The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that there are four main types of workplace hazards: chemical, biological, physical, and ergonomic.
Chemical Hazards
Chemical hazards are present in many workplaces and can take the form of gases, liquids, or solids. These hazards can be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Common examples of chemical hazards include cleaning products, solvents, and pesticides. If not properly controlled, these hazards can cause physical injury or illness.
Chemical hazards are present in many workplaces and can take the form of gases, liquids, or solids. These hazards can be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Common examples of chemical hazards include cleaning products, solvents, and pesticides. If not properly controlled, these hazards can cause physical injury or illness. Some chemical hazards can also cause fires or explosions if they come into contact with heat or sparks.
Biological Hazards
Biological hazards are living organisms that can cause disease or illness in humans. These hazards are typically found in healthcare or research settings, but can also be present in other workplaces if there is contact with blood or other bodily fluids. Common examples of biological hazards include bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Biological hazards are living organisms that can cause disease or illness in humans. These hazards are typically found in healthcare or research settings, but can also be present in other workplaces if there is contact with blood or other bodily fluids. Common examples of biological hazards include bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These hazards can be transmitted through inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or contact with mucous membranes. In some cases, these hazards can be transmitted through vector–borne transmission, which is when an organism transmits a disease or illness to humans through another organism.
Physical Hazards
Physical hazards are present in many workplaces and can take the form of noise, heat, cold, and radiation. These hazards can cause physical injury or illness. Common examples of physical hazards include loud machinery, extreme temperatures, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Noise is one of the most common physical hazards in the workplace. It can be caused by machinery, equipment, and other workplace activities. Exposure to loud noise can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and other health problems. Heat is another common physical hazard in the workplace. Extreme heat can cause heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and other health problems. Cold is another common physical hazard in the workplace. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause hypothermia, frostbite, and other health problems. Radiation is another common physical hazard in the workplace. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause skin cancer, eye damage, and other health problems.
Ergonomic Hazards
Ergonomic hazards are present in many workplaces and can take the form of repetitive motion, awkward postures, and forceful exertions. These hazards can cause physical injury or illness. Common examples of ergonomic hazards include typing on a computer keyboard, using a mouse, and lifting heavy objects. Other ergonomic hazards include working at a computer for long periods of time without taking breaks, working in an awkward position, and using vibrating tools.
Preventing Workplace Hazards
There are a number of ways to prevent workplace hazards. Employers can provide personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respirators. Employers can also implement engineering controls, such as ventilation systems and enclosures. Lastly, employers can create safe work practices, such as training employees on how to safely use chemicals or operate machinery. When it comes to PPE, employers should provide employees with gloves, goggles, and respirators. Engineering controls, such as ventilation systems and enclosures, can also help to reduce exposure to workplace hazards. Finally, employers should create safe work practices, such as training employees on how to safely use chemicals or operate machinery. By taking these steps, employers can create a safer workplace for their employees.