OCUPATIONAL AND HEALTHY SEFAFTY | S7 01/26/2024

Enhancing Workplace Health: Occupational hygiene & Occupational disease

Introduction

o Define Occupational Hygiene as the science and practice of identifying, assessing, and
controlling workplace factors that may impact the health and well-being of employees.
o Emphasize the significance of occupational hygiene in fostering a safe and healthy work
environment.

Occupational Diseases

 Definition: Illnesses resulting from exposure to workplace hazards over an extended

period.
 Examples: Asbestosis, Noise-Induced Hearing Loss, Respiratory Diseases, Dermatitis.

Importance of Occupational Hygiene

 Highlight the positive impact of occupational hygiene on employee health, productivity,

and overall well-being.
 Discuss how a proactive approach to occupational hygiene can lead to a reduction in
workplace accidents and occupational diseases.

Types of Workplace Hazards

1. Categorize workplace hazards: chemical, physical, biological, ergonomic, and

psychosocial.
2. Provide examples for each type, showcasing the diverse range of potential risks in
different industries.

Hierarchy of Controls

 Explain the hierarchy: Elimination, Substitution, Engineering Controls, Administrative

Controls, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
 Emphasize the importance of a systematic approach to hazard control.

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Risk Assessment

 Discuss the process of risk assessment in occupational hygiene.

 Highlight how regular assessments help identify potential hazards and determine the level
of risk.

Exposure Monitoring

 Explain the significance of exposure monitoring in assessing the levels of hazardous

substances in the workplace.

 Discuss various monitoring techniques and their role in preventive measures.

 Workplace Design and Ergonomics

 Emphasize the role of ergonomics in designing workspaces that promote health and
prevent musculoskeletal disorders.

 Showcase examples of ergonomic improvements in different industries.

Health Surveillance

 Discuss the importance of health surveillance in monitoring and managing the health of
workers.
 Highlight how early detection of health issues can lead to timely interventions.

Communication and Training

 Stress the importance of effective communication about workplace hazards.

 Discuss the role of training programs in empowering employees to understand and
address occupational risks.

Regulatory Compliance

 Provide an overview of relevant occupational health and safety regulations.

 Emphasize the legal obligations of employers and employees.

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Benefits of Occupational Hygiene

 Outline the benefits, including improved employee morale, reduced absenteeism, and
increased productivity.
 Share statistics or case studies demonstrating positive outcomes.

Implementation Challenges

 Acknowledge common challenges in implementing occupational hygiene practices.

 Discuss strategies for overcoming these challenges and fostering a culture of safety.

Future Trends in Occupational Hygiene

A. Explore emerging technologies and trends shaping the future of occupational hygiene.
B. Discuss how innovations can further enhance workplace safety.

Occupational Hygiene Measures

o Air Monitoring: Regular assessment of air quality.

o Personal Exposure Monitoring: Monitoring individual exposure to hazards.
o Hazard Communication: Clear communication of risks to workers.
o Health Surveillance: Regular health check-ups for early detection of occupational
diseases.
o Legal and Regulatory Framework
o Overview of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) regulations.
o Responsibilities of employers and employees.
o Reporting and recording of occupational diseases.

Types of Occupational Diseases:

1. Respiratory Diseases:

I. Examples: Asbestosis, Silicosis, Occupational Asthma.

II. Caused by inhaling dust, fumes, or gases harmful to the respiratory system.

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2. Skin Disorders:

 Examples: Contact Dermatitis, Occupational Skin Cancers.

 Result from contact with irritants, allergens, or carcinogens.

3. Hearing Loss:

 Example: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL).

 Caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises in the workplace.

4. Musculoskeletal Disorders:

 Examples: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tendonitis.

 Associated with repetitive movements, poor ergonomics, and heavy physical labor

5. Occupational Cancers:

o Examples: Lung cancer due to asbestos exposure, Mesothelioma.

o Develop as a result of exposure to carcinogens in the workplace

6. Infectious Diseases:

 Examples: Hepatitis, Tuberculosis.

 Contracted through exposure to infectious agents in healthcare, laboratories, or other
high-risk environments.

7. Neurological Disorders:

 Examples: Lead Poisoning leading to neurotoxic effects.

 Result from exposure to neurotoxic substances in certain industries.

Factors Contributing to Occupational Diseases:

1) Chemical Hazards: Exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins.

2) Physical Hazards: Noise, vibration, radiation, and temperature extremes.
3) Biological Hazards: Exposure to bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.

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4) Ergonomic Hazards: Poorly designed workstations and repetitive motions.

5) Psychosocial Hazards: Stress, workplace violence, and other mental health stressors.

Prevention and Control

1. Implement the Hierarchy of Controls: Elimination, Substitution, Engineering Controls,

Administrative Controls, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
2. Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
3. Provide training and education on preventive measures and proper use of PPE.

Occupational Diseases and Work Environments

 Different industries pose varying risks. For example, healthcare workers may face
exposure to infectious diseases, while construction workers may be at risk for respiratory
conditions.
 The importance of tailored occupational health and safety measures based on the specific
risks associated with each industry.

Reporting and Recording:

 Emphasize the importance of reporting occupational diseases promptly.

 Highlight the role of accurate record-keeping in tracking trends and implementing
preventive measures.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

 Overview of occupational safety and health regulations.

 Discuss the responsibilities of employers and employees in preventing and managing
occupational diseases.

END

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