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Pharmaceutical Industry Env 540 Project Report
Pharmaceutical Industry Env 540 Project Report
Pharmaceutical Industry Env 540 Project Report
ENV 540
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
TITLE:
PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY
LECTURER:
DR. NOOR HAZIQAH BTE KAMALUDIN
DATE:
3 MAY 2024
PREPARED BY:
3. DISCUSSION
According to the research, chemical hazards are one of the risks associated with
machinery and equipment safety in the pharmaceutical business. Chemical hazards can
develop in the pharmaceutical business as a result of machinery and equipment in
pharmaceutical manufacturing processes that handle hazardous chemicals, raising the risk of
chemical exposure and accompanying health problems. Workers may be exposed to
chemicals by inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion, resulting in lung issues, skin irritation, or
other negative health consequences. The next section discusses thermal dangers. If
heat-generating machinery and equipment, such as ovens or autoclaves, are not adequately
regulated or insulated, they might cause burns or heat-related disease. Workers may suffer
burns from hot surfaces or steam, as well as heat-related ailments including heat exhaustion
or heat stroke. Thermal insulation, temperature monitoring, and sufficient ventilation can
assist prevent thermal dangers and keep workers safe in hot conditions.
This case can be proven under the Factories and Machinery Act 1967, Section 56(ca),
and Section 24(1) OSHA 1994, which requires particular chemical hazards procedures to be
made to eliminate or control any injuries, including employee exposure monitoring, in order
to safeguard the health of those employed in factories. Section 15(2) OSHA 1994 mentioned
to ensure that every machine is properly maintained, has a good system of work, safe to be
operated, and the operators are well-trained and supervised.
3.2 Mechanical Material Handling Safety
In the pharmaceutical industry, the safe transportation of goods and the use of vehicles
for various purposes are essential components of the supply chain and operational processes.
However, the transport and use of vehicles in pharmaceutical operations pose inherent risks to
the safety of workers, the public, and the integrity of pharmaceutical products. From the
transportation of raw materials and finished products to the movement of personnel within
facilities, vehicles play a vital role in facilitating the flow of materials and personnel. The
significant hazards associated with transport and vehicle operations in the pharmaceutical
industry including road accidents, hazardous material spills, ergonomic risks, and regulatory
compliance challenges. The importance of implementing comprehensive safety measures,
training programs, and regulatory compliance strategies to mitigate these hazards effectively
and ensure the safe and efficient operation of transport and vehicle activities within
pharmaceutical facilities. By prioritizing transport and vehicle safety, pharmaceutical
companies can protect the well-being of their employees, maintain product quality, and
uphold regulatory standards, ultimately contributing to the overall success and sustainability
of their operations.
The safety and integrity of pharmaceutical items during transportation can be put at
risk by several possible problems, some of which can be found and resolved only through
routine inspections. Identify any possible risks or maintenance concerns by doing routine
inspections of cars, machinery, and storage facilities. Depending on variables like frequency
of use and the variety of transportation activities, these inspections have to be carried out on a
weekly, monthly, or quarterly basis. Other than that, to prevent human error, it is suggested
that drivers and transport workers take part in extensive training programs. These training
programs should have a strong emphasis on following traffic laws, being alert when driving,
and avoiding distractions like mobile devices and other electronics. Regular refresher training
sessions may also guarantee that workers members are informed of any changes to safety
procedures or laws, as well as promote safe driving habits. Identifying and resolving such
problems before they become accidents may also be accomplished by encouraging a work
environment of safety in which workers feel secure reporting near-misses or safety concerns.
According to the law Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA), Section 24,
employers have to provide information, instruction, training, and supervision to employees to
ensure their safety and health, including training on safe handling and transportation practices
for pharmaceutical products.
3.4 Pressurized Equipment Safety
To avoid the risks connected with reactors, autoclaves, and compressed gas cylinders
in the pharmaceutical sector, ensure that they are regularly maintained and inspected to
prevent malfunctions or leaks. Store all pressurized equipment in well-ventilated areas away
from heat sources, flammable materials, and direct sunlight. Use proper design and
engineering controls to ensure safe operation, such as automatic shut-off systems, pressure
relief valves, and emergency ventilation systems. The appropriate control measure is to give
extensive training to operators on reactor safety, including adequate startup, shutdown, and
emergency procedures. Use personal protection equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles,
gloves, and protective gear to reduce your exposure to dangerous chemicals. Create clear
communication routes and emergency response processes to successfully manage events.
As per Section 24 of the Factories and Machinery Act 1967, if individuals in a factory
are exposed to conditions such as wetness, dust, noise, heat, or hazardous substances capable
of causing bodily harm, the Minister has the authority to mandate the provision and upkeep of
appropriate personal protective equipment. This includes items like goggles, gloves, leggings,
caps, footwear, and protective ointments or lotions, as deemed necessary for the safety of
those individuals. Under Section 56(f) of Factories and Machinery Act 1967, specify the
method for determining the safe operational pressure for steam boilers, unfired pressure
vessels, and gas cylinders, as well as the horsepower of prime movers, and the safe working
load of hoisting machines and tackle.
In the pharmaceutical industry, electrical equipment and systems play a crucial role in
various manufacturing processes, facility maintenance tasks, and laboratory operations.
Electrical power is required to supply equipment, lighting, and other necessities, but it also
has inherent risks that, if not handled carefully, might endanger the safety of employees.
There are many possible risks associated with electrical safety in the pharmaceutical industry,
such as electric shock, and equipment failures. Electrical hazards are a serious danger to
worker safety, product quality, and facility operations. Maintaining a safe and effective
pharmaceutical workplace requires an awareness of and commitment to reducing various
dangers, including electrical shock, fire, and explosion hazards. The pharmaceutical industry
may efficiently control electrical risks and ensure the safety of its products and workers by
using proactive risk management techniques, adhering to regulatory standards, and fostering a
safety culture.
All electrical equipment needs to be set up, grounded, and maintained properly in
order to avoid any potential electrical dangers. It is important to regularly evaluate electrical
systems in order to find any worn or broken parts. Proactive steps should be taken to avoid
accidents and protect the safety of employees and facilities to reduce electrical dangers in the
pharmaceutical business. To prevent worker interaction with electrical wiring and
components, sufficient insulation and protection should be provided for them. We can
eliminate these hazards by always wearing safety eyewear and insulated gloves when
handling electrical equipment. This is one example of a control measure that is implemented
for workers. To recognize electrical threats and handle crises, workers need also to get
training on electrical safety protocols. Furthermore, before performing any maintenance or
repairs, electrical equipment should be disconnected by following lockout/tagout protocols.
Moreover, to minimize the danger of electrical hazards and reduce their influence on worker
safety, use engineering controls such as equipment labelling, barriers, or equipment
modifications.
In the pharmaceutical industry, where workers may need to access elevated spaces like
platforms, mezzanines, and storage levels to carry out various activities, working at heights
has special safety issues. The utilization of tall machinery, storage racks, and elevated work
platforms is common in the pharmaceutical production environment. If appropriate safety
precautions are not taken, this increases the danger of falls and other incidents. The risks
involved in working at heights in the pharmaceutical industry, emphasizing the significance
of effective safety protocols and the potential consequences of accidents. Maintaining a
secure and effective pharmaceutical environment requires an awareness of and commitment
to reducing hazards associated with everything from falls to falling items and building
collapses. Pharmaceutical businesses may successfully handle working at height threats and
protect the success of their operations as well as the well-being of their workers by
implementing proactive risk management techniques, adhering to regulatory regulations, and
fostering a culture of safety.
After that, employees in the pharmaceutical industry may be needed to carry out duties like
maintenance, equipment installation, or facility inspections at elevated places, which presents
serious hazards for safety. Working at height safety hazards such as falling objects, if not
handled or stored safely, products or machinery stored at a height might fall and injure
someone. Workers' safety and the sustainability of operations are seriously threatened by falls
from elevated platforms or ladders, potential falling items from overhead, and the possibility
of structural failure. It is possible for components, equipment, or containers to fall from
higher levels and hit workers below, breaking or injuring heads. One way to reduce the risk of
accidents from falling items is to use suitable fall protection equipment, secure products
during transit, and implement adequate storage methods.
Thus, one of the primary hazards associated with working at height is the risk of falls.
The employers that want to avoid or reduce the effects of falls must put in place the proper
fall protection measures. Depending on the particular needs of the job and the working
environment, this may entail installing guardrails, safety nets or personal fall arrest devices
(PFAS). Then, training and competency development, which provides comprehensive training
to employees involved in working at height activities. Topics including hazard identification,
equipment usage, and emergency response protocols should all be included in the training.
Confirm that employees have the skills and certifications necessary for safely performing jobs
at heights. To reinforce safe work practices and handle any new concerns that may arise,
regular refresher training sessions should be held. For example, make sure the employees do a
thorough risk assessment to identify possible hazards and evaluate related risks before
starting any work at heights. Keep things like the task's requirements, the state of the
workspace, and the team members' qualifications in mind. Effective prevention of risk is
made possible by the proactive approach, which allows for the establishment of focused
control mechanisms.
According to Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA), Section 19, talks
about the responsibility of employers to ensure safe work environments, which includes
offering secure tools and machines. Employers must ensure equipment used for working at
height is suitable, properly maintained, and used according to safety guidelines. However,
employers must make sure that any machinery and equipment used for working at heights is
safe to use. Ensuring that ladders, scaffolds, or elevated work platforms are appropriate for
the task at hand and adhere to safety regulations is part of this.
Ergonomic hazards in office safety are risks associated with the design, layout, and
use of office equipment and workspaces that can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
that affect the muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissues in the body, as well as back pain
and repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), which are a type of MSD caused by repetitive
movements, forceful exertions, or sustained awkward postures, among employees. These
dangers are caused by lengthy durations of sitting, inappropriate workstation arrangement,
and repetitive duties, among other things, and have serious effects for afflicted persons,
affecting their ability to conduct everyday activities and overall quality of life. Office safety
can also include fire threats due to the presence of flammable materials and ignition sources
such as paper, cardboard, and electronics such as computers, printers, photocopiers, and
power strips. If these devices are not properly maintained or are overloaded, they can produce
heat and sparks, which can ignite surrounding combustibles. If not adequately controlled, it
can cause fires. Electrical failures, overheated equipment, and incorrect storage of
combustible goods can all raise the danger of an office fire. Then there are tripping and
slipping hazards, which can pose major dangers in office environments and cause injuries
such as sprains, strains, fractures, and bruising due to uneven surfaces, debris, and damp or
slick surfaces.
To avoid these dangers from endangering workers' lives, companies and employees
must implement preventative and control measures. First, provide ergonomic workstations,
equipment, and instruments to reduce uncomfortable postures, repetitive actions, and
excessive force. This includes work tables, seats, and equipment that are adaptable to varied
body proportions and working styles. Employers should also conduct workstation evaluations
based on ergonomic assessments to identify possible risk factors and take remedial actions
such as changing the workstation arrangement, equipment positioning, and lighting to
improve ergonomic comfort and productivity. To reduce the risk of fire and ensure the safety
of employees, equipment, and facilities, regular inspections of electrical systems, heating
equipment, machinery, and storage areas are required to identify potential fire hazards such as
faulty wiring, overheating equipment, or combustible materials. Aside from that, smoking
laws must be tightly enforced because there must be employees who smoke. This can be
accomplished by enforcing stringent no-smoking regulations in specific areas and providing
designated smoking zones complete with suitable disposal facilities to minimize unintentional
fires caused by discarded cigarettes. To avoid tripping and slipping hazards, office workers
must keep the office clean, clutter-free, and ensure that flooring materials are in good
condition. They should also apply non-slip coatings or mats in areas prone to slipping
hazards, and encourage employees to wear appropriate footwear with non-slip soles.
Under Sections 10(c) and 11 of the Factories and Machinery Act 1967, it is mandated
that all structural elements such as floors, platforms, stairways, and ladders must be
constructed in a manner that prevents the risk of falls and collapse. Furthermore, these
structures must be adequately maintained to ensure they are free from loose materials and
maintain a non-slippery condition. Additionally, in factories where workers are exposed to
hazardous substances or ionizing radiation, prescribed measures must be implemented to
eliminate the risk of harm to workers, thereby ensuring their safety. In accordance with
Section 15 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1994 (OSHA 1994), it is necessary
to establish measures to ensure, to the extent feasible, the safety and prevention of health
hazards related to the utilization, operation, handling, storage, and transportation of
machinery and substances.
4. CONCLUSION
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