Page 1
________________________________________________________________________
1
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Unit 3 Workplace hazards ndash Non-Mechanical
______________________________________________
Lecture Objectives
Identify the hazards and describe control measures for the use of electricity in the workplace
List different forms of hazardous energy associated with machinery
Describe hazards and controls associated with cylinders and compressed air equipment
Identify the hazards of walking and working surfaces in the workplace and discuss hazard control measures and regulations to reduce occurrence
Define Confined Space and identify associated hazards and controls
Describe the hazards and risks associated with manual handling activities and determine ways to minimize these hazards and risk
Outline main hazards and controls associated with noise and vibration with respect to machineryindustrial equipment
______________________________________________________________________
Electrical hazards
Can result in
Electric shock
Electric burns
Electrical fires and explosions
Arcing
Falls from heights
Common hazards
Broken electrical wires cords equipment
Overloaded sockets
Using three prong cord in 2 prong socket
Contact with overhead wire or high tension wires
Using electrical equipment around water or moisture
Improper use of equipment
Lightning
________________________________________________________________________
2
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Common terms
Conductor ndashA conductor is a material that allows electricity to pass through it
Copper steel silver most metals
Insulator ndash An insulator is a material such as plastic rubber glass or ceramic
that prevents the flow or transfer of electricity Insulative materials can not be
grounded
Potential difference ndash the difference in electrical charge between two points in a
circuit expressed in volts
Short circuit ndash A short circuit in an electrical circuit allows a current along a
different path from the one intended
Electrical arcing - A luminous discharge of current that is formed when a strong
current jumps a gap in a circuit or between two electrodes
V = IR
P = IV
Common Controls
Adequate insulation double insulation
Isolation and lock ot tag out
Earthing grounding
Devices ndash fuse circuit breakers surge protectors residual current devices
GFCIrsquos
Reduced low voltage systems eg use battery operated tools
Inspections and maintenance
Proper selection of equipment
Ensure fire safety
________________________________________________________________________
3
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Change work methods eg pneumatic instead of electric tools
Static Electricity
Static electricity is produced by the build up of electrons on weak conductors or
insulating materials The discharge of this build up can produce a spark
Liquids with low conductivity tend to retain more static charge and therefore
produce a greater discharge (eg Flammable liquids like gasoline etc)
Common Hazards
Static spark can ignite flammable gases dust liquids
Static electricity can damage sensitive equipment
Static electricity can cause a reflex action that makes someone injure himself
Static electricity can cause electric shock
Common Controls
Bonding grounding
Reduce pouring splashing
Use special conductive containers for storing flammables
Increasing humidity
Positive pressure inside containers to prevent items from falling in
________________________________________________________________________
4
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Material handling amp storage Compressed gas and air equipment
Material can be handled
Manually ndash assess the load the working environment and the individual
Manual Handling Hazards of the load
dimensions
stability
rigidity
predictability
surface texture
temperature
grips and
handles
Hazards of the Work Environment
climate
lighting
space and
floors and other surfaces underfoot
Housekeeping and footwear are associated factors that have particular relevance
for risk of slips trips and falls while handling loads
Hazards of the Individual
Skills and Experience
Age
Clothing
Special Needs eg returning to work from an illness extended leave of absence
pregnancy specific disability etc
Actions and Movements should be performed
so they wont cause undue discomfort or pain
smoothly and with control
in a balanced and comfortable position
without extreme ranges of joint movement and
without repetitive bending twisting and overreaching
The employee should be able to
adopt several positions
adopt safe and healthy working postures and
have periodic rest breaks if having to adopt one posture for long periods
Distances over which loads are manually handled should be as short as possible The
longer the distance the lighter the load that can be carried without increased risk
Risk increases if
the load is located above the employees shoulder height
________________________________________________________________________
5
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
below mid-thigh height
requires extended reach and
requires manoeuvring to be placed accurately into the position
The weight of any load which is manually handled should be considered in relation to
other key risk factors including in particular
frequency and duration
position of load relative to the body
distance moved and
characteristics of the load
Materials can be handled mechanically
Mechanical handling(cranes forklifts conveyors elevators)
Hazards Controls
Crane Electrocution Hazards
(overhead lines)
Swinging superstructure of
equipment
Exposure to moving parts
Falling or failing loads
Swinging loads
OSHA power line clearance distances
ANSI requirements for working around
power lines
Safe working clearance distance for
cranes
A qualified rigger oversees all lifting
operations
All rigging devices are used properly and
are in good condition
Main hoisting line has been inspected
properly installed and maintained
Pre-critical lift evaluation performed (if
applicable)
Know the Weight
Know the Capacity
Retain the Load
Control the Load
Forklift Fall of truck operator
Fall of truck from an upper
level to a lower level
Fall of improperly loaded
cargo
Overturning of truck due to
overload or incorrect
positioning of the center of
gravity
Overturning due to cargo
lifting to an excessive height
or due to careless steering
Overturning
Rolling-down of truck due to
insufficiently applied
handbrake
Injury from rotating parts of
the truck
Collision
Stack and secure pallets safely do not
exceed maximum recommended weight
or height
Install overturning protection
Wear hearing protection appropriate for
the noise levels and type of noise
Protect hands with chemical-resistant
gloves if impractical use a barrier
cream
Wear appropriate eye protection
Do not operate diesel or gasoline-
powered forklift truck in confined or
inadequately ventilated spaces use an
electrically-operated truck
Use a respirator if truck motion raises
much dust from the floor
Install an ergonomically-designed
drivers seat
________________________________________________________________________
6
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Collapse of a stack
Electric shock from overhead
electric cables
Spill of acid during battery
charging
Exposure to excessive noise
levels
Exposure to whole-body
vibration
exhaust gases esp
asphyxiation by CO NOx
stress
Cumulative trauma disorders
of hands and arms pains
Neck pains Vision problems
(eyestrain eye burn)
Conveyors hazard points for conveyors are
Power transmissions
Nip points
Shear points
Pinch points
Spill points
Areas under counterweights
Transfer counterweights
Transfer mechanisms
Passage areas under conveyor
Under special circumstances
Operate equipment only with all
approved covers and guards in place
Do not perform maintenance on
conveyor until electrical air hydraulic
and gravity energy sources have been
locked out or blocked
Do not climb sit stand walk ride or
touch the conveyor at any time
Do not modify or misuse conveyor
controls
Keep clothing body parts and hair away
from the conveyor
Know the location and function of all
stop and start controls
Compressed gases
How can gases be hazardous
Flammablecombustible
Toxic
Asphixiation ndash the gas does not have to be toxic but displaces oxygen until there
is less than 17 in the atmosphere
Acidalkali action ndash gas mixes with water in our lungs to form acid which creates
more water (like drowning) eg ammonia
Interference with central nervous system
Anaesthetic action
Concurrent hazards
Gas cylinders if damaged can become a lethal projectile
Handling and storage of gases and equipment
________________________________________________________________________
7
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Move cylinders using hand trucks
Do not leave exposed to weather
Use proper tool and wrenches for changing cylinders
Disconnect slowly to bleed down pressure
Inspect cylinders for cracks leaks corrosion etc use soap solution to test for
leaks Hydrostatic test for more formal inspection
Store upright
Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas
Common terms
o Tare weight ndash cylinder weight when empty
o Filler valves ndashproduct transfer into cylinder
o Vapour valve ndash only allow flow when hose connected
o Valve cap ndash protects valve
o Pressure relief valve ndash releases product if pressure build up too high
o Top guard ring ndash protects outlet and relif valve
o Foot ring ndash keeps cylinder upright and protects from rust etc
Pressure vessels
Pressure vessels can explode if subjected to excess pressure regardless if the
substance it holds is flammable or not (BLEVE ndash boiling liquid expanding vapour
explosion) Relief valves are not designed to protect against this Common controls
are
Sloping the ground- ensure that the ground below does not act as a catchment area
for flammable liquids
Water deluge (most common) ndash ensures the entire vessel is cooled with water
Insulation ndash presents an immediate barrier to heat but cannot prevent overheating
Vapour depressurising ndash uses existing pipe work to decrease pressure
OSH Act 2004-
Provision of adequate fire fighting
Safe handling use transportation of substances
The gas cylinders (Use conveyance and storage) Act 1946
________________________________________________________________________
8
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Confined space
A confined space has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and it is not designed
for continuous employee occupancy Eg Underground vaults tanks storage bins
manholes pits silos process vessels and pipelines
Confined space hazards
Poor air quality insufficient oxygen might contain a poisonous substance that
could make the worker ill or lose consciousness
Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion as well as inhalation of bad
air
Fire Hazard explosiveflammable atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases
and combustible dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion
Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals release of contents of a supply
line
Noise
Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment structural hazards
entanglement slips falls
Radiation
Temperature extremes including atmospheric and surface
Shifting or collapse of bulk material
Barrier failure resulting in a flood or release of free-flowing solid
Uncontrolled energy including electrical shock
Visibility
Biological hazards
Confined space controls
Air quality testing
Mechanical ventilation
personal protective equipment
Entry Permit
Do not substitute oxygen for fresh air Increasing the oxygen content will
significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion
Rescue equipment person on standby
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 2
________________________________________________________________________
2
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Common terms
Conductor ndashA conductor is a material that allows electricity to pass through it
Copper steel silver most metals
Insulator ndash An insulator is a material such as plastic rubber glass or ceramic
that prevents the flow or transfer of electricity Insulative materials can not be
grounded
Potential difference ndash the difference in electrical charge between two points in a
circuit expressed in volts
Short circuit ndash A short circuit in an electrical circuit allows a current along a
different path from the one intended
Electrical arcing - A luminous discharge of current that is formed when a strong
current jumps a gap in a circuit or between two electrodes
V = IR
P = IV
Common Controls
Adequate insulation double insulation
Isolation and lock ot tag out
Earthing grounding
Devices ndash fuse circuit breakers surge protectors residual current devices
GFCIrsquos
Reduced low voltage systems eg use battery operated tools
Inspections and maintenance
Proper selection of equipment
Ensure fire safety
________________________________________________________________________
3
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Change work methods eg pneumatic instead of electric tools
Static Electricity
Static electricity is produced by the build up of electrons on weak conductors or
insulating materials The discharge of this build up can produce a spark
Liquids with low conductivity tend to retain more static charge and therefore
produce a greater discharge (eg Flammable liquids like gasoline etc)
Common Hazards
Static spark can ignite flammable gases dust liquids
Static electricity can damage sensitive equipment
Static electricity can cause a reflex action that makes someone injure himself
Static electricity can cause electric shock
Common Controls
Bonding grounding
Reduce pouring splashing
Use special conductive containers for storing flammables
Increasing humidity
Positive pressure inside containers to prevent items from falling in
________________________________________________________________________
4
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Material handling amp storage Compressed gas and air equipment
Material can be handled
Manually ndash assess the load the working environment and the individual
Manual Handling Hazards of the load
dimensions
stability
rigidity
predictability
surface texture
temperature
grips and
handles
Hazards of the Work Environment
climate
lighting
space and
floors and other surfaces underfoot
Housekeeping and footwear are associated factors that have particular relevance
for risk of slips trips and falls while handling loads
Hazards of the Individual
Skills and Experience
Age
Clothing
Special Needs eg returning to work from an illness extended leave of absence
pregnancy specific disability etc
Actions and Movements should be performed
so they wont cause undue discomfort or pain
smoothly and with control
in a balanced and comfortable position
without extreme ranges of joint movement and
without repetitive bending twisting and overreaching
The employee should be able to
adopt several positions
adopt safe and healthy working postures and
have periodic rest breaks if having to adopt one posture for long periods
Distances over which loads are manually handled should be as short as possible The
longer the distance the lighter the load that can be carried without increased risk
Risk increases if
the load is located above the employees shoulder height
________________________________________________________________________
5
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
below mid-thigh height
requires extended reach and
requires manoeuvring to be placed accurately into the position
The weight of any load which is manually handled should be considered in relation to
other key risk factors including in particular
frequency and duration
position of load relative to the body
distance moved and
characteristics of the load
Materials can be handled mechanically
Mechanical handling(cranes forklifts conveyors elevators)
Hazards Controls
Crane Electrocution Hazards
(overhead lines)
Swinging superstructure of
equipment
Exposure to moving parts
Falling or failing loads
Swinging loads
OSHA power line clearance distances
ANSI requirements for working around
power lines
Safe working clearance distance for
cranes
A qualified rigger oversees all lifting
operations
All rigging devices are used properly and
are in good condition
Main hoisting line has been inspected
properly installed and maintained
Pre-critical lift evaluation performed (if
applicable)
Know the Weight
Know the Capacity
Retain the Load
Control the Load
Forklift Fall of truck operator
Fall of truck from an upper
level to a lower level
Fall of improperly loaded
cargo
Overturning of truck due to
overload or incorrect
positioning of the center of
gravity
Overturning due to cargo
lifting to an excessive height
or due to careless steering
Overturning
Rolling-down of truck due to
insufficiently applied
handbrake
Injury from rotating parts of
the truck
Collision
Stack and secure pallets safely do not
exceed maximum recommended weight
or height
Install overturning protection
Wear hearing protection appropriate for
the noise levels and type of noise
Protect hands with chemical-resistant
gloves if impractical use a barrier
cream
Wear appropriate eye protection
Do not operate diesel or gasoline-
powered forklift truck in confined or
inadequately ventilated spaces use an
electrically-operated truck
Use a respirator if truck motion raises
much dust from the floor
Install an ergonomically-designed
drivers seat
________________________________________________________________________
6
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Collapse of a stack
Electric shock from overhead
electric cables
Spill of acid during battery
charging
Exposure to excessive noise
levels
Exposure to whole-body
vibration
exhaust gases esp
asphyxiation by CO NOx
stress
Cumulative trauma disorders
of hands and arms pains
Neck pains Vision problems
(eyestrain eye burn)
Conveyors hazard points for conveyors are
Power transmissions
Nip points
Shear points
Pinch points
Spill points
Areas under counterweights
Transfer counterweights
Transfer mechanisms
Passage areas under conveyor
Under special circumstances
Operate equipment only with all
approved covers and guards in place
Do not perform maintenance on
conveyor until electrical air hydraulic
and gravity energy sources have been
locked out or blocked
Do not climb sit stand walk ride or
touch the conveyor at any time
Do not modify or misuse conveyor
controls
Keep clothing body parts and hair away
from the conveyor
Know the location and function of all
stop and start controls
Compressed gases
How can gases be hazardous
Flammablecombustible
Toxic
Asphixiation ndash the gas does not have to be toxic but displaces oxygen until there
is less than 17 in the atmosphere
Acidalkali action ndash gas mixes with water in our lungs to form acid which creates
more water (like drowning) eg ammonia
Interference with central nervous system
Anaesthetic action
Concurrent hazards
Gas cylinders if damaged can become a lethal projectile
Handling and storage of gases and equipment
________________________________________________________________________
7
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Move cylinders using hand trucks
Do not leave exposed to weather
Use proper tool and wrenches for changing cylinders
Disconnect slowly to bleed down pressure
Inspect cylinders for cracks leaks corrosion etc use soap solution to test for
leaks Hydrostatic test for more formal inspection
Store upright
Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas
Common terms
o Tare weight ndash cylinder weight when empty
o Filler valves ndashproduct transfer into cylinder
o Vapour valve ndash only allow flow when hose connected
o Valve cap ndash protects valve
o Pressure relief valve ndash releases product if pressure build up too high
o Top guard ring ndash protects outlet and relif valve
o Foot ring ndash keeps cylinder upright and protects from rust etc
Pressure vessels
Pressure vessels can explode if subjected to excess pressure regardless if the
substance it holds is flammable or not (BLEVE ndash boiling liquid expanding vapour
explosion) Relief valves are not designed to protect against this Common controls
are
Sloping the ground- ensure that the ground below does not act as a catchment area
for flammable liquids
Water deluge (most common) ndash ensures the entire vessel is cooled with water
Insulation ndash presents an immediate barrier to heat but cannot prevent overheating
Vapour depressurising ndash uses existing pipe work to decrease pressure
OSH Act 2004-
Provision of adequate fire fighting
Safe handling use transportation of substances
The gas cylinders (Use conveyance and storage) Act 1946
________________________________________________________________________
8
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Confined space
A confined space has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and it is not designed
for continuous employee occupancy Eg Underground vaults tanks storage bins
manholes pits silos process vessels and pipelines
Confined space hazards
Poor air quality insufficient oxygen might contain a poisonous substance that
could make the worker ill or lose consciousness
Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion as well as inhalation of bad
air
Fire Hazard explosiveflammable atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases
and combustible dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion
Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals release of contents of a supply
line
Noise
Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment structural hazards
entanglement slips falls
Radiation
Temperature extremes including atmospheric and surface
Shifting or collapse of bulk material
Barrier failure resulting in a flood or release of free-flowing solid
Uncontrolled energy including electrical shock
Visibility
Biological hazards
Confined space controls
Air quality testing
Mechanical ventilation
personal protective equipment
Entry Permit
Do not substitute oxygen for fresh air Increasing the oxygen content will
significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion
Rescue equipment person on standby
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 3
________________________________________________________________________
3
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Change work methods eg pneumatic instead of electric tools
Static Electricity
Static electricity is produced by the build up of electrons on weak conductors or
insulating materials The discharge of this build up can produce a spark
Liquids with low conductivity tend to retain more static charge and therefore
produce a greater discharge (eg Flammable liquids like gasoline etc)
Common Hazards
Static spark can ignite flammable gases dust liquids
Static electricity can damage sensitive equipment
Static electricity can cause a reflex action that makes someone injure himself
Static electricity can cause electric shock
Common Controls
Bonding grounding
Reduce pouring splashing
Use special conductive containers for storing flammables
Increasing humidity
Positive pressure inside containers to prevent items from falling in
________________________________________________________________________
4
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Material handling amp storage Compressed gas and air equipment
Material can be handled
Manually ndash assess the load the working environment and the individual
Manual Handling Hazards of the load
dimensions
stability
rigidity
predictability
surface texture
temperature
grips and
handles
Hazards of the Work Environment
climate
lighting
space and
floors and other surfaces underfoot
Housekeeping and footwear are associated factors that have particular relevance
for risk of slips trips and falls while handling loads
Hazards of the Individual
Skills and Experience
Age
Clothing
Special Needs eg returning to work from an illness extended leave of absence
pregnancy specific disability etc
Actions and Movements should be performed
so they wont cause undue discomfort or pain
smoothly and with control
in a balanced and comfortable position
without extreme ranges of joint movement and
without repetitive bending twisting and overreaching
The employee should be able to
adopt several positions
adopt safe and healthy working postures and
have periodic rest breaks if having to adopt one posture for long periods
Distances over which loads are manually handled should be as short as possible The
longer the distance the lighter the load that can be carried without increased risk
Risk increases if
the load is located above the employees shoulder height
________________________________________________________________________
5
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
below mid-thigh height
requires extended reach and
requires manoeuvring to be placed accurately into the position
The weight of any load which is manually handled should be considered in relation to
other key risk factors including in particular
frequency and duration
position of load relative to the body
distance moved and
characteristics of the load
Materials can be handled mechanically
Mechanical handling(cranes forklifts conveyors elevators)
Hazards Controls
Crane Electrocution Hazards
(overhead lines)
Swinging superstructure of
equipment
Exposure to moving parts
Falling or failing loads
Swinging loads
OSHA power line clearance distances
ANSI requirements for working around
power lines
Safe working clearance distance for
cranes
A qualified rigger oversees all lifting
operations
All rigging devices are used properly and
are in good condition
Main hoisting line has been inspected
properly installed and maintained
Pre-critical lift evaluation performed (if
applicable)
Know the Weight
Know the Capacity
Retain the Load
Control the Load
Forklift Fall of truck operator
Fall of truck from an upper
level to a lower level
Fall of improperly loaded
cargo
Overturning of truck due to
overload or incorrect
positioning of the center of
gravity
Overturning due to cargo
lifting to an excessive height
or due to careless steering
Overturning
Rolling-down of truck due to
insufficiently applied
handbrake
Injury from rotating parts of
the truck
Collision
Stack and secure pallets safely do not
exceed maximum recommended weight
or height
Install overturning protection
Wear hearing protection appropriate for
the noise levels and type of noise
Protect hands with chemical-resistant
gloves if impractical use a barrier
cream
Wear appropriate eye protection
Do not operate diesel or gasoline-
powered forklift truck in confined or
inadequately ventilated spaces use an
electrically-operated truck
Use a respirator if truck motion raises
much dust from the floor
Install an ergonomically-designed
drivers seat
________________________________________________________________________
6
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Collapse of a stack
Electric shock from overhead
electric cables
Spill of acid during battery
charging
Exposure to excessive noise
levels
Exposure to whole-body
vibration
exhaust gases esp
asphyxiation by CO NOx
stress
Cumulative trauma disorders
of hands and arms pains
Neck pains Vision problems
(eyestrain eye burn)
Conveyors hazard points for conveyors are
Power transmissions
Nip points
Shear points
Pinch points
Spill points
Areas under counterweights
Transfer counterweights
Transfer mechanisms
Passage areas under conveyor
Under special circumstances
Operate equipment only with all
approved covers and guards in place
Do not perform maintenance on
conveyor until electrical air hydraulic
and gravity energy sources have been
locked out or blocked
Do not climb sit stand walk ride or
touch the conveyor at any time
Do not modify or misuse conveyor
controls
Keep clothing body parts and hair away
from the conveyor
Know the location and function of all
stop and start controls
Compressed gases
How can gases be hazardous
Flammablecombustible
Toxic
Asphixiation ndash the gas does not have to be toxic but displaces oxygen until there
is less than 17 in the atmosphere
Acidalkali action ndash gas mixes with water in our lungs to form acid which creates
more water (like drowning) eg ammonia
Interference with central nervous system
Anaesthetic action
Concurrent hazards
Gas cylinders if damaged can become a lethal projectile
Handling and storage of gases and equipment
________________________________________________________________________
7
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Move cylinders using hand trucks
Do not leave exposed to weather
Use proper tool and wrenches for changing cylinders
Disconnect slowly to bleed down pressure
Inspect cylinders for cracks leaks corrosion etc use soap solution to test for
leaks Hydrostatic test for more formal inspection
Store upright
Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas
Common terms
o Tare weight ndash cylinder weight when empty
o Filler valves ndashproduct transfer into cylinder
o Vapour valve ndash only allow flow when hose connected
o Valve cap ndash protects valve
o Pressure relief valve ndash releases product if pressure build up too high
o Top guard ring ndash protects outlet and relif valve
o Foot ring ndash keeps cylinder upright and protects from rust etc
Pressure vessels
Pressure vessels can explode if subjected to excess pressure regardless if the
substance it holds is flammable or not (BLEVE ndash boiling liquid expanding vapour
explosion) Relief valves are not designed to protect against this Common controls
are
Sloping the ground- ensure that the ground below does not act as a catchment area
for flammable liquids
Water deluge (most common) ndash ensures the entire vessel is cooled with water
Insulation ndash presents an immediate barrier to heat but cannot prevent overheating
Vapour depressurising ndash uses existing pipe work to decrease pressure
OSH Act 2004-
Provision of adequate fire fighting
Safe handling use transportation of substances
The gas cylinders (Use conveyance and storage) Act 1946
________________________________________________________________________
8
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Confined space
A confined space has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and it is not designed
for continuous employee occupancy Eg Underground vaults tanks storage bins
manholes pits silos process vessels and pipelines
Confined space hazards
Poor air quality insufficient oxygen might contain a poisonous substance that
could make the worker ill or lose consciousness
Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion as well as inhalation of bad
air
Fire Hazard explosiveflammable atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases
and combustible dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion
Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals release of contents of a supply
line
Noise
Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment structural hazards
entanglement slips falls
Radiation
Temperature extremes including atmospheric and surface
Shifting or collapse of bulk material
Barrier failure resulting in a flood or release of free-flowing solid
Uncontrolled energy including electrical shock
Visibility
Biological hazards
Confined space controls
Air quality testing
Mechanical ventilation
personal protective equipment
Entry Permit
Do not substitute oxygen for fresh air Increasing the oxygen content will
significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion
Rescue equipment person on standby
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 4
________________________________________________________________________
4
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Material handling amp storage Compressed gas and air equipment
Material can be handled
Manually ndash assess the load the working environment and the individual
Manual Handling Hazards of the load
dimensions
stability
rigidity
predictability
surface texture
temperature
grips and
handles
Hazards of the Work Environment
climate
lighting
space and
floors and other surfaces underfoot
Housekeeping and footwear are associated factors that have particular relevance
for risk of slips trips and falls while handling loads
Hazards of the Individual
Skills and Experience
Age
Clothing
Special Needs eg returning to work from an illness extended leave of absence
pregnancy specific disability etc
Actions and Movements should be performed
so they wont cause undue discomfort or pain
smoothly and with control
in a balanced and comfortable position
without extreme ranges of joint movement and
without repetitive bending twisting and overreaching
The employee should be able to
adopt several positions
adopt safe and healthy working postures and
have periodic rest breaks if having to adopt one posture for long periods
Distances over which loads are manually handled should be as short as possible The
longer the distance the lighter the load that can be carried without increased risk
Risk increases if
the load is located above the employees shoulder height
________________________________________________________________________
5
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
below mid-thigh height
requires extended reach and
requires manoeuvring to be placed accurately into the position
The weight of any load which is manually handled should be considered in relation to
other key risk factors including in particular
frequency and duration
position of load relative to the body
distance moved and
characteristics of the load
Materials can be handled mechanically
Mechanical handling(cranes forklifts conveyors elevators)
Hazards Controls
Crane Electrocution Hazards
(overhead lines)
Swinging superstructure of
equipment
Exposure to moving parts
Falling or failing loads
Swinging loads
OSHA power line clearance distances
ANSI requirements for working around
power lines
Safe working clearance distance for
cranes
A qualified rigger oversees all lifting
operations
All rigging devices are used properly and
are in good condition
Main hoisting line has been inspected
properly installed and maintained
Pre-critical lift evaluation performed (if
applicable)
Know the Weight
Know the Capacity
Retain the Load
Control the Load
Forklift Fall of truck operator
Fall of truck from an upper
level to a lower level
Fall of improperly loaded
cargo
Overturning of truck due to
overload or incorrect
positioning of the center of
gravity
Overturning due to cargo
lifting to an excessive height
or due to careless steering
Overturning
Rolling-down of truck due to
insufficiently applied
handbrake
Injury from rotating parts of
the truck
Collision
Stack and secure pallets safely do not
exceed maximum recommended weight
or height
Install overturning protection
Wear hearing protection appropriate for
the noise levels and type of noise
Protect hands with chemical-resistant
gloves if impractical use a barrier
cream
Wear appropriate eye protection
Do not operate diesel or gasoline-
powered forklift truck in confined or
inadequately ventilated spaces use an
electrically-operated truck
Use a respirator if truck motion raises
much dust from the floor
Install an ergonomically-designed
drivers seat
________________________________________________________________________
6
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Collapse of a stack
Electric shock from overhead
electric cables
Spill of acid during battery
charging
Exposure to excessive noise
levels
Exposure to whole-body
vibration
exhaust gases esp
asphyxiation by CO NOx
stress
Cumulative trauma disorders
of hands and arms pains
Neck pains Vision problems
(eyestrain eye burn)
Conveyors hazard points for conveyors are
Power transmissions
Nip points
Shear points
Pinch points
Spill points
Areas under counterweights
Transfer counterweights
Transfer mechanisms
Passage areas under conveyor
Under special circumstances
Operate equipment only with all
approved covers and guards in place
Do not perform maintenance on
conveyor until electrical air hydraulic
and gravity energy sources have been
locked out or blocked
Do not climb sit stand walk ride or
touch the conveyor at any time
Do not modify or misuse conveyor
controls
Keep clothing body parts and hair away
from the conveyor
Know the location and function of all
stop and start controls
Compressed gases
How can gases be hazardous
Flammablecombustible
Toxic
Asphixiation ndash the gas does not have to be toxic but displaces oxygen until there
is less than 17 in the atmosphere
Acidalkali action ndash gas mixes with water in our lungs to form acid which creates
more water (like drowning) eg ammonia
Interference with central nervous system
Anaesthetic action
Concurrent hazards
Gas cylinders if damaged can become a lethal projectile
Handling and storage of gases and equipment
________________________________________________________________________
7
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Move cylinders using hand trucks
Do not leave exposed to weather
Use proper tool and wrenches for changing cylinders
Disconnect slowly to bleed down pressure
Inspect cylinders for cracks leaks corrosion etc use soap solution to test for
leaks Hydrostatic test for more formal inspection
Store upright
Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas
Common terms
o Tare weight ndash cylinder weight when empty
o Filler valves ndashproduct transfer into cylinder
o Vapour valve ndash only allow flow when hose connected
o Valve cap ndash protects valve
o Pressure relief valve ndash releases product if pressure build up too high
o Top guard ring ndash protects outlet and relif valve
o Foot ring ndash keeps cylinder upright and protects from rust etc
Pressure vessels
Pressure vessels can explode if subjected to excess pressure regardless if the
substance it holds is flammable or not (BLEVE ndash boiling liquid expanding vapour
explosion) Relief valves are not designed to protect against this Common controls
are
Sloping the ground- ensure that the ground below does not act as a catchment area
for flammable liquids
Water deluge (most common) ndash ensures the entire vessel is cooled with water
Insulation ndash presents an immediate barrier to heat but cannot prevent overheating
Vapour depressurising ndash uses existing pipe work to decrease pressure
OSH Act 2004-
Provision of adequate fire fighting
Safe handling use transportation of substances
The gas cylinders (Use conveyance and storage) Act 1946
________________________________________________________________________
8
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Confined space
A confined space has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and it is not designed
for continuous employee occupancy Eg Underground vaults tanks storage bins
manholes pits silos process vessels and pipelines
Confined space hazards
Poor air quality insufficient oxygen might contain a poisonous substance that
could make the worker ill or lose consciousness
Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion as well as inhalation of bad
air
Fire Hazard explosiveflammable atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases
and combustible dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion
Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals release of contents of a supply
line
Noise
Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment structural hazards
entanglement slips falls
Radiation
Temperature extremes including atmospheric and surface
Shifting or collapse of bulk material
Barrier failure resulting in a flood or release of free-flowing solid
Uncontrolled energy including electrical shock
Visibility
Biological hazards
Confined space controls
Air quality testing
Mechanical ventilation
personal protective equipment
Entry Permit
Do not substitute oxygen for fresh air Increasing the oxygen content will
significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion
Rescue equipment person on standby
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 5
________________________________________________________________________
5
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
below mid-thigh height
requires extended reach and
requires manoeuvring to be placed accurately into the position
The weight of any load which is manually handled should be considered in relation to
other key risk factors including in particular
frequency and duration
position of load relative to the body
distance moved and
characteristics of the load
Materials can be handled mechanically
Mechanical handling(cranes forklifts conveyors elevators)
Hazards Controls
Crane Electrocution Hazards
(overhead lines)
Swinging superstructure of
equipment
Exposure to moving parts
Falling or failing loads
Swinging loads
OSHA power line clearance distances
ANSI requirements for working around
power lines
Safe working clearance distance for
cranes
A qualified rigger oversees all lifting
operations
All rigging devices are used properly and
are in good condition
Main hoisting line has been inspected
properly installed and maintained
Pre-critical lift evaluation performed (if
applicable)
Know the Weight
Know the Capacity
Retain the Load
Control the Load
Forklift Fall of truck operator
Fall of truck from an upper
level to a lower level
Fall of improperly loaded
cargo
Overturning of truck due to
overload or incorrect
positioning of the center of
gravity
Overturning due to cargo
lifting to an excessive height
or due to careless steering
Overturning
Rolling-down of truck due to
insufficiently applied
handbrake
Injury from rotating parts of
the truck
Collision
Stack and secure pallets safely do not
exceed maximum recommended weight
or height
Install overturning protection
Wear hearing protection appropriate for
the noise levels and type of noise
Protect hands with chemical-resistant
gloves if impractical use a barrier
cream
Wear appropriate eye protection
Do not operate diesel or gasoline-
powered forklift truck in confined or
inadequately ventilated spaces use an
electrically-operated truck
Use a respirator if truck motion raises
much dust from the floor
Install an ergonomically-designed
drivers seat
________________________________________________________________________
6
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Collapse of a stack
Electric shock from overhead
electric cables
Spill of acid during battery
charging
Exposure to excessive noise
levels
Exposure to whole-body
vibration
exhaust gases esp
asphyxiation by CO NOx
stress
Cumulative trauma disorders
of hands and arms pains
Neck pains Vision problems
(eyestrain eye burn)
Conveyors hazard points for conveyors are
Power transmissions
Nip points
Shear points
Pinch points
Spill points
Areas under counterweights
Transfer counterweights
Transfer mechanisms
Passage areas under conveyor
Under special circumstances
Operate equipment only with all
approved covers and guards in place
Do not perform maintenance on
conveyor until electrical air hydraulic
and gravity energy sources have been
locked out or blocked
Do not climb sit stand walk ride or
touch the conveyor at any time
Do not modify or misuse conveyor
controls
Keep clothing body parts and hair away
from the conveyor
Know the location and function of all
stop and start controls
Compressed gases
How can gases be hazardous
Flammablecombustible
Toxic
Asphixiation ndash the gas does not have to be toxic but displaces oxygen until there
is less than 17 in the atmosphere
Acidalkali action ndash gas mixes with water in our lungs to form acid which creates
more water (like drowning) eg ammonia
Interference with central nervous system
Anaesthetic action
Concurrent hazards
Gas cylinders if damaged can become a lethal projectile
Handling and storage of gases and equipment
________________________________________________________________________
7
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Move cylinders using hand trucks
Do not leave exposed to weather
Use proper tool and wrenches for changing cylinders
Disconnect slowly to bleed down pressure
Inspect cylinders for cracks leaks corrosion etc use soap solution to test for
leaks Hydrostatic test for more formal inspection
Store upright
Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas
Common terms
o Tare weight ndash cylinder weight when empty
o Filler valves ndashproduct transfer into cylinder
o Vapour valve ndash only allow flow when hose connected
o Valve cap ndash protects valve
o Pressure relief valve ndash releases product if pressure build up too high
o Top guard ring ndash protects outlet and relif valve
o Foot ring ndash keeps cylinder upright and protects from rust etc
Pressure vessels
Pressure vessels can explode if subjected to excess pressure regardless if the
substance it holds is flammable or not (BLEVE ndash boiling liquid expanding vapour
explosion) Relief valves are not designed to protect against this Common controls
are
Sloping the ground- ensure that the ground below does not act as a catchment area
for flammable liquids
Water deluge (most common) ndash ensures the entire vessel is cooled with water
Insulation ndash presents an immediate barrier to heat but cannot prevent overheating
Vapour depressurising ndash uses existing pipe work to decrease pressure
OSH Act 2004-
Provision of adequate fire fighting
Safe handling use transportation of substances
The gas cylinders (Use conveyance and storage) Act 1946
________________________________________________________________________
8
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Confined space
A confined space has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and it is not designed
for continuous employee occupancy Eg Underground vaults tanks storage bins
manholes pits silos process vessels and pipelines
Confined space hazards
Poor air quality insufficient oxygen might contain a poisonous substance that
could make the worker ill or lose consciousness
Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion as well as inhalation of bad
air
Fire Hazard explosiveflammable atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases
and combustible dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion
Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals release of contents of a supply
line
Noise
Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment structural hazards
entanglement slips falls
Radiation
Temperature extremes including atmospheric and surface
Shifting or collapse of bulk material
Barrier failure resulting in a flood or release of free-flowing solid
Uncontrolled energy including electrical shock
Visibility
Biological hazards
Confined space controls
Air quality testing
Mechanical ventilation
personal protective equipment
Entry Permit
Do not substitute oxygen for fresh air Increasing the oxygen content will
significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion
Rescue equipment person on standby
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 6
________________________________________________________________________
6
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Collapse of a stack
Electric shock from overhead
electric cables
Spill of acid during battery
charging
Exposure to excessive noise
levels
Exposure to whole-body
vibration
exhaust gases esp
asphyxiation by CO NOx
stress
Cumulative trauma disorders
of hands and arms pains
Neck pains Vision problems
(eyestrain eye burn)
Conveyors hazard points for conveyors are
Power transmissions
Nip points
Shear points
Pinch points
Spill points
Areas under counterweights
Transfer counterweights
Transfer mechanisms
Passage areas under conveyor
Under special circumstances
Operate equipment only with all
approved covers and guards in place
Do not perform maintenance on
conveyor until electrical air hydraulic
and gravity energy sources have been
locked out or blocked
Do not climb sit stand walk ride or
touch the conveyor at any time
Do not modify or misuse conveyor
controls
Keep clothing body parts and hair away
from the conveyor
Know the location and function of all
stop and start controls
Compressed gases
How can gases be hazardous
Flammablecombustible
Toxic
Asphixiation ndash the gas does not have to be toxic but displaces oxygen until there
is less than 17 in the atmosphere
Acidalkali action ndash gas mixes with water in our lungs to form acid which creates
more water (like drowning) eg ammonia
Interference with central nervous system
Anaesthetic action
Concurrent hazards
Gas cylinders if damaged can become a lethal projectile
Handling and storage of gases and equipment
________________________________________________________________________
7
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Move cylinders using hand trucks
Do not leave exposed to weather
Use proper tool and wrenches for changing cylinders
Disconnect slowly to bleed down pressure
Inspect cylinders for cracks leaks corrosion etc use soap solution to test for
leaks Hydrostatic test for more formal inspection
Store upright
Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas
Common terms
o Tare weight ndash cylinder weight when empty
o Filler valves ndashproduct transfer into cylinder
o Vapour valve ndash only allow flow when hose connected
o Valve cap ndash protects valve
o Pressure relief valve ndash releases product if pressure build up too high
o Top guard ring ndash protects outlet and relif valve
o Foot ring ndash keeps cylinder upright and protects from rust etc
Pressure vessels
Pressure vessels can explode if subjected to excess pressure regardless if the
substance it holds is flammable or not (BLEVE ndash boiling liquid expanding vapour
explosion) Relief valves are not designed to protect against this Common controls
are
Sloping the ground- ensure that the ground below does not act as a catchment area
for flammable liquids
Water deluge (most common) ndash ensures the entire vessel is cooled with water
Insulation ndash presents an immediate barrier to heat but cannot prevent overheating
Vapour depressurising ndash uses existing pipe work to decrease pressure
OSH Act 2004-
Provision of adequate fire fighting
Safe handling use transportation of substances
The gas cylinders (Use conveyance and storage) Act 1946
________________________________________________________________________
8
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Confined space
A confined space has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and it is not designed
for continuous employee occupancy Eg Underground vaults tanks storage bins
manholes pits silos process vessels and pipelines
Confined space hazards
Poor air quality insufficient oxygen might contain a poisonous substance that
could make the worker ill or lose consciousness
Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion as well as inhalation of bad
air
Fire Hazard explosiveflammable atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases
and combustible dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion
Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals release of contents of a supply
line
Noise
Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment structural hazards
entanglement slips falls
Radiation
Temperature extremes including atmospheric and surface
Shifting or collapse of bulk material
Barrier failure resulting in a flood or release of free-flowing solid
Uncontrolled energy including electrical shock
Visibility
Biological hazards
Confined space controls
Air quality testing
Mechanical ventilation
personal protective equipment
Entry Permit
Do not substitute oxygen for fresh air Increasing the oxygen content will
significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion
Rescue equipment person on standby
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 7
________________________________________________________________________
7
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Move cylinders using hand trucks
Do not leave exposed to weather
Use proper tool and wrenches for changing cylinders
Disconnect slowly to bleed down pressure
Inspect cylinders for cracks leaks corrosion etc use soap solution to test for
leaks Hydrostatic test for more formal inspection
Store upright
Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas
Common terms
o Tare weight ndash cylinder weight when empty
o Filler valves ndashproduct transfer into cylinder
o Vapour valve ndash only allow flow when hose connected
o Valve cap ndash protects valve
o Pressure relief valve ndash releases product if pressure build up too high
o Top guard ring ndash protects outlet and relif valve
o Foot ring ndash keeps cylinder upright and protects from rust etc
Pressure vessels
Pressure vessels can explode if subjected to excess pressure regardless if the
substance it holds is flammable or not (BLEVE ndash boiling liquid expanding vapour
explosion) Relief valves are not designed to protect against this Common controls
are
Sloping the ground- ensure that the ground below does not act as a catchment area
for flammable liquids
Water deluge (most common) ndash ensures the entire vessel is cooled with water
Insulation ndash presents an immediate barrier to heat but cannot prevent overheating
Vapour depressurising ndash uses existing pipe work to decrease pressure
OSH Act 2004-
Provision of adequate fire fighting
Safe handling use transportation of substances
The gas cylinders (Use conveyance and storage) Act 1946
________________________________________________________________________
8
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Confined space
A confined space has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and it is not designed
for continuous employee occupancy Eg Underground vaults tanks storage bins
manholes pits silos process vessels and pipelines
Confined space hazards
Poor air quality insufficient oxygen might contain a poisonous substance that
could make the worker ill or lose consciousness
Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion as well as inhalation of bad
air
Fire Hazard explosiveflammable atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases
and combustible dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion
Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals release of contents of a supply
line
Noise
Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment structural hazards
entanglement slips falls
Radiation
Temperature extremes including atmospheric and surface
Shifting or collapse of bulk material
Barrier failure resulting in a flood or release of free-flowing solid
Uncontrolled energy including electrical shock
Visibility
Biological hazards
Confined space controls
Air quality testing
Mechanical ventilation
personal protective equipment
Entry Permit
Do not substitute oxygen for fresh air Increasing the oxygen content will
significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion
Rescue equipment person on standby
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 8
________________________________________________________________________
8
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Confined space
A confined space has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and it is not designed
for continuous employee occupancy Eg Underground vaults tanks storage bins
manholes pits silos process vessels and pipelines
Confined space hazards
Poor air quality insufficient oxygen might contain a poisonous substance that
could make the worker ill or lose consciousness
Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion as well as inhalation of bad
air
Fire Hazard explosiveflammable atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases
and combustible dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion
Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals release of contents of a supply
line
Noise
Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment structural hazards
entanglement slips falls
Radiation
Temperature extremes including atmospheric and surface
Shifting or collapse of bulk material
Barrier failure resulting in a flood or release of free-flowing solid
Uncontrolled energy including electrical shock
Visibility
Biological hazards
Confined space controls
Air quality testing
Mechanical ventilation
personal protective equipment
Entry Permit
Do not substitute oxygen for fresh air Increasing the oxygen content will
significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion
Rescue equipment person on standby
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 9
________________________________________________________________________
9
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Noise and Vibration hazard
Noise has been defined as a sound without agreeable quality or as unwanted or undesirable sound Noise problem can be divided in two categories First is the community noise wherein one is
concerned with annoyance caused to people in their indoor environment It is the intrusion of
noise inside the dwellings above the allowable level mainly from vehicular traffic The other is
the intense sound that exists in some workplaces like factories and traffic islands where there is
a real danger of permanent physical damage Prolonged exposure to excessive noise produces
adverse physiological effects such ashypertension annoyance disturbance in sleep and
deafness etc
EFFECTS OF NOISE There is a bad effect of noise on human health depending upon the noise level exposurentime and the health conditions The effects of noise can be classified in the following ways
(i) Psychological and physiological effects- The noise of different levels has different psychological and physiological effects The following table shows some of them
Noise level Effects
Noise level Effects
65 dB
Noise may create annoyance up to this level but it is only psychological (nervous effect) Above this level physiological effects such as mental and physical fatigue may occur
90 dB
Many years of exposure to such noise level would cause permanent hearing loss
100 dB
With short period of exposure to this noise level the aural acuity may be impaired temporarily and prolonged exposure is likely to cause irreparable damage to the auditory organ
120 dB
Short exposure cause pain and other damages to human beings
150 dB Causes instantaneous loss of hearing
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 10
________________________________________________________________________
10
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
CONTROL OF NOISE POLLUTION Though the noise cannot be totally eliminated but can be reduced by adopting certain measures The basic principles of noise control are as follows
1 Noise Control at Source In an industry to control the noise at source the machinery should be equipped by effective
silencers properly installed on the designed foundation and well maintained Use of shock
absorbing material efficient flow technique reducing fluid jet velocities restricting sound
producing area reducing peak accelerations are some of the techniques of noise control at
source Use of guards covers enclosures and muffler systems sealing all openings use of
proper cutting speeds and feed rate are other ways of noise reduction The proper maintenance
of machines by lubrication and timely replacement of bearings is the main thing required for the
control of noise at source
2 Noise Control along the Path The modification of sound path includes
i Use of solid high barriers to interrupt the direct transmission Solid fences and high earth
beams can be provided up to attenuation along the highways
ii Increasing distance between the source and the receiver
iii By planting trees Trees are very good absorber of the sound and otherwise also very much
useful as described earlier
3 NOISE CONTROL AT RECEIVING END bull To control the noise at receiver level following measures are adopted
bull Double glazing windows in the building for improved sound proofing
bull Gasketing and sealing door and windows openings
bull Providing additional sound insulation for roofs and walls
bull Isolate the operator from the noise
bull By controlling hours of exposure to noise
bull Use of personal protective devices like ear plugs ear defenders disposable earplugs etc
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 11
________________________________________________________________________
11
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
4 OTHER WAYS OF NOISE CONTROL
Forming legislation for noise levels for various types of equipment land use pattern declaration
of silence zone restricting the use of loudspeakers are some of the ways of noise reduction
Educating people about hazards of noise pollution and developing awareness at all levels can
solve the problem
Chemical safety
How chemicals can be hazardous
Workplace hazardous materials information system(WHMIS)
Class Symbol Example A ndash compressed
gas
Propane acatylene
B - Flammable
and
Combustible
Material
Diesel fuel gasoline flares matches
C - Oxidizing
Materials
Ammonium nitrate potassium
permanganate
D - Poisonous
and Infectious
materials
Acute toxicity
Sodium cyanide arsenic
Chronic toxicity
Asbestos mercury benzene
Biohazardous infectious Blood urine samples vaccines
E - Corrosive
Material
Acids alkalis
F ndash
Dangerously
reactive
Liquefied acetylene
Some exempted eg hazardous waste radioactive material tobacco consumer restricted
products
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 12
________________________________________________________________________
12
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
LD 50 ndash lethal dose amount that can kill at least 50 of the test population
TWA ndash Time weighted average The average exposure to a contaminant or condition
(such as chemical exposure or noise) to which workers may be exposed without adverse
effect over a period such as in an 8-hour day
STEL ndash short term exposure limit - The maximum amount of harmful gas or dust to
which a person may be exposed for a brief period (usually 15 minutes) without being
physically harmed
Main routes of entry ndash ingestion inhalation absorption injection
Controls eg
Substitution ndash use a less hazardous substance
Space layout of work area
Isolation of harmful substance
Adequate ventilation ndash extractors fume cupboards
Proper labeling amp signage ndash supplier labels and workplace labels
Proper storage ndash do not store reactive substances together automated handling
Material Safety data sheets (MSDS) ndash information includes
o Product Identification
o Component Data
o Precautions for Safe Handing and Storage
o Physical Data
o Personal Protective Equipment
o Fire and Explosion Hazard Information
o Reactivity Information
o First Aid
o Toxicology and Health Information
o Transportation Information
o Spill and Leak Procedures
o Waste Disposal
o Additional Regulatory Status Information
o Additional Information
o Major References
Adequate chemical resistant ppe
Adequate welfare facilities eg eyewash stations showers first aid kits
Proper personal hygiene
OSH ACT 2004 ndash
Employers to provide adequate information instruction training etc
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 13
________________________________________________________________________
13
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Employers to provide ppe
Employers to provide adequate welfare facilities
Suppliers to provide articles substances etc that are safe when used correctly + ifo such
as MSDS
Employees to use ppe
Transportation of dangerous goods
Substances must be classified according to how hazardous they are
All necessary documentation must be in order including permits and inspections
Goods must be marked with standard symbols and information Should be visible
legible correct colour code info such as flammability toxicity etc
Persons must be trained in emergency response accidental release and
containment
Goods can be moved via road rail air sea eg oil and gas Methanol transported
using road and sea and rail Cement is transported in pre packaged bags using
pallets via trucks
In Trinidad oil and gas transported via road sea and pipeline Usually steel drums or
barrels are used (bopd) Trucks carrying dangerous goods must display the NFPA
symbol
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 14
________________________________________________________________________
14
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
NFPA symbol
BLUE 4 Very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury (eg hydrogen cyanide phosphine)
3 Short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury (eg chlorine gas)
2 Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible
residual injury (eg ethyl ether
1 Exposure would cause irritation with only minor residual injury (eg Acetone
0 Poses no health hazard no precautions necessary (eg lanolin
RED 4 Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature or is readily
dispersed in air and will burn readily (eg propane) Flash point below 23degC (73degF)
3 Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions (eg gasoline)
Flash point between 23degC (73degF) and 38degC (100degF)
2 Must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperature before ignition can
occur (eg diesel fuel) Flash point between 38degC (100degF) and 93degC (200degF)
1 Must be heated before ignition can occur (eg soybean oil) Flash point over 93degC (200degF)
0 Will not burn (eg water)
YELLOW
4
Readily capable of detonation or explosive decomposition at normal temperatures and pressures (eg
nitroglycerine RDX)
3 Capable of detonation or explosive decomposition but requires a strong initiating source must be
heated under confinement before initiation reacts explosively with water or will detonate if severely
shocked (eg ammonium nitrate)
2 Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures reacts violently with
water or may form explosive mixtures with water (eg phosphorus potassium sodium
1 Normally stable but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures (eg hydrogen
peroxide
0 Normally stable even under fire exposure conditions and is not reactive with water (eg helium
WHITE W reacts with Water in an unusual or dangerous manner (eg caesium sodium)
OX or OXY Oxidizer (eg potassium perchlorate ammonium nitrate)
SA Simple asphyxiant gas (includes nitrogen helium neon argon krypton or xenon)
Haz Subst coming from a supplier must have a supplier label WHMIS border product
identifier supplier identifier MSDS available WHMIS symbols risk phrases
precautionary statements first aid
Once it is decanted in the workplace it must have a workplace label product identifier
risk phrases MSDS available
Red FLAMMABILITY 0-4
White SPECIAL INFO
Yellow REACTIVITY 0-4 Blue HEALTH
0-4
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 15
________________________________________________________________________
15
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Walking or working surfaces
Slips
Trips
Falls from same level (STFrsquos) eg
Mats or ladders (eg floorboards duckboards ladder rungs scaffolding or
climbingcradle ropes) holes or depressions in floors slopes loose flooring protruding
objects uncovered drains or pits curbs bent floor boards or plates loose or poorly fitted
grating sagging floor supports poor drainage slippery floor surfaces because of
composition age finish or lack of maintenance Sudden change in traction brought about
by walking from one floor surface (eg carpeted floor) to another (eg tiled floor)
Extension cords power cables air hoses pipes or conduits set near the floor projecting
parts on machines or equipment seasonal conditions ndash snow ice rain or mud
Falls from height
Laddersscaffolds ndashImproper Selection and Use of Equipment Inadequate Maintenance
and Repair Departure from Manufacturerrsquos Specifications
Means of egress ( normal exits emergency exits confined spaces)
Scaffolding
Scaffolding includes suspended systems
from buildings supported systems from
the ground and aerial systems on mobile
equipment
All metal frame scaffolds share common
components Platforms base supports side
brackets and support trusses
Ensure that scaffolds are
Safely secured and supported
Plumb and level firm contact with a stable surface Should be sturdy with all
nuts and bolts tightened Damaged or improperly constructed equipment
should not be used
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc
Page 16
________________________________________________________________________
16
HSEV 1012 ndash Health Safety amp Environment
Unit 3 ndash Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical
Amna S Imamshah
Provided with safe access (such as ladders) practice good climbing
techniques including facing the rungs when climbing up or down using tool
belts or approved hoists to carry materials up to the jobsite
Adequately decked (for example have a work surface and platform)
Erected moved dismantled altered under the supervision of scaffold
competent persons Inspected before each use by competent person
Are fitted with guard rails and toeboards where necessary
Used in addition with fall arresting devices where necessary
At least 12 feet away from power lines
Can result in
Contusions Broken Bones Fractures Concussion Death Back Injury Strains
and Sprains Fire Instability
Controls
Install non-slip surfaces especially around machinery and equipment where spills
may occur on stairs and ramps and in lunch rooms and aisles
Provide duckboards or other non-slip footing in frequently wet areas Install drip
pans
Provide proper lighting particularly on stairs
Repair or replace worn or damaged stair treads
Provide proper storage facilities
Ensure that employees Wear clothing that is properly fitted and will not present
a trip hazard (eg longer trouser cuffs high heel shoes in certain areas) Wear
appropriate footwear Store heavy objects in accessible areas Do not carry loads
that obstruct their view Refrain from horseplay
Keep stairs ramps (including wheelchair ramps) and walkways clear and in good
condition
Maintain parking lots Caution employees to watch for holes concrete divider
bars curbs discarded cans and other tripping hazards
Make sure that there are no turned up or worn patches in carpets
Place cords cables etc out of the way of traffic or tape them down
Arrange furniture so that it does not create an obstacle
Post warning signs in slippery areas
Provide permanent access to high places that must be reached regularly
Provide railings on stairs scaffolds
Use fall arresting devices on heights
Cover open manholes etc