Hazardous Work Environments
The work environment includes all areas where work is being performed.
Examples include work environments that are too noisy, bright, dark, hot, cold, dusty, dirty, messy, or wet. Is it too noisy, or are dangerous gases, vapors, liquids, fumes, etc., present? Such factors all contribute to an unsafe environment. You can bet a messy workplace is NOT a safe workplace! Common environmental hazards include:
Noise Exposure: Many work places are inherently noisy and potentially hazardous to employees. Continuous noise and instantaneous noise bursts can damage the hearing of employees. A hearing conservation program should be established if you think noise levels are a potential threat to the health of your employees. OSHA consultants, your insurer, or a private consultant are all available to help you determine noise levels in the workplace.
Electric Shock: Electricity travels in closed circuits, normally through a conductor. Shock occurs when the body becomes part of the electric circuit. The current must enter the body at one point and leave at another. Shock normally occurs in one of three ways. The person must come in contact with:
- both wires of an energized electrical circuit,
- one wire of an energized electrical circuit and the ground, or
- an energized "hot" metallic part and the ground.
Illumination: It's important to make sure illumination is adequate for the job being performed. Too much direct or indirect glare can, over time, cause eye strain. Too little light can result in an injury. More on this topic in course 711, Introduction to Ergonomics.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-6. Which action may cause an electric shock to a person?
You forgot to answer the question!