Workplace hazards
A workplace hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm, injury, illness, or property damage in the work environment.
They are typically categorized into six primary types:
1. Safety Hazards
These are the most common workplace risks and involve conditions that can cause injuries, spills, or trips.
Examples: Slips, trips, and falls (wet floors, trailing cords, uneven surfaces), working from heights, unguarded machinery, and electrical faults.
2. Biological Hazards
These involve living organisms or materials produced by them that pose a threat to human health.
Examples: Fungi, mold, bacteria, viruses, blood and other body fluids, insect bites, and animal droppings.
3. Physical Hazards
These are environmental factors or conditions that can harm the body, sometimes without direct contact.
Examples: Extreme temperatures (heat or cold), loud or constant noise, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, and vibration from tools or vehicles.
4. Ergonomic Hazards
These occur when the type of work, body positions, and working conditions put strain on your body.
Examples: Poor posture, improperly adjusted workstations or chairs, frequent and heavy lifting, and repetitive movements (like typing).
5. Chemical Hazards
These occur when a worker is exposed to any chemical preparation in the workplace in the form of liquids, solids, gases, or fumes.
Examples: Toxic dusts, cleaning products, paints, acids, solvents, pesticides, and flammable liquids.
6. Work Organization/Psychosocial hazards
These are hazards associated with workplace issues, workplace culture, or job demands that cause stress and negatively affect mental health.
Examples: High-intensity or unreasonable workload demands, lack of support, workplace violence, sexual harassment, bullying, and chronic fatigue due to shift changes.
