Types of Hazards
Biological hazards, also known as biohazards, refer to biological substances that pose a threat to the health of living organisms, primarily that of humans. This can include samples of a microorganism, virus or toxin (from a biological source) that can affect human health.
Hazard pictograms form part of the international Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). Two sets of pictograms are included within the GHS: one for the labelling of containers and for workplace hazard warnings, and a second for use during the transport of dangerous goods.
A chemical hazard is a type of occupational hazard caused by exposure to chemicals in the workplace. Exposure to chemicals in the workplace can cause acute or long-term detrimental health effects.
Ergonomics is a field in which the workplace is studied for comfort and safety. All equipment is considered together in order to determine if there are any dangerous stresses placed on workers. Lights, furniture and electronics are the main factors that can lead to debilitating injuries that hamper future work and life.
The health of the employees is determined by many factors, which include risk factors at the workplace which may cause accidents, cancers, respiratory diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, circulatory diseases, hearing loss, stress related disorders, communicable diseases etc. Occupational health is concerned with identifying, controlling and preventing the risks occurring due to physical, chemical and other such workplace hazards so that employees have a safe and healthy working environment.
Psychosocial hazards are related to the way work is designed, organized and managed, as well as the economic and social contexts of work and are associated with psychiatric, psychological and/or physical injury or illness.