Module 2009 Chapter 2

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

1/69

Chapter 2

Occupational Health and Hygiene

a.Overview of Occupational Health

b.Intro and Fundamentals of Toxicologyc.Occupational Health Standardsd.Overview and basic Principles of Industrial

Hygienee.Physical and Chemical Hazardsf. Classification of Chemicals, Packaging and

Labelling

g.Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)h.Chemical Health Risk Assessmenti. Chemical Hazards Management

j. Chemical and Biological Monitoring andMedical Surveillance

k.Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

2/69

l. Biological Hazardm. Workplace Ergonomics and Ergonomics

Risk Factorsn.Occupational and Psychological Stress

o.Mental Workload and Shift Workp.Occupational first aid

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

3/69

2.a Occupational Health and Hygiene

2.a.1 Overview of Occupational Health

1. Workers represent half the worldspopulation and are the major contributors toeconomic and social development. Their healthis determined not only by workplace hazardsbut also by social and individual factors andaccess to health services.

2. Despite the availability of effectiveinterventions to prevent occupational hazardsand to protect and promote health at theworkplace, large gaps exist between and withincountries with regard to the health status ofworkers and their exposure to occupationalrisks. Still only a small minority of the globalworkforce has access to occupational healthservices.

3. Increasing international movement of jobs,products and technologies can help to spread

innovative solutions for prevention ofoccupational hazards, but can also lead to ashift of that risk to less advantaged groups. Thegrowing informal economy is often associatedwith hazardous working conditions and involves

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

4/69

such vulnerable groups as children, pregnantwomen, older persons and migrant workers.

4. The present plan of action deals with all

aspects of workers health, including primaryprevention of occupational hazards, protectionand promotion of health at work, employmentconditions, and a better response from healthsystems to workers health. It is underpinnedby certain common principles. All workers

should be able to enjoy the highest attainablestandard of physical and mental health andfavourable working conditions. The workplaceshould not be detrimental to health and well-being. Primary prevention of occupationalhealth hazards should be given priority. Allcomponents of health systems should beinvolved in an integrated response to thespecific health needs of working populations.The workplace can also serve as a setting fordelivery of other essential public-healthinterventions, and for health promotion.Activities related to workers health should be

planned, implemented and evaluated with aview to reducing inequalities in workers healthwithin and between countries. Workers andemployers and their representatives should alsoparticipate in such activities.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

5/69

2.b Intro and Fundamentals of Toxicology

Toxicology (from the Greek words toxicos andlogos) is the study of the adverse effects ofchemicals on living organisms. It is the study ofsymptoms, mechanisms, treatments and detection ofpoisoning, especially the poisoning of people.

2.b.1 Chemical Toxicology

Chemical toxicology is a scientific discipline involvingthe study of structure and mechanism related to thetoxic effects of chemical agents, and encompassestechnology advances in research related to chemicalaspects of toxicology. Research in this area isstrongly multidisciplinary, spanning computationalchemistry and synthetic chemistry, proteomics andmetabolomics, drug discovery, drug metabolism andmechanisms of action, bioinformatics, bioanalyticachemistry, chemical biology, and molecularepidemiology.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

6/69

2.c Occupational Health Standards

The shipyard employer have to set its own Health

standard where to provide:

Integrate safety and health issues in all aspectsof the work place.

Take effective action to provide and maintain asafe and healthy work environment.

Disseminate information and promotecommunication on safety and health.

Plan, develop, implement, and monitor thesafety and health program.

The Employee is expected to:

Work in a safe and healthy manner. Encourage others to work in a safe and healthy

manner. Discourage others from working in an unsafe

manner. Co-operate to support and promote safety and

health in the work place. Report any unsafe conditions that come to

attention at work.

Refer to File Mental health and work: Impact,issues and good practices

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

7/69

2.d Overview and basic Principles ofIndustrial Hygiene

Definition

Science and art devoted to the anticipation,recognition, evaluation, and control of thoseworkplace environmental factors which may causesickness, impaired health and well-being, orsignificant discomfort and inefficiency among

workers or among citizens of the community

Refer to File Industrial Hygiene.

2.e Physical and Chemical Hazards

2.e.1 Hazards (What Is a Hazard?)

A hazard is anything that could cause injury orillness. A hazard could be caused by:

The materials and equipment we work with The layout of the work area The system or procedure used to perform work

tasks

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

8/69

2.e.2 Hazard Classification

Most hazards fall into one of five categories: physical, chemical, biological,psychological and ergonomic. Examples of these are shown in the followingtable:

Physical Chemical Biological Psychological Ergonomic

Unguardedmachinery

Fumes Infections Overwork Manualhandling

Noise Liquids Bacteria Shift work Workstationdesign

Overcrowding Gases Viruses Harassment Tool andequipmentdesign

Incorrectlighting

Powders Parasites Discrimination Job andtask design

Heat and cold Dust Diseases Stress Furnitureand layout

2.e.3 Hazard examples

2.e.3.1 Incorrect lighting

The amount of light must be correct for the area;problems may be caused by both lack of light,flickering light or light that is too bright. Incorrectlighting can cause eyestrain, tiredness, headachesand blurred vision.

Make sure that:lighting enables clear vision of moving machine parts

and safety signs must be clearly visible to avoidaccidents

corridors, stairs and rooms with no direct sunlightare well lit to avoid trips and falls

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

9/69

it is easy to see the colour of objects.Such as:

electrical wires to ensure correct connection lights on control panels to ensure correct

operation of equipment.

2.e.3.2 Excessive Heat

Heat stress may be caused by work processes orclimatic or environmental conditions including task

requirements, work rate, air flow, air temperature,humidity or required protective clothing.

The effects of heat stress may include feeling weakand dizzy or fainting. Heat exhaustion due todehydration can also cause fainting, tiredness,headache, nausea and flushed skin. Heat stroke is a

serious condition and requires medical attention.

Avoid heat stress, heat exhaustion and dehydrationby drinking water at frequent intervals, takingregular rest breaks during excessive heat andwearing appropriate clothing.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

10/69

2.e.3.3 Hazardous locations and confined workingareas

Hazardous locations include areas where flammable

or explosive substances are or have been present,and confined working spaces with limited or nonatural ventilation. Work processes which generateheat and can be dangerous in these locations includeflame heating, oxy cutting, gouging, arc welding,grinding. If you are in any doubt about the safety ofa location, see your supervisor before starting work.

Before work can begin in one of these areas, thesafety officer responsible must be informed. Theofficer must inspect the site thoroughly and makeany special safety recommendations. The safetyofficer must issue a work permit before any work canbegin. A typical work permit lists all the specific

requirements and must be signed by the responsibleofficer.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

11/69

2.e.4 Hazard Control

There are four main steps in hazard management:

hazard identificationrisk assessment

risk control or reduction

monitoring and evaluation.

These steps may be required in any of the followingevents:

when management and employees become aware ofa hazard during regular hazard inspection whenplanning a new task or project when developing anew facility when purchasing new machinery,equipment, furniture or substances when planningchanges to the workplace or work processes after an

incident where an accident was prevented as part ofan accident investigation.

Step 1: Identifying a hazard

Hazards may be identified through:workplace inspections or audits

incidents / injury / illness reportstalking to employeessafety and health committee meetings liasing with industry bodies, unions or

employee associationscontact with government authorities

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

12/69

Identifying a hazard

Using the methods outlined in Step1: Identifying a hazard, trainees toidentify and record 10-20 hazardsthat could be encountered in theship building industry

Some examples of hazards that may be identifiedinclude:

materials or equipment too heavy for oneperson to lift without help

a container used for a chemical is crackedpower tool leads left lying across a walkway

ear plugs are out of stocksafety guard removed from machinery for

repairs, not replacedtools or tool handles chipped or damagedfire extinguisher misplacedperson working in a confined space without

appropriate training in safety requirements

safety notices obscured by machinery or othernotices

heavy equipment or supplies stored abovewaist height..

Refer to File Unsafe Work Environment

Learnin

gactivity

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

13/69

Step 2: Risk assessment

As soon as a hazard is identified, the risks must beassessed. To determine the level of risk, you need toconsider;

Outcome what would happen if a person cameinto contact with the hazard? For example: fatality,major injury, and minor injury.

Probability how often is contact with the hazardlikely to occur? For example regularly, frequently,occasionally, seldom, never.

Exposure how many people are exposed to thehazard?

existing controls Are there any control methodsalready in place?

Risk assessment evaluates the probability of anincident occurring as a result of the hazard; and thepossible consequences of any such incident. When

the risk is assessed, control of the hazard can beprioritised. The priority for any hazard that couldcause injury would be immediate urgent action;hazards with less associated risk could be markedas: resolve today or resolve within seven days.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

14/69

Some of the key points about assessing the risk inthe workplace are as follows:Assessments must cover all potential risks to the

safety and health of people in the workplace.Assessments must cover all potential risks to thesafety and health of people affected by the operationof the workplace or by the services or products ofthe workplace.The employer must review the original assessmentwhenever new or changed work practices,

substances or plant are introduced to the workplace.Where groups of workers are especially at risk, thegroups must be identified as a part of theassessment, with specific strategies identified. Forexample young, inexperienced workers or workerswith a disability.

All potential workplace hazards must be assessed interms of their danger to life and their long range andshort-range effects on health. This can beaccomplished through knowledge of the hazards,experience and quantitative data.

Risk assessment

Trainees, as a group, to discuss and recordthe risks associated with 5 of the hazardsidentified in the previous activity.

Learningactivity

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

15/69

Step 3: Risk Control

Once problems have been identified and assessed,

the next step is to carefully consider how to bestcontrol the hazard. A hierarchy of controls is usedboth for hazard control, and as a starting point whenimplementing safety and health procedures.

The hierarchy ranks control measures for overalleffectiveness in risk reduction. This means that

solutions at the top of the hierarchy are to beconsidered first, as the most efficient and effectiveimmediate control of hazards.

1st - Elimination

This means removal of the risk and could involveactions such as:

taking away obsolete equipmentreducing the volume of chemicals stored on site.

2nd Substitution

Where elimination is not possible, the next option isto use different methods or materials that reduce or

eliminate the hazard, such as:

using a work procedure that is less hazardoussubstituting a chemical that is less hazardousreplacing one piece of equipment with another that is

less dangerous.

3rd - Engineering controls

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

16/69

Hazards that can neither be eliminated norsubstituted may be made safer by introducingmethods or equipment to reduce danger, for

example:

creating a barrier between persons and the hazardby enclosure or isolationfitting machine guarding

improve ventilationapplying wetting down techniques

using mechanical aids.

Elimination, substitution and engineering controlscreate a physically safer workplace.

4th - Administrative controls

Administrative controls may be used in addition tothe previous measures to:

reduce the exposure of any one person to a specific

hazardensure that operators are fully trained in the use ofmachinery and equipment

ensure that workers are fully aware of safety andhealth issues and regulations associated with their

tasks.

Administrative controls include: job rotation, timelimits, permit-to-work systems, restricted access,documented work instructions, general safety rules

and procedures, training and supervision.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

17/69

5th - Personal protective equipment (PPE)

All workers have the responsibility of ensuring theirown safety by using PPE at all relevant times. PPE

includes: hearing protection devices, goggles, safety

footwear, gloves, overalls and protective suits.

Risk Control

Trainees, as a group, to discuss and recordthe best means of

control for the 5 hazards identified in theprevious activity.

Step 4: Monitoring and Evaluation

After the first three hazard control steps have beentaken, there should be a planned period ofmonitoring to ensure that the risk is eliminated,reduced or controlled. Monitoring involves checkingthe situation periodically to make sure that the stepsare still in use or still effective. An evaluation may beconducted by the safety officer or employer to assess

the effectiveness of the control steps

Hazard Audit

Trainees to conduct a hazard audit in theworkshop and prepare a written report

Learningactivity

Learningactivity

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

18/69

2.f Classification of Chemicals,Packaging and Labeling

The production and use of chemicals arefundamental factors in the economic development ofall countries, whether they are industrialized ordeveloping. In one way or another, chemicals affectdirectly or indirectly the lives of all humans and areessential to our feeding (fertilizers, pesticides, foodadditives, packing), our health (pharmaceuticals,

cleaning materials), or our well being (appliances,fuels, etc).

The first and most essential step leading to safe useof chemicals is to know their identity, to theirhazards to health and the environment and themeans to control them. This knowledge should be

available with reasonable effort and cost.Furthermore, this inherently complex knowledgemust be organized in such a way that essentiainformation on the hazards and correspondingprotective measures can be identified and conveyedto the user in a form that is easy to understand.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) hasadopted the Convention No. 170 andRecommendation No. 177 on `Safety in the use ofchemicals at work' in 1990.

International, regional, and national classificationand labelling systems are already established andtested in practice.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

19/69

The United Nations Recommendations on theTransport of Dangerous Goods is widelyrecognized and used among the UN memberstates.

An example of a system that has been designedfor use in several countries is the classificationand labelling system of the EuropeanCommunities (EC).

Several functioning national systems, such asthose of Canada and USA, may also be used asmodels for national systems.

2.f.1 Identification and Classification

The objective is to identify the hazardous propertiesof chemicals which may constitute a risk duringnormal handling or use, risks to health, property orthe environment.

The user of the chemicals is also to be introduced tothe hazards they present and given the basicinformation, in a suitable manner, such as using aproperly made label.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

20/69

2.f.2 What is a hazardous chemical ?

The following properties contribute to risk to healthresulting from acute, repeated or prolongedexposure:

very toxic or toxic harmful corrosive irritant cancer causing hazards to reproduction can cause non-heritable birth defects sensitizing

Fire and explosion hazards may be classified asfollows

explosive oxidizing extremely flammable highly flammable flammable

The following properties present a hazard to theenvironment and are:

toxic to living organisms persistent in the environment bioaccumulative

Also substances and preparations that cannot beclassified by using the above system may beregarded as dangerous if they have properties which

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

21/69

are hazardous to health, to living organisms or ifthey can damage property.

2.f.3 How to pass on the information to

users?

All chemicals, both substances and preparations,should have a clear marking to indicate theiridentity.

The packages and containers of dangerous

substances and preparations should, in addition tomarking only, to have a label with requiredinformation.

The label should draw attention to the inherentdanger to persons handling or using the chemical.

2.f.4 Where to find information abouthazardous chemicals?

The chemical supplier, manufacturer or importer,should be able to provide detailed information and aSafety Data Sheet.

In certain countries, such as those of the EU, the

manufacturer or importer has the obligation to findand give adequate information about a chemical forassessment of the health and environmental hazardsof his chemical for handling and for its labeling.

Safety data sheets have been prepared on manydangerous substances and preparations by

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

22/69

manufacturers. These should go together with theproduct to the occupational user. The information inthese is not always validated or checked.

2.f.5 How to classify for a label?

The label is the basic tool to keep the user informedon the classification and the most important safetyprecautions.

This information must be given if the preparationcontains at least one substance classified asdangerous to man or the environment or if thepreparation is otherwise regarded as dangerous, e.g.flammable, explosive.

In EU countries the label must clearly show

the trade name

the name and the address, including telephonenumber, of the manufacturer, the importer orthe distributor

the chemical name of the substance (in the caseof a preparation, the chemical names of thehazardous components)

danger symbols

risk phrases (R-phrases) safety phrases (S-phrases) the quantity of the contents of the package or

container

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

23/69

The labels should be in the national, officiallanguage(s).

The label should show the chemical names ofsubstances that are primarily responsible for the

hazards. As a general rule a maximum of fourchemical names on the label should be sufficient.

In some cases, more than four names may benecessary; for example all cancer causingsubstances in the preparation must be identified andthe corresponding R- and S-phrases presented on

the label.

If the preparation contains one or more of thesubstances requiring the following R-phrases, boththe name of the substance and the R-phrase shouldbe mentioned in the label:

R39, R40, R42, R43, R42/43, R45, R46, R47,

R48, R49, R60, R61, R62, R63, R64As a general rule a maximum of four R-phrases andfour S- phrases should suffice to describe the risksand to formulate the most appropriate safety advice.

Symbols showing the most serious hazards should bechosen where more than one danger symbol has to

be assigned. As a general rule a maximum of twodanger symbols are used.

The explanation of the letter symbols appearing inthe attached lists are given below. Each lettersymbol refers to a danger symbol or pictogram.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

24/69

Physico-Chemical Properties1

CodeLetter(s)

&Meaning

Danger

SymbolDescription

EExplosive

Solid, liquid, pasty or gelatinous substances andpreparations which may react exothermicallywithout atmospheric oxygen thereby quicklyevolving gases, and which under defined testconditions detonate, quickly deflagrate or uponheating explode when partially confined.

F+

Extremely

Flammable

Liquid substances and preparations having anextremely low flash point and a low boiling pointand gaseous substances and preparations which

are flammable in contact with air at ambienttemperature and pressure.

F

HighlyFlammable

a. Substances and preparationswhich may become hot and finally catch firein contact with air at ambient temperaturewithout any application of energy,b. Solid substances andpreparations which may readily catch fireafter brief contact with a source of ignitionand which continue to burn or to be

consumed after removal of the source ofignition,c. Liquid substances andpreparations having a very low flash point, or

d. Substances and preparationswhich, in contact with water or damp air,evolve extremely flammable gases indangerous quantities.

(none)Flammable

(nosymbol)

Liquid substances and preparations having a lowflash point.

O

Oxidizing

Substances and preparations which give rise to ahighly exothermic reaction in contact with othersubstances, particularly flammable substances.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

25/69

Health Effects1

Note: Some symbols appear more than once in the following table.Please study the first column carefully.

Code

Letter(s) &Meaning

DangerSymbol

Description

C

CorrosiveSubstances and preparations which may, oncontact with living tissues, destroy them.

N

Dangerous For

TheEnvironment

Substances and preparations which, were theyto enter into the environment, would presentor might present an immediate or delayeddanger for one or more components of theenvironment.

Does not apply to preparations. In certaincases, some substances do not need to belabelled with the danger symbol for thiscategory.

T+

Very toxic

Substances and preparations which in very lowquantities cause death or acute or chronicdamage to health when inhaled, swallowed orabsorbed via the skin.

TToxic

Substances and preparations which in low

quantities cause death or acute or chronicdamage to health when inhaled, swallowed orabsorbed via the skin.

XiIrritant

Non-corrosive substances and preparationswhich, through immediate, prolonged orrepeated contact with the skin or mucousmembrane, may cause inflammation.

Xn

Harmful

Substances and preparations which may causedeath or acute or chronic damage to health

when inhaled, swallowed or absorbed via theskin.

Sensitizing

Xn

Sensitizing byinhalation

Xi

(i.e. Xnor Xi)

Substances and preparations which, if they areinhaled or if they penetrate the skin, arecapable of eliciting a reaction byhypersensitization such that on furtherexposure to the substance or preparation,characteristic adverse effects are produced.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

26/69

Sensitizing byskin contact

Carcinogenic

T - Category 11

T - Category 2Xn - Category

3

(depends

oncategory)

Substances and preparations which, if they are

inhaled or ingested or if they penetrate theskin, may induce cancer or increase itsincidence

Mutagenic

T - Category 11

T - Category 2Xn - Category

3

(dependson

category)

Substances and preparations which, if they areinhaled or ingested or if they penetrate theskin, may induce inheritable genetic defects orincrease their incidence.

Toxic forreproduction

T - Category 11

T - Category 2Xn - Category

3

(dependson

category)

Substances and preparations which, if they areinhaled or ingested or if they penetrate theskin, may produce or increase the incidence ofnon-inheritable adverse effects in the progenyand/or of male or female reproductivefunctions or capacity.

Definitions of data components in labelsCOMPONENTS ILO UN RTDG EC USA CANADA

FORMAT none defined size of labelsvaries withtransportmode.

Minimum labeldimensions aredefined fordifferentpackagecapacities;contrasteddanger symbolsand background(black on yellowbackground);language mustbe that of thecountry wherethe product isput on market.

none defined 1. Supplierlabel:mustappear on allcontrolledproductsreceived atwork-places;requiredinformationmust be setaside from salesinformation;surrounded byWHMIS ; mustbe printed incontrastingcolours; musthave all texts inEnglish andFrench.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

27/69

2. Workplacelabel:mustappear on allproductsproduced in aworkplace ortransferred to

other containersby theemployer; mayappear inplacard form onproductsreceived in bulk

DATAELEMENTS

1. Trade name2. Chemicalidentity3. Supplieridentification.4. Hazardsymbols5. Risk phrases6. Safetyphrases7. Batchidentification8. Reference toexisting CSDS9. Hazardclassification

notmandated.The UN RTDGlabel defineshazards bythe use ofsymbols,colours anddangerwarningwords forspecifichazards(explosive,radioactive,corrosive,etc.).

1. Chemicalidentity2. Hazardsymbol andindication ofdanger3. Risk phrases4. Safetyphrases5. Supplieridentification(full addressand tel. No.)6. EEC numberif allocated7. the wording"EEC label"where

appropriate

1. Chemicalidentity2. Supplieridentification3. Appropriatehazardwarnings

Employer mustensure thatlabels andother forms ofwarning are inEnglish andmay add otherlanguages ifappropriate.

1. Supplier

label:-productidentifier-supplier

identification-reference toexisting CSDS-hazardsymbols;and forcontainers

over 100 ml:-risk and safetyphrases-first aidmeasures2. Workplace

label:-productidentifier-information forthe safehandling of theproducts-reference to anexisting CSDS.-may containWHMIS hazardsymbols or

otherpictograms.

OTHERREQUIREMENTS

Legibility,durability andsize, uniformityof labels andsymbols,includingcolours.Ingeneral, allcontainers ofhazardous

Placarding oftransportunits isdefined,includingform,minimum sizeand colour ofplacards.

ANSI StandardZ-129.1.1988definesacceptableprecautionaryphrases andhazardsymbols.

Chemical namemay be replacedby genericname ornumber in thecase of productscovered byprovisions onexemption forconfidential

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

28/69

chemicalsshould at leastindicate thehazards of thecontentsthroughappropriatewording or

symbols.

businessinformation.

2.g Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for a chemicalsubstance may be referred to as a Chemical Safety

Data Sheet (CSDS). The terms Material Safety DataSheet and MSDS are used in this section for all typesof materials, as this is the more globally acceptedpractice.

All hazardous chemicals used in the workplace musthave a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). The

MSDS is a document that describes the propertiesand uses of the substance, including the name; thechemical and physical properties; health hazardinformation; precautions for use and safe handlinginformation.

The MSDS should be supplied by the manufacturer orimporter of the substance and should be clear, easyto read and written in plain language.

The MSDS should include following information:

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

29/69

Trade or common name of the chemical, thecompany identification and the name andaddress of the supplier;

The composition of ingredients;

Hazard identification; First aid measures; Fire fighting measures; Accidental release measures; Handling and storage procedures; Exposure control and personal protection; Physical and chemical properties;

Stability and reactivity data; Toxicological information; Ecological information; Disposal information; and Transport information.

Details on how to prepare a MSDS can be found in

the publication:Guidelines for the Formulation of a Chemical SafetyData Sheet (DOSH, 1997).

2.g.1 Interpreting a Material Safety DataSheets

Before you use any chemical in the workplace, youshould carefully read the label on the container. Ifchemicals are poured into smaller containers foreasier use, the container should be clearly labelled toshow:the location of the MSDS, and instructions to read

this before using the chemical

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

30/69

the exact contentsthe dilution required for specific tasksthe protective clothing requiredsafety precautions

what to do in the event of accidents such as splashesonto the skin or into the eye or accidentalingestion

how to dispose of the chemical safely so as not tocause harm to any person or to the environment.

If this information is not included, you should contactthe manufacturer and ask for the MSDS.

Trainees to research the MSDS of 3 chemicals used inthe ship building industry.The Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory atOxford University, UK gives comprehensive informationabout chemicals and their Material Safety Data Sheets,including how to interpret the sheets.

The following web site is a good source of information

for this activity:http://ptcl.chem.ox.ac.uk/MSDS/#MSDS

The link for Interpreting MSD Sheets is:http://ptcl.chem.ox.ac.uk/MSDS/interpretingmsds.html

2.hChemical Health Risk Assessment

Refer to File CHRA

2.i Chemical Hazards Management

Refer to File Hazmat ManagementRefer to File Hazmat Enforcement

Learning

activity

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

31/69

2.j.Chemical and Biological Monitoring andMedical Surveillance

The purpose for performing medical monitoring of

employees is to detect physiological changes in anemployee, which may be due to exposures tohazardous levels of physical, chemical or radioactivestresses the employee may experience on the job.Medical monitoring of employees is also used tomeasure the effectiveness of engineering andadministrative controls, and can involve biologica

monitoring.

2.j.1 Definitions

Biological Monitoring Biological monitoring can provide a reasonableindication of exposures to hazardous environmental

stresses the employee might encounter on the job.Biological monitoring is also an attempt to quantifyan employee's exposure for a period of time eitherprior to, or as a result of employment at CSUF. Itinvolves the collection of biological samples such asurine, their examination for the presence ofhazardous materials or their metabolites, and a

comparison to biological exposure indices for healthyworkers.

Exposure

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

32/69

contact with a biological, chemical, or physicalhazard.

Hazardous Material is any substance or compound that has thecapability of producing adverse effects on the healthand safety of humans.

Medical Monitoring is the systematic collection and analysis of

health information on groups of workers potentiallyexposed to harmful agents, for the purpose ofidentifying health effects at an early and hopefullyreversible stage. Government codes require thatemployees with potential exposures to certainharmful agents shall receive medical monitoringexaminations. These exams serve the purpose of

detecting adverse health effects, which couldpossibly be related to workplace exposures.

Early detection of disease will result in earliertreatment and will also allow for cessation ofadditional exposures that could aggravate apotentially serious medical condition.

Occupational Disease is a disease caused by exposures to hazards in theworkplace.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

33/69

The health risk (or hazard) from a particularchemical is a function of both its toxicity and theexposuredose actually absorbed by the user.

Toxicity is the capacity of a material to produce

injury or harm when the chemical has reached asufficient concentration (dose) at a certain site inthe body.

Exposure dose is the amount of chemical thathas been absorbed by the body and couldtherefore reach that site to do harm.

The risk, or hazard, of working with that

chemical is the probability that this doseconcentration will occur.

In other words, a carcinogen used inside a properlyfunctioning lab hood could pose far less of a healthrisk than a low-toxicity alcohol used in closedquarters, with poor ventilation and no skin

protection.

2.j.2 Routes of Exposure

Exposure to toxic substances in the workplace canresult from chemicals being inhaled, ingested orbeing absorbed through the skin (including mucusmembranes). Figure 1 presents the pathway bywhich a chemical substance in the workplaceenvironment can produce toxic effect. By beingaware of these routes of exposure, the conservator

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

34/69

can both better judge the potential for exposure andalso better control that exposure. For example, alarge number of chemicals including some solids aswell as many liquids, can be absorbed through intact

skin and into the bloodstream. By being aware ofthis potential route of exposure, conservators canmodify their work habits or even use protectiveclothing (e.g., impermeable gloves) to prevent thisdermal absorption. Also, ingestion of a compoundcan be direct (e.g., hand to mouth) but is more likelyto be indirect (e.g., substance getting onto food or

drink in the workplace). The value of frequentwashing and restrictions on consumption of food andbeverage in the studio or lab should be obvious.

Fig. 1 Exposure pathway for workplace chemicals

2.j.2.1 Environmental Monitoring

If inhalation is the only significant route of entry tothe body, then the results of ambient air samplestaken within the persons breathing zone reflect thedose of that chemical to the body. The collection

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

35/69

device is placed close to the persons breathing zone,typically on the workers lapel. The device may beconnected to a battery-operated, calibrated samplingpump, which is worn through the work/exposure

period, often an 8-hour shift or 15-minute short termexposure period. Validated sampling and analyticalmethods are followed, such as those published bythe National Institute for Occupational Safety andHealth (NIOSH). The sample is analyzed by aqualified laboratory for the concentration of thechemical studied, and the results are compared with

established regulatory standards, such as thePermissible Exposure Limits (PELs) promulgated bythe OSHA or consensus guidelines, such as theannually-revised Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) ofthe American Conference of Governmental IndustrialHygienists (ACGIH), or the NIOSH RecommendedExposure Limits (RELs). None of these

concentrations should be construed as absolute linesbetween safe and unsafe exposures, but should beevaluated in the overall exposure assessment.Contacts for these organizations are listed in thereference section of this Guide.

Other techniques for estimating the potential forenvironmental exposures are occasionally used such

as wipe samples to estimate the concentration of atoxic chemical on work surfaces or even on theworkers skin. There are, however, only a fewvalidated techniques for collecting and analyzingthese types of samples, or standards against whichto judge results (such as lead), so these procedures

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

36/69

are generally of qualitative , not quantitative, valueto the investigator.

2.j.2.2 Biological Monitoring

If significant exposure can occur through routes ofentry other than inhalation, biological monitoringmay be warranted. The most widely accepted formsof biological monitoring include exhaled breath,urine, and blood testing. Alterations in these

concentrations reflect absorption by all routes ofentry, reflect physiological responses unique to theindividual, and offer information beyond thatprovided by air sampling alone.

The reference values most commonly used in thiscase are guidelines such as the annually revisedBiological Exposure Indices (BEIs), published by the

ACGIH. BEIs, like the TLVs, RELs and PELs, do notrepresent a sharp distinction between hazardous andnon-hazardous exposures. The ACGIHDocumentation of the BEIs states: Alterations infunction or unusual laboratory findings can beviewed as evidence of harm, or they can be viewedas only a marker that exposure has occurred.

Interpretation of biological monitoring is complicatedby the fact that the concentration of the materialmeasured is not exactly equivalent of the exposuredose. When a chemical is absorbed into the body,excretion of earlier ingestion of that substance maybe occurring at the same time. Action on

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

37/69

unexpected values should not be based on a singleisolated measurement but on measurements ofmultiple sampling.

There are 36 compounds for which BEIs have been

established. These 36 compounds are listed in Table1, along with the biological matrix used for theirevaluation. BEIs listed in that table are establishedby the ACGIH. Additional information on theseguidelines can be obtained from that organization(see Resource List at end of this Guide). The BEIvalues should be used only by a medically-trained

individual familiar with their interpretation, and thenonly with the aid of the documentation for BEIswhich is also available from the ACGIH.

Table 1. Chemicals with Established BEIs

Chemical Biological

SpecimenChemical

Biological

specimenAcetone Urine Methanol UrineAnaline Urine or blood Methemoglobin inducers Blood

Arsenic Urine Methoxyethanol UrineBenzene Urine Methoxyethyl acetate Urine

Cadmium Urine or blood Methyl chloroform Exhaled air, urine orblood

Carbon disulfide UrineMethylene bis(2-chloroaniline)

Urine

Carbon monoxide Blood or exhaled air Methyl ethyl ketone UrineChlorobenzene Urine Methyl isobutyl ketone UrineChromium Urine Nitrobenzene Urine or bloodCobalt Urine or blood OrganophosphorusDimethylacetamide Urine cholinesterase inhibitorsBlood

DimethylformamideUrine Parathion Urine or bloodEthoxyethanol Urine Pentachlorophenol Urine or bloodEthoxyethylacetate

Urine Perchloroethylene Exhaled air, urine orblood

Ethyl benzene Urine or exhaled air Phenol UrineFluorides Urine Styrene Urine or bloodFurfural Urine Toluene Urine or blood

Hexane Urine or exhaled air Tricholorethylene Urine, blood orexhaled air

Lead Blood Vanadium Pentoxide UrineMercury Urine or blood Xylenes Urine

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

38/69

2.j.2.3 Critical Factors for Biological Monitoring:

1. The timing of the sample collection is critical, andthe protocol guidelines must be followed. This is

because different chemicals and their markers takedifferent times to make themselves available forsampling in the same body medium, as characterizedby their half-life. The BEI measurements may beintended to represent peak exposures, or to reflectequilibrium levels attained only after steady statehas been reached.

2. When interpreting biological monitoring data, thephysician must take into consideration factors thatcontribute to individual variation in response to theexposure. You and your colleagues will likely havedifferences in pulmonary function, hemodynamics,body composition, efficacy of excretory organs, and

activity of enzyme systems that mediate metabolismof the chemical. Other factors to consider includepersonal factors (age, sex, pregnancy, medications,state of health), lifestyle choices (smoking, drug use,eating habits, and personal hygiene), andenvironmental exposures outside the workplace. It ispossible to exceed the BEIs and not experience

adverse health effects. Your personal or companyphysician must carefully evaluate your personaprofile and integrate all necessary information intothe interpretation of biological monitoring results.

3. To assist in the interpretation of biologicalmonitoring, particularly the BEIs, the physician is

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

39/69

referred to the ACGIH Documentation of the BEIswhich detail specific information on the abovevariables as they relate to a specific chemical agent,and lists quality control measures to be taken in the

sampling, handling, and analysis of specimens.

2.j.2.4 When is biological monitoring necessary orappropriate?

1. Specific monitoring may be mandated by an OSHAstandard (Table 2), or may be recommended by the

documentation of a specific BEI.2. The effectiveness of personal protectiveequipment (or even personal hygiene, workpractices, and engineering controls) in creating abarrier against the hazardous agent can beevaluated through monitoring for the marker of theexposure. For example, airborne concentrations of

inorganic arsenic may be undetectable in thebreathing zone during handling of treated objects.However, high concentrations in the urine mayindicate inadvertent ingestion though lack of glovesand poor hand or face washing practices.

3. Biological monitoring should be used to

substantiate air monitoring, or to determine thepotential for absorption via the skin and GI tract. Itshould be conducted when it offers an advantageover the use of air monitoring alone.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

40/69

2.j.2.5 When should biological monitoring not beused?

Biological monitoring should not be used as yourpersonal exposure control method, because it

measures dose only after it has occurred and mayaffect bodily functions in some way. Biologicalmonitoring and medical surveillance are notsubstitutes for environmental or personal samplingbut should be used to complement them.

Table 2. OSHA Standards with Medical Examination or Surveillance

Requirements, Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 19101910.95 Occupational noise exposure1910.134 Respiratory protection1910.139 Respiratory protection for M. tuberculosis

1910.1001Asbestos (and 1926.1101 Asbestos in ConstructionIndustry)

1910.1003

Select Carcinogens

4-Nitrobiphenyl

alpha-NaphthylamineMethyl chloromethyl ether3,-Dichlorobenzidine (and its salts)bis-Chloromethyl etherbeta-NaphthylamineBenzidine4-AminodiphenylEthyleneiminebeta-Propiolactone2-Acetylaminofluorene

4-Dimethylaminoazo-benzeneN-Nitrosodimethylamine1910.1017 Vinyl chloride1910.1018 Inorganic arsenic1910.1025 Lead1910.1027 Cadmium1910.1028 Benzene1910.1029 Coke oven emissions1910.1030 Bloodborne pathogens1910.1043 Cotton dust

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

41/69

1910.1044 1,2-dibromo-3-chlorpropane1910.1045 Acrylonitrile1910.1047 Ethylene oxide1910.1048 Formaldehyde1910.1050 Methylenedianiline1910.1051 1,3-Butadiene1910.1052 Methylene chloride

1910.1450 Occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals inlaboratories

2.j.3 Medical Monitoring

Medical monitoring is conducted on exposed individual to evaluate any adversehealth effects of those exposures. The major purpose is the early detection ofdisease or conditions for which treatment can prevent further illness. Healthsurveillance of a population of workers for disease is used to predict effect andcan also be a valuable tool in hazard control, by detecting when an initiallyeffective control or work practice has lost effectiveness.

Recommendations for medical monitoring tests are in the purview of thephysician, based on reported symptoms and knowledge (provided by theconservator) of chemicals to which the patient is exposed. Be respectful of thefact that physicians receive a standardized medical school education, and thatoccupational and environmental medicine is considered a specialty requiringfurther training in epidemiology, toxicology, industrial hygiene, and casemanagement of occupational injuries and illnesses. Physicians specializing inoccupational medicine are certified by the American Board of Preventive

Medicine. Additional medical resources can be found on the attached listing ofOccupational Health Clinics, as published by the Association of Occupationaland Environmental Clinics

2.k Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality

2.k.1 IAQIndoor air quality (IAQ) is a term referring to the airquality within and around buildings and structures,especially as it relates to the health and comfort ofbuilding occupants.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

42/69

Proper ventilation helps improve indoor air quality.Ventilation can control indoor humidity and airbornecontaminants, both of which either contribute to oract as health hazards. The American Society of

Heating, Refrigerating, and Air ConditioningEngineers (ASHRAE) and several states (Minnesota,Washington, and Vermont) have ventilationstandards designed to ensure acceptable indoor airquality.

High indoor humidity can spur mold growth. High

humidity may result from poorconstruction/rehabilitation, site design that does notproperly manage water, and/or inadequate airexchange. A reasonable target for relative humidityis 30-60 percent. A low cost hygrometer, available athardware stores, can be used to measure relativehumidity. In cool climates, inadequate ventilation in

the winter can contribute to excessive moisture andhumidity because normal activities create moisture(cooking, bathing, breathing), and there isinsufficient natural ventilation (opening windows) ormechanical ventilation (fans, exhaust systems) toremove the moisture. In warmer climates, theheating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)

system can pull warmer, humid air inside. In thiscase, the ventilation system may help create indoorhumidity problems unless the system alsodehumidifies the air.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

43/69

2.k.2 Common sources of airborne contaminants

include:

Indoor contaminants. These includechemicals used in the construction or renovationof buildings (e.g., glues, off-gassing fromcarpets, emissions from particle board, cleaningcompounds). In addition, appliances that burngas can produce particulates and carbon

monoxide. Incomplete combustion and poorventilation of these appliances (cook stoves, gasfurnaces, gas boilers, and gas water heaters) cancontribute to indoor contaminants. Gas cook topsshould be used with fans that send exhaustoutside. Gas-fired heating appliances should besealed and power-vented systems installed to

remove products of incomplete combustion.Wood-burning stoves can also create particulatesand must be vented outside.

Outdoor contaminants. Outdoor particulatescan be drawn inside when the heating or cooling

system draws air into a home. Particulates andallergens found in outdoor air can be asthmatriggers. Filtering incoming air for HVAC systemseffectively filters particulates. Expertsrecommend using filters with a MERV 6-8, buthigher MERV levels trap smaller particles andgenerally are more appropriate for those with

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

44/69

allergies or where the indoor environment has ahigh concentration of mold spores, dust particles,or other allergens.

2.k.3 Ventilation

Two types of ventilation can help control harmful aircontaminants and humidity: spot ventilation anddilution ventilation. Spot ventilation draws air from aparticular location (e.g., bathroom, kitchen) and

exhausts it to the outside. Dilution ventilationaddress low-level contamination throughout thehome.

Spot Ventilation. Exterior exhaust fans should beinstalled in all bathrooms and kitchens. These fansremove humidity and carbon monoxide. The mosteffective fans are quiet and durable. Use fans that

operate at one sone or less and exhaust to theoutdoors. Fans equipped with timers or de-humidistat controls are useful to ensure the fans runfor a sufficient period of time. A good rule of thumbis to run a bathroom fan for about 45 minutes after ashower.

Dilution Ventilation. Dilution ventilation addressesthe entire living space. Air changes (exchangingindoor air with outdoor air) and air cleaning helpdetermine the effectiveness of dilution. Air changesresult from a combination of natural ventilation(infiltration; leakage; windows) and mechanica(controlled) ventilation. Air cleaning occurs when

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

45/69

particulates are filtered and when air is dehumidifiedto remove moisture. The goal is to provide sufficientchanges to ensure a healthy environment. There areseveral types of heating and cooling systems with

filtration that can be installed to accomplish this. Acommon element necessary in all systems is ductsealing, particularly on the return side (side drawingin the air). The Air Conditioning ContractorsAssociation (ACCA) provides guidance on ductsealing in its Manual D: Duct Design.

Techniques for analyzing IAQ include collection of airsamples, collection of samples on building surfacesand computer modelling of air flow inside buildings.The resulting samples can be analyzed for mold,bacteria, chemicals or other stressors. Theseinvestigations can lead to an understanding of the

sources of the contaminants and ultimately tostrategies for removing the unwanted elements fromthe air.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

46/69

2.k.4 Common pollutants

Radon

Radon is an invisible, radioactive atomic gas thatresults from the radioactive decay of radium, whichmay be found in rock formations beneath buildingsor in certain building materials themselves. Radon isprobably the most pervasive serious hazard forindoor air in the United States and Europe, probablyresponsible for tens of thousands of deaths fromlung cancer each year.

Molds and other allergens

These biological chemicals can arise from a host ofmeans, but there are two common classes: (a)moisture induced growth of mold colonies and (b)natural substances released into the air such asanimal dander and plant pollen. Moisture buildup

inside buildings may arise from water penetratingcompromised areas of the building envelope or skin,from plumbing leaks, from condensation due toimproper ventilation, or from ground moisturepenetrating a building part. In areas where cellulosicmaterials (paper and wood, including drywall)become moist and fail to dry within 48 hours, mold

mildew can propagate and release allergenic sporesinto the air.

Carbon monoxide

One of the most acutely toxic indoor aircontaminants is carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless,

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

47/69

odorless gas that is a byproduct of incompletecombustion of fossil fuels. Common sources ofcarbon monoxide are tobacco smoke, space heatersusing fossil fuels, defective central heating furnaces

and automobile exhaust. Improvements in indoorlevels of CO are systematically improving fromincreasing numbers of smoke-free restaurants andother legislated non-smoking buildings. By deprivingthe brain of oxygen, high levels of carbon monoxidecan lead to nausea, unconsciousness and death.According to ACGIH (American Conference of

Governmental Industrial Hygienist), the TWA (TimeWaited Average) limit for carbon monoxide (630-08-0) is 25 ppm.

Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted asgases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a

variety of chemicals, some of which may have short-and long-term adverse health effects. Concentrationsof many VOCs are consistently higher indoors (up toten times higher) than outdoors. VOCs are emittedby a wide array of products numbering in thethousands. Examples include: paints and lacquers,paint strippers, cleaning supplies, pesticides, building

materials and furnishings, office equipment such ascopiers and printers, correction fluids and carbonlesscopy paper, graphics and craft materials includingglues and adhesives, permanent markers, andphotographic solutions.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

48/69

Legionella

Legionellosis or Legionnaire's Disease is caused by awaterborne bacterium that grows best in slowmoving or still warm water. The primary route of

exposure is aerosolization, most commonly fromevaporative cooling towers or showerheads. Acommon source of Legionella in commercial buildingsis from poorly placed or maintained evaporativecooling towers, which often release aerosolized waterthat may enter nearby ventilation intakes. Outbreaksin medical facilities and nursing homes, where

patients are immuno-suppressed and immuno-weak,are the most commonly reported cases ofLegionellosis. More than one case has involvedoutdoor fountains in public attractions. The presenceof Legionella in commercial building water supplies ishighly under-reported, as healthy people requireheavy exposure to acquire infection.

Asbestos fibers

The U.S. Federal Government (www.osha.gov) andsome States have set standards for acceptable levelsof asbestos fibers in indoor air. Many commonbuilding materials used before 1975 contain

asbestos, such as some floor tiles, ceiling tiles,taping muds, pipe wrap, mastics and other insulationmaterials. Normally significant releases of asbestosfiber do not occur unless the building materials aredisturbed, such as by cutting, sanding, drilling orbuilding remodelling. There are particularly stringentregulations applicable to schools. Inhalation of

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

49/69

asbestos fibers over long exposure times isassociated with increased incidence of lung cancer.While smokers have a greater risk of lung cancerthan asbestos workers that do not smoke smokers

that are exposed to high levels of asbestos overmany years have a much greater risk of developinglung cancer than either smokers that have not beenexposed to asbestos, or persons that have beenexposed to high levels of asbestos that do notsmoke.

Carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide (CO2)is a surrogate for indoorpollutants emitted by humans and correlates withhuman metabolic activity. Carbon dioxide at levelsthat are unusually high indoors may cause occupantsto grow drowsy, get headaches, or function at loweractivity levels. Humans are the main indoor source of

carbon dioxide. Indoor levels are an indicator of theadequacy of outdoor air ventilation relative to indooroccupant density and metabolic activity. To eliminatemost Indoor Air Quality complaints, total indoorcarbon dioxide should be reduced a difference of lessthan 600 ppm above outdoor levels. NIOSHconsiders that indoor air concentrations of carbon

dioxide that exceed 1,000 ppm are a markersuggesting inadequate ventilation. ASHRAErecommends that carbon dioxide levels not exceed700 ppm above outdoor ambient levels.[6] The UKstandards for schools say that carbon dioxide in allteaching and learning spaces, when measured atseated head height and averaged over the whole day

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

50/69

should not exceed 1,500 ppm. The whole day refersto normal school hours (i.e. 9.00am to 3.30pm) andincludes unoccupied periods such as lunch breaks.Canadian standards limit carbon dioxide to 3500

ppm. OSHA limits carbon dioxide concentration inthe workplace to 5,000 ppm for prolonged periods,and 35,000 ppm for 15 minutes.

Ozone

Ozone is produced by ultraviolet light from the Sunhitting the Earth's atmosphere (especially in the

ozone layer), lightning, certain electric devices (suchas air ionisers), and as a byproduct of other types ofpollution.

Ozone exists in greater concentrations at altitudescommonly flown by passenger jets. Reactionsbetween ozone and onboard substances, including

skin oils and cosmetics, can produce toxic chemicalsas byproducts. Ozone itself is also irritating to lungtissue and harmful to human health. Larger jets haveozone filters to reduce the cabin concentration tosafer and more comfortable levels.

Outdoor air used for ventilation may have sufficientozone to react with common indoor pollutants as well

as skin oils and other common indoor air chemicalsor surfaces. Particular concern is warranted whenusing "green" cleaning products based on citrus orterpene extracts as these chemicals react veryquickly with ozone to form toxic and irritatingchemicals as well as fine and ultrafine particles.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

51/69

Ventilation with outdoor air containing elevatedozone concentrations may complicate remediationattempts.[8]

Developing countries

A major source of indoor air pollution in developingcountries is the burning of biomass (e.g. wood,charcoal, dung, or crop residue) for heating andcooking. The resulting exposure to high levels ofparticulate matter resulted in between 1.5 and 2million deaths in 2000.[9]

2.k.5 HVAC design

HVAC is an initialism or acronym that stands for"heating, ventilating, and air conditioning".HVAC is sometimes referred to as climate control

and is particularly important in the design of mediumto large industrial and office buildings such asskyscrapers and in marine environments such asaquariums, where humidity and temperature mustall be closely regulated whilst maintaining safe andhealthy conditions within.)

The "green design" movement in the commercial and

residential HVAC industry emphasizes payingattention to the issue of indoor air quality throughoutthe design and construction stages of a building'slife.

One technique to reduce energy consumption whilemaintaining adequate air quality, is demand

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

52/69

controlled ventilation. Instead of setting throughputat a fixed air replacement rate, carbon dioxidesensors are used to control the rate dynamically,based on the emissions of actual building occupants.

For the past several years, there have been manydebates among indoor air quality specialists aboutthe proper definition of indoor air quality andspecifically what constitutes "acceptable" indoor airquality.

One way of quantitatively ensuring the health of

indoor air is by the frequency of effective turnover ofinterior air by replacement with outside air. In theUK, for example, classrooms are required to have2.5 outdoor air changes per hour. In halls, gym,dining, and physiotherapy spaces, the ventilationshould be sufficient to limit carbon dioxide to 1,500ppm.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

53/69

2.l Biological Hazard

A biological hazard or biohazard is an organism, or substance derived froman organism, that poses a threat to (primarily) human health. This can includemedical waste or samples of a microorganism, virus or toxin (from a biological

source) that can impact human health. It can also include substances harmfulto animals. The term and its associated symbol is generally used as a warning,so that those potentially exposed to the substances will know to takeprecautions. There is also a biohazard HCS/Workplace Hazardous MaterialsInformation System (WHMIS) logo which utilizes the same symbol.

In Unicode, the biohazard sign is U+2623 ().

Biohazardous agents are classified for transportation by UN number:

UN 2814 (Infectious Substance, Affecting Humans) UN 2900 (Infectious Substance, Affecting Animals) UN 3373 (Diagnostic Specimen orClinical Specimen orBiological

Substance, Category B)

UN 3291 (Medical Waste)

The international biological hazard symbol

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

54/69

Immediate disposal of used needles into a sharpscontainer is standard procedure.

Biohazard Placard - Pipeline and Hazardous Materials

Safety Admin.

The United States' Centers for Disease Control andPrevention (CDC) categorizes various diseases inlevels of biohazard, Level 1 being minimum risk andLevel 4 being extreme risk.

Biohazard Level 1:Bacteria and viruses including Bacillus subtilis,caninehepatitis, Escherichia coli, varicella (chickenpox), as well as some cell cultures and non-infectious bacteria. At this level precautionsagainst the biohazardous materials in question are

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

55/69

minimal, most likely involving gloves and somesort of facial protection. Usually, contaminatedmaterials are left in open (but separatelyindicated) trash receptacles. Decontamination

procedures for this level are similar in mostrespects to modern precautions against everydayviruses (i.e.: washing one's hands with anti-bacterial soap, washing all exposed surfaces of thelab with disinfectants, etc). In a lab environment,all materials used for cell and/or bacteria culturesare decontaminated via autoclave.

Biohazard Level 2:

Bacteria and viruses that cause only mild diseaseto humans, or are difficult to contract via aerosol ina lab setting, such as hepatitis A, B, and C,influenza A, Lyme disease, salmonella, mumps,measles, scrapie, and HIV. "Routine diagnostic

work with clinical specimens can be done safely atBiosafety Level 2, using Biosafety Level 2 practicesand procedures. Research work (including co-cultivation, virus replication studies, ormanipulations involving concentrated virus) can bedone in a BSL-2 facility, using BSL-3 practices andprocedures. Virus production activities, including

virus concentrations, require a BSL-3 facility anduse of BSL-3 practices and procedures", seeRecommended Biosafety Levels for InfectiousAgents.

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

56/69

Biohazard Level 3:

Bacteria and viruses that can cause severe to fataldisease in humans, but for which vaccines or othertreatments exist, such as anthrax, West Nile virus,

Venezuelan equine encephalitis, SARS virus,variola virus (smallpox), tuberculosis, typhus, RiftValley fever, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, yellowfever, and malaria. Among parasites Plasmodiumfalciparum, which causes Malaria, andTrypanosoma cruzi, which causes trypanosomiasis,also come under this level.

Biohazard Level 4:

Exclusively viruses that cause severe to fatadisease in humans, and for which vaccines or othertreatments are notavailable, such as Bolivian and

Argentine hemorrhagic fevers, H5N1(bird flu)dengue fever, Marburg virus, Ebola virus,hantaviruses, Lassa fever, Crimean-Congohemorrhagic fever,Y. Pestis and other hemorrhagicdiseases. When dealing with biological hazards atthis level the use of a Hazmat suit and a self-contained oxygen supply is mandatory. The

entrance and exit of a Level Four biolab will containmultiple showers, a vacuum room, an ultravioletlight room, and other safety precautions designedto destroy all traces of the biohazard. Multipleairlocks are employed and are electronicallysecured to prevent both doors opening at the same

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

57/69

time. All air and water service going to and comingfrom a Biosafety Level 4 lab will undergo similardecontamination procedures to eliminate thepossibility of an accidental release.

2.mWorkplace Ergonomics and Ergonomics RiskFactors

2.m.1 FACTORS CONTIBUTING TORISK OF INJURIES

Many risk factors contribute to ergonomic injuries. Some ofthese factors are intrinsic to the individual while others arisefrom the work environment. Ergonomic injuries are

preventable. Familiarize yourself with the different types ofrisk factors and determine how you can minimize their impacton your health and your ability to work safely andcomfortably.

Individual Contributing Factors for Ergonomic Injuries

Multiple factors influence the body and its tolerance to

activities. Those individual risk factors affect our susceptibilityto injuries. Some individual contributing factors can bechanged or minimized while others are outside of our control.

AgeGender

Previous InjuryHealth Factors

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

58/69

StressPhysical Conditioning

Computer UseExtracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities requiring heavy gripping andpinching, whether it is sustained or repetitive, can increaseyour risk of injuries.

2.m.2 Ergonomics: Risk Factor Checklist (Example)

Ergonomics for the Prevention of MusculoskeletalDisorders: Guidelines for Retail Grocery Stores

Checklist for Identifying Potential Ergonomics

Risk Factors by Workplace Activity

If the answer to any of the following questions isyes, the activity should be further reviewed.

Force in Lifting

Does the lift involve pinching to hold the object? Is heavy lifting done with one hand? Are very heavy items lifted without the assistance

of a mechanical device? Are heavy items lifted while bending over, reachingabove shoulder height, or twisting? Are most items lifted rather than slid over thescanner?

Force in Pushing, Pulling, Carrying

8/8/2019 Module 2009 Chapter 2

59/69

Are dollies, pallet jacks, or other carts difficult toget started? Is there debris (e.g., broken pallets) or unevensurfaces (e.g., cracks in the floor) or dock plates that

could catch the wheels while pushing? Is pulling rather than pushing routinely used tomove an object? Are heavy objects carried manually for a longdistance?

Force to Use Tools

Do tools require the use of a pinch grip