UNIT 4: MANAGING HEALTH AND SAFETY
Topic: Protect Health and Safety at Work
Hazards
Hazards at work arise when the environment may lead to illness, injury, or even death. Various aspects of the workplace, such as equipment, hazardous materials, unsafe working practices, and human behavior, can create these dangers.
Sources of Hazards
A source of a hazard is a place or condition that may result in a dangerous situation. Hazardous materials may come from, but are not limited to, the following:
- Incoming water to the facility that could contain dangers or contribute to the development of hazards within plumbing systems.
- Areas with low water flow or stagnant water within the facility's distribution network.
- Proximity of specific infrastructure (e.g., hot and cold water pipes placed too close together, leading to the hot water raising the temperature of the cold water, creating conditions favorable for Legionella growth).
- Poorly maintained or inadequate infrastructure, such as tempering valves, temperature control valves (TMVs), and backflow prevention devices, which may contain hazards.
- Incoming water to the facility that may pose dangers or cause the facility's water distribution system to become hazardous.
Preventive Measures
The following preventive measures should be taken to reduce hazards:
- Ensure your personal hygiene does not pose any risk to others to eliminate any potential risks while working with colleagues.
- Respond appropriately in case of accidents, damage, or injury.
- Look for crowds at your workplace and take preventive action.
- Follow established methods and be closely supervised when performing potentially hazardous tasks.
- Use proper techniques when handling and moving objects.
- Maintain hygienic practices.
- Wear protective clothing when dealing with emergencies.
- Handle spills and dispose of waste securely while using and storing tools and supplies.
- Respond quickly and appropriately to emergencies such as fires, security threats, and accidents.
- Use your knowledge and skills until help arrives.
Evacuation
Every organization has the responsibility to ensure employees are trained in emergency protocols. This includes knowing where the emergency exits are, understanding what to do in the event of a fire, earthquake, or any other disaster, and taking appropriate steps to leave the building during an emergency. These site-specific practices should be covered in the training provided to new hires. Regular drills and reviews of emergency procedures are also essential to ensure that everyone is prepared to respond correctly and safely during an actual emergency.
General Evacuation Procedures
When a fire or other life-threatening condition occurs, residents of the building must be informed via fire and evacuation alarms. Everyone should evacuate the building immediately after hearing the alert. To ensure the safety of everyone inside the building in the event of a fire, the following actions should be taken:
- Activate the fire alarm.
- Immediately dial the emergency number and provide details.
- Assist injured individuals or alert first responders about medical emergencies.
- Use the emergency exit maps to exit the building.
- Help people with physical disabilities reach a safe location and notify emergency services.
- Ensure everyone has left the building.
- Avoid using lifts.
- Only use a fire extinguisher if it is safe and if you have received the proper training.
- Personnel should gather in a designated area as shown on evacuation maps.
- Report any dangerous situations.
- Stay away from smoke; check for heat behind closed doors before opening them.
- Stay away from the building until it is safe to re-enter.
Healthy Living
Leading a healthy lifestyle can help you live longer and avoid illness. A healthy life results from healthy living habits. A healthy lifestyle has long-lasting effects on an individual, contributing to a positive environment both at home and in the workplace. A happy, healthy employee is always more productive and motivated to do their best work.
Tips for Healthy Living
- Exercise: Exercise strengthens bones, the heart, and lungs, tones muscles, improves energy, reduces depression, and helps you sleep better.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can affect many brain functions, including emotions, thinking, and judgment. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation.
- Use of Drugs or Medications: Drugs and medications affect individuals in different ways. Older people, in particular, need to be cautious of interactions when taking multiple medications. Always consult a doctor before taking painkillers.
- Stress Management: Stress is a normal part of life and can be a great motivator, but excessive stress can lead to health problems like insomnia, upset stomach, anxiety, and mood swings. It’s important to learn how to manage stress.
- Obesity: Obesity is a serious health issue. Excess body fat can overburden the heart, bones, and muscles. It also increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, varicose veins, breast cancer, and gallbladder disease.
- Diet: Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for good health. Choose foods that are low in saturated and trans fats, as well as cholesterol.