dirt do not accumulate on the fixture.
Add more light fixtures in appropriate places.
4aint walls and ceilings light colours so light can be reflected.
Cse more reflected light and local lighting to eliminate shadows. For example a covered
light mounted under a transparent guard on a grinding wheel provides the added light
needed to clearly see the task.
@o not position work station with light fixture directly behind worker.
What sho2ld yo2 know abo2t !lare?
)lare is a common lighting problem. )lare is what happens when a bright light source or
reflection interferes with how you are *seeing* an ob.ect. 7n most cases your eyes will adapt to
the brightest level of light. +hen this adaptation happens it becomes harder to see the details in
the duller or darker areas of the work space #even though they are actually sufficiently lit5%. )lare
can cause annoyance and discomfort and can actually decrease a person*s ability to see.
How do yo2 detect !lare?
There are several ways to find sources of glare.
+hen in your normal working position look at a distant ob.ect at eye level. "lock the
light "path" from the fixtures with a book or cardboard. 7f the distant ob.ect is now easier
to see the light fixtures are probably producing glare.
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To detect reflected glare look at the task from your normal working position. "lock the
light falling on it from the front or above. 7f details are now easier to see reflections are a
problem.
4lace a small mirror face up on the work surface. The mirror reflects light from above
the light fixture is responsible for glare.
Book for shiny ob.ects that reflect light. )lass in picture frames glossy table tops and
D@T screens are common examples.
Ask workers if they experience sore or tired eyes headaches or if they need to s$uint to
see.
How do yo2 correct !lare ,roble#s?
To correct glare try!
Csing several small low'intensity light fixtures rather than one large high'intensity light
fixture.
Csing light fixtures that diffuse or concentrate light well. 7ndirect light fixtures or direct
light fixtures with parabolic louvres are two possibilities.
2overing bare bulbs with louvers lenses or other devices to control light.
7ncreasing the brightness of the area around the glare source.
Csing ad.ustable local lighting with brightness controls.
4ositioning light fixtures to reduce reflected light that is directed toward the eyes.
Csing low gloss paper or apply flat or semi'gloss paint and matte finishes on *offending*
surfaces. <emove highly polished and shiny ob.ects.
Keeping general lighting levels at recommended levels.
4ositioning the work station so that windows and fluorescent light tubes are parallel to
the worker*s line of sight.
@o not position the work station so that light fixtures are to the front or directly overhead.
How can yo2 detect if there is 7i#,ro,er contrast7?
There are two types of contrast problems ' the first occurs when there are very different light
levels from one area to another and the other is contrast between the colours of ob.ects.
The immediate work area should be brighter than surrounding areas. 7f the surrounding area is
brighter than the work area your attention is distracted away from the work area.
The contrast between colours of ob.ects such as between the print itself and paper or text and
background on computer screens can also cause problems. Too little contrast between print and
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the paper ' or characters on a D@T screen and the background ' makes reading tasks difficult. 7n
an industrial setting an example would be that moving and stationary machine parts are hard to
distinguish if they are the same colour.
How do yo2 check and correct for ,oor contrast?
Book for areas with great differences in light levels.
Book for ob.ects that are hard to distinguish from the background.
Book for reading materials and D@Ts where it is hard to make out the print or characters
from the background.
To correct for poor contrast!
7ncrease the contrast between ob.ects and the background. Cse ink pens rather than
pencils and white paper rather than grey. Ad.ust photocopier exposure D@T brightness
and contrast controls.
@ecrease reflected glare. Cse matte finishes on surfaces and move shiny ob.ects out of
view.
Cse contrasting colours for ob.ects and the background. 4aint stationary and moving
machine parts in contrasting colours to improve visibility and decrease the risk of
accident.
WH5T & /'&E?
/oise is an unwanted or damaging sound that may damage your hearing and cause other health
effects such as stress hypersensitivity to noise increased blood pressure and increased heart rate.
7t can also interfere with communication at work which could lead to accidents.
The normal range of hearing for a healthy young person is from approximately 9: 6z #6ertz% to
9:::: 6z #9: k6z%. Our ears are more sensitive to the middle fre$uencies which range from
G:: 6z to ?::: 6z ' the speech fre$uencies.
How does noise da#a!e #y hearin!?
Dery loud sounds make the hair cells collapse and flatten temporarily resulting in temporary
deafness. This is referred to as a te#,orary threshold shift and may last hours or longer
depending on the degree of noise exposure. This temporary hearing loss may also be
accompanied by a ringing sensation called tinnit2s.
7f this severe noise exposure is repeated over many years the hair cells in the inner ear become
permanently damaged resulting in permanent hearing loss. This is referred to as ,er#anent
threshold shift.
7mmediate permanent hearing loss can also occur if someone is exposed to very intense or
explosive sounds #e.g. gunshot or an explosion%. This type of damage is known as aco2stic
tra2#a. 7n some cases a very intense sound can actually perforate the eardrum.
The harmful effects of noise are cumulative and not necessarily confined to the workplace. For
instance the use of personal stereo units and fre$uenting discos and clubs may result in young
people having some early damage to their hearing before they even .oin the workforce.
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How can noise affect yo2r life?
/oise'induced hearing loss is one of the most common occupational in.uries resulting in health
problems for many workers and it presents a significant social and economic cost to Australia.
The human cost is also high. This includes lost .obs increased absenteeism reduced
performance lost opportunities for promotion or other employment and impaired family and
social relationships. 7n addition if your hearing is damaged it could cause a workplace accident.
The first sign of noise'induced hearing loss is often the difficulty to hear high'pitched sounds
such as consonants #e.g. LtF LdF LsF% and the voices of women and children. +hen more than one
person is speaking or there is a background noise the problem becomes worse. /oise'induced
hearing loss occurs gradually over a long period of time and unfortunately hearing loss is
permanent. 6earing aids can offer limited help in decoding the distorted messages but they can
never fully compensate for hearing loss.
What are the hazards of noise?
4oor ventilation affects the physical and psychological health of 2C40 members. 4oor
ventilation allows for the accumulation and mixture of hazardous contaminants. The resulting
physical effects on workers are harmful. 4sychological effects like stress arise when members
know they are constantly exposed to ventilation hazards.
-a.or outcomes and hazards of poor ventilation include!
0levated levels of carbon dioxide and low levels of oxygen due to low ventilation rate.
"uild up of chemical and biological contaminants that cause poor indoor air $uality.
BegionnaireFs disease 4ontiac fever and 6umidifier fever caused by contaminated
standing water in poorly maintained 6DA2 systems.
0xtremes in temperature causing fatigue discomfort and distraction.
Bow humidity causing dry throat dry skin and static electricity build'up. 6igh humidity
contributing to bacterial and mould growth.
0xcessive and irritating workplace odours causing worker discomfort.
Accumulation of dust and dirt caused by poor 6DA2 maintenance.
&ick "uilding &yndrome #&"&%! irritation of eyes nose and throat headaches fatigue
and a susceptibility to colds and flu. &ymptoms are less severe away from the workplace.
-ultiple 2hemical &ensitivity #-2&%! A debilitating illness triggered by exposure to one
chemical or a combination of chemicals. -2& sufferers experience skin rashes irregular
breathing central nervous system problems and eye nose and throat irritations.
Er!ono#ics
0rgonomics is the science of fitting workplace conditions and .ob demands to the capabilities of
the working population. 0ffective and successful "fits" assure high productivity avoidance of
illness and in.ury risks and increased satisfaction among the workforce. Although the scope of
ergonomics is much broader the term here refers to assessing those work'related factors that
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may pose a risk of musculoskeletal disorders and recommendations to alleviate them. 2ommon
examples of ergonomic risk factors are found in .obs re$uiring repetitive forceful or prolonged
exertions of the hands3 fre$uent or heavy lifting pushing pulling or carrying of heavy ob.ects3
and prolonged awkward postures. Dibration and cold may add risk to these work conditions. Mobs
or working conditions presenting multiple risk factors will have a higher probability of causing a
musculoskeletal problem. The level of risk depends on the intensity fre$uency and duration of
the exposure to these conditions. 0nvironmental work conditions that affect risk include
intensity fre$uency and duration of activities.
CHEPTER-8
Hazardo2s &2bstances
6azardous &ubstances are used in many workplaces and take many different forms. &olids
li$uids gases mists and fumes can be present in the workplace.
0xposure to hazardous substances can affect the body in many different ways. &kin contact
inhalation and ingestion can cause damage.
7n legislation 6azardous &ubstances are defined in a number of ways. 7n The 2ontrol of
&ubstances 6azardous to 6ealth <egulations 9::9 #2O&66% for example they are those
substances classified as toxic very toxic corrosive harmful or irritant. "iological agents and
dusts in substantial concentrations are also classified as hazardous substances.
What risks do Hazardo2s &2bstances ,resent?
6azardous &ubstances can cause short' and long'term health problems.
They can cause serious ill health including cancers dermatitis and asthma.
A cleaner splashing bleach on their skin could cause a burn or inflammation which will have
little long'term effect in most cases. 6owever a splash in the eye could cause permanent damage
to their sight.
A .oiner suffering years of exposure to wood dust could have long'term health problems = the
dust could affect his lungs and cause health problems for the rest of his life.
There are legal obligations on employers to control exposure to 6azardous &ubstances to
preserve the health of their employees.
Who is at risk fro# Hazardo2s &2bstances?
Anyone who works with or is exposed to hazardous substances is at risk. Those exposed to more
hazardous substances for long periods of time are more at risk than those exposed for short
periods or to less hazardous substances.
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The aim should be to prevent exposure to hazardous substances. +here exposure cannot be
avoided then ade$uate controls should be put in place.
0xamples of those who could be exposed to hazardous substances include!
cleaners = common'cleaning materials can cause localised burns and skin complaints
hairdressers = a number of hairdressing products can damage their skin
welders = dangerous fumes from welding can damage their lungs
bakery workers = flour and bakery dust can cause irritation of eyes and nose skin
problems and asthma
garage workers = paints solvents oils and grease and exposure to exhaust fumes can all
damage their health
6ealthcare staff = exposure to biological agents can cause infection.
7n reality the list is endless and most workers will be exposed to hazardous substances at some
time.
Classification of hazardo2s s2bstances
To enable users to understand the health hazards of chemicals certain terms which are are used
fre$uently in chemical safety are defined here!
Chemical! chemical elements and compounds in and mixtures of them whether natural or
synthetic.
Poisoning! normally the human body is able to cope with a variety of substances within certain
limits. 4oisoning occurs when these limits are exceeded and the body is unable to deal with a
substance #by digestion absorption or excretion%.
Toicity! the inherent potential of a chemical substance to cause poisoning. The toxicity of
chemicals varies widely. For example a few drops of a given chemical will cause death while.
other chemicals will produce the same effect only after a large $uantity has been consumed.
"azard! a potential to cause danger to life health property or the environment.
Chemical hazard! any chemical that has been classified as hazardous or for which relevant
information exists to indicate that it is hazardous.
#isk! the measured probability of an event to cause danger to life health property or the
environment.
$irborne dust! refers to the suspension of solid particles in the air. These dust particles are
generated by handling grinding drilling and crushing operations where solid materials are
broken down. The size of these particles ranges from being visible to the naked eye #i.e. greater
than one twentieth of a millimeter in diameter% to being invisible. 7nvisible dust will remain
15
airborne for a long period of a time and is dangerous because of its ability to penetrate deeply
into the lungs.
%apour! the gaseous form of a li$uid at room temperature and pressure. Bi$uids emit vapours
the $uantity depending on their volatility. &ubstances with a low boiling'point are more volatile
than those with a higher one.
&ist! the dispersion of li$uid particles in the air. -ists are normally generated by processes such
as electroplating and spraying where li$uids are sprayed splashed or foamed into fine particles.
'umes! solid particles formed from condensation of substances from vapour state. Fumes are
normally associated with molten metals where the vapours from the metal are condensed into
solid particles in the space above the molten metal. The size of the particles are in the range
visible to the naked eye.
(as! a substance such as oxygen nitrogen or carbon dioxide which is in the gaseous state at
room temperature and pressure.
$cute effect! the effect caused by a single short term exposure #usually not more than one work
shift% to a high amount or concentration of a substance.
Chronic effect! the effect caused by repeated exposure to a chemical over a long period of time.
The effect may be felt only after many years of exposure. "oth acute and chronic effects can be
reversible after the termination of the exposure and appropriate treatment or they may result in
long lasting irreversible conditions.
Chemical safety data sheet! a document containing essential information ma ion for users
regarding the properties of chemicals classified as hazardous and methods of using them safely
including their identity supplier classification hazards safety precautions and emergency
procedures.
%-%-1- Ro2tes of entry
2hemicals can enter the body in three ways. 7n the workplace the inhalation of gases vapours or
airborne particles and absorption through the lungs is the most important route of entry.
6owever a number of chemicals particularly li$uids can be absorbed through intact skin when
coming into direct contact with it. The ingestion of poisons through the mouth is common where
personal hygiene is poor.
%-%- 1- 1- nhalation
7n industry inhalation is the most significant route of entry The respiratory system represents an
efficient entry point for chemicals. +ith a total surface area of the lungs of N: s$uare meters in a
healthy adult a worker performing a moderate task inhales about E.G cubic meters of air in the
course of an eight'hour shift.
The respiratory system consists essentially of the upper respiratory tract #nose mouth throat%
the air passageways #trachea bronchi bronchioles alveolar ducts% and the gas exchange area
16
#alveoli% where oxygen from the air diffuses into the blood and carbon dioxide from the blood
diffuses into the air.
The air passageways are lined with tiny hair like structures #cilia%. These structures are part of the
clearing mechanism of the lungs which causes foreign particles deposited on the surfaces of the
respiratory passages within the lungs to be carried by mucus towards the throat #figure >%. 7t is
estimated that 9 liters of mucus flow to the throat each day.
@uring breathing airborne chemicals enter the nostrils or mouth pass through the air
passageways and finally reach the gas exchange area where they are either deposited or pass
through the wall of the area into the bloodstream.
2ertain substances irritate the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract and respiratory
passages within the lungs. This irritation may serve as a warning of the presence of chemicals.
6owever certain gases or vapours do not have this effect. Cnnoticed by the workers they
penetrate deeply into the lungs causing lung in.ury or become transported in the bloodstream.
The entry of dust particles into the body depends on their size and solubility. Only small particles
#less than seven thousandths of a -888imetre in diameter% will be able to reach the gas exchange
area. This respirable dust #which reaches the gas exchange area% will either be deposited there or
diffused into the bloodstream depending on the solubility of the chemicals. 7nsoluble dust
particles are mostly eliminated by the clearing mechanisms of the lungs. The larger dust particles
are filtered by the hairs of the nostrils or deposited along the path from the nose to the air
passageways. They will eventually be transported to the throat where they will be either
swallowed or spat or coughed out.
%-%-1-%- n!estion
7ngestion is another way in which chemical substances can enter the body. 0ntry via ingestion is
possible when workers eat or smoke with contaminated hands or eat their meals at their
workstation where food and drink may be contaminated by vapours in the air.
A second way in which chemical substances are ingested is when inhaled particles are
transported to the throat by the air passageways into the lungs and swallowed.
The digestive system consists of the oesophagus the stomach and.the small and large intestine.
Absorption of food and other substances including ingested hazardous chemicals occurs
primarily in the small intestine.
%-%-1-8- &kin absor,tion
Absorption through the skin constitutes another route of entry. The thickness of the skin together
with its natural covering of sweat and grease provide some protection against chemical
exposure.
The solubility of chemicals #such as organic solvents and phenol% in fats enables their absorption
through the skin. 7f the skin is damaged by cuts or abrasions or is diseased the chemical would
be absorbed into the body even $uicker.
17
CHEPTER-9
Environ#ental #onitorin!
Environ#ental #onitorin! describes the processes and activities that need to take place to
characterize and monitor the $uality of the environment. 0nvironmental monitoring is used in the
preparation of environmental impact assessments as well as in many circumstances in which
human activities carry a risk of harmful effects on the natural environment. All monitoring
strategies and programmes have reasons and .ustifications which are often designed to establish
the current status of an environment or to establish trends in environmental parameters. 7n all
cases the results of monitoring will be reviewed analysed statistically and published. The design
of a monitoring programme must therefore have regard to the final use of the data before
monitoring starts.
Para#eters
Che#ical
Analyzing water samples for pesticides
The range of chemical parameters that have the potential to affect any ecosystem is very large
and in all monitoring programmes it is necessary to target a suite of parameters based on local
knowledge and past practice for an initial review. The list can be expanded or reduced based on
developing knowledge and the outcome of the initial surveys.
Freshwater environments have been extensively studied for many years and there is a robust
understanding of the interactions between chemistry and the environment across much of the
world. 6owever as new materials are developed and new pressures come to bear revisions to
monitoring programmes will be re$uired. 7n the last 9: years acid rain synthetic hormone
analogues halogenated hydrocarbons greenhouse gases and many others have re$uired changes
to monitoring strategies.
"iolo!ical
7n ecological monitoring the monitoring strategy and effort is directed at the plants and animals
in the environment under review and is specific to each individual study.
6owever in more generalised environmental monitoring many animals act as robust indicators
of the $uality of the environment that they are experiencing or have experienced in the recent
past. One of the most familiar examples is the monitoring of numbers of &almonid fish such as
"rown trout or &almon in river systems and lakes to detect slow trends in adverse environmental
effects. The steep decline in salmonid fish populations was one of the early indications of the
problem that later became known as acid rain.
18
7n recent years much more attention has been given to a more holistic approach in which the
ecosystem health is assessed and used as the monitoring tool itself. 7t is this approach that
underpins the monitoring protocols of the +ater Framework @irective in the 0uropean Cnion.
Radiolo!ical
<adiation monitoring involves the measurement of radiation dose or radionuclide contamination
for reasons related to the assessment or control of exposure to ionizing radiation or radioactive
substances and the interpretation of the results. The LmeasurementF of dose often means the
measurement of a dose e$uivalent $uantity as a proxy #i.e. substitute% for a dose $uantity that
cannot be measured directly. Also sampling may be involved as a preliminary step to
measurement of the content of radionuclides in environmental media. The methodological and
technical details of the design and operation of monitoring programmes and systems for different
radionuclides environmental media and types of facility are given in 7A0A &afety )uide <&=)'
8.E and in 7A0A &afety <eport /o. I?.
<adiation monitoring is often carried out using networks of fixed and deployable sensors such as
the C& 0nvironmental 4rotection Agency*s <adnet and the &400@7 network in Mapan. Airborne
surveys are also made by organizations like the /uclear 0mergency &upport Team.
+icrobiolo!ical
"acteria and viruses are the most commonly monitored groups of microbiological organisms and
even these are only of great relevance where water in the a$uatic environment is subse$uently
used as drinking water or where water contact recreation such as swimming or canoeing is
practised.
Although pathogens are the primary focus of attention the principal monitoring effort is almost
always directed at much more common indicator species such as )scherichia coli supplemented
by overall coliform bacteria counts. The rationale behind this monitoring strategy is that most
human pathogens originate from other humans via the sewage stream. -any sewage treatment
plants have no sterilisation final stage and therefore discharge an effluent which although having
a clean appearance still contains many millions of bacteria per litre the ma.ority of which are
relatively harmless coliform bacteria. 2ounting the number of harmless #or less harmful% sewage
bacteria allows a .udgement to be made about the probability of significant numbers of
pathogenic bacteria or viruses being present. +here ). coli or coliform levels exceed pre'set
trigger values more intensive monitoring including specific monitoring for pathogenic species is
then initiated.
Environ#ental +onitorin!
"To protect public health and the environment by measuring radiation and radioactivity in our
environment and by evaluation of protective techni$ues through the timely measurement of
radioactive contamination at nuclear facilities."
The 0nvironmental <adiation 4rogram performs the following functions! the program surveys
radiation and radioactivity in the environment estimates radiation doses to individuals and
19
populations and assesses the likely effects of specific radiation hazards. The program*s
technological capabilities supplement the administrative and regulatory controls of the <adiation
2ontrol @ivision.
This group serves as a valuable information resource for cost'effective radiation dose assessment
and dose reduction techni$ues. The 0nvironmental <adiation 4rogram makes available its
resources to managers of all facilities who might have an interest in this sub.ect area.
Environ#ental #onitorin! data #ana!e#ent syste#s
)iven the multiple types and increasing volumes and importance of monitoring data commercial
software 0'-@-& are increasingly in common use by regulated industries. They provide a
means of managing all monitoring data in a single central place. Ouality validation compliance
checking verifying all data has been received and sending alerts are generally automated.
Typical interrogation functionality enables comparison of data sets both temporarily and
spatially. They will also generate regulatory and other reports.
Formal 2ertification!
2urrently #&eptember 9:88% there is only one certification scheme specifically for environmental
data management software. This is provided by the 0nvironment Agency in the CK under its
-20<T& scheme.
&a#,lin! #ethods
There are a wide range of sampling methods which depend on the type of environment the
material being sampled and the subse$uent analysis of the sample.
At its simplest a sample can be filling a clean bottle with river water and submitting it for
conventional chemical analysis. At the more complex end sample data may be produced by
complex electronic sensing devices taking sub'samples over fixed or variable time periods.
6rab sa#,les
2ollecting a grab sample on a stream
)rab samples are samples taken of a homogeneous material usually water in a single vessel.
Filling a clean bottle with river water is a very common example. )rab samples provide a good
snap'shot view of the $uality of the sampled environment at the point of sampling and at the time
of sampling. +ithout additional monitoring the results cannot be extrapolated to other times or
to other parts of the river lake or ground'water.
7n order to enable grab samples or rivers to be treated as representative repeat transverse and
longitudinal transect surveys taken at different times of day and times of year are re$uired to
establish that the grab'sample location is as representative as is reasonably possible. For large
20
rivers such surveys should also have regard to the depth of the sample and how to best manage
the sampling locations at times of flood and drought.
7n lakes grab samples are relatively simple to take using depth samplers which can be lowered to
a pre'determined depth and then closed trapping a fixed volume of water from the re$uired
depth. 7n all but the shallowest lakes there are ma.or changes in the chemical composition of
lake water at different depths especially during the summer months when many lakes stratify
into a warm well oxygenated upper layer #epilimnion% and a cool de'oxygenated lower layer
*hypolimnion%.
7n the open seas marine environment grab samples can establish a wide range of base'line
parameters such as salinity and a range of cation and anion concentrations. 6owever where
changing conditions are an issue such as near river or sewage discharges close to the effects of
volcanism or close to areas of freshwater input from melting ice a grab sample can only give a
very partial answer when taken on its own.
&e#i-contin2o2s #onitorin! and contin2o2s
An automated sampling station and data logger #to record temperature specific conductance and
dissolved oxygen levels%
There is a wide range of specialized sampling e$uipment available that can be programmed to
take samples at fixed or variable time intervals or in response to an external trigger. For example
a sampler can be programmed to start taking samples of a river at E minute intervals when the
rainfall intensity rises above 8 mm 1 hour. The trigger in this case may be a remote rain gauge
communicating with the sampler by using cell phone or meteor burst technology. &amplers can
also take individual discrete samples at each sampling occasion or bulk up samples into
composite so that in the course of one day such a sampler might produce 89 composite samples
each composed of I sub'samples taken at 9: minute intervals.
2ontinuous or $uasi'continuous monitoring involves having an automated analytical facility
close to the environment being monitored so that results can if re$uired be viewed in real time.
&uch systems are often established to protect important water supplies such as in the <iver @ee
regulation system but may also be part of an overall monitoring strategy on large strategic rivers
where early warning of potential problems is essential. &uch systems routinely provide data on
parameters such as p6 dissolved oxygen conductivity turbidity and colour but it is also
possible to operate gas li$uid chromatography with mass spectrometry technologies #)B21-&%
to examine a wide range of potential organic pollutants. 7n all examples of automated bank'side
analysis there is a re$uirement for water to be pumped from the river into the monitoring station.
2hoosing a location for the pump inlet is e$ually as critical as deciding on the location for a river
grab sample. The design of the pump and pipework also re$uires careful design to avoid artefacts
being introduced through the action of pumping the water. @issolved oxygen concentration is
difficult to sustain through a pumped system and )B21-& facilities can detect micro'organic
contaminants from the pipework and glands.
21
Passive sa#,lin!
The use of passive samplers greatly reduces the cost and the need of infrastructure on the
sampling location. 4assive samplers are semi'disposable and can be produced at a relatively low
cost thus they can be employed in great numbers allowing for a better cover and more data
being collected. @ue to being small the passive sampler can also be hidden and thereby lower
the risk of vandalism. 0xamples of a passive sampling devices are the 2hemcatcher and an air
sampling pump.
Re#ote s2rveillance
Although on'site data collection using electronic measuring e$uipment is common'place many
monitoring programmes also use remote surveillance and remote access to data in real time. This
re$uires the on'site monitoring e$uipment to be connected to a base station via either a telemetry
networkland'line cell phone network or other telemetry system such as -eteor burst. The
advantage of remote surveillance is that many data feeds can come into a single base station for
storing and analysis. 7t also enable trigger levels or alert levels to be said for individual
monitoring sites and1or parameters so that immediate action can be initiated if a trigger level is
exceeded. The use of remote surveillance also allows for the installation of very discrete
monitoring e$uipment which can often be buried camouflaged or tethered at depth in a lake or
river with only a short whip aerial protruding. Cse of such e$uipment tends to reduce vandalism
and theft when monitoring in locations easily accessible by the public.
Re#ote sensin!
0nvironmental remote sensing uses aircraft or satellites to monitor the environment using multi'
channel sensors.
There are two kinds of remote sensing. 4assive sensors detect natural radiation that is emitted or
reflected by the ob.ect or surrounding area being observed. <eflected sunlight is the most
common source of radiation measured by passive sensors and in environmental remote sensing
the sensors used are tuned to specific wavelengths from far infra'red through visible light
fre$uencies through to far ultra violet. The volumes of data that can be collected are very large
and re$uire dedicated computational support . The output of data analysis from remote sensing
are false colour images which differentiate small differences in the radiation characteristics of the
environment being monitored. +ith a skilful operator choosing specific channels it is possible to
amplify differences which are imperceptible to the human eye. 7n particular it is possible to
discriminate subtle changes in chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b concentrations in plants and show
areas of an environment with slightly different nutrient regimes.
Active remote sensing emits energy and uses a passive sensor to detect and measure the radiation
that is reflected or backscattered from the target. B7@A< is often used to ac$uire information
about the topography of an area especially when the area is large and manual surveying would
be prohibitively expensive or difficult.
<emote sensing makes it possible to collect data on dangerous or inaccessible areas. <emote
sensing applications include monitoring deforestation in areas such as the Amazon "asin the
22
effects of climate change on glaciers and Arctic and Antarctic regions and depth sounding of
coastal and ocean depths.
Orbital platforms collect and transmit data from different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum
which in con.unction with larger scale aerial or ground'based sensing and analysis provides
information to monitor trends such as 0l /iPo and other natural long and short term phenomena.
Other uses include different areas of the earth sciences such as natural resource management
land use planning and conservation.
"io-#onitorin!
The use of living organisms as monitoring tools has many advantages. Organisms living in the
environment under study are constantly exposed to the physical biological and chemical
influences of that environment. Organisms that have a tendency to accumulate chemical species
can often accumulate significant $uantities of material from very low concentrations in the
environment. -osses have been used by many investigators to monitor heavy metal
concentrations because of their tendency to selectively adsorb heavy metals.
&imilarly eels have been used to study halogenated organic chemicals as these are adsorbed into
the fatty deposits within the ee
CHEPTER-:
+5TER54 H5/.4/6 E;(P+E/T
+aterial handlin! e12i,#ent are e$uipment that relate to the movement storage control and
protection of materials goods and products throughout the process of manufacturing
distribution consumption and disposal. -aterial handling e$uipment is the mechanical
e$uipment involved in the complete system.

-aterial handling e$uipment is generally separated
into four main categories! storage and handling e$uipment engineered systems industrial trucks
and bulk material handling.
+echanical Handlin!
7t is the use of machines tools and e$uipment for moving and positioning materials in a work
place. "ecause of its hazardous nature mechanical handling activities can and do result in serious
harm to personal damage the plant e$uipmentFs or the environment or business loss.
Res,onsibilities in +echanical Handlin!
0veryone involved in mechanical handling operations has spesipic responsibilities these are
defined in the following paragraphs.
1 Res,onsible ,erson<- the responsible person who has overall responsibility for work
activities the person may be the shift supervisor pro.ect manager etc the responsible person
recognize the need for mechanical handling and appoints a competent person to plan it.
23
% Co#,etent ,erson<- the competent person is someone who has the re$uired level of
competency to plan and supervise mechanical handling operations.
8 Co#,etent tea#<- each team member has the responsibility to know and work within
their own competency to complete the .ob.
+echanical Handlin! E12i,#ent
-aterial handling e$uipment #-60% is used for the movement and storage of material within a
facility or at a site. -60 can be classified into the following five ma.or categories!
7. Transport )+uipment . 0$uipment used to move material from one location to another
#e.g. between workplaces between a loading dock and a storage area etc.%. The ma.or
subcategories of transport e$uipment are conveyors cranes and industrial trucks.
-aterial can also be transported manually using no e$uipment.
77. Positioning )+uipment . 0$uipment used to handle material at a single location so that it
is in the correct position for subse$uent handling machining transport or storage. Cnlike
transport e$uipment positioning e$uipment is usually used for handling at a single
workplace. -aterial can also be positioned manually using no e$uipment.
777. ,nit -oad 'ormation )+uipment . 0$uipment used to restrict materials so that they
maintain their integrity when handled a single load during transport and for storage. 7f
materials are self'restraining #e.g. a single part or interlocking parts% then they can be
formed into a unit load with no e$uipment.
7D. .torage )+uipment . 0$uipment used for holding or buffering materials over a period of
time. &ome storage e$uipment may include the transport of materials #e.g. the &1<
machines of an A&1<& or storage carousels%. 7f materials are block stacked directly on
the floor then no storage e$uipment is re$uired.
D. /dentification and Control )+uipment . 0$uipment used to collect and communicate the
information that is used to coordinate the flow of materials within a facility and between
a facility and its suppliers and customers. The identification of materials and associated
control can be performed manually with no specialized e$uipment.
+an2al +aterials Handlin!
ntrod2ction
-anual material handling operations are carried out in most industrial plants. 0ach handling task
poses uni$ue demands on the worker. 6owever workplaces can help workers to perform these
tasks safely and easily by implementing and upholding proper policies and procedures.
Hazards
To assess the hazards of manual material handling operations consider the load the task the
environment in which the task is performed and the operator. +hen these factors interact with
each other they can create hazards that result in in.uries.
24
A load may be hazardous because of! weight size shape #making it awkward to handle%
coupling #type of grip on the load% slippery or damaged surfaces absent or inappropriate
handles and imbalance #i.e. changing 2entre of gravity%
The task or method of handling may be hazardous when it involves!
lifting or lowering #repetitively $uickly for extended periods of time while seated or kneeling
immediately after prolonged flexion shortly after a period of rest% an inability to get close to the
load moving the load over large distances accuracy and precision re$uired because of #fragile
loads or specific unloading locations% materials positioned too low or too high hazardous
movements or postures #e.g. twisting extended bending and reaching% multiple handling
re$uirements #e.g. lifting carrying unloading%
0nvironmental factors include!
temperature #beyond a 8N=9IQ2 range% relative humidity #beyond a >G=G:R range% lighting
noise time constraints #e.g. machine=paced work or deadline pressures% physical conditions
such as obstacles and floor surfaces #e.g. slippery uneven or damaged%
Operator characteristics that affect the handling of loads include!
general health physical factors #height reach flexibility strength weight aerobic capacity% pre'
existing musculoskeletal problems psychological factors #motivation stress%
Control +eas2res
The best control measure is to eliminate the need for workers to perform manual handling tasks.
&ince this is not always possible design manual handling tasks so that they are within the
workersF capabilities. 2onsiderations include the load itself the design of the workstation and
work practices. 4roviding mechanical handling devices or aids can often eliminate the task itself
or ease the demands on the worker.
Task .esi!n
The 4oad
<educe the weight of the load by decreasing the!
size of the ob.ect #specify size to suppliers% weight of the container #e.g. plastic is lighter than
steel% capacity of containers load in the container.
2onversely consider increasing the weight of the load so that it may only be handled
mechanically. This can be done by the use of!
palletized loads and larger bins or containers.
@ecrease the load on the worker by!
limiting the number of ob.ects he1she is re$uired to handle during the day designating heavier
loads as team lifts #i.e. two or more persons% changing the size and shape of the load so that the
worker can get closer to the loadFs centre of gravity
Work &tation .esi!n
<educe the distance over which the load has to be moved by relocating production and storage
areas. @esign work stations so that workers!
S can store and handle all material between knuckle and shoulder height3 waist height is most
desirable
S can begin and end handling material at the same height
S can face the load and handle materials as close to the body as possible
S do not have to handle loads using awkward postures or an extended reach and
S do not handle loads in confined spaces that prevent them from using good body mechanics
25
Facilitate access to material by!
S 4roviding workbenches and other work stations with toe cut'outs so that workers can get
closer to the load
S supplying bins and totes with removable sides
S removing obstructions such as unnecessary railings on bins
Work Practices 4iftin! and 4owerin!
0liminate the need to lift or lower manually by providing and ensuring proper use of!
S lift trucks cranes hoists scissor lifts drum and barrel dumpers stackers work dispensers
elevating conveyors articulating arms and other mechanical devices
S gravity dumps and chutes
S power lift tail gates on trucks and hand trucks to ensure easy transfer of material from the
truck to ground level
S portable ramps or conveyors to lift and lower loads on to work stations
P2shin! and P2llin!
0liminate pushing or pulling by ensuring the use of!
S powered conveyors powered trucks slides chutes monorails air tables and similar
mechanical aids -ake loads easier to push or pull by ensuring the use of!
S carts hand trucks and dollies with large diameter casters and good bearings and
S grips or handles on loads or mechanical aids placed to provide optimal push force and prevent
awkward postures 7nstruct employees to!
S push rather than pull
S avoid overloading = limit the load pushed or pulled at one time
S ensure the load does not block vision
S never push one load and pull another at the same time
Carryin! and Holdin!
<educe carrying and holding forces by!
S evaluating the work flow = determine if heavy loads can be moved mechanically over any
distance
S converting the operation into a pushing or pulling task
S providing carts slings or trolleys
S providing portable containers in which to place awkward loads
S providing grips or handles on loads
S limiting the distance over which the load is moved
Environ#ental )actors
-aintain an optimum environment by ensuring that!
S the temperature of the work area is at an acceptable level
S in a hot environment
== workers take fre$uent breaks away from the heat
== workers drink fre$uently from li$uids provided near the work site
S in a cold environment
== workers wear good insulating clothing
== loads are easy to handle when gloves and heavy clothing are worn
S humidity is at an acceptable level
S lifting instructions can be heard in a noisy environment
26
S lighting levels are ade$uate for the work place
S the layout of the work area provides better access to the load
S the aisles are clear of obstacles
S signs are posted where there are gradients in the slope of the floor3 whenever possible limit
such slopes to 8: degrees
&tora!e
4rovide proper storage facilities such as!
S storage boxes and containers that can be
S lifted mechanically rather than re$uiring manual handling
S avoid deep shelving that make retrieving or placing a load difficult
S racks or shelf trucks to store material thus eliminating the need for lifting the containers
S storage bins and containers with fold down sides for easier access to loads +hen storing loads
employees should!
S store loads in easy to access locations
S store loads between knuckle and shoulder height
Personal )actors
Clothin!
+ear appropriate clothing and safe comfortable shoes!
S clothes that are comfortable around the hips knees and shoulders and that do not have
exposed buttons or loose flaps and
S non'slip shoes with broad based low heels. &afety footwear is essential when handling heavy
loads on a regular basis
)itness
0ncourage workers to remain in good physical condition by participating in regular exercise
programs. To stay healthy 6ealth 2anadaFs 4hysical Activity )uide recommends I: minutes of
light effort or >: minutes of vigorous effort every day.
7ncorporating exercise is easier than you think. For example!
S use the stairs not the elevator
S walk instead of driving
S stretch or exercise between TD shows The following tips can also enhance fitness!
S use good body mechanics when sitting standing lifting etc. For example when lifting!
== maintain a curve in the lower back
== stabilize the back by lightly contracting the stomach muscles
S take regular task breaks to avoid or reduce muscle fatigue
S get ade$uate sleep on a good mattress
S eat sensibly3 follow the 2anada Food )uide
6eneral Preca2tions
7nstruct employees to take the following precautions when handling loads!
S test the weight of the load to ensure it can be lifted securely3 if not make ad.ustments
S grip the load securely
S protect hands against pinch points
S practice good team lifting
S get help with awkward loads
27
S always use the mechanical devices and aids provided
S donFt rush or cut corners
+aintenance
0stablish a preventive maintenance program with input from e$uipment manufacturers to
ensure that the following is completed on a regular basis!
S cleaning of wheels and bearings on hand carts and other mechanical aids
S lubricating as necessary
S replacing worn and defective wheels and casters
S checking that all mechanical aids work efficiently
Trainin!
Traditional training has focused on proper lifting methods and safe work procedures. -ore
recently workplaces have introduced fitness and back education approaches. 7n combination
with .ob and workplace design changes these approaches are effective in preventing accidents
and in.uries. On the .ob demonstrations and practice sessions are the best methods of training.
2over basic manual materials handling procedures and the proper use of mechanical aids and
techni$ues. <egularly reinforce the proper techni$ues to ensure their continued use. The
ob.ectives of material handling training are to teach the worker!
8. how to identify hazardous loads or handling tasks
9. the proper selection and use of mechanical handling aids
>. safe postures and manual lifting techni$ues to minimize strain
?. safe lifting techni$ues
Trans,ort &afety
A number of workplace transport accident causation factors have been identified and are
described in terms of safe site safe vehicle and safe driver.
Pedestrian and vehicle se,aration< where possible pedestrians should be segregated from
vehicle traffic through the provision of protective barriers and clearly marked separate gangways.
<outes used by vehicles such as forklifts inside buildings should be indicated by lines drawn on
the floor to inform pedestrians as should walkways designated for pedestrian use only.
3ehicle ro2tes< route planning should take into consideration the path and ultimate destination
of the pedestrian flow #e.g. location of time clock canteen toilets etc% and vehicle traffic should
be minimised at times of peak pedestrian activity e.g. meal breaks shift hand'over etc.
Reversin! = Traffic +ana!e#ent< the need for reversing can be minimized through the use of
one'way traffic systems that incorporate drive'through loading and unloading positions. One'
way systems can also keep traffic away from vulnerable plant and e$uipment. &peed limits and
speed humps are also an effective means of controlling site traffic although thought should be
given to forklift trucks and load stability.
&i!na!e< signs should be clear and unambiguous for both drivers and pedestrians For example
drivers need to know in advance about hazards such as sharp bends .unctions crossings blind
corners steep gradients and limited headroom.
4i!htin!! ade$uate lighting is important to assist drivers detect hazards such as pedestrians
machines and other vehicles
4oadin! "ay! the Boading "ay a Lhigh riskF area due to the limited directions space available for
forklifts and other powered industrial vehicles.
28
6ro2nd Conditions ! attention should be paid to the slope $uality and frictional characteristics
of the floor upon which forklifts and other vehicles travel. )angways should be clearly demarked
with non'skid paint and oil grease and fluid Lspill kitsF should be easily accessible so that any
leakage is $uickly cleaned up.
3ehicle selection! the degree of fit between the driver and the vehicle was identified as being
important. The following issues in particular warrant careful consideration when selecting a
vehicle!
Control co#,atibility< the vehicle controls of powered industrial vehicles can vary and the
potential for human error #slips% will increase if operators are re$uired to drive more than one
type of vehicle #with different controls% in the same workplace #especially during the same shift%3
.river access>e!ress the design and layout of some vehicles make it difficult for operators to
enter and exit the cabin safely. Dehicles that include well'designed steps and conveniently
located hand grips can reduce the need for drivers to .ump from their cabs3
.river ,rotection< the use of <oll'Over'4rotective'&tructures #<O4&% is not fully effective
unless the driver is wearing an appropriate seat belt or other restraint. Arrangements should be in
place to monitor compliance with this re$uirement. +orkers are more likely to use protective
e$uipment such as a seat restraint if they have had some degree of involvement in the selection
of the safety e$uipment.
.river co#fort< driver comfort can be enhanced by the inclusion of vibration damping
e$uipment noise reduction measures ad.ustable seating good ventilation and weather
protection.
+aintenance< good vehicle maintenance management is key to the prevention of workplace
transport accidents. A competent mechanic should inspect the mechanical condition of each
workplace vehicle at specified intervals.
.river trainin!< Training should reflect the actual conditions that the operator will meet at work
and provide the driver with information and knowledge needed for safe operation of the vehicle.
Pedestrian Trainin!< pedestrians represent a high'risk group in the workplace therefore
training programmes should be developed that aim to familiarize pedestrians with the uni$ue
operating characteristics of powered industrial vehicles. 0mphasis should be given to the main
operating differences that exist between a car and a powered industrial vehicle e.g.
manoeuvrability visibility and load stability.
&afe ',eratin! Proced2res< 2ompliance will be enhanced by ensuring that procedures are
practical easy to follow and fully understood by staff.
Workload< workload should be controlled to prevent drivers and other employees from having
to rush to complete their work on time. +ork design and driver incentive schemes re$uire careful
management so that they donFt inadvertently encourage unsafe driving behaviour.
&2,ervision and #onitorin!< close supervision of newly $ualified drivers is identified as being
very important as to is the monitoring of experienced drivers to ensure that they continue to
operate vehicles in a safe fashion. &upervisors need support and training in line'management
skills so that they can encourage and support high standards of driving behaviour and good
teamwork.
Ti#e-on-shift effects< working long hours will impact negatively on driver safety performance.
Key to managing time'on'shift effects is the provision of ade$uate rest breaks and a good
working environment. At present there isnFt any regulation that limits the number of hours a
driver of a forklift truck or other powered industrial vehicle can work.
29
Electrical &afety
0lectricity is a primary form of energy. 7t can shock burn damage nerves and internal organs
and can kill people. The effect of electricity on the body depends on the magnitude and duration
of exposure to the current the path of the current through the body and the impedance
#resistance% of the body.
+hen electricity flows through a conductive material such as electrical wire heat is produced.
+ith proper design and compliance with codes and wiring systems devices will have resistance
low enough that current'carrying parts and connections should not overheat. 6owever if there is
a poor circuit connection an overload of current or a fault in the circuit electricity can escape
from the circuit and cause cable heating distortion and fires.
For these reasons all electrical e$uipment and installations used within a @002@ workplace
must meet the highest standards of safety. The regular scheduled testing of all electrical
e$uipment and installations and the tagging out of any e$uipment found to be deficient will
ensure ongoing safety.
There are different test scheduling re$uirements for different types of e$uipment!
&witch boards with <esidual 2urrent @evice #<2@% installations must be tested every I
months3
6and held power tools soldering irons vacuum cleaners welding machines which are
regularly plugged in and unplugged re$uire testing every time3 and
Other appliances such as fridges computers and stoves which are rarely if ever
unplugged re$uire testing every time.
0lectrical e$uipment
The use o ele!t"i!al e#ui$%e&t !a& !"eate se"ious health a&d saety "isks i&
the hai"d"essi&g' &ail a&d (eauty i&dust"y' $a"ti!ula"ly i& )et !o&ditio&s*
+a%age to e#ui$%e&t i&!"eases this "isk* ,le!t"i!al sho!k !a& "esult i&
ele!t"o!utio&' (u"&s a&d i&ju"ies "o% alls*
0xtension leads and flexible cables must be protected from damage including from li$uid.
0lectrical e$uipment must be either!
inspected tested and tagged or
connected to a residual current device #<2@%.
7f the e$uipment is safe to use the tag must show the date by which the e$uipment must be
inspected and tested again3
7f the e$uipment is not safe to use the tag must warn people not to use the e$uipment.
The e$uipment must also be immediately withdrawn from use.
30
7f the e$uipment is to be connected to an <2@ #known as a safety switch% the device may be
either portable or installed at the switchboard.
An <2@ must be tested immediately after connection and at least every > months.
A competent person must also test the device at least every 9 years.
7f a portable <2@ is not working properly it must be tagged to warn people not to use the
device and immediately withdrawn from use.
Cse splash proof or waterproof electrical e$uipment instead of standard e$uipment if
work must be carried out in wet conditions.
Cse power boards instead of double adaptors.
7nstall additional socket outlets to avoid overloading power outlets.
5d#inistrative controls
-ake sure workers are trained in the use of e$uipment and that manufacturerTs
instructions are followed.
&tore and operate e$uipment away from damp areas when not in use.
-ake sure leads do not run across wet surfaces or any place where they may be easily
damaged.
<un leads along the edges of corridors to minimise the possibility of trips and falls.
Keep leads away from heat oil and chemicals to prevent insulation damage.
2lean up li$uid spills as soon as possible.
2onduct regular #monthly intervals or more fre$uently if necessary% visual inspections of
e$uipment to check that the e$uipment #including accessories connecting lead and plug%
has no obvious external damage or inade$uate temporary repairs.
-ake a list containing the description make and serial number of all e$uipment and the
date when tested to assist you in ensuring all electrical items are tested.
+hen ad.usting or cleaning e$uipment &+7T26 OFF the power and pull out the plug
T /OT by the cord.
@o not touch e$uipment with wet hands or use a wet cloth to clean sockets.
-ake sure flexible cords are fully unwound and kept clear of work traffic.
@o not run too many pieces of e$uipment from one socket.
5ccess E12i,#ent
31
+obile elevatin! work ,latfor#s ?+EWPs@
-obile elevating work platforms #-0+4s% can provide a safe way of working at height. They!
allow the worker to reach the task $uickly and easily
have guard rails and toe boards which prevent a person falling
can be used in'doors or out
-0+4s include cherry pickers scissor lifts and vehicle'mounted booms. These pages help you
to!
choose the right -0+4 for the .ob
identify and manage the risks involved with working from -0+4s
Thin!s to consider
7f you are thinking of using a -0+4 look at the following $uestions.
6ow high is the .ob from the ground,
@o you have the appropriate -0+4 for the .ob, #7f you are not sure check with the hirer or
manufacturer.%
+hat are the ground conditions like ' is there a risk of the -0+4 becoming unstable or
overturning,
Are the people using the -0+4 trained competent and fit to do so,
7s there passing traffic and if so what do you need to do to prevent collisions,
@o you need to use either work restraint #to prevent people climbing out of the -0+4% or a fall
arrest system #which will stop a person hitting the ground if they fall out%, Allowing people to
climb out of the basket is not normally recommended ' do you need to do this as part of the .ob,
Checks
6as the -0+4 been examined inspected and maintained as re$uired by the manufacturer*s
instructions and daily checks carried out,
&te,ladders
"efore 2se
"efore you use a stepladder first ask yourself! am 7 fit to work at height, Then think about the
condition and the ,osition of the ladder.
32
A stepladder in good condition has!
Feet firmly attached
2lean treads
&ecure locking devices
&ecure fastenings when it is extended
A stepladder in a good ,osition<
7s fully open
7s locked into place
+ill not move at the bottom.
&tands on a surface that is! #firm level clear dry not slippery%
n 2se
Only work on a stepladder for a maximum of 8G ' >: minutes at a time
Only carry light materials and tools #up to 8: kg%
@o not overreach ' make sure your belt buckle #navel% stays within the stiles
Keep both feet on the same rung or step throughout the task
-ake sure you have a safe handhold available on the steps
Avoid side'on working
4eanin! ladders
"efore 2se
First ask yourself! am 7 fit to work at height, Then think about the condition and the ,osition of
the ladder.
A leaning ladder in good condition has!
"oth feet firmly attached and with a good tread
2lean rungs
Cndamaged stiles #the side pieces that the rungs are attached to%
&ecure fastenings when it is extended
A leaning ladder in a good ,osition<
7s at an angle of HGQ ' one unit out for every four units up
33
+ill not move at the bottom
&tands on a surface that is! firm level clear @rynot slippery
+ill not move at the top
<ests on a strong upper resting point #not plastic guttering or a window%
6as horizontal rungs #use a spirit level%
n 2se
Only work on a ladder for a maximum of 8G ' >: minutes at a time
Only carry light materials and tools #up to 8: kg%
Always grip the ladder when climbing
@o not overreach ' make sure your belt buckle #navel% stays within the stiles
Keep both feet on the same rung or step throughout the task
@o not work off the top three rungs ' this provides a handhold
CHEPTER-A
)RE &5)ETB
)ire safety refers to precautions that are taken to prevent or reduce the likelihood of a fire that
may result in death in.ury or property damage alert those in a structure to the presence of an
uncontrolled fire in the event one occurs better enable those threatened by a fire to survive or to
reduce the damage caused by a fire. Fire safety measures include those that are planned during
the construction of a building or implemented in structures that are already standing and those
that are taught to occupants of the building.
Threats to fire safety are referred to as fire hazards. A fire hazard may include a situation that
increases the likelihood a fire may start or may delay escape in the event a fire occurs.
Fire safety is often a component of building safety. Those who inspect buildings for violations of
the Fire 2ode and go into schools to educate children on Fire &afety topics are fire department
members known as fire prevention officers. The 2hief Fire 4revention Officer or 2hief of Fire
4revention will normally train newcomers to the Fire 4revention @ivision and may also conduct
inspections or make presentations.
)RE H5C5R.& C45&&)C5T'/
Electrical hazards
@amaged wiring @amaged plugs @amp or wet wires Overloaded motors "roken switches
outlets or sockets 4roblems with lighting fixtures Faulty heating elements Overloaded circuits
Bi$uids near computers 2omputers without surge protectors
34
)riction hazards
6ot bearings -isaligned or broken machine parts 2hoking #sharp% or .amming materials 4oor
ad.ustment of moving parts 7nade$uate lubrication
Process or o,eration-related hazards
2utting and welding operations3 which use open flames and produce sparks -olten metal
which can ignite combustibles or fall into cracks and start a fire that might not erupt until after
the work is done 4rocesses that heat materials to high temperatures @rying operations where
materials in dryers can overheat )rinding operations that produce sparks and dust 4rocesses in
which flammable vapors are released
&tora!e hazards
-aterials loaded too high blocking sprinkler heads #need 8E'inches clearance from head%
Flammable or combustible materials stored too close to heat sources
Flammable materials not stored in special containers and cabinets 7nade$uate ventilation in
storage areas -aterials that might react with one another stored together -aterials stored in
damaged containers -aterials stored in unlabeled containers 2ontainers not tightly sealed
&#okin! hazards
7gnoring "/o &moking" signs &moking around flammable or combustible materials Throwing
matches and cigarettes or cigars on tables or workbenches Tossing butts on the floor or grass
without properly extinguishing them in an ashtray or ash can Tossing lighted butts or matches
out windows or doors &moking in bed Beaving a cigarette1cigar unattended &moking in areas
where there is an accumulation of sawdust plastic or metal powders that may become explosive
1% Ways to Prevent a Work,lace )ire
4reventing fires is everyoneFs .ob. +e all need to be alert to anything that could cause a fire and
take responsibility to report any problem areas so they can be corrected. 6ere are some
reminders about fire prevention!
8. 4ractice good workplace housekeeping. 2lutter contributes to fires by providing fuel and by
preventing access to exits and emergency e$uipment.
9. 4lace oily rags in a covered metal container. This waste must be properly disposed of on a
regular basis.
>. -aintain machinery to prevent overheating and friction sparks.
?. <eport electrical hazards. -any fires start in faulty wiring and malfunctioning electrical
e$uipment. /ever attempt electrical repairs unless you are $ualified and authorized.
G. -aintain free access to all electrical control panels. -aterial or e$uipment stored in front of
the panels would slow down the shutting down of power in an emergency situation.
35
I. Cse and store chemicals safely. <ead the label and the -aterial &afety @ata &heet to determine
flammability and other fire hazards. 4rovide ade$uate ventilation when using and storing these
substances.
H. Cse all precautions to prevent ignition in potentially explosive atmospheres such as those
containing flammable li$uid vapors or fine particles. Cse non'sparking tools and control static
electricity as re$uired.
E. 6elp maintain building security to prevent arson fires. Bock up as instructed3 report suspicious
persons3 and donFt leave combustible rubbish where it can be set afire outside the building.
N. &moke only in designated areas and extinguish smoking materials safely. /ever smoke in
storerooms or chemical storage areas.
8:. /ever block sprinklers firefighting e$uipment or emergency exits. Observe clearances when
stacking materials.
88. 4ost emergency telephone numbers as well as the company address by the telephone in your
station for $uick access if a fire were to start in your work area.
89. Bearn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.
)ire &afety - 5ssessin! the #eans of esca,e
The range of workplaces covered by these regulations is huge and so the following information
is intended as a guide to get you started on an assessment. (ou are advice to get help expert from
one of experienced safety consultants conducting a fire risk assessment at your premises please
call on emergency number.
4lease note that in some cases it may be necessary to provide additional means of escape or to
improve the fire protection of existing escape routes. At this point you should consult the fire
authority and where necessary your local building control officer before carrying out any
alterations. The distances given below should ensure that people are able to escape within the
appropriate period of time. (ou can of course use actual calculated escape times but should do so
only after consulting a fire safety consultant with appropriate training and expertise in this field.
6eneral ,rinci,les for esca,e ro2tes
Other than in small workplaces or from some rooms of low or normal fire risk there should
normally be alternative means of escape from all parts of the workplace. <outes which provide
means of escape in one direction only #dead'end% should be avoided wherever possible as this
could mean that people have to move towards a fire in order to make their escape. 0scape routes
should be independent of one another and arranged so that people can move away from a fire in
order to make their escape and should always lead to a place of safety. <emember that they
should also be wide enough for the number of occupants and should not normally reduce in
width and be kept clear of obstruction at all times.
36
Evac2ation ti#es and len!th of esca,e ro2tes
The aim is from the time the fire alarm is raised for everyone to be able to reach a place of
relative safety i.e. a section exit #see *Technical terms relating to means of escape*% within the
time available for escape. The time for people to reach a place of relative safety should include
the time it takes them to react to a fire warning.
This will de,end on a n2#ber of factors incl2din!<
what they are likely to be doing when the alarm is raised e.g. sleeping having a meal etc3
what they may have had to do before starting to escape e.g. turn off machinery help
other people etc3 and
their knowledge of the building and the training they have received about the routine to
be followed in the event of fire.
+here necessary you can check these by carrying out a practice drill.
To ensure that the time available for escape is reasonable the length of the escape route from any
occupied part of the workplace to the section exit should not exceed!
O&6A strongly recommends that all employers have an emergency action plan. 7f the public
entity has 8: or fewer employees the plan may be communicated orally. Other employees must
have a written plan kept in the workplace and available for employees to review.
O&6A standards that re$uire emergency action plans are!
4rocess &afety -anagement of 6ighly 6azardous 2hemicals = 8N8:.88N
Fixed 0xtinguishing &ystems )eneral = 8N8:.8I:
Fire @etection &ystems = 8N8:.8I?
)rain 6andling = 8N8:.9H9
0thylene Oxide = 8N8:.8:?H
-ethylenedianiline = 8N8:.8:G:
8>'"utadiene = 8N8:.8:G8
.escri,tion
The plan describes the actions employees should take to ensure their safety if a fire or other
emergency situation occurs. To be effective employees must understand their roles and
responsibilities when an emergency occurs. The public entity should run emergency
preparedness drills to give employees the experience of putting their knowledge to work before
an actual emergency occurs. Once a $uarter is not too fre$uent to test the plan. -any entities
participate in citywide or countywide emergency preparedness drills that involve hospitals fire
police etc.
37
Process
A comprehensive plan comprises issues specific to the entityFs worksite. 7t describes how
employees will respond to different types of emergencies considering the specific worksite
layout structural features and emergency systems. &ince the participation of all employees is
critical to the planFs success in an emergency it is wise to ask for their help in constructing the
plan.
Contents
0mergency reporting procedures
Alarm system description
0vacuation policy
0xit maps or diagrams
4rocedures for sheltering in place
4rocedures for people who remain in place
4rocedures for accounting for all personnel
<escue and medical tasks
0mergency communications plan
0mergency plan training
Cha,ter-A
Che#ical &afety
6eneral obli!ations0 res,onsibilities and d2ties
<ole and obligations of the competent authority
8.The competent authority should formulate and state a coherent policy on safety in the use of
chemicals at work taking into account national conditions and practice and in consultation with
the most representative organisations of employers and workers concerned.
9. The competent authority should review existing national measures and practice in
consultation with the most representative organisations of employers and workers concerned.
>. 7n the light of the stated policy and the review the competent authority should formulate and
implement the necessary measures including laws standards and criteria for safety in the use of
chemicals at work in consultation with the most representative organisations of employers and
workers concerned
38
?. The competent authority should periodically review the stated policy and the existing
measures to implement that policy in consultation with the most representative organisations of
employers and workers concerned and implement any necessary changes.
G. The competent authority should ensure that compliance with laws and regulations concerning
safety in the use of chemicals at work is secured by an ade$uate and appropriate system of
inspection.
I. The competent authority should have the power if .ustified on safety and health grounds to
either!
a% prohibit or restrict the use of certain hazardous chemicals3 or
b% re$uire advance notification and authorisation before such chemicals are used.
H. The competent authority should have powers to specify categories of workers who for reasons
of safety and health are not allowed to use specified chemicals or are allowed to use them but
only under conditions prescribed in accordance with national laws or regulations.
E. The competent authority or a body approved or recognised by the competent authority should
establish!
a% systems and specific criteria appropriate for classifying chemicals.
b% systems and specific criteria for assessing the relevance of the information re$uired.
c% re$uirements for marking and labelling chemicals taking into account the need to harmonise
such systems internationally.
N. The competent authority should ensure that criteria are established on measures which provide
for safety of workers in particular!
a% in the production and handling of hazardous chemicals3
b% in the storage of hazardous chemicals3
c% in the transport of hazardous chemicals.
d% in the disposal and treatment of hazardous chemicals and hazardous waste products.
)eneral responsibilities of employers
8. 0mployers should set out in writing their policy and arrangements on safety in the use of
chemicals as part of their general policy and arrangements in the field of occupational safety and
health and the various responsibilities exercised under these arrangements.
9. 0mployers should ensure that all chemicals used at work are labelled or marked in accordance
with the provisions of the code and that chemical safety data sheets have been provided in
respect of all hazardous chemicals used at work.
>. 0mployers receiving chemicals which have not been!
a% labelled or marked3 or
b% provided with chemical safety data sheets3 in accordance with the provisions of this code
should not use the chemicals until the relevant information has been obtained.
?. 0mployers should maintain a record of hazardous chemicals used at the workplace.
G. 0mployers should make an assessment of the risks arising from the use of chemicals at work.
I. 0mployers should take appropriate measures to protect workers against the risks identified by
the assessment of risks. +here the risks cannot be eliminated or ade$uately controlled
employers should provide and maintain personal protective e$uipment.
H. 0mployers should fulfill with appropriate standards codes and guidelines formulated
approved or recognised by the competent authority concerning safety in the use of chemicals.
E. 0mployers should ensure ade$uate and competent supervision of work and work practices.
N. 0mployers should make ade$uate arrangements to deal with incidents and accidents.
8:. 0mployers should provide their workers with necessary appropriate and periodic instructions
and training.
39
)eneral duties of workers
8. +orkers should take all reasonable steps to eliminate or minimise risk to themselves and to
others from the use of chemicals at work.
9. +orkers should take care of their own health and safety and that of other persons who may be
affected by their acts or omissions at work as far as possible and in accordance with their
training and with instructions given by their employer.
>. +orkers should make proper use of all devices provided for their protection or the protection
of others.
?. +orkers should report forthwith to their supervisor any situation which they believe could
present a risk and which they cannot properly deal with themselves.
)eneral responsibilities of suppliers
8. &uppliers of chemicals whether manufacturers importers or distributors should ensure that!
a% such chemicals have been classified or their properties assessed3
b% such chemicals are marked3
c% hazardous chemicals are labelled3
d% chemical safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals are prepared and provided to employers3
in accordance with the guidelines.
9. &uppliers should ensure that all chemicals are marked to indicate their identity. The marking
should be easily understood at both the place of origin and the destination.
>. &uppliers should identify and assess the properties of all chemicals.
?. &uppliers should ensure that all chemicals they supply are classified labeled and marked in
accordance with systems and criteria approved or recognized.
.E+'4T'/
What is de#olition work?
Any work that is connected with the demolition of a structure is classified as Lconstruction
workF under the +6& <egulations. +hen carrying out demolition work the re$uirements
relating to construction work must be complied with.
@emolition work means to demolish or dismantle a structure or part of a structure that is load'
bearing or otherwise related to the physical integrity of the structure but does not include!
U. the dismantling of formwork falsework scaffolding or other structures designed or used to
provide support access or containment during construction work or
U. the removal of power light or telecommunication poles.
A structure is anything that is constructed whether fixed or moveable temporary or permanent
and includes buildings sheds towers chimney stacks silos storage tanks. The demolition of an
element of a structure that is load'bearing or otherwise related to the physical integrity of the
structure is Lhigh risk construction workF. A safe work method statement #&+-&% must be
prepared before the high risk construction work starts.
@emolition work that is notifiable under the +6& <egulations involves!
U. demolition of a structure or a part of a structure that is load'bearing or otherwise related to the
physical integrity of the structure that is at least I metres in height
40
U. demolition work involving load shifting machinery on a suspended floor and
U. demolition work involving explosives.
What is re12ired to #ana!e the risks associated with de#olition work?
A person conducting a business or undertaking must manage risks associated with the carrying
out of construction work. 7n order to manage risks under the +6& <egulations a duty holder
must!
U. identify reasonably foreseeable hazards that could give rise to the risk
U. eliminate the risk so far as is reasonably practicable
U. if it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk minimise the risk so far as is reasonably
practicable by implementing control measures in accordance with the hierarchy of risk control.
U. maintain the implemented control measure so that it remains effective and
U. review and if necessary revise control measures so as to maintain so far as is
reasonably practicable a work environment that is without risk to health and safety.
The risk +ana!e#ent ,rocess
dentifyin! the hazards
The first step in the risk management process is to identify the hazards associated with
demolition work. 0xamples of demolition hazards include!
U. unplanned structure collapse
U. falls from one level to another
U. falling ob.ects
U. the location of above and underground essential services including the supply of gas water
sewerage telecommunications electricity chemicals fuel and refrigerant in pipes or lines
U. exposure to hazardous chemicals = These may be present in demolished material or in the
ground where demolition work is to be carried out #contaminated sites%
U. hazardous noise from plant and explosives used in demolition work
U. the proximity of the building or structure being demolished to other buildings or structures.
5ssessin! the risks
Cnder the +6& <egulations a risk assessment is not mandatory for demolition work however it
is re$uired for specific situations for example when working with asbestos or explosives. 7n
many circumstances a risk assessment will assist in determining the control measures that should
be implemented. 7t will help to!
U. i dentify which workers are at risk of exposure
U. determine what sources and processes are causing that risk
U. i dentify if and what kind of control measures should be implemented
U. check the effectiveness of existing control measures.
+hen assessing the risks associated with demolition work consider the following!
U. the structure to be demolished and its structural integrity
U. the method of demolition including its se$uencing
U. the scheduling of the work
U. the layout of the workplace including whether there are fall hazards both for people and
ob.ects
U. what plant and e$uipment will be used and the skill and experience re$uired by the people who
will use it safely
U. what exposures might occur such as to noise or ultraviolet #CD% rays
U. the number of people involved
41
U. local weather conditions.
Controllin! the risks
2ontrol measures can be ranked from the highest level of protection and reliability to the lowest.
This ranking is known as the hierarchy of control. (ou must always aim to eliminate a hazard
which is the most effective control. 7f this is not reasonably practicable you must minimise the
risk by one or a combination of the following!
U. &ubstitution = for example using a mechanical demolition method rather than a manual
method if it is safer
U. 7solation = for example use concrete barriers to separate pedestrians and powered mobile plant
to reduce the risk of collision
U. 0ngineering controls = for example fitting an open cab excavator with a falling ob.ects
protective structure to minimise the risk of being struck by a falling ob.ect. Administrative
control measures and 440 rely on human behaviour and supervision and used on their own tend
to be the least effective in minimising risks.
Reviewin! control #eas2res
The control measures that are put in place to protect health and safety should be regularly
reviewed to make sure they are effective.
(ou must review your control measures and if necessary revise them!
U. when the control measure is not effective in controlling the risk
U. before a change at the workplace that is likely to give rise to a new or different health and
safety risk that the control measure may not effectively control
U. if a new hazard or risk is identified
U. if the results of consultation indicate that a review is necessary or
U. if a health and safety representative re$uests a review.
2ommon review methods include workplace inspection consultation testing and analysing
records and data. +hen reviewing control measures the &+-& must also be reviewed and
revised where necessary.
Cha,ter-D
Personal Protective E12i,#ent
What is PPE?
440 is defined in the <egulations as Lall e$uipment #including clothing affording protection
against the weather% which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work and which protects
him against one or more risks to his health or safetyF eg safety helmets gloves eye protection
high'visibility clothing safety footwear and safety harnesses. 6earing protection and respiratory
protective e$uipment provided for most work situations are not covered by these <egulations
because other regulations apply to them. 6owever these items need to be compatible with any
other 440 provided. 2ycle helmets or crash helmets worn by employees on the roads are not
covered by the <egulations. -otorcycle helmets are legally re$uired for motorcyclists under
road traffic legislation.
What do the Re!2lations re12ire?
42
The main re$uirement of the 440 at +ork <egulations is that personal protective e$uipment is to
be supplied and used at work wherever there are risks to health and safety that cannot be
ade$uately controlled in other ways. The <egulations also re$uire that 440!
E is properly assessed before use to ensure it is suitable3
E is maintained and stored properly3
E is provided with instructions on how to use it safely3 and
E is used correctly by employees.
Can char!e for ,rovidin! PPE?
An employer cannot ask for money from an employee for 440 whether it is returnable or not.
This includes agency workers if they are legally regarded as your employees. 7f employment has
been terminated and the employee keeps the 440 without the employerFs permission then as
long as it has been made clear in the contract of employment the employer may be able to
deduct the cost of the replacement from any wages owed.
5ssessin! s2itable PPE
To allow the right type of 440 to be chosen carefully consider the different hazards in the
workplace. This will enable you to assess which types of 440 are suitable to protect against the
hazard and for the .ob to be done. Ask your supplier for advice on the different types of 440
available and how suitable they are for different tasks. 7t may be necessary in a few particularly
difficult cases to obtain advice from specialist sources and from the 440 manufacturer.
2onsider the following when assessing whether 440 is suitable!
E 7s it appropriate for the risks involved and the conditions at the place where exposure to the
risk may occur, For example eye protection designed for providing protection against
agricultural pesticides will not offer ade$uate face protection for someone using an angle grinder
to cut steel or stone.
E @oes it prevent or ade$uately control the risks involved without increasing the overall level of
risk,
E 2an it be ad.usted to fit the wearer correctly,
E 6as the state of health of those who will be wearing it been taken into account,
E +hat are the needs of the .ob and the demands it places on the wearer, For example the length
of time the 440 needs to be worn the physical effort re$uired to do the .ob and the re$uirements
for visibility and communication.
E 7f more than one item of 440 is being worn are they compatible, For example does a
particular type of respirator make it difficult to get eye protection to fit properly,
The hazards and ty,es of PPE
Eyes
Hazards< chemical or metal splash dust pro.ectiles gas and vapour radiation.
',tions< safety spectacles goggles faceshields visors.
Head
Hazards< impact from falling or flying ob.ects risk of head bumping hair entanglement.
',tions< a range of helmets and bump caps.
Breathing
43
Hazards< dust vapour gas oxygen'deficient atmospheres.
',tions< disposable filtering facepiece or respirator half' or full'face respirators air'fed
helmets breathing apparatus.
Protecting the body
Hazards< temperature extremes adverse weather chemical or metal splash spray from pressure
leaks or spray guns impact or penetration contaminated dust excessive wear or entanglement of
own clothing.
',tions< conventional or disposable overalls boiler suits specialist protective clothing eg
chain'mail aprons high'visibility clothing.
Hands and arms
Hazards< abrasion temperature extremes cuts and punctures impact chemicals electric shock
skin infection disease or contamination.
',tions< gloves gauntlets mitts wrist cuffs armlets.
Feet and legs
Hazards< wet electrostatic build'up slipping cuts and punctures falling ob.ects metal and
chemical splash abrasion.
',tions< safety boots and shoes with protective toe caps and penetration'resistant mid'sole
gaiters leggings spats.
Trainin!
E -ake sure anyone using 440 is aware of why it is needed when it is to be used repaired or
replaced and its limitations.
E Train and instruct people how to use it properly and make sure they are doing this.
E "ecause 440 is the last resort after other methods of protection have been considered it is
important that users wear it all the time they are exposed to the risk. /ever allow exemptions for
those .obs which take L.ust a few minutesF.
E 2heck regularly that 440 is being used and investigate fully any reasons why it is not. &afety
signs can be useful reminders to wear 440.
+aintenance
-ake sure e$uipment is!
E well looked after and properly stored when it is not being used for example in a dry clean
cupboard or in the case of smaller items such as eye protection in a box or case3
E kept clean and in good repair ' follow the manufacturerFs maintenance schedule #including
recommended replacement periods and shelf lives%. &imple maintenance can be carried out by
the trained wearer but more intricate repairs should only be done by specialists.
-ake sure suitable replacement 440 is always readily available.
44

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Classification of Health Hazards

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