IMPLEMENTATION OF OCCUPATIONAL

HEALTH AND SAFETY IN INDUSTRY

Module 2:

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

2.1 Types of Workplace Hazards

Physical Hazards

Physical hazards are those that can cause injury or harm through direct contact or exposure. They
include:

• Noise: Excessive noise can damage hearing and contribute to stress.

• Vibration: Prolonged exposure to vibration can cause musculoskeletal disorders.
• Radiation: Exposure to ionizing or non-ionizing radiation can lead to various health issues,
including cancer.
• Extreme temperatures: Both heat and cold stress can be dangerous, leading to heatstroke,
hypothermia, or other health problems.
• Lighting: Inadequate lighting can cause eye strain, accidents, and fatigue.
• Slips, trips, and falls: Poor housekeeping, wet floors, and obstacles can lead to injuries.
• Machinery hazards: Moving parts, sharp edges, and electrical hazards associated with
machinery can cause serious injuries.

Chemical Hazards

Chemical hazards arise from exposure to harmful substances. They can cause acute or chronic
health effects. Examples include:

• Toxic substances: Chemicals that can cause poisoning or death.

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 • Corrosive substances: Chemicals that can burn or destroy tissue.
• Flammable substances: Chemicals that can easily ignite and cause fires or explosions.
• Irritants: Substances that cause skin or respiratory irritation.
• Sensitizers: Substances that can cause allergic reactions.
• Carcinogens: Substances that can cause cancer.

Biological Hazards

Biological hazards come from living organisms or their products. They can cause infections or
diseases. Examples include:

• Bacteria: Microorganisms that can cause various illnesses.

• Viruses: Microscopic organisms that can cause infections.
• Fungi: Organisms that can cause respiratory or skin infections.
• Parasites: Organisms that live on or in other organisms.
• Bloodborne pathogens: Viruses or bacteria transmitted through blood, such as HIV and
hepatitis B.

Ergonomic Hazards

Ergonomic hazards arise from the design and arrangement of workplaces, equipment, and tasks.
They can lead to musculoskeletal disorders. Examples include:

• Repetitive motions: Repeated movements can cause strain on muscles, tendons, and
nerves.
• Awkward postures: Prolonged or uncomfortable postures can lead to musculoskeletal
pain.
• Overexertion: Excessive force or lifting can cause injuries.
• Vibration: Exposure to vibration can cause musculoskeletal disorders.
• Static loading: Maintaining the same position for extended periods can cause discomfort.

Psychosocial Hazards

Psychosocial hazards arise from work organization, management styles, and interpersonal
relationships. They can affect mental health and well-being. Examples include:

• Work overload: Excessive workload can lead to stress and burnout.

• Underutilization: Lack of challenges or opportunities can lead to boredom and
dissatisfaction.
• Role ambiguity: Unclear job expectations can cause stress and anxiety.
• Job insecurity: Fear of job loss can lead to stress and decreased motivation.
• Violence and aggression: Exposure to violence or aggression in the workplace can have
severe psychological and physical consequences.

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Understanding these different types of hazards is essential for identifying and controlling risks in
the workplace.

2.2 Risk Assessment Process

A risk assessment is a systematic process of identifying potential hazards and evaluating the risks
associated with them. Its goal is to implement control measures to eliminate or reduce these risks.

Steps in the Risk Assessment Process

1. Identify Hazards:
o Conduct a thorough workplace inspection.
o Identify potential sources of harm, such as machinery, chemicals, ergonomics, and
work processes.
o Consider the environment and potential hazards within it.
o Involve employees in the process, as they often have firsthand knowledge of risks.
2. Evaluate the Risks:
o Assess the likelihood of harm occurring (probability).
o Determine the severity of potential harm (consequences).
o Prioritize risks based on their severity and likelihood.
3. Determine Control Measures:
o Implement controls to eliminate hazards or minimize risks.
o Consider the hierarchy of controls:
▪ Elimination: Remove the hazard entirely.
▪ Substitution: Replace the hazard with a less hazardous alternative.
▪ Engineering controls: Isolate people from the hazard.
▪ Administrative controls: Change work practices or procedures.
▪ Personal protective equipment (PPE): Protect individuals from hazards as a
last resort.
4. Record Findings:
o Document the risk assessment process, including identified hazards, risk
evaluations, and control measures.
o Keep records for future reference and to demonstrate compliance.
5. Review and Update:
o Regularly review the risk assessment to ensure its accuracy and effectiveness.
o Update the assessment when changes occur in the workplace, such as new
equipment, processes, or personnel.

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Risk Assessment Tools

Various tools can assist in the risk assessment process:

• Checklists: Pre-prepared lists of potential hazards.

• Risk matrices: Tables used to evaluate the likelihood and severity of risks.
• Job safety analysis (JSA): A step-by-step breakdown of a job to identify hazards.
• What-if analysis: Brainstorming potential hazards and consequences.
• Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA): A systematic process for identifying potential
failures and their effects.

By following these steps and using appropriate tools, organizations can effectively manage risks
and create a safer work environment.

2.3 Control Measures

Control measures are actions taken to eliminate or reduce risks in the workplace. The hierarchy of
controls outlines the preferred order in which these measures should be impleme nted.

Elimination

This is the most effective control measure. It involves removing the hazard entirely from the
workplace. For example, replacing a hazardous chemical with a safer alternative or redesigning a
process to eliminate the need for a particular task.

Substitution

If elimination is not possible, substitution involves replacing the hazard with something less
hazardous. This could involve using a less toxic chemical, a quieter machine, or a less physically
demanding task.

Engineering Controls

Engineering controls isolate people from hazards. They involve modifying the workplace or
equipment to reduce exposure. Examples include:

• Ventilation systems to remove contaminants from the air

• Enclosures around machinery
• Noise reduction equipment

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 • Ergonomic workstation design

Administrative Controls

Administrative controls change the way work is organized or performed. They include:

• Job rotation to reduce repetitive tasks

• Work schedules to limit exposure
• Training and education to improve worker knowledge
• Safe work procedures
• Regular maintenance of equipment

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE is the last line of defense and should only be used when other control measures are not
feasible or sufficient. It protects the individual worker from hazards. Examples include:

• Helmets
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Respiratory protection
• Hearing protection

It's important to note that PPE does not eliminate the hazard and relies on the individual to use it
correctly. Therefore, it should be used in conjunction with other control measures.

By following the hierarchy of controls and implementing appropriate control measures,

organizations can significantly reduce the risk of workplace injuries and illnesses.

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