Unsafe working environments are a threat to everyone, and they can occur in any environment. They can often be classified as ergonomic hazards, chemical hazards, or biological hazards, although not all dangers in the workplace fall under those categories.
In a work environment, employees can face numerous health risks, including those outlined in the following sections.
Biological hazards come from organisms, including people, animals and plants, and threaten human health. Examples of biological hazards include mold, sewage, blood and bodily fluids. These dangers can result in diseases and allergic reactions and limit employees’ ability to carry out their work.
Chemicals can be toxic, corrosive, flammable and combustible. As such, they can pose health risks to workers and become hazards if workers inhale, ingest or absorb them through their skin. Chemical hazards can cause acute harm, such as burns, irritation and vomiting, or create chronic health issues, such as asthma, liver damage and cancer.
Physical hazards include activities or natural substances in a work environment that pose health risks. Extreme temperatures, poor air quality, excessive noise and radiation in the workplace can all harm workers, potentially causing respiratory problems, hearing loss and cancer, among other problems.
Environmental health focuses on preventing illness and injury in a workplace, but it also strives to promote worker health and well-being. Organizations can create opportunities for workers to practice healthy behaviors. For example, by providing a pleasant break room or a cafeteria serving nutritious food, a business can encourage healthy social interactions and eating habits for its employees.
Some businesses have fitness centers to help employees stay physically active. Others have bulletin boards that post information about wellness programs and other information that promotes health. These efforts can not only build morale but also reduce poor health that can affect productivity.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted another threat to safe working environments: communicable disease. As a result, employers are considering different ways to protect their employees from exposure to the virus and others like it.
COVID-19 poses a greater risk to older people and those with certain preexisting conditions. As such, employers are examining ways to accommodate workers in high-risk categories and set up remote working arrangements for all workers when possible.
When remote work isn’t an option, employers are assessing sources of exposure and implementing controls that reduce exposure. Additionally, they’re promoting or requiring behaviors that emphasize infection prevention, such as social distancing and frequent handwashing.
Unsafe working conditions can have an enormous effect both financially and emotionally. The pain, suffering and possible death that come as a result of such accidents place a heavy burden on families and community. Injuries can also mean that the worker is unable to work, play sports, walk, or drive. The ramifications include financial, human and social costs