BES 133 Basic Occupational Safety and Health

Harmful
Chemicals in the
Environment
Author/s
Barcelona, Arvhenn G.
Balitung, Khalil Al-Salem
Balmes, Bianca
 College of Engineering

WESTERN MINDANAO STATE UNIVERSITY

Copyright © by Western Mindanao State University
All rights reserved. Published (2023)
Printed in the Philippines
ISBN 978-971-0487-42-4
No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed
in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or
retrieval system, without prior written permission of
WESTERN MINDANAO STATE UNIVERSITY

Table of Contents
Background of the module 1
Introduction 2
Objectives…………………………………………………………………………………......3
Try this 3
Think ahead 4
Read and Ponder 5-14
See if you can do this15
Conclusion 16
See if you can do this16
References 17

Answer key 18
Background of the Module
In today's industrialized world, the presence of harmful chemicals in the environment has
become a growing concern, particularly when it comes to the realm of occupational safety
and health. The seamless integration of chemicals into various industrial processes,
manufacturing, and agriculture has led to significant advancements in technology and
production. However, this progress has come at a price, as the extensive use and mishandling
of chemicals have raised serious issues related to environmental pollution, human health, and
workplace safety. This module delves into the complex interplay between harmful chemicals
in the environment and the critical need to safeguard the well-being of workers while
highlighting the imperative role of effective safety protocols and regulations.
Industrialization has brought about a remarkable surge in the production and use of a wide
array of chemicals across different sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare,
and construction. These chemicals serve various purposes, from enhancing productivity to
enabling new innovations. However, the environmental consequences of this proliferation
have been profound. Industrial activities often release harmful chemicals into the air, water,
and soil, contributing to air pollution, water contamination, and soil degradation. As a result,
these toxic substances can find their way into the food chain, affecting ecosystems and
human populations alike. Understanding and mitigating the environmental impact of these
chemicals is crucial for sustainable development.
The consequences of harmful chemicals on human health are a matter of paramount concern.
Exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace can lead to a range of health issues,
including acute poisoning, chronic diseases, and even fatalities. Workers who handle
chemicals or work in environments where chemical exposure is common are particularly
vulnerable. Inhalation, dermal contact, or ingestion of these toxic substances can result in a
host of health problems, from respiratory ailments to neurological disorders. Moreover,
certain chemicals are known to be carcinogenic, further emphasizing the importance of
stringent safety measures.
In the context of occupational safety and health, addressing the risks associated with harmful
chemicals is of utmost significance. Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to
ensure the well-being of their workforce. This module explores the essential components of
occupational safety and health programs, which include risk assessment, hazard
identification, exposure monitoring, and the implementation of protective measures. Workers
must receive proper training to handle chemicals safely, use personal protective equipment,
and understand emergency procedures in case of chemical spills or accidents.
Government regulations play a pivotal role in safeguarding the interests of both workers and
the environment. Various national and international bodies have developed guidelines and
standards to control the use and disposal of hazardous chemicals. These regulations
encompass the classification and labeling of chemicals, restrictions on certain substances, and
requirements for handling and transporting chemicals safely. Compliance with these
regulations is non-negotiable and ensures that industries minimize their environmental
footprint while protecting the health of their employees.

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 Introduction

The intricate dance between humanity and the environment has been a timeless narrative,
with each side affecting the other in profound ways. In recent years, however, a darker
undercurrent has emerged in this narrative, as harmful chemicals have increasingly infiltrated
our surroundings, posing a significant threat to both the environment and human well-being.
This alarming phenomenon has given rise to a pressing concern: the intricate relationship
between harmful chemicals in the environment and the critical realm of occupational safety
and health.
Harmful chemicals, often synonymous with pollutants and contaminants, represent an
extensive category of substances that can have detrimental effects on the environment and
living organisms, including humans. These substances can take various forms, ranging from
heavy metals and pesticides to volatile organic compounds and industrial byproducts. While
some chemicals occur naturally, human activities have significantly exacerbated their
presence in our surroundings. The widespread use of chemicals in agriculture, manufacturing,
and transportation, among other sectors, has contributed to the proliferation of hazardous
substances in our air, water, and soil.
The implications of this environmental contamination extend far beyond the natural world.
The interconnectedness of ecosystems means that harmful chemicals can infiltrate food
chains, affecting the health of both wildlife and humans. Moreover, as industries continue to
rely on these chemicals, the workplace becomes a battleground where exposure to hazardous
substances is a daily reality for countless individuals. It is within this intricate web of
environmental pollution and occupational settings that the concept of occupational safety and
health becomes paramount.
The interface between harmful chemicals in the environment and occupational safety and
health is complex and multifaceted. First and foremost, workers in industries dealing with
chemicals face a heightened risk of exposure, which can have dire consequences for their
health. Prolonged or acute exposure to toxic chemicals can lead to a range of adverse health
effects, from respiratory problems and skin disorders to cancer and neurological disorders.
The pervasiveness of these chemicals in various industries, including manufacturing,
agriculture, and healthcare, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive OSH measures.
Furthermore, the environmental consequences of workplace chemical usage cannot be
understated. The improper handling, disposal, or accidental release of hazardous chemicals
from industrial settings can result in pollution of air, water, and soil. This not only
exacerbates environmental degradation but also poses long-term risks to the health of
communities living in proximity to these facilities.
As we delve deeper into the intricate relationship between harmful chemicals in the
environment and occupational safety and health, it becomes clear that addressing this issue
requires a holistic approach. Environmental regulations and workplace safety standards must
be harmonized to minimize the adverse effects of chemical exposure on both the natural
world and human populations. This entails rigorous risk assessment, the development of safer

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alternatives, and enhanced training and education for workers to identify, handle, and
mitigate chemical hazards effectively.

Objectives

After delving into this module, you should be able to:

 Identify and assess exposure risks on the harmful chemicals in the environment.
 Mitigate the risks associated with the harmful effects in the environment.
 Identify and understand common harmful chemicals found in various occupational
settings.
 Implement strategies for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of harmful chemicals in
accordance with occupational safety and health regulations.

Try this!

Directions: Read and understand the questions below. Write Ganern if the statement is True
and write Ligwak if it corresponds otherwise.
1. Harmful chemicals in the environment can pose significant risks to both the
environment and human health. Answer: True
2. Basic Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) guidelines do not address the handling
and disposal of harmful chemicals in the workplace. Answer: False
3. Occupational exposure to harmful chemicals can lead to various health issues,
including respiratory problems, skin disorders, and even cancer. Answer: True
4. OSH regulations require employers to provide training and protective equipment to
workers who may be exposed to harmful chemicals on the job. Answer: True
5. It is acceptable to dispose of harmful chemicals in regular trash bins as long as they
are securely sealed. Answer: False
6. Identifying and labeling hazardous chemicals is not a crucial part of basic OSH
practices. Answer: False
7. OSH regulations do not apply to the agricultural sector, where harmful chemicals are
commonly used. Answer: False
8. Regular workplace inspections are not necessary when dealing with harmful
chemicals in the environment. Answer: False
9. Workers have the right to refuse to work with harmful chemicals if they believe it
poses an immediate danger to their health and safety. Answer: True
10. Basic OSH principles emphasize the importance of substituting harmful chemicals
with safer alternatives whenever possible. Answer: True

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 Think Ahead!

Directions: Read and understand the case study and answer the guide questions provided.
In this case study, we will explore a real-life scenario involving the presence of harmful
chemicals in the workplace, highlighting the importance of basic occupational safety and
health practices. This case study focuses on a manufacturing facility named "ChemCo,"
where employees were exposed to hazardous chemicals, leading to health concerns and
raising questions about safety protocols.
Case Description: ChemCo is a medium-sized chemical manufacturing company that
produces a variety of industrial chemicals. The company operates a plant in a densely
populated urban area. Over the years, there have been several complaints from employees
about health issues potentially related to chemical exposure.
Key Facts:
Chemical Handling Practices: ChemCo stores, transports, and processes a wide range of
chemicals, including highly corrosive acids and toxic solvents.
Employee Complaints: Multiple employees have reported health problems such as
respiratory issues, skin rashes, and headaches. Some employees suspect that these health
issues are linked to their exposure to chemicals at work.
Lack of Safety Training: ChemCo's safety training programs have been minimal, and many
employees lack proper knowledge of how to handle chemicals safely.
Safety Equipment: The availability and condition of personal protective equipment (PPE)
have been inconsistent. Some employees claim they were not provided with adequate
protective gear.
Environmental Concerns: Local environmental agencies have received complaints about
chemical spills and emissions from ChemCo, which have raised concerns in the neighboring
community.

Case Questions:
1. How can ChemCo ensure the safety and health of its employees while handling
hazardous chemicals?
2. What steps should ChemCo take to investigate and address the reported health issues
among its employees?

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 3. How can ChemCo improve its environmental practices to minimize chemical spills
and emissions?

Read and Ponder

Health Effects of Chemical Hazards

Workers are exposed to various chemicals in the workplace. These chemicals have inherent
toxicities that can potentially harm humans depending on the amount that has entered the
body and the conditions of exposure. Here are some concepts you must understand:
 Toxicity is the intrinsic capacity of a chemical agent to adversely affect an organism,
including humans.
 Toxic chemical is the agent that can cause the adverse effect.
 Hazard is the potential for the toxicity to be realized in a specific setting or situation.
 Exposure refers to the process or extent that a worker experiences or comes in contact
with a particular hazard in the workplace or as a result of one’s occupation.
 Dose is the amount of the toxic agent that has entered the body.
Risk is the probability or chance of a specific adverse effect to occur. Chemicals can enter
the body by several routes. Being familiar with all routes of entry will help in preventing
exposures. The most important and most common route of entry is by inhalation through the
lungs. Organic solvents and pesticides are examples of chemicals that are easily absorbed
through the skin. Chemical substances can also enter the body through the mouth by
accidental ingestion.
Points to consider regarding inhalation:
 Although the body filters many of the normal pollutants from the air a person
breathes, it cannot eliminate every type of contaminant.
 Small particles are difficult for the body to eliminate and can get deep into the lungs
where they can cause respiratory problems.
 Workers in dusty occupations are more susceptible to respiratory diseases than
workers in non-dusty occupations.
 Chemicals in their various forms can be inhaled and damage various target organs
(organs most affected) as well as the lungs.

Points to consider regarding skin absorption of substances:

 The skin is a major route of entry for hazardous substances in the workplace.
 Chemicals can be absorbed faster through inflamed or abraded skin but solvents may
also be absorbed in healthy skin into the bloodstream and transported to target organs
where they can have damaging results.

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Points to consider regarding entry of hazardous agents through the mouth:
 Hazardous agents can enter the body by being ingested or swallowed, usually through
involuntary actions which you may not be aware of such as through smoking, eating
with contaminated materials in the workplace, or eating with unwashed hands.
 Although some ingested hazardous agents are neutralized in the stomach, others are
absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to target organs.
 The most important method of prevention is personal hygiene. You must ensure that
you have access to washing facilities and that food storage and dining areas are
separate from your work areas to avoid contamination with hazardous agents.
Once substances enter the body, they can cause a variety of harmful effects. The effects may
occur at the site of chemical contact such as irritation of skin, eyes, or upper respiratory tract.
Other chemicals may involve organ systems distant from the point of contact. Inhaled
substances such as inorganic lead, do not produce ill-effects to the lungs but can damage the
radial nerve causing wrist drop.

The effects may be seen immediately (acute) or may show up months or years after the
exposure (chronic). Again, the effect will depend on the type of the chemical, the route of
entry, and the degree of exposure.
Target organ toxicity occurs when disease states or adverse health effects manifest in specific
organ system of the body. The different organ specific toxic effects are:
1. Blood Toxicity
2. Dermal Toxicity – adverse effects on the skin
3. Eye toxicity
4. Hepatotoxicity – adverse effects on the liver
5. Immunotoxicity – adverse effects on the immune system
6. Nephrotoxicity – adverse effects on the kidneys
7. Neurotoxicity – adverse effects on the brain or nerves outside of the brain
8. Reproductive Toxicity – adverse effects on the reproductive system
9. Respiratory Toxicity – adverse effects on the lungs
Some chemicals affect numerous organ systems. Some adverse effects of chemicals may be
related to the dose or amount absorbed by the body. Generally, the higher the exposure and
the absorbed dose, the worse are the adverse effects noted. Inorganic lead is a good example.
Its effects are related to the absorbed dose.
The "Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)"
is like a worldwide rulebook for how to categorize and label chemicals. It helps everyone use
the same language when talking about dangerous stuff like chemicals. So, no matter where
you are in the world, you can understand the labels on chemical products and know how to
handle them safely. It's all about keeping people safe and making sure everyone knows the
risks when dealing with chemicals.

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Types of Chemicals in the Environment that can be hazardous to the workplace
Some hazardous chemicals are of particular health concern because of their widespread
presence in the environment, their toxicity and capacity to magnify and accumulate in
environmental and human media, and the fact that many humans easily come in contact with
them thereby harming the health of large populations. Chemicals or groups of chemicals of
major public health concern include air pollution, arsenic, asbestos, benzene, cadmium,
dioxin and dioxin-like substances, inadequate or excess fluoride, lead, mercury and highly
hazardous pesticides (HHPs).
1. Arsenic
Arsenic is a natural semi-metallic chemical. An individual may be exposed
to arsenic through contaminated groundwater, surface water, and infected
soils. Arsenic poisoning can cause serious illness and even death if not
treated. If a dangerous amount of arsenic enters the body, it can
disrupt metabolism at the cellular level. Increased arsenic levels can
lead to cancer, liver disease, disruption of the metabolism at the
cellular level and even coma. Anyone who suspects there may be
high arsenic levels in their local environment should contact
environmental testing labs for more information.

2. Lead
Due to wide industrial use of lead, the harmful effects of
lead have been undermined until now. Lead is a cumulative
toxin. It is extremely harmful to children. Lead poisoning
affects the gastrointestinal system causing constipation and
abdominal pain. It also harms the nervous system and causes
sleeping disorders. It takes a toll on your stamina levels and
causes fatigue.

3. Mercury
It is a heavy metal and toxic in nature. Exposure to even small
amounts of Mercury is a threat to child development in the
uterus. Mercury has toxic effects on kidneys and the
immune system. Ingestion of this toxic chemical can be
harmful for eyes, lungs and skin.

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 4. Cadmium
The concentration of Cadmium in the environment over
a certain level can be toxic to the biota. Freshwater
organisms such as the shellfish have been known for
accumulating cadmium in levels that can be harmful to
consumers who eat them leading to foodborne illnesses.

5. Petrochemicals
Due to our dependency on crude oil the petrochemicals have
become an important part of our lives but the same can be
hazardous to human life and animal life. Coating of oil and
petrochemicals on the sea layer prevents the sunlight and
oxygen from reaching the vegetation and microbial life in
the water. When burnt, petrochemicals produce nitrogen,
sulfur, and carbon into the atmosphere, which can
contribute to acid rain. Unburnt petrochemicals like carbon
monoxide can cause lung diseases in humans and also
results in global warming. Women exposed to
petrochemicals can result in birth defects in future
babies.

6. DDT
Pesticides Due to its massive use in pesticides it has found a way in
our food chain. Animals near the top of food chain like bald
eagle and peregrine falcon have declined in population
and the reason can be attributed to DDT. Direct skin
contact with DDT can cause skin infections and tingling
or creeping on skin. Following exposure to DDT,
humans may experience vomiting, nausea and
tremors or shakiness. Prolonged exposure to DDT
can cause liver cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Environmental labs can help keep the
environment safe from potentially hazardous DDT.

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Chemical Hazards
Hazardous substances present one of the major hazards that Occupational Safety and Health (OSH)
professionals need to consider regarding health at work.
Hazardous substances are used for a variety of tasks, from simple cleaning operations to complex
chemical processes. Hazardous substances have the potential to harm human health. They may be
solids, liquids, or gases; they may be naturally occurring, manufactured as a single substance or
mixture, or can be a by-product of an industrial process. When used in the workplace, these
substances often generate vapours, fumes, dusts and mists. A wide range of industrial, laboratory and
agricultural chemicals are classified as hazardous, as are many biological agents and nanoparticles.
Hazardous substances can cause a wide range of health effects, from localised (skin irritation or burns
from irritating or corrosive substances) to systemic (such as occupational cancers and lung disease).
Although hazardous substances can also lead to fire, explosion and environmental risks, this guidance
will only focus on the health risks arising from occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals.
The physical state of chemicals
Chemicals can exist in many physical states. They can be:

 solids
 liquids
 gases
 dusts (inhalable and respirable), fumes, vapours, and mists.
The physical state of chemicals may change, depending on the environmental factors and / or
processes. They are important to consider when assessing the routes of exposure.
The classification of chemical hazards
Substances hazardous to health are classified as:

 corrosive – for example, oven cleaners and caustic soda.

 hazardous to the environment - for example, pesticides and mercury
 explosive – for example, fireworks.
 acute toxicity - such as lead or sodium cyanide
 health hazard - such as chemical irritants like adhesives
 sensitizer – substances (for example, isocyanate paints) that can cause an allergic reaction or
effect, usually affecting the skin or respiratory system.
 oxidizing – for example, hair dyes and bleaches.
 flammable – for example, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or methylated spirits.
 serious health hazard (which includes carcinogens, mutagens and reproductive toxins) - for
example, asbestos, silica dust and diesel fumes.
Routes of exposure
There are many ways that a chemical can either enter or come into contact with the human body. To
understand how chemicals can affect the human body, an OSH professional must understand the
mechanics of normal operation of the various organs and processes in a healthy individual.
Through the lungs
The respiratory system is made up of tissues and organs that allow a person to breathe. It consists of
the airways (which are made up of nasal cavities, mouth, larynx or voice box and trachea or

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windpipe), the lungs (bronchioles and alveoli) and the linked blood vessels. Through breathing
(inhalation and exhalation), the respiratory system facilitates the exchange of gases between the air
and the blood and between the blood and the body’s cells.

Diagram of the lungs

The physical state and size of the particles will determine how far chemical substances can penetrate
the respiratory system and beyond.
An inhalable substance can only penetrate as far as the bronchioles and can be deposited along the
respiratory system to this It can therefore affect the mouth, nose, larynx, trachea and bronchioles.
A respirable substance can penetrate through to the alveoli and can interfere with the gas exchange
Some respirable substances can also be respired themselves and can enter the bloodstream.
Gases that are inhaled can cause acute (sudden or brief) effects on the airways and lungs. Examples
include chemicals such as chlorine and ammonia. These gases react with the water content in tissues
(especially in the mouth, nose and throat) to produce hydrochloric acid and ammonium hydroxide
respectively. The concentration of these reacted substances will determine how severe the irritation or
corrosion will be to these organs.
Gases can also create chronic (long-term or prolonged) effects when inhaled or respired. These effects
can be toxic, sensitisation, carcinogenic or mutagenic effects.

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Through the skin
Skin is comprised three primary regions – the outer layer (epidermis), the middle layer (dermis) and
the inner layer (hypodermis or subcutaneous tissue).

Diagram of the skin

Chemicals can enter the skin by:

 penetration
 permeation
 absorption.
As well as being absorbed through the skin, chemicals can be transported into the body via mucous
members – the ears, eyes, nose and mouth.
Chemicals such as corrosives can almost immediately affect living tissue by damage or destruction of
the proteins (called amide hydrolysis). There are three levels of burn category.

 Injury to the top layer of skin, or the epidermis, is called a superficial burn. This was formerly
called a first-degree burn.
 Injury to the second layer of skin, or the dermis, is called a partial thickness injury or dermal
injury. This was formerly called a second-degree burn.
 Injury to the third layer of skin, or subcutaneous tissue, is referred to as a full thickness injury.
This was formerly called a third-degree burn.
Hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide are, respectively, common examples of acid and alkali
corrosives.
Irritants affect the skin and mucous membranes by causing inflammation. Irritants work in the same
way as corrosives but produce less acute effects. Common irritants to the skin include liquids such as
oils, lubricants and solvents. These cause reddening, dryness and cracking of the skin on contact.
Skin sensitisers usually affect the hands and forearms, as these are the parts of the body that are most
likely to be exposed to these substances. The sensitisation can also spread to other parts of the body.
Common chemical skin sensitisers include chromium in cements, some textile dyes and pigments and
isocyanates and epoxy resins in paints and varnishes.

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Irritant contact dermatitis The most common form of occupational dermatitis is irritant contact
dermatitis. This is caused when a specific irritant in a high enough concentration comes into contact
with the skin for a sufficiently long time to damage the skin cells. If a mild irritant is in contact with
the skin it will wash away the stratum corneum lipids and prevent the skin’s natural barrier from
protecting and regenerating. If the exposure takes place over time the lipids will fail to regenerate and,
as a consequence, dermatitis will often occur in the area of exposure on the skin. This type of
dermatitis, which occurs over time, is sometimes referred to as chronic irritant contact dermatitis.
Through the digestive system
The digestive system is a group of organs working together to convert food into energy and basic
nutrients to feed the entire body. It is primarily made up of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small
intestines, and large intestines.
The esophagus is a muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. It is around 25 cm long in
adults. When food is swallowed, the walls of the esophagus contract to move the food down to the
stomach. The stomach breaks down much of the food chemically and mechanically, using powerful
stomach acids and stomach muscle movement. The food is then transferred into the small intestine.
Effects of absorption of chemicals through the digestive system or by direct contact
Chemicals that are ingested often affect the throat or stomach lining first and, if absorbed, then affect
the liver. The chemicals can either be broken down or transported to other parts of the body where
they can accumulate. As with inhalation, chemicals can also react more directly with linings of the
mouth, throat, stomach, or bowel. Corrosives and irritants have an acute effect on the digestive
system. They react chemically with the linings of the oesophagus and stomach and either inflame the
tissues (in the case of irritants) or destroy them (corrosives). Corrosives can also cause ulcerations to
occur in the stomach.
Other chemicals that are ingested have more chronic effects. Toxins, carcinogens and mutagens may
be absorbed through the intestines and are transported to other organs via the circulatory system.
Accumulation of these chemicals can either poison the organs or potentially cause the uncontrolled
growth of abnormal cells or change of normal cells.

Chemicals and the World of Work

Chemicals are widely used throughout society, with both positive and negative effects on
health, well-being, socio-economic aspects, and the environment. Workers around the world
are disproportionally exposed across almost all workplace sectors, with more than 1 billion
workers exposed to hazardous substances, including pollutants, dusts, vapors and fumes, each
year.

An estimated 1 million of these workers lose their lives each year due to exposure to
hazardous chemicals. For those who do not lose their lives, they may face non-fatal injuries
and diseases resulting in disability, debilitating chronic disease and other health impacts. All
of these deaths, injuries and illnesses are entirely preventable. Major industrial accidents,
such as the 2020 Beirut Port Explosion of ammonium nitrate, show the urgency of this global
health crisis.
Toxic Effects of Chemicals
The toxic effects of a chemical may be local or systemic. Local injuries involve the area of
the body in contact with the chemical and are typically caused by reactive or corrosive

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chemicals, such as strong acids, alkalis or oxidizing agents. Systemic injuries involve tissues
or organs unrelated to or removed from the contact site when toxins have been transported
through the bloodstream. For example, methanol that has been ingested may cause blindness,
while a significant skin exposure to nitrobenzene may effect the central nervous system.
Certain chemicals may affect a target organ. For example, lead primarily affects the central
nervous system, kidney and red blood cells; isocyanates may induce an allergic reaction
(immune system); and chloroform may cause tumors in the liver and kidneys.
It is important to distinguish between acute and chronic exposure and toxicity. Acute toxicity
results from a single, short exposure. Effects usually appear quickly and are often
reversible. Chronic toxicity results from repeated exposure over a long period of time. Effects
are usually delayed and gradual, and may be irreversible. For example, the acute effect of
alcohol exposure (ingestion) is intoxication, while the chronic effect is cirrhosis of the liver.
Acute and chronic effects are distinguished in the MSDS, usually with more information
about acute exposures than chronic.
Relatively few chemicals have been evaluated for chronic effects, given the complexity of
that type of study. Chronic exposure may have very different effects than acute exposure.
Usually, studies of chronic exposure evaluate its cancer causing potential or other long-term
health problems.
Controlling Chemical Hazards Exposure in the Workplace
Workplaces—specially manufacturing or other related industries—can’t totally eliminate or
avoid the use of all hazardous chemicals. What businesses can do to protect their workers,
however, is to follow and observe safety measures that aim to control the chemical hazards in
workplaces and reduce their potential negative impact on employees.
The following are some preventive measures and other helpful tips on how to proactively
maintain a safe working environment for you and your employees:
1. Identify hazardous chemicals present in your workplace.
Primarily, businesses will have to identify hazardous chemicals that are present in the
workplace. Some are obvious and easy to recognize, while others are not initially evident.
With this process, you’ll have a well-grounded basis on how to best handle each chemical
while also allowing your workers to practice safety measures on their own.
2. Assess risks associated with identified chemicals.
Once the hazards are identified, there should be an evaluation of the risks associated with
those chemicals, along with the likelihood of those risks occurring. Through a
comprehensive risk assessment, businesses will also be able to identify the severity of the
risks’ consequences, should they end up happening. This process can be a great deciding
factor on which risks should be prioritized and resolved first.
3. Control the risks.
This is the part where businesses will have to decide on how to manage or control the risks
identified. When dealing with chemical hazards in workplaces, you must follow the principle

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of the hierarchy of controls. This concept gives the order or level of how you can potentially
control each specific risk. This is the order of the hierarchy and their definitions:
 Elimination – totally remove and discontinue the use of the hazardous chemicals.
 Substitution – find alternatives or replace with other less hazardous chemicals.
 Engineering controls – implement changes in the process such as minimizing the
contact with the chemicals, or physically separating people from them.
 Administrative controls – implement changes in the way people work such as
rotating their schedules or rearranging job assignments.
 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – if hazardous chemicals can’t be avoided, or
businesses can’t reduce the contact employees have with them, ensure the use
of PPE to lessen exposure and risk factors.

4. Implement good control measures.

Businesses should also have comprehensive and standard control measures that can be
followed by all involved personnel and employees to prevent any hazardous effects of
chemicals. These measures also help ensure that all relevant stakeholders are on the same
page when it comes to chemical safety. However, these should be maintained and reviewed
regularly.
Part of implementing and maintaining the right control measures involves
constant training and review. For this, it would be best to utilize digital learning courses that
you can easily access anytime. Today, there are many available resources such as lessons
on handling toxic chemicals, spills, storage practices, and more.
5. Utilize safety signs and symbols.
According to the OSHA, and in compliance with the Hazard Communication
Standard (HCS), it is required by law that all chemicals have a label that not only includes
what kind of chemical they are, but also the type of hazard associated with them. This is
called GHS Pictograms, a safety symbols labeling system that is specific to chemicals. There
is also ISO 7000 to consider as a basis for safety signs and symbols.
6. Perform regular inspections.
For all of these efforts to be effective, businesses must perform regular inspections to ensure
that they are being followed and consistently practiced. Safety audits can also be a great
determining factor to know which control measures work, and which don’t. Examples of
helpful inspections related to chemicals include chemical safety audits and hazardous
material inspection.

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 See if you can do this!

Answer the following questions.

1. How can workplaces effectively manage and control chemical spills or leaks to
minimize environmental impact and protect worker safety?
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2. What factors contribute to the causes of chemical accidents in the workplace?

___________________________________________________________________________
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3. What are the primary sources of chemical exposure in the workplace, and how can
they impact the health and safety of workers?
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the presence of chemicals in the environment poses significant challenges and
considerations for occupational safety and health. As industries continue to evolve and
expand, so do the types and quantities of chemicals released into our surroundings. This
necessitates a proactive approach to safeguarding the well-being of workers and the broader
community.
Occupational safety and health regulations and guidelines play a crucial role in mitigating the
risks associated with chemical exposure in the workplace. Employers have a responsibility to
assess and control these risks through proper training, hazard communication, and the
implementation of effective safety measures. Additionally, workers should remain vigilant
and informed about the chemicals they encounter and the best practices for their safe
handling.
The concept of sustainable chemistry also deserves attention, as it promotes the use of safer
and greener chemicals, thereby reducing the environmental impact and potential harm to both
workers and ecosystems.
In conclusion, chemicals in the environment and their impact on occupational safety and
health are complex and evolving issues. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted
approach involving collaboration between governments, industries, and individuals to ensure
that chemical exposure is minimized, risks are mitigated, and the health and safety of workers
and the environment are prioritized. It is imperative that we continue to adapt and refine our
strategies in the face of an ever-changing chemical landscape to protect both current and
future generations.

See if you can do this!

POST-ASSESSMENT
Discuss the following:
1. What are the primary sources of chemical exposure in the workplace, and how can they
impact the health and safety of workers?

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2. What are the best practices for safely storing and disposing of hazardous chemicals in the
workplace to prevent environmental contamination and worker exposure?
3 How can employers effectively communicate chemical hazards to employees, and what role
does proper labeling and signage play in this process?
4. What is the importance of providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to
employees working with hazardous chemicals, and how should PPE be selected and
maintained?

References

Chemical hazards. (n.d.). IOSH.

https://iosh.com/health-and-safety-professionals/improve-your-
knowledge/occupational-health-toolkit/chemical-hazards/
‌Section 5: Health Hazards of Chemicals | Office of Environmental Health and
Safety. (n.d.). Ehs.princeton.edu. https://ehs.princeton.edu/laboratory-
research/laboratory-safety/laboratory-safety-manual/sec5
‌Chemical Hazards: Definition & Types. (n.d.). SafetyCulture.
https://safetyculture.com/topics/chemical-hazards/
‌Gorski, D. (2023). Science-Based Medicine. Science-Based Medicine.
https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/?fbclid=IwAR0xxj-
6XAYvKvtde5WfddlBKr3y5QveccnuMytPAZuOfQSgtLXIs-2UNDI
‌World Health Organization (WHO). (n.d.). Www.who.int. Retrieved September 25,
2023, from https://www.who.int/?
fbclid=IwAR2vLoG6a4bW2KSgVebHit8vQ4hq-
_t4MN9db4Ho3NGGtX0_lLXpvUXiekE
‌Home | Tools for Applied Plant Science. (n.d.). CID Bio-Science. Retrieved
September 25, 2023, from https://cid-inc.com/?
fbclid=IwAR3QsAS0qGNhQF7WkbVrDYxFK_ob4BbrJ3cjXrpnXOcECoQ9OSC1
VgQxTQg
‌Lera Blog. (n.d.). Lera Blog. Retrieved September 25, 2023, from
https://lerablog.org/?

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 fbclid=IwAR3eRuKxU1eZ58jjxn3FUnen4EZ3R9izwP0yYHVyfuvQ-Jv0TIujA-
YIKX8

Answer Key

Try this!

Directions: Read and understand the questions below. Write Ganern if the statement is True
and write Ligwak if it corresponds otherwise.
1. Harmful chemicals in the environment can pose significant risks to both the
environment and human health. Answer: Ganern
2. Basic Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) guidelines do not address the handling
and disposal of harmful chemicals in the workplace. Answer: Ligwak
3. Occupational exposure to harmful chemicals can lead to various health issues,
including respiratory problems, skin disorders, and even cancer. Answer: Ganern
4. OSH regulations require employers to provide training and protective equipment to
workers who may be exposed to harmful chemicals on the job. Answer: Ganern
5. It is acceptable to dispose of harmful chemicals in regular trash bins as long as they
are securely sealed. Answer: Ligwak
6. Identifying and labeling hazardous chemicals is not a crucial part of basic OSH
practices. Answer: Ligwak
7. OSH regulations do not apply to the agricultural sector, where harmful chemicals are
commonly used. Answer: Ligwak
8. Regular workplace inspections are not necessary when dealing with harmful
chemicals in the environment. Answer: Ligwak
9. Workers have the right to refuse to work with harmful chemicals if they believe it
poses an immediate danger to their health and safety. Answer: Ganern
10. Basic OSH principles emphasize the importance of substituting harmful chemicals
with safer alternatives whenever possible. Answer: Ganern

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