unit 3: workplace hazards non-mechanical · 2 hsev 1012 – health, safety & environment unit 3...

16
________________________________________________________________________ 1 HSEV 1012 Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Unit 3: Workplace hazards – 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 machinery/industrial 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

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Page 1: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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: Unit 3: Workplace hazards Non-Mechanical · 2 HSEV 1012 – Health, Safety & Environment Unit 3 – Workplace hazards- Non-Mechanical Amna S Imamshah Common terms Conductor –A conductor

________________________________________________________________________

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