IGC Glossary PDF

NEBOSH
International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety
Glossary
Online and downloadable glossaries
Online glossary
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Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 2

Glossary
A
A weighting (loudness) Used to measure the loudness of average noise levels. Essentially it mimics
the human ear. Unit: dB(A).
ABI The Association of British Insurers (ABI) is the trade body for insurance
companies in the UK. Link: www.abi.org.uk
Ability The capacity to perform a particular physical or mental function.
Absolute duty An absolute duty is something that must be complied with.
Accident An undesired event that results in injury, ill-health, or property damage.
Accident Frequency Accident Frequency Rate (AFR) may be a more reliable indicator than the
Rate (AFR) incidence rate where there may be many part time workers, long shifts
and overtime working. The frequency rate is the number of defined
accidents in a period per 100 000 person hours worked. AFR equals the
number of defined accidents in a period (Np), divided by the Total person
hours worked in a period (Tp), multiplied by 100 000
AFR = Np x 100 000

Tp
Accident Incident Rate Accident Incident Rate (AIR) is the most commonly used accident rate. It is
(AIR) an expression of the number of defined accidents in a given period per
thousand employees. AIR equals the number of defined accidents (N),
divided by the average number employed (A), multiplied by 1 000
AIR = N x 1000
A
Accident triangle A visual way of showing how unsafe events in the workplace will generally
lead to near misses but that a proportion will also result in accidents.
ACoP (Approved Approved Codes of Practice (ACoP) give practical advice and offer
Codes of Practice) examples of good practice on how to comply with the law in the UK.
Active failures (human Active failures have an immediate consequence and are usually made by
failures) front-line people such as drivers, control room staff or machine operators.

Glossary
Active monitoring Active monitoring systems monitor the effectiveness of workplace
systems precautions, risk control systems and management arrangements. They
provide 'leading indicators' of performance.
Active system (control A control measure which requires the worker to do something, such as
measure) attaching a lanyard or wearing and using PPE correctly.
Active system (fire Fire protection that extinguishes the fire. Examples: fire detectors and
protection) alarms, fire-fighting equipment.
Adjustable guard Adjustable guards rely on the operator to set the guard up properly for
each operation to allow the work piece to be fed into the machine whilst
minimising the likelihood of personal contact with the exposed dangerous
parts.
Alternating Current Mains electricity is from an alternating current supply. In the UK it is a

(AC) 230 V supply at a frequency of 50 Hertz (Hz). This means that the flow of
electrons changes direction and back again 50 times per second. This is
usually represented in a diagram as a wave, called a sine wave.
Amplitude Amplitude determines the loudness of a sound.
Tall waves = loud.

Short waves = quiet.
Tall, fast waves = rattle.
Short, long waves = hum.
Loudness is measured in decibels (dB). The scale runs from 0 dB (threshold
of hearing) to 140 dB (threshold of pain).
Aptitude The natural ability for acquiring or developing something, such as a skill.
Arcing Arcing occurs when electricity flows through the air from one conductor to
another. It may cause burns or shock if a person is the second conductor
or is close to the arc. It produces intense heat which may cause a fire or
explosion.
Arrangements (health The part of the health and safety policy that describes how the
and safety policy) organisation's health and safety aims and objectives are going to be met.
Asbestos A naturally occurring mineral of 3 main types: Crocidolite (blue), Amosite

(brown) and Chrysotile (white).

Glossary
Asbestosis A debilitating and potentially fatal disease caused by exposure to asbestos.
Aspect (environment) The thing that you are doing that will have an effect on the environment.
Attitude An attitude represents an individual's degree of like or dislike of an object,

where the object may be a person, place, thing or event. Attitudes can be
modified as a consequence of feedback on behaviour and are also
influenced by the prevailing attitude of the peer group.
Audiometry Procedure used to measure hearing loss
Auditing Auditing is the structured process of collecting independent information

on the efficiency, effectiveness and reliability of the total health and safety
management system, and includes drawing up plans for corrective action.
Automatic fire A means of automatically detecting the products of a fire and sending a
detection system signal to a fire warning system.

Glossary
B
B-SAFE A mnemonic that acts a reminder for the 5 main risks associated with
electricity, which are Burns, Shock, Arcing, Fire and Explosion.
Bacteria Microscopic organisms which lack cells with internal membranes. Bacteria
are classified according to their shape:
spherical cocci
corkscrew spirochaetes
rod bacilli.
Balance of probability With civil law, liability is proved based on the balance of probabilities, that
is, one side of the argument needs to be slightly more convincing than the
other to tilt the scales of justice in its favour.
Battering (of an Battering means digging the sides of the excavation to a safe angle to
excavation) prevent instability.
Benchmarking Used to compare aspects of an organisation's performance with that of

other organisations with similar processes and risks.
Beyond all reasonable With criminal law, guilt has to be proven beyond all reasonable doubt,
doubt which essentially means 'certainty' of guilt. It is, however, recognised that
'certainty' is a variable standard.
Biological agent Bacteria, viruses and fungi are the main classes of harmful biological
agents (micro-organisms).
Biological hazard Examples: legionella bacteria or blood borne virus.
Blast deafness Caused by exposure to sudden, extremely loud, explosive noises, such as
(acoustic trauma) from cartridge-operated machines.
Blood-Borne Virus Blood-Borne Viruses (BBVs) are viruses that some people carry in their
(BBV) blood and which may be spread to another person, whether the carrier of
the virus is ill or not. The main BBVs of concern are Hepatitis B Virus (HBV),
hepatitis C virus and hepatitis D virus and Human Immunodeficiency Virus
(HIV).

Glossary
Breathing Apparatus One type of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE), which works by
(BA) supplying breathable air from an uncontaminated source.
BS 18004 A guide to achieving effective occupational health and safety performance.

Applicable in the UK.
BS 8555 A guide to the phased implementation of an environmental management

system, including the use of environmental performance evaluation. A
British standard which describes how to implement a generic EMS and can
be used as a route towards ISO14001 and EMAS.
Bullying Bullying is defined as: offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting

behaviour, or an abuse or misuse of power through means intended to
undermine, humiliate, denigrate or injure the recipient.
From: ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)
Bullying behaviours have been identified to include: shouting at staff,

deliberately excluding someone from work activities, blocking promotion,
setting up someone to fail through unrealistic targets or deadlines, and
regularly making someone the butt of jokes.
From: Trade Union Congress (TUC)
Butane A gas used as a feedstock during chemical petroleum and high-octane

liquid fuel manufacturing, and also as fuel for heating. Along with propane,
it is also referred to as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as it is commonly
stored under pressure as a liquid.

Glossary
C
C weighting (loudness) Used to measure loudness at its peak or for its impact or explosive noises.
Intended to measure high pressure levels such as aircraft noise. Unit:
dB(C).
Carbon dioxide Carbon diOxide (CO2) is a colourless and odourless gas which is heavier
than air. Low levels of carbon dioxide increase the rate of respiration
whereas high levels depress the rate of respiration leading to rapid
unconsciousness and possible death.
Carbon monoxide Carbon monOxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas
produced by incomplete burning of carbon-based fuels, including gas, oil,
wood and coal.
Carpel tunnel Tendonitis or tenosynovitis of tendon passing through the carpal tunnel
syndrome compresses the median nerve affecting sensation on the palm side fingers
and thumb. An example of a Work-Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD).
CBI (Confederation of Confederation of British Industry The premier lobbying organisation for
British Industry) UK business on national and international issues. Link: www.cbi.org.uk
CE mark A mark affixed to all work equipment in the European Union which
conforms to the standards of safe design as specified in Europe's
Machinery Directive, which has been implemented in the UK as the Supply
of Machinery (Safety) Regulations.
Cervical spondylosis Degenerative osteoarthritis of the joints between the centres of the spinal
vertebrae in the neck. An example of a Work-Related Upper Limb Disorder
(WRULD).
Chemical agent Chemicals take different forms but the 3 basic states of matter that all
substances take are solid, liquid or gas.
Chemical hazard Example: corrosive or toxic cleaning chemicals.

Glossary
Chemicals (Hazard CHIP is the law that applies to suppliers of dangerous chemicals, requiring
Information and them to provide information about the dangers and to package them
Packaging for Supply) safely. Link: www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2009/716/regulation/7/made
Regulations 2009 Note: By June 2015 the European CLP Regulation will replace CHIP in the
(CHIP) UK.
Civil law Civil law allows an injured person to sue a third party for compensation for
their injury or loss if the injury was caused through the third party's
negligence.
Civil procedure rules Make up a procedural code whose overriding aim is to enable the courts to
deal with cases justly.
Class A fire In both US and EU classifications, Class A fires involve solid materials
(usually organic). Examples: wood, textiles, paper, furniture, plastics.
Class B fire In both US and EU classifications, Class B fires involve liquids or liquefiable
solids. Examples: petrol, oil, paint, some waxes and plastics.
Class C fire In EU classifications, Class C fires involve gases. Examples: natural mains
gas, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG butane or propane), medical or
industrial gas. In US classifications, Class C fires involve appliances, tools or
other electrically energized equipment.
Class D fire In both EU and US classifications, Class D fires involve metals. Examples:
combustible metals or metal powders, such as magnesium, potassium and
sodium.
Class F/K fire In EU classifications, Class F fires involve cooking media in cooking
appliances. Example: vegetable or animal oils and fat. In US classifications,
this is a Class K fire.
CLP Regulation The European Regulation on Classification, Labelling and Packing of

substances and mixtures (CLP) came into force in the UK (and all member
states) in January 2010 and by June 2015 will replace the CHIP Regulations
in the UK.
Collective protection Protection for more than one person, which once properly installed or
erected doesn't require any action by them to make sure it works.
Examples include: scaffolds, cherry pickers with guard rails, nets and
airbags, which minimise the consequence of a fall.

Glossary
Colour effects A surface lit by different artificial light sources, or by daylight under
changing sky conditions, may appear to vary in colour. Colours will not be
identifiable under monochromatic light sources, such as low pressure
sodium discharge lamps, or at very low levels of illuminance. Where colour
discrimination is required (as for some electrical work) this can affect
safety.
Combustible materials A substance that can be burned.
Common knowledge A non-specialist within an industry or a field will be expected to have

foreseen what the average reasonable person would, using common
knowledge.
Common law Historically this meant law that was not local but was common to all of
England. More usually the phrase means law that is not the result of
legislation. Court decisions (made by judges) establish law through a
system of precedents. Common law often aids the interpretation of
statute law as terms are debated in the courts based on the facts of a real
case.
Compartmentation To stop a fire spreading a building can be sub-divided by fire-resisting

walls, floors and sometimes ceilings. This is called compartmentation.
Competence The demonstrated ability to perform to a required standard.
Conduction (of heat) Heat energy is passed between molecules with heat flowing away from the
source of heat towards low temperature regions. Conduction may occur in
solids, liquids or gases, although it is most clearly present in solids.
Conductor A conductor is any material that easily allows electrons to flow. Copper
and aluminium are examples of good conductors that are used extensively
for electric cables.
Confined space Any place, including any chamber, tank, vat, silo, pit, trench, pipe, sewer,
flue, well or other similar space in which, by virtue of its enclosed nature,
there arises a reasonably foreseeable specified risk.
Confined Spaces UK regulations made under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and
Regulations 1997 intended to apply where the assessment identifies risks of serious injury
from work in confined spaces. Link:
www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1997/1713/contents/made

Glossary
Construction (Design UK regulations that aim to integrate health and safety into the
& Management) management of a construction project and to encourage everyone
Regulations 2015 involved to work together. Link:
(CDM 2015) www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/51/contents/made
Construction phase Outlines arrangements for managing risks, site rules and any measures
plan (CDM) relating to risks from Schedule 3 of CDM 2015.
Contributory Contributory negligence arises when the claimants own carelessness, or

negligence disregard for personal safety, contributes to the injury or loss which arises
partly because of the claimants own fault and partly because of the fault of
another (the defendant).
Control of Noise at These UK regulations require employers to prevent or reduce risks to

Work Regulations health and safety from exposure to noise at work. Link:
2005 www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1643/regulation/4/made
Control of Vibration at These UK regulations aim to aims to protect workers from risks to health
Work Regulations from vibration. The regulations introduce action and limit values for hand-
2005 arm and whole-body vibration. Link:
Controlled waste Waste arising from domestic, industrial and commercial premises.
Convection (of heat) Convection involves the movement of heated liquid or gas molecules from
the source of heat to cooler areas allowing cooler molecules to replace
them before being heated and establishing a circulation of convection
currents. Convection occurs only in liquids and gases.
Conveyor A mechanical means of moving materials in the workplace. Examples

include: belt conveyors, screw conveyors, roller tracks, ball tracks,
vibrating plates, monorails.

Glossary
Corporate Following the 2007 Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act
manslaughter in the UK, corporate manslaughter:
must be committed by an organisation, not an individual

requires a breach of duty of care under the law of negligence
requires that the breach is a gross breach
death must be shown to have been caused by the gross breach of
duty
requires that a substantial element in the breach is the way in
which the organisation's activities are managed or organised by its
senior management.
Corporate Under this act in the UK, companies and organisations can be found guilty
Manslaughter and of corporate manslaughter as a result of serious management failures
Corporate Homicide resulting in a gross breach of a duty of care. Link:
Act 2007 www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2007/19/contents
CoSHH The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (CoSHH)

requires employers in the UK to control substances that can harm workers'
health. Link: www.hse.gov.uk/coshh
Crane Typically used on construction sites or in industrial and engineering

environments for lifting and moving heavy loads. There are a range of
different types of crane: mobile, crawler and tower cranes, generally seen
on construction sites, and gantry and overhead cranes, typically seen in
industrial and engineering environments.
Cranfield Man 'Cranfield Man' illustrates the mismatch between people and the tools
required to do a job. Research at Cranfield Institute of Technology,
compared the positions of controls on a horizontal lathe (designed over a
century ago) with the physical dimensions of the average operator.
Research revealed that the body dimensions of the average operator
weren't considered and that for a person to comfortably operate one of
these lathes they would need to be shaped like 'Cranfield Man'.
Criminal law Criminal law establishes a set of rules for acceptable behaviour. In the UK
the main duties are covered by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
Crown Court In the UK more serious criminal cases are heard in the Crown Court before
a judge and jury.

Glossary
Current Electron flow along a conductor is called a current. The current, or rate of
electron flow (numbers of electrons passing a point per second), is
measured in amperes (amps) (symbol I).

Glossary
D
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis affecting thumb tendons. An example of a Work-Related
Upper-Limb Disorder (WRULD).
Decibel scale The decibel scale indicates different levels of loudness. It runs from 0 dB
(the threshold of hearing) to 140 dB (the threshold of pain). An A-
weighting or dB(A) is used to measure average noise levels. A C-weighting
or dB(C) measures peak, impact or explosive noises.
Dilution ventilation General ventilation or 'dilution' ventilation is a term used to define the
flow of air into and out of a working area, so that any contaminants are
diluted by adding some fresh air. It can be provided by natural ventilation
or mechanical ventilation.
Direct cause (of an The agent of injury or ill-health (for example: the blade, the substance, the
accident) dust). There may be several immediate causes identified in any one
adverse event.
Direct Current (DC) Direct current is produced by batteries. When a circuit is complete the
current flows in one direction at a specific, constant voltage.
Directive (European) European Directives can be adapted by each country for their own
purposes. The UK tends to implement European Directives as Regulations.
Distance guards (fixed Prevent access to the hazard by virtue of their dimensions and distance
guard) from the danger zone. Distance guards don't completely enclose the
danger zone.
Domino theory Domino theories of accident causation suggest that accidents result from a
chain of sequential events like a line of dominoes falling over. When one of
the dominoes falls, it triggers the next one, and the next, eventually
resulting in an accident and injury or other loss.
Double insulation Double insulation covers the live conductors of electrical equipment with
two discrete layers of insulation. Each layer would adequately insulate the
conductor but together greatly reduces the probability of danger arising
from insulation failure.

Glossary
Drug misuse The use of illegal drugs and the misuse whether deliberate or
unintentional, of prescribed drugs and substances such as solvents .
From: the HSE
DSE (Display Screen Display Screen Equipment (DSE) is a broad term covering any work
Equipment) equipment with a screen that displays information. A common example is
the Visual Display Unit (VDU) or computer screen.
Duty of care A duty of care is a duty to take reasonable care to avoid causing
reasonably foreseeable harm to persons who might be expected to be
affected by the duty holder's actions.

Glossary
E
Earthing Earthing the exposed metal parts of an appliance, which should not
normally carry a current, provides a low resistance path to earth for any
fault current.
Electricity Energy made available by the flow of electrons through a conductor.
Electricity at Work The Electricity at Work Regulations (EAWR) provide the legal framework in
Regulations 1989 the UK for controlling the risks of working with electrical equipment and
circuitry. Link: www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1989/635/contents/made
EMAS (Eco- Eco-Management and Audit System (EMAS) is a European management

Management and tool for companies and other organisations to evaluate, report and
Audit System) improve their environmental performance.
Emergency escape Lighting provided to illuminate escape routes that will function if the
lighting normal lighting fails.
Employers Liability Employer's liability insurance will enable you to meet the cost of any
Insurance (ELI) compensation for your employees' injuries or illness.
Employment tribunal Independent judicial bodies who determine disputes between employers
and employees over employment rights.
Enclosing guard (fixed Prevents access to the danger zone from all sides.
guard)
Environment The environment refers to all that is necessary for life on earth, that is:
water, land, air, and climate.
Environmental An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a system for managing

Management System the environmental impact of an organisation.
(EMS)
Environmental Environmental monitoring checks the effectiveness of health control

monitoring measures and detects the early signs of harm to health.
Epicondylitis Tendonitis affecting the elbow or knee (tennis elbow, for example). An
example of a Work-Related Upper-Limb Disorder (WRULD).

Glossary
Ergonomic design Ergonomic design seeks to produce equipment that most people can
operate comfortably, conveniently and safely and to design tasks to
reduce human error, accidents and ill health.
Ergonomic hazard Examples: poor posture or repetitive work at a computer workstation.
Ergonomics Ergonomics is about ensuring a good 'match' between people and the
things they use.
ERIC SP A mnemonic to help you remember the hierarchy of risk control

Eliminate Reduce Isolate Control Safe Systems of Work (SSW)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Escape route Route forming that part of the means of escape from any point in the
premises to a final exit.
Event An event is what actually happens to cause the harm (for example, what
happened to cause the bricks to fall).
Excavation This is work carried out below ground level, including any earthwork,
trench, well, shaft, tunnel or underground working. Excavations are used
for laying foundations and installing site utilities and drains.
Expert knowledge Expert knowledge, in the context of civil law, is knowledge from, for
example, research scientists or an occupational physician.
Exposure Action Value A daily amount of vibration exposure above which employers are required
(EAV) - Vibration to take action to control exposure. The greater the exposure level, the
greater the risk and the more action employers will need to take to reduce
the risk.
Hand arm vibration EAV 2.5 m/s2
Whole body vibration EAV 0.5 m/s2
Exposure Limit Value The maximum amount of vibration an employee may be exposed to on any
(ELV) - Vibration single day.
Hand arm vibration ELV 5 m/s2
Whole body vibration ELV 1.15 m/s2

Glossary
F
Fall arrest equipment Equipment that won't stop the worker falling but will stop them colliding
with the ground or a structure. Examples include an inertia reel /lanyard
and shock absorber (personal protection) or landing systems such as safety
nets or airbags (collective protection).
Fall prevention Equipment that should prevent workers falling from height. Examples
equipment include guard rails (collective protection) or work restraints (personal
protection).
Fall protection system Fall protection systems prevent or minimise the consequences of falls from
height. Collective protection takes priority over personal protection and
passive systems take priority of active systems.
Falling Object Fork lift trucks which have to work in environments where falling objects
Protection Structure are a concern should be equipped with a falling object protection
(FOPS) structure, such as an enclosed cab for the driver.
Fault current An abnormal flow of electric current through the system. Example: a short
circuit is a fault where the current flow exceeds the normal load.
Fire door A door or shutter (including frame and furniture) which, when closed
restricts the passage of fire and/or smoke to a predictable level of
performance.
Fire hazard Something that causes fire. Remember that for a fire to start and continue
burning it requires fuel, ignition (heat) and oxygen (the fire triangle).
Fire precautions Involves 2 different approaches: fire prevention and fire protection.
Fire prevention Reduces the likelihood of a fire occurring in the first place by controlling
the potential ignition, fuel and oxygen sources.
Fire protection Protects people, buildings and other assets should a fire occur. There are 2
basic systems of fire protection: active systems aim to extinguish the fire
and passive systems aim to contain the fire.

Glossary
Fire resistance The ability of a component or construction of a building to satisfy, for a
stated period of time, some or all of the appropriate criteria of relevant
standards (generally 30 or 60 minutes fire-resisting).
Fire risk Considers the likelihood of a fire occurring and the seriousness of the fire
should it occur.
Fire triangle A fire triangle is a diagram representing the 3 elements that are needed for
a fire to start and continue burning: fuel, oxygen and heat (ignition).
Fire warning system A means of alerting people to the existence of a fire.
First aid First aid means the treatment for the purpose of preserving life and
minimising the consequences of injury and illness until medical help is
obtained and also the treatment of minor injuries which would not need
treatment by a medical practitioner or nurse.
Fixed guard Fixed guards have no moving parts and are secured by welding or
fasteners in a constant position, relative to the danger zone, making
removal impossible without using tools. Examples include: enclosing
guards, distance guards, perimeter fences and tunnel guards.
Flammable Easily ignited and capable of burning rapidly.
Flicker Light modulation at lower frequencies (about 50 Hz or less) which is visible

to most people, is called flicker. Flicker can be a source of discomfort and
fatigue. It may cause epileptic seizures in photosensitive people.
Fork lift truck Fork lift or lift trucks are used widely throughout industry for moving
materials and goods. There are many different designs of lift truck with
fork or other attachments. Examples include: industrial counterbalance lift
truck, industrial reach truck, rough terrain counterbalance lift truck and
telescopic materials handler or tele-handler.
Fungi Fungi are a group of organisms that obtain food by directly absorbing
nutrients. Fungi infections include athlete's foot and ringworm.
Fuse A protective device designed to interrupt the supply of electricity if a fault

is detected.

Glossary
G
Gap analysis A business tool used to identify the gap between actual, current
performance and desired future standard of performance.
General damages General damages are actual and/or probable loss of future earnings, to be
incurred after a civil case.
General ventilation General ventilation or 'dilution' ventilation is a term used to define the
flow of air into and out of a working area, so that any contaminants are
diluted by adding some fresh air. It can be provided by natural ventilation
or mechanical ventilation.
Glare Glare occurs when one part of the visual field is much brighter than the
average brightness to which the visual system is adapted. There are 2
types of glare:
Disability glare When there is direct interference with the vision.

Discomfort glare When there is discomfort or annoyance.
Global Harmonized The GHS has been introduced by the UN to provide a consistent approach
System of to classification and labelling of chemicals. In the UK it is implemented as
Classification and CLP.
Labelling of Chemicals
Guard (machine) A guard provides a physical barrier between a person and the dangerous
parts of the machine. There are different types of guards: fixed guards,
adjustable guards, interlocked guards, self-closing guards.

Glossary
H
Hand-Arm Vibration Vibration transmitted from work processes into workers' hands and arms.
(HAV) It can be caused by operating handheld power tools, such as road
breakers, and hand guided equipment, such as powered lawnmowers, or
by holding work pieces being machined.
Harassment Unwanted conduct that violates peoples' dignity or creates an intimidating,

hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.
From: UK's Advisory Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS)
Hardware measures Risks created by equipment can be controlled by hardware measures such
as providing suitable guards, protection devices, markings and warning
devices, emergency stop buttons and personal protective equipment.
Harm Harm includes ill-health and injury, damage to property, plant, products or
the environment and production losses or increased liabilities.
Hazard A hazard is anything that may cause harm, such as chemicals, electricity,
working from ladders or even an open drawer.
Hazardous substance A hazardous substance could be:
Any substance or mixture which is classified as dangerous for

supply because it is very toxic, toxic, harmful, corrosive or irritant.
Any substance which has a Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL).
Any biological agents used at work.
Any dust, other than one with a WEL, at a concentration in air
above 10 mg/m3 averaged over 8 hours, or any such respirable
dust above 4 mg/m3 over 8 hours.
Any other substance that creates a risk to health because of its
properties and the way it is used or is present in the workplace.
Hazardous waste Waste that may be harmful to human health and/or the environment.
Hazardous Waste Regulations that must be complied with by any businesses that produces,
Regulations transports or receives hazardous waste. Link: www.gov.uk/dispose-
hazardous-waste

Glossary
Health Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not
merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
From: the World Health Organization
Health and Safety A regulation made under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 providing
(Consultation with a legal framework for consultation of employees on health and safety
Employees) issues. Link: www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1996/1513/contents/made
Regulations 1996
Health and Safety A regulation requiring all employers to provide adequate and appropriate
(First-Aid) Regulations equipment, facilities and personnel to ensure their employees receive
1981 immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work. Link:
Health and Safety This regulation implemented a European Council Directive on the
(Safety Signs and minimum requirements for the provision of safety signs at work. The
Signals) Regulations Directive standardised safety signs throughout the EU member states so
1996 that wherever a particular safety sign is seen it provides the same
message. Link: www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1996/341/contents/made
Health and Safety at The basis of health and safety law in the UK. Link:
Work etc. Act 1974 www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1974/37
Health and Safety The Health and Safety Executive are the UK's national independent
Executive (HSE) watchdog for work-related health, safety and illness. Link:
www.hse.gov.uk.
Health and safety file Required for projects involving more than one contractor. The detail will
(CDM) be proportionate to the risks and include information needed to ensure
health and safety during any subsequent work.
Health and Safety A HSMS is a system for managing control of health and safety within an
Management System organisation.
(HSMS)
Health and safety A health and safety policy is the starting point for a health and safety
policy management system. Effective health and safety policies set a clear
direction for the organisation to follow.
Health surveillance Health surveillance is the on-going assessment and/or medical

examination of an employee at regular intervals to determine the
employees' health state in the context of exposure to occupational health
hazards.

Glossary
Hierarchy of risk Remembered as: Eliminate Reduce Isolate Control Safe Systems of
control Work Personal Protective Equipment (ERIC SP).
Hierarchy of waste Remembered as: Prevent Reduce Reuse Recover Responsible

management disposal.
Hold-to-run controls A hold-to-run control (protection device) only allows machinery movement
when the control is held in the on position. As soon as the control is
released it should automatically switch the machine off.
HSG65 Guidance from the HSE Managing for health and safety (2013), which
replaced Successful health and safety management (1997) Link:
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg65.htm
Human error Errors fall into three categories: slips, lapses and mistakes.
Human error - Mistakes are a more complex type of human error where the wrong thing
Mistakes is done in the belief that it is right. Mistakes may be rule-based or
knowledge-based.
Human error - Knowledge based mistakes occur when it is necessary to solve problems
Mistakes: Knowledge from first principles. Misdiagnoses and miscalculations are natural
based mistakes consequences of learning by trial and error.
Human error - Rule-based mistakes occur when behaviour is based on remembered rules
Mistakes: Rule-based or familiar procedures. There is a strong tendency to use familiar rules or
mistakes solutions even when they are not the most convenient or efficient.
Human error - Skill Skill based errors occur when doing very familiar tasks which can be
based carried out without much need for conscious attention. These types of
familiar tasks are very vulnerable to errors if attention is diverted, even
momentarily. Skill based errors can be divided into 2 types, slips of action
and lapses of memory.
Human error - Skill Lapses cause actions to remain undone or workers to lose their place in a
based: Lapses of task. They can be reduced by minimising distractions and interruptions to
memory tasks and by providing effective reminders especially for tasks which take
some time to complete or involve periods of waiting.
Human error - Skill Slips are failures in carrying out the actions of a task. They are described as
based: Slips of action 'actions-not-as-planned', e.g. picking up the wrong component from a
mixed box, operating the wrong switch, transposing digits when copying
out numbers or doing steps in a procedure in the wrong order.

Glossary
Human factors Human factors refer to environmental, organisational and job factors, and
human and individual characteristics which influence behaviour at work in
a way which can affect health and safety.
From: the HSE
Human failure Often recognised as contributing to incidents and accidents. Human failure
can be intentional (violations) or unintentional (errors).

Glossary
I
Illuminance The total amount of visible light illuminating a point on a surface from all
directions above the surface. Different types of work require different
level of lighting. Examples:
process control room illuminance of 300 lux

walkway illuminance of 50 lux
studying an engineering drawing illuminance of 750 lux.
ILO Codes of Practice Codes of Practice issued by the ILO set out practical guidelines for public
authorities, employers, workers, enterprises and specialised occupational
safety and health protection bodies. They are not legally binding
instruments and are not intended to replace the provisions of national
laws or regulations or accepted standards.
ILO Conventions Conventions from the ILO are legally binding international treaties that
may be approved by member states. In many cases a convention
established the basic principles to be implemented by the countries that
approve it.
ILO Declarations Declarations from the ILO are resolutions of the International Labour
Conference, which are used to make a formal statement, reaffirming the
importance of certain principles and values. They are intended to have a
wide application and contain symbolic and political undertakings by the
member states. They do not need to be ratified (approved).
ILO Guidelines Guidelines from the ILO provide practical approaches and tools for
implementing a standard. They are not legally binding ILO instruments.
ILO Promotional An ILO convention requiring each member state to establish, maintain,
Framework for progressively develop and periodically review a national system for
Occupational Safety occupational safety and health.
and Health
Convention (C1987-
2006)
ILO Recommendations A supplement to ILO conventions with guidelines on how they should be
applied. They are not legally binding.

Glossary
ILO-OSH (2001) International Labour Organization (ILO) guidelines on occupational safety
and health management systems. Link:
www.ilo.org/global/publications/ilo-bookstore/order-
online/books/WCMS_PUBL_9221116344_EN/lang--en/index.htm
Impact (environment) Impact is the actual effect on the environment, which can be positive or
negative.
Improvement notice An improvement notice may be served whenever health and safety
legislation is being contravened. An improvement notice will specify the
breach of legislation and may specify a means of complying. It has to allow
a reasonable time (minimum 21 days) to complete any specified works.
Incident Many organisations use the term incident as a synonym for 'near miss',
while other organisations use it as a 'catch all' covering both accidents and
near misses. The HSE uses the term to cover near misses and undesired
circumstances, which are defined as: a set of conditions or circumstances
that have the potential to cause injury or ill health, for example: untrained
nurses handling heavy patients.
Independent tied An independent tied scaffold is a traditional tube and coupler scaffold. It is
scaffold independent because it is free-standing although it is tied into the building
being worked on to provide increased horizontal stability.
Industrial A counterbalance on the back of the truck balances the load on the fork
counterbalance lift arms, which project out from the front. Suitable for use on substantially
truck firm, smooth, level and prepared surfaces, such as a warehouse yard.
Industrial reach truck The truck mast moves forward or reaches out to pick up the load. The load
is reached back and carried within the wheelbase when the truck is
moving. The truck has greater manoeuvrability than the industrial
counterbalance truck, so is used where space is restricted. Suitable for use
on substantially firm, smooth, level and prepared surfaces.
Industry knowledge If the issue in a civil case is beyond common knowledge but is known
within an industrial sector, what is reasonably foreseeable will be judged
against the expected level of industry knowledge.

Glossary
Inspection Inspections are looking to see what is and isn't there in terms of hazards
and risks associated with premises, plant and equipment. Inspections are
carried out on a regular, scheduled basis. They involve the physical
inspection of the workplace with the aim of:
identifying hazards
assessing the use and effectiveness of existing control measures
suggesting remedial action where these are found to be non-
existent or inadequate.
Insulators An insulator is any material that inhibits the flow of electrons. Glass and
rubber are good examples of insulating materials.
Insured costs (of an Insured costs are accident costs (injury, ill-health and damage) covered by
accident) ELI (Employers Liability Insurance).
Interlocked guard An interlocked guard prevents the machine working until the guard is in
place. Opening the guard whilst it is in use stops the machine OR the guard
cannot be opened while the machine is working. Closing the guard does
not, by itself, restart the machine.
International Labour The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a United Nations agency
Organization dealing with labour issues, particularly international labour standards and
decent work for all.
International labour Legal instruments drawn up by the ILO's constituents representatives of

standards governments, employers and workers from around the world.
International labour standards are either conventions or
recommendations.
Ionising radiation Ionising radiation occurs naturally from, for example, the radioactive decay
of natural radioactive substances such as radon gas and its decay products,
but can also be produced artificially. Ionising radiation occurs as either:
electromagnetic rays, such as X-rays & gamma rays, or particles, such as
alpha and beta particles.
Ionising Radiation Regulations requiring employers to keep exposure to ionising radiations as

Regulations 1999 low as reasonably practicable. Link:
Ishikawa diagrams Ishikawa diagrams are causal diagrams created by Kaoru Ishikawa (1968)
that show the causes of a specific event.

Glossary
ISO 14001 An Environmental Management System (EMS) described as an
international standard that specifies a process for identifying, controlling
and improving an organisation's environmental performance. Link:
www.iso.org/iso/home/standards/management-standards/iso14000.htm

Glossary
J
Jig A tool used to control the location and /or motion of another tool or work
piece.
Job observations Job observations are intended to check the effective operation of
workplace precautions.
Job Safety/Hazard Job Safety Analysis (JSA), also known as Job Hazard Analysis (JHA), is the
Analysis (JSA/JHA) systematic identification of potential hazards in the work place as a first
step to controlling the possible risks involved.

Glossary
L
Lagging indicators A lagging indicator is one that follows an event. The importance of a
lagging indicator is its ability to confirm that a pattern is occurring or about
to occur. For example: Think about driving if you don't pay attention to
the speed you are doing and it is the flash of a speed camera that indicates
you are speeding, you can adjust your driving in the future, but it will be
too late to prevent the speed ticket in this instance.
Latent failures (human Latent failures are distant in time and space from the consequences. They
failure) are typically failures in health and safety management systems (design,
implementation or monitoring) and are often attributed to designers,
decision makers and managers.
Law Law is a body of rules designed to regulate the behaviour of society. Law is
divided into two branches, civil and criminal.
Leachate Leachate is any liquid material that drains from land or stockpiled material
and contains significantly elevated concentrations of undesirable material
derived from the material that it has passed through.
Leading indicators These types of indicators signal future events. For example: Think about
driving if you are actively monitoring your speed by watching the
speedometer, you will get a good indication of whether you are likely to be
caught speeding if there is a speed camera on the road ahead, you can
adjust your driving accordingly.
Legionella Bacteria found naturally in environmental water sources, which can cause,
amongst other things, Legionnaire's disease.
Leptospirosis An infection caused by contact with urine from infected rats (Weil's
disease) or cattle (Hardjo leptospirosis).
Lifting Operations and In the UK the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations aim to
Lifting Equipment reduce the risks to people's health and safety from lifting equipment
Regulations 1998 provided for use at work. Link:
(LOLER) www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2307/contents/made

Glossary
Light curtain A light curtain is made up of a number of beams of light. The light curtain
(protection device) is placed between the danger zone and the operator. If the light beam is
broken by, for example, an operator approaching a danger zone, the
protected machinery is stopped.
Limitation Act 1980 In the UK the Limitation Act 1980 sets a time limit for starting proceedings
for claiming compensation for personal injury. Link:
www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1980/58/contents
Load Radius Indicator Safe Working Loads (SWL) for cranes with jibs (horizontal structure
(LRI) supporting a moveable hoist) vary at different radii, so a LRI is used to
indicate the SWL and radius for each working configuration.
Local Exhaust A ventilation system designed to capture and remove contaminants (dusts,
Ventilation (LEV) fumes, mists, vapours and gases) at the point where they are produced,
before they disperse into the work environment.
Long Term Exposure Long term time period (8 hours) used when calculating Workplace
Limits (LTELs) Exposure Limits (WELs) for hazardous substances.
Loss (related to an For example, injury, illness or property damage.

accident)
Lower exposure action The level of exposure to noise of employees averaged over a working week
value (noise) 80 dB(A). The maximum level of noise to which employees are exposed
in a working day (peak sound pressure) 135 dB(A).

Glossary
M
Magistrates' court In the UK less serious crimes are sent for summary trial in a magistrates'
court. A summary trial happens before 3 magistrates but there is no jury
and no committal.
Management controls Management controls are a set of management processes necessary to

plan, organise, control, monitor and review the design and
implementation of risk control measures. They are the key elements of the
health and safety management system.
Management of Generally makes the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act
Health and Safety at more explicit for employers in the UK. These regulations introduced the
Work Regulations general requirement for risk assessment. Link:
1999 www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1999/3242/contents/made
Mandatory (safety Blue sign indicating that something must be done or prescribing specific
sign) behaviour, for example: eye protection must be worn.
Manual handling Any transporting or supporting of a load (including lifting, putting down,
pushing, pulling, carrying or moving) by hand or bodily force.
Manual Handling In the UK under the MHOR the employer has a duty to avoid manual
Operations handling, as far as reasonably practicable, if there is a possibility of injury.
Regulations 1992 If this cannot be done then they must reduce the risk of injury as far as
(MHOR) reasonably practicable. Link:
Means of escape Route(s) provided to ensure safe egress (exit) from the premises or other
locations to a place of total safety.
Measuring Measurements can either be quantitative or qualitative. The primary

purpose of measuring health and safety performance is to provide
information on the progress and current status of the strategies, processes
and activities used by an organisation to control risks to health and safety.
From: the HSE
Medical surveillance Medical surveillance is intended to detect adverse health effects at an

early stage, thereby enabling further harm to be prevented.

Glossary
MEEP analysis A MEEP analysis refers to a systematic consideration of the risks created
by the Materials used, the Equipment, the Environment and the People.
Also variously known as PEME or PEPE (Process, Environment etc.).
Mesothelioma A fatal disease caused by exposure to asbestos.
Miniature Circuit A protective device designed to interrupt the supply of electricity if a fault
Breaker (MCB) is detected. If the circuit is broken it can be easily reset.
Mobile Elevated Work MEWPs are either of a scissor lift or 'cherry picker' design. Cherry pickers
Platform (MEWP) may have telescopic or articulated booms. MEWPs may be vehicle
mounted, trailer mounted, or self-propelled.
Monitoring Monitoring involves collecting information, such as measurements or

observations, over time, to provide management information on
performance trends and fluctuations.
Motion Limit Devices Limits any motion of a crane which could affect its stability.
(MLD)
Motivation The reason you have for acting or behaving in a certain way.
Multi-causal analysis Multi-causal analysis looks to map the contributory factors to an accident
or near miss continually asking 'why?' This identifies not just the direct
causes, but also the underlying and root causes.
MusculoSkeletal Any injury, damage or disorder of the joints or other tissues in the
Disorders (MSD) upper/lower limbs or the back.

Glossary
N
Near miss A near miss is an undesired event that has the potential to cause injury, ill-
health or property damage, but did not.
Negligence The concept of negligence is based on the idea of one person owing
another person a duty of care.
Noise Any sound that is loud, unpleasant, or undesired.
Noise exposure levels In the UK under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 there are
(or action values) recommended levels of noise that workers should be exposed (lower and
upper exposure action values) to and levels that should not be exceeded
daily/weekly exposure of 87 dB(A) and peak sound pressure of 140 dB(A).
Non-ionising radiation Non-Ionising Radiation (NIR) is the term used to describe the part of the
electromagnetic spectrum covering two main regions: optical radiation
(UltraViolet (UV), visible and infrared) and ElectroMagnetic Fields (EMFs)
(power frequencies, microwaves and radio waves).
Non-powered hand Non-powered hand tools include screwdrivers, saws, knives, chisels,
tools hammers, planes, files, spanners and wrenches.
Notifiable project A project is notifiable if the construction phase is longer than 30 days or
(construction) involves more than 500 person days of construction.

Glossary
O
Ohm's Law Ohm's law states that: the value of a current passing through a conductor
is directly proportional to the potential difference between the ends of the
conductor, and inversely proportional to the resistance of the conductor.
Basically this means that there is a direct relationship between voltage,
current and resistance. If a circuit has a resistance (R) of 1 ohm and a
voltage (V) of 1 volt is applied, a current (I) of 1 ampere will flow. V=I x R.
OHSAS 18001 OHSAS 18001 is the internationally recognised assessment specification for
occupational health and safety management systems.
Optical radiation Optical radiation can be harmful if too much enters the eye. As people
automatically look away when dazzled by an excessively bright source it is
very difficult to get exposed to a harmful dose
Organisation (health The part of the health and safety policy that makes it clear who has
and safety policy) responsibility for specific actions. This includes all employees, supervisors
and managers, directors and the senior management team and those with
specific health and safety responsibilities, such as the health and safety
advisor, first aiders and fire warden/marshals.
Organisational culture Simply defined as 'the way we do things around here'. Also defined as: a
pattern of shared assumptions that was learned by a group as it solved its
problems of external adaptation and internal integration that has worked
well enough to be considered valid, and therefore to be taught to new
members as the correct way to perceive, think and feel in relation to those
problems.
Outcome The result of the harm that is caused by an accident (for example, the
bricks hitting or missing a person).

Glossary
P
Passive system A control measure that doesn't require the worker to do anything, such as
(control measure) a guard rail or safety net.
Passive system (fire Fire protection that contains the fire. Example: structural fire protection
protection) and means of escape.
PDCA cycle Plan Do Check Act (PDCA) cycle. Health and safety is managed in the
same way as any aspect of business, with management control typically
being exerted through a cycle of planning, doing, checking and acting.
People handling aids People (patient) handling aids are used in nursing/care environments to
reduce the manual handling load when moving a person. Examples of
people handling aids are slide sheets and a turning disc.
People handling hoist A hoist is a mechanical device used for lifting a load vertically. People
handling hoists are used in nursing and care activities to facilitate transfers
of people from chair to bed, bed to trolley etc. People handling hoists fall
into 2 general categories mobile and overhead.
Perception The process by which sensation is organised and interpreted to make

sense of the world.
Performance The primary purpose of measuring health and safety performance is to

measurement provide information on the progress and current status of the strategies,
processes and activities used by an organisation to control risks to health
and safety.
Perimeter fences Perimeter fences prevent access to the machine.

(fixed guard)

Glossary
Permanent hearing Permanent hearing damage can be caused in two ways:
damage
Prolonged exposure to noise causes gradual hearing loss. It may
only be when damage caused by noise over the years combines
with hearing loss due to ageing that people realise how deaf they
have become.
Sudden, extremely loud, explosive noises can cause immediate
permanent damage. This is often referred to as blast deafness or
acoustic trauma. Example: cartridge-operated machines.
Permanent threshold Caused by prolonged exposure to noise.

shift
Permit-To-Work (PTW) A Permit-to-work is generally used for high risk jobs, instead of a safe
system of work. It is a more formal system stating exactly what work is to
be done, when and which parts are safe. A PTW is not simply permission to
carry out a dangerous job, it is an essential part of a system which
determines how that job can be carried out safely and helps communicate
this to those doing the job.
Personal Hearing To be provided as soon as a risk to health from noise is discovered.

Protection (PHP) Includes: ear muffs and ear plugs.
Personal protection Protection which protects only the user/wearer and requires action by the
individual, such as properly wearing and adjusting it, for it to work.
Examples include: work restraint equipment which prevents a fall and fall
arrest equipment which minimises the consequences of a fall.
Personality Personality is made up of a person's unique characteristic pattern of

thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Personality arises from within the
individual and remains fairly consistent throughout life.
Phased evacuation A system of evacuation in which different parts of the premises are
evacuated in a controlled sequence of phases, those parts of the premises
expected to be at greatest risk being evacuated first.
Physical hazard Examples: moving parts of machinery, noise or vibration.
Physical match Includes the design of the whole workplace and working environment.
(ergonomics)

Glossary
Place of reasonable A place within a building, such as a protected escape route, which can be
safety (fire used to get to a place of total safety.
evacuation)
Place of total safety A place away from the building where the fire is located, such as a fire
(fire evacuation) assembly point in a car park.
Pollution Pollution is defined as the release of a by-product of human activity that

cause harm to the natural environment.
POPIMAR A mnemonic (reminder) for the parts of a health and safety management
system Policy, Organising, Planning & Implementing, Measuring
Performance, Auditing, Reviewing performance.
Portable Fire-fighting Hand-held, portable type of equipment used to fight fires, commonly
Equipment (PFE) known as fire extinguishers.
PPE Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provides a protective barrier to

reduce harmful consequences of an accident. For example: safety helmets,
ear defenders, etc.
Practicable duty A practicable duty is a less onerous duty than an absolute one. Practicable
means 'feasible in the light of current knowledge and invention', which
basically means that if it can be done then it must be done.
Proactive monitoring As for active monitoring: active monitoring systems monitor the
effectiveness of workplace precautions, risk control systems and
management arrangements. They provide 'leading indicators' of
performance.
Prohibition (safety Red sign that prohibits behaviour likely to increase or cause danger, for
sign) example: no access for unauthorised people.
Prohibition notice A prohibition notice may be issued when the inspector considers that
there is a risk of serious personal injury. The notice prohibits the carrying
on of the work activity giving rise to the risk of injury.
Propane A gas used as a feedstock during chemical petroleum and high-octane

liquid fuel manufacturing, and also as fuel for heating. Along with butane,
it is also referred to as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as it is commonly
stored under pressure as a liquid.

Glossary
Prosecution Any breach of legislation may give rise to a prosecution in the criminal
courts. Health and safety offences are usually 'triable either way', this
means the case may be heard in a magistrates court or a crown court.
Protected lobby A fire-resisting enclosure providing access to an escape stairway via two
sets of fire doors and into which no room opens other than toilets and lifts.
Protected stairway A stairway which is adequately protected from the rest of the building by
fire-resisting construction.
Protection appliance Protection appliances are devices that are used to hold a work piece and
safely present it to a cutting tool while keeping the operator's body clear
of the danger zone. Examples include: push stick, jigs and holders.
Protection device A protection device stops the movement of the dangerous part before a
person can reach it. Examples include: two handed controls, hold to run
controls and light curtains.
Provision and Use of In the UK, PUWER requires risks to people's health and safety, from
Work Equipment equipment that they use at work, to be prevented and controlled. Link:
Regulations 1998 www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2306/contents/made
(PUWER)
Psychological match Involves the individual's information and decision-making requirements, as

(ergonomics) well as their perception of the tasks and risks.
Psychosocial hazard Example: pressure of work or shift work.
PTQ (Pre-Tender A questionnaire used to broadly determine the suitability of a contractor.

Questionnaire)
Purlin trolley A leading edge, passive protection system offering collective protection to
those working on roofs. A fixed double guard rail is always in front of the
roofing operations. There is a safety deck for users to walk on and store
tools. A support framework prevents users falling into gaps when the
trolley is moved along.

Glossary
Q
Qualitative Qualitative measurements are subjective and judgemental measurements,
measurements for example, the standards of housekeeping for an organisation can be
said to have improved but it will based on personal opinion and
judgement.
Quantitative Quantitative measurements are numerical and objective measurements,

measurements for example, the Accident Injury Rate (AIR) of an organisation can be
counted and represented by a number.

Glossary
R
Radiation Energy that is radiated or transmitted in the form of waves or particles.
There are 2 main types of radiation: ionising radiation and non-ionising
radiation.
Radiation (of heat) Heat is radiated as infra-red radiation and behaves in the same way as light
(visible radiation) in that it travels in straight lines, will cast shadows, and
will be transmitted through some materials and not others. Radiated heat
does not require an intervening medium.
Radiation Protection In the UK, where work with ionising radiation is notifiable to the HSE a
Advisor (RPA) suitably certificated and experienced RPA must be appointed. The role of
the RPA is to advise on: risk assessment, designation of controlled and
supervised areas, incident investigations, contingency planning, dose
assessment and recording.
Radon Radon 222 is a naturally occurring radioactive gas, which comes from
uranium, found in many rocks and soil. Radon, when breathed in, is the
second largest cause of lung cancer in the UK.
Rated capacity Safe Working Loads (SWL) for a lift truck. Weights to be lifted must be
within the rated capacity of the truck.
Rated Capacity Used on cranes with jibs (horizontal structure supporting a moveable
Indicator (RCI) hoist) to give a warning as the Safe Working Load (SWL) is approached and
a further warning when an overload occurs.

Glossary
Reactive monitoring Reactive monitoring systems monitor 'failure', which in health and safety
systems terms are:
injuries and cases of ill health

property damage and other losses
incidents / near misses
workforce complaints
enforcement actions
civil claims
costs.
They provide 'lagging indicators' of performance.
Reasonable care The standard of reasonable care is the behaviour expected of the average,
reasonable person.
Reasonably In a civil law case it is a duty of the employer to take responsible care to
foreseeable avoid reasonably foreseeable harm. Whether or not all reasonably
foreseeable harm has been addressed will depend on the level of
knowledge expected of the defendant.
Reasonably Reasonably practicable means that you have to take action to control the
practicable health and safety risks in your workplace except where the cost (in terms
of time and effort as well as money) of doing so is 'grossly
disproportionate' to the reduction in the risk. You can work this out for
yourself, or you can simply apply accepted good practice.
Reasonably A reasonably practicable duty requires the degree of risk of a particular

practicable duty activity or environment to be balanced against the costs of taking
measures to control the risk.
Registration A European Regulation concerning the Registration, Evaluation,

Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of Chemicals, which came into force in June
Authorisation and 2007. Link: www.hse.gov.uk/reach/index.htm
restriction of
Chemicals (REACH)
Regulations Regulations are law, approved by Parliament. They are usually made under
the Health and Safety at Work Act but also apply to any European
Directives.
Regulations European Regulations apply directly to all employers within Europe.

(European)

Glossary
Regulatory Reform Applies to all non-domestic premises in England and Wales. Under this
(Fire Safety) Order order the person responsible for fire safety must carry out a risk
2005 assessment and implement and maintain a fire management plan. Link:
Representative of Elected by employees, under the Health and Safety (Consultation with
employee safety Employee) Regulations 1996, to represent employees on health and safety
issues.
Residual Current A protective device designed to interrupt the supply of electricity if a fault
Device (RCD) is detected. Residual Current Devices (RCD) work by constantly monitoring
the current flowing in the live and neutral wires supplying a circuit or piece
of equipment. Under normal circumstances the current flowing in the live
and neutral wires is equal. When an imbalance occurs, due to a fault, the
RCD detects this and automatically cuts off power before injury or damage
can occur.
Residual risk The risk that remains after the risk controls have been put in place.
Resistance All materials, including conductors, will afford some resistance to the flow
of electrons. The resistance of a conductor is measured in ohms ()
(symbol R).
Respirator One type of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) which works by

filtering contaminants out of the air so the wearer breathes clean air.
Respiratory Protective A particular type of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) designed to

Equipment (RPE) protect the wearer against inhalation of hazardous substances in the
workplace air. There are 2 main types of RPE: respirators and breathing
apparatus.
Reviewing Reviewing is the process of making judgements about the adequacy of

performance and determining the actions necessary to remedy
deficiencies.
Rhinitis Inflammation of nasal mucous membranes resulting in a runny nose, which

can be caused by exposure to wood dust.
RIDDOR RIDDOR Reporting of Injuries Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences

Regulations. Employers, self-employed people and people in control of
work premises, have legal duties under RIDDOR to report and record
certain work-related accidents by the quickest means possible. Link:
www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2013/1471/contents/made.

Glossary
Risk Risk is the chance, high or low, that somebody could be harmed by a
hazard, together with an indication of how serious the harm could be. Risk
= likelihood x seriousness.
Risk assessment A risk assessment is simply a careful examination of what, in your work,
could cause harm to people, so that you can weigh up whether you have
taken enough precautions or should do more to prevent harm.
From: the HSE.
Risk control Risk assessment and risk control are part of the larger process of risk
management. The reason risks are assessed is to ensure they are then
effectively controlled.
Risk control system Risk Control Systems (RCSs) are the basis for ensuring that adequate
workplace precautions are provided and maintained. Risk control systems
are designed to ensure the success of the workplace precaution.
Risk management The HSE describes risk management as the employer, looking at the risks
that arise in the workplace and then putting sensible health and safety
measures in place to control them.
Risk management An effective risk management system should assess the risks that arise in
system the workplace, put in sensible health and safety measures to control them
and then make sure they work in practice.
Risk perception The subjective judgement that people make about the characteristics and
severity of a risk.
Risk phrase When classifying hazardous chemicals under CHIP a 'risk phrase' describing
(hazardous chemicals) the risk is assigned to the chemical. Examples include: explosive when dry,
very toxic if swallowed, harmful by irritation.
Robens Report, 1972 Lord Robens report on Safety and Health at Work was published in June
1972 and forms the basis of much of modern health and safety legislation.
Roll Over Protection Fork lift trucks which have to work in environments where rolling through
Structure (ROPS) more than 90 is a concern, should be equipped with a roll over protection
structure, such as an enclosed cab for the driver.
Root cause (of an The root cause of an accident is generally management, planning or
accident) organisational failings, for example: failure to identify training needs and
assess competence, low priority given to risk assessment.

Glossary
Rough terrain Similar in design to the industrial counter-balanced lift truck but equipped
counterbalance lift with larger wheels and pneumatic tyres, giving it greater ground clearance.
truck It has greater ability to operate on uneven and soft ground and is mainly
used in the construction industry and in agriculture.
Routes of entry Hazardous substances enter the body in one of four main ways: inhalation
(breathing in), absorption (skin contact), ingestion (swallowing), injection
(skin puncture).

Glossary
S
Safe condition (safety Green sign providing information on emergency exits, first aid or rescue
sign) equipment or activities.
Safe System of Work Safe Systems of Work (SSW) define safe methods of undertaking a
(SSW) particular activity. This includes method statements, safe operating
procedures and, where necessary, Permits-To-Work (PTW). A safe system
of work is required when hazards cannot be eliminated and a degree of
risk remains after technical control measures are introduced.
Safety Safety may be considered to be the state of being safe, i.e. free from the
unacceptable risk of injury, danger or loss.
Safety committee A means of consulting with employees on health and safety issues.
Safety culture (of an Safety culture can be describes as the ideas and beliefs that all members of
organisation) the organisation share about risk, accidents and ill health (CBI). Safety
culture can also be explained as the inclination of a company's employees
to comply with rules or act safely or unsafely.
Safety Data Sheet The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) contains the technical information necessary
(SDS) to make a risk assessment as required by the Control of Substances
Hazardous to Health Regulations (CoSHH).
Safety phrase When classifying hazardous chemicals under CHIP a 'safety phrase'
(hazardous chemicals) describing the basic safety precautions is assigned to the chemical.
Examples include: Do not empty into drains, keep away from sources of
ignition and keep locked up.
Safety representative In the UK, appointed by a trade union, under the Safety Representatives
and Safety Committees Regulations 1977, to represent employees on
health and safety issues.
Safety A UK regulation made under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Representatives and providing a legal framework for consultation of employees on health and
Safety Committees safety issues. Link: www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1977/500/contents/made
Regulations 1977

Glossary
Safety training Training that generally looks to influence an individual's attitude by
improving knowledge of the hazards and the consequences of risky
behaviour.
Safework The ILO's International Branch on Safety and Health at Work and the
Environment.
Self-closing guards Self-closing guards automatically open and close as the work piece is put in
and out.
Short-Term Exposure Short term time period (15 minutes) used when calculating Workplace
Limit (STEL) Exposure Limits (WELs) for hazardous substances.
Shoulder capsulitis Inflammation of the shoulder capsule connective tissue around the
(frozen shoulder) shoulder joint. An example of a WRULD.
Silica Many types of stone contain silica. Sand, sandstone and granite contain
silica in substantial quantities. Clay, shale and slate contain it in significant
proportions. Concrete and mortar also contain crystalline silica.
Silicosis Scarring of the lung tissue caused by exposure to silica. Acute silicosis
results in rapidly progressive breathlessness. Death occurs within a few
months of onset. Progressive silicosis causes fibrosis (hardening or
scarring) of the lung tissue and a loss of lung function. The effect continues
to develop after exposure has stopped and is irreversible.
Skill A person's ability to perform an activity effectively. Skills are typically

learned or acquired by training.
Slip Slips occur when the foot and the floor cannot make effective contact,
usually when something has been spilled or when the sole and floor finish
are unsuitable.
SMART objectives (for SMART objectives are those that are: Specific, Measurable, Agreed, and
an action plan) Realistic, with Timescale.
Software measures Risks created by equipment can be controlled by software measures such
as following safe systems of work for maintenance activities, and providing
adequate information, instruction and training.
Sound Vibration energy that passes through air, or other media, and is received
by the ear.

Glossary
Specific damages Specific damages are quantifiable losses incurred before the civil case,
mainly loss of earnings and medical expenses.
Staged fire alarm A fire warning which can be given in two or more stages for different
purposes within a given area (i.e. notifying staff, stand by to evacuate, full
evacuation).
Statute law Also called legislation, which is law made by Parliament as an Act of
Parliament, or a statutory instrument (e.g. Regulations) made under
powers within an Act of Parliament.
Stepping (excavation) Stepping means cutting one or more steps into the side of the excavation
to prevent instability.
Storey exit A final exit or a doorway giving direct access into a protected stairway,
fire-fighting lobby, or external escape route.
Stress Defined by the HSE as the adverse reaction people have to excessive
pressure or other types of demands placed upon them.
Stroboscopic effect Lamps that operate from an AC (Alternating Current) electrical supply may
produce oscillations in light output. When the magnitude of these
oscillations is great, machinery will appear to be stationary or moving in a
different manner. This is called the stroboscopic effect. It is not common
with modern fittings.
Supply of Machinery This UK Regulation requires that all machinery manufactured in or

(Safety) Regulation imported into the European Union meets the required standards of safe
2008 design by going through a conformity assessment, leading to a declaration
of conformity and the affixing of a CE mark. Link:
Surcharging Surcharging occurs when a load applied to the ground by plant, stored
(excavation) materials, spoil or structures, increases the horizontal load on the
excavation sides causing them to collapse.
Suspension trauma Describes the situation of a person falling into suspension in a harness and
then becoming unconscious.

Glossary
T
T-I-L-E Task Individual Load Environment are the four factors to consider for
a manual handling risk assessment.
Telescopic materials The tele-handler is a type of lift truck which has a boom that pivots at the
handler (tele-handler) rear of the machine, and is raised and lowered by hydraulic rams. The
boom can also be extended or retracted (telescoped) to give extra reach or
height. Tele-handlers may be two or four wheel drive, and have two-
wheel, four-wheel or crab steering. They are used mainly in agriculture and
construction.
Temporary deafness Temporary deafness is often experienced after leaving a noisy place.
Although hearing typically recovers within a few hours it should not be
ignored because continued exposure to high levels of noise can
permanently damage hearing.
Temporary threshold Temporary deafness often experienced after leaving a noisy place.
shift
Tendonitis Inflammation of the tendon (fibrous tissue connecting muscle to bone)

affecting fingers hands and forearms. An example of a WRULD.
Tenosynovitis Inflammation of the tenosynovium (tendon sheath) and tendon affecting

hands and forearms. An example of a WRULD.
Tension neck An example of a WRULD which exhibits a number of symptoms including

syndrome pain, tenderness and stiffness of muscles, signs of hardened bands or
nodularities and muscle spasms in the neck.
Thermal comfort An acceptable zone of thermal comfort for most people in the UK lies
roughly between 13C (56F) and 30C (86F), with acceptable
temperatures for more strenuous work activities concentrated towards
the bottom end of the range, and more sedentary activities towards the
higher end (HSE).
Tinnitus Ringing, whistling, buzzing or humming in the ears, which may also be
caused as a result of exposure to workplace noise and may be an acute
(short term) effect or have a chronic effect (long term).

Glossary
Toolbox talk A short presentation to the workforce on a single aspect of health and
safety. The term originates in the use of a toolbox as a stage for the
foreman to brief his team on the health and safety topic of the day.
Tort In the UK tort is described as something wrong that somebody does to

somebody else that is not criminal, but that can lead to action in a civil
court. An example of tort is negligence.
Transient overload Temporary additional flow of electric current through the system.
Example: additional current as an air conditioner compressor starts up.
Trestle Trestles are made with a swing back, similar to step ladders, but both
halves have heavy cross bearers to support a working platform.
Trigger finger A stenosing (narrowing of the tendon sheath) tenosynovitis locking a finger
in either a bent or straight position. An example of a WRULD.
Trip Trips occur when an obstruction prevents normal movement of the foot,
resulting in loss of balance, usually caused by objects on the floor or
uneven surfaces.
Trolley A trolley allows one person to transport a load from A to B, reducing the
load and generally increasing the efficiency. Trolleys tend to be of lighter
weight construction than a truck and are designed for specific applications.
An example of manually operated load handling equipment.
Truck Trucks are generally used to move and support larger loads. Trucks can be
flat topped or fitted with a variety of sides and wheels to suit different
uses. Platforms can be designed to be raised or lowered, reducing the
need for bending during loading and unloading. An example of manually
operated load handling equipment.
Tunnel guard (fixed Tunnel guards provide protection at machine feed and discharge areas.
guard)
Two-handed control A protection device that requires the operator to use both hands to start
device (protection and control the machine. Simultaneous operation of the controls is
device) required.
Typical load current The current required by an electrical device.

Glossary
U
Underlying causes (of Underlying causes of an accident are generally unsafe acts and unsafe
an accident) conditions, for example: the guard removed from a machine.
Uninsured costs (of an Uninsured costs are accident costs (lost time, sick pay, legal costs, lost
accident) business, etc.) that aren't covered by Employers Liability Insurance (ELI).
Upper exposure action The level of exposure to noise of employees averaged over a working week
value (noise) 85 dB(A). The maximum noises to which employees are exposed in a
working day (peak sound pressure) 137 dB(A).
Upper Limb Disorders Also known as Work Related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULDs), they cover
(ULDs) aches, pains, tension and disorders involving any part of the arm from
fingers to shoulder or the neck. They include problems with soft tissues,
muscles, tendons and ligaments, along with the circulatory and nerve
supply to the limb. WRULDs are caused or made worse by work.

Glossary
V
Veiling reflection Veiling reflections or high luminance reflections can overlay the detail of
the task. Veiling reflections can affect task performance and cause
discomfort.
Ventilation The provision of fresh air to a room or building. The fresh air supply rate
should not normally fall below 5 to 8 litres per second, per occupant.
Vibration Vibration occurs when a body moves rhythmically back and forth through
a fixed point. Vibration energy can affect a worker in 2 ways: hand arm
vibration and whole body vibration.
Vicarious liability In general terms vicarious liability is a legal liability imposed on one person
making them liable for torts committed by another.
Violation Violations are any deliberate deviations from the rules but most violations
are motivated by a desire to get the job done. Very few are wilful acts of
sabotage or vandalism. Violations are divided into three categories:
routine, situational and exceptional.
Violation - Exceptional Exceptional violations rarely happen and only then when something has
gone wrong. When solving a problem during an emergency it may be
necessary to break a rule, regardless of the risk, because it is believed that
the benefits outweigh the risks.
Violation - Routine Routine violations occur when breaking the rule or procedure has become
a normal way of working within the work group. Examples:
the desire to cut corners to save time and energy

the perception that the rules are too restrictive
the belief that the rules no longer apply
lack of enforcement of the rule
new workers starting a job where routine violations are the norm
and not realising that this is not the correct way of working.

Glossary
Violation - Situational Situational violations occur when a rule is broken due to pressures from
the job such as being under time pressure, insufficient staff for the
workload, the right equipment not being available or even extreme
weather conditions.
Viruses Viruses are infectious agents that can damage or kill the cells they infect.
Viruses cause many infectious diseases which have no cure.
Voltage For electrons to flow along a conductor a pressure must be applied, which
comes from an energy source, such as a battery, or mains power supply.
The power supply has the ability to pull electrons out of a circuit and push
them back in the other side of the circuit. These negative and positive
forces present at the terminals of the power supply give it the potential to
do work. The difference in positive and negative potential between the
terminals of a power supply (potential difference) is measured in units of
volts (symbol V). Higher voltage results in greater current flow.

Glossary
W
Warning (safety sign) Yellow sign giving warning of a hazard or danger, for example: danger
electricity.
Waste Any substances or object which the holder discards, or intends or is

required to discard.
Waste management Waste management activities include the transport, treatment and
disposal of waste.
Waste management The responsibility (under the Waste Regulations) for all businesses to store
duty of care transport and dispose of waste without harming the environment.
Waste Regulations Regulations which transpose the revised Waste Framework Directive
(WFD) (2008/98/EC) into law and require all businesses to store, transport
and dispose of waste without harming the environment. Link:
www.gov.uk/managing-your-waste-an-overview
Wavelength Determines the pitch of the sound. Also known as frequency. Measured in
Hertz (Hz).
Way guidance Low mounted luminous tracks on escape routes.
Welfare facilities Those facilities necessary for the wellbeing of employees, such as washing,
toilet, rest and changing facilities, and somewhere clean to eat and drink
during breaks.
Whole Body Vibration Vibration energy is transmitted through the seat or feet of employees who
(WBV) drive mobile machines, or other work vehicles, over rough and uneven
surfaces as a main part of their job.
Work at height Work at height activities refer to those where there is a risk of a person
activities being injured if they fall from it. This can include places at or below ground
level. Examples of work at height activities include: gutter or window
cleaning, putting up a display, unloading a vehicle, minor roof work,
machine maintenance, shelf stacking.

Glossary
Work at Height These UK Regulations were made to prevent the deaths and injuries
Regulations 2005 caused each year by falls at work. They apply to all work at height where
there is a risk of a fall liable to cause personal injury. Link:
Work equipment Any machinery, appliance, apparatus, tool or installation for use at work.
Work restraint A personal fall prevention system where the user is physically prevented
from reaching an edge by using a harness and a fixed length lanyard
attached to a suitably located anchor.
Work-related crash A crash which occurs at the site of work, and/or crashes during work
journeys, except commuting.
European Road Safety Observatory (ERSO).
Work-Related Upper Work Related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULDs) are aches, pains, tension
Limb Disorders and disorders involving any part of the arm, from fingers to shoulder, or
(WRULDs) the neck. They include problems with the soft tissues, muscles, tendons
and ligaments, along with the circulatory and nerve supply to the limb and
are caused or made worse by work.
Work-related violence Any incident, in which a person is abused, threatened or assaulted in

circumstances relating to their work.
From: the HSE
Workplace (Health These UK Regulations cover a wide range of basic health, safety and
Safety and Welfare) welfare issues and apply to most workplaces. Link:
Regulations 1992 www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1992/3004/contents/made
Workplace equipment Workplace equipment is any machinery, appliance, apparatus, tool or

installation for use at work (PUWER 1998). Examples include: hammers,
knives, ladders, drilling machines, power presses, circular saws,
photocopiers, lifting equipment (including lifts), dumper trucks and motor
vehicles.
Workplace Exposure WELs are also known as OELs, set to help protect the health of people who
Limits (WEL) / work with hazardous substances. WELs/OELs are concentrations of
Occupational hazardous substances in the air that people breathe, averaged over a
Exposure Limits (OEL) specified period of time, referred to as a Time Weighted Average (TWA).

Glossary
Workplace precaution Workplace precautions are the primary output of risk assessment and risk
control. They are provided at the point of risk to protect people from harm
arising from work activity. Put simply, work precautions are the 'thing' that
protects the worker from the hazard.
Workplace transport Any vehicle or piece of mobile equipment that is used by employers,
employees, self-employed people or visitors in any work setting (apart
from travelling on public roads). It includes: cars, vans, lorries and any
other vehicle that is used in a work setting, such as forklift trucks, compact
dumpers, tractors or mobile cranes.

Glossary

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NEBOSH

International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 2

Ability The capacity to perform a particular physical or mental function.

Absolute duty An absolute duty is something that must be complied with.

Accident An undesired event that results in injury, ill-health, or property damage.

AFR = Np x 100 000

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 3

Alternating Current Mains electricity is from an alternating current supply. In the UK it is a

Amplitude Amplitude determines the loudness of a sound.

Tall waves = loud.

Asbestos A naturally occurring mineral of 3 main types: Crocidolite (blue), Amosite

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 4

Attitude An attitude represents an individual's degree of like or dislike of an object,

Audiometry Procedure used to measure hearing loss

Auditing Auditing is the structured process of collecting independent information

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 5

Benchmarking Used to compare aspects of an organisation's performance with that of

Biological hazard Examples: legionella bacteria or blood borne virus.

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 6

BS 18004 A guide to achieving effective occupational health and safety performance.

BS 8555 A guide to the phased implementation of an environmental management

Bullying Bullying is defined as: offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting

Bullying behaviours have been identified to include: shouting at staff,

Butane A gas used as a feedstock during chemical petroleum and high-octane

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 7

Chemical hazard Example: corrosive or toxic cleaning chemicals.

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 8

CLP Regulation The European Regulation on Classification, Labelling and Packing of

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 9

Combustible materials A substance that can be burned.

Common knowledge A non-specialist within an industry or a field will be expected to have

Compartmentation To stop a fire spreading a building can be sub-divided by fire-resisting

Competence The demonstrated ability to perform to a required standard.

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 10

Contributory Contributory negligence arises when the claimants own carelessness, or

Control of Noise at These UK regulations require employers to prevent or reduce risks to

Conveyor A mechanical means of moving materials in the workplace. Examples

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 11

must be committed by an organisation, not an individual

CoSHH The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (CoSHH)

Crane Typically used on construction sites or in industrial and engineering

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 12

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 13

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 14

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 15

Electricity Energy made available by the flow of electrons through a conductor.

EMAS (Eco- Eco-Management and Audit System (EMAS) is a European management

Environmental An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a system for managing

Environmental Environmental monitoring checks the effectiveness of health control

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 16

Ergonomic hazard Examples: poor posture or repetitive work at a computer workstation.

ERIC SP A mnemonic to help you remember the hierarchy of risk control

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 17

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 18

Fire warning system A means of alerting people to the existence of a fire.

Flammable Easily ignited and capable of burning rapidly.

Flicker Light modulation at lower frequencies (about 50 Hz or less) which is visible

Fuse A protective device designed to interrupt the supply of electricity if a fault

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 19

Disability glare When there is direct interference with the vision.

Astutis Ltd NEBOSH IGC 20

Harassment Unwanted conduct that violates peoples' dignity or creates an intimidating,