NEBOSH IGC Summary week 2

Element 1:- Workplace hazards & risk

control
Hazards to pedestrians
Slips, trips and falls (on same level)
Falls from height
Objects moving, flying or falling
Collisions with moving vehicles
Causes of slips, trips & falls (accidents on walkways or Staircases)
1- Old age
2- Sensory impairment e.g. Poor eyesight
3- Unsuitable foot wear
4- Slippery surface e.g. polished floor
5- Spillage e.g. oil on floor
6 During the floor cleaning
7- Poor lighting / limited vision because of the dust or fog
8- Uneven surface
9- moving from one kind of floor surface to another
10Carrying heavy / large loads
11Poor physical condition / ill health / consciousness problems
12Rainy weather without suitable drainage system
13Poor housekeeping / Obstacles on the walkway (e.g. protrusions)
14Bad organisation or layout of the work place
15Lack of attention / distractions
16Alcohol & drugs
17Fatigue & exhaustion
18Loose / Untied shoe laces
19- Poor emergency procedures: people crowding, panicking & rushing
to evacuate
20Not using the handrails
21Not keeping 3 points of contact
22Walking backwards e.g. banks man
23Broken steps / different heights
24Running, jumping & Horseplay

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Page 1

Working at height
Hazards of working at height
Fall of people Fall
of objects
Collapse Overturn
Contact with overhead services
Precautions & Control measures:
- Avoid working at height by using long tools or machines
- Reduce height as much as possible
- Reduce duration & frequency of working at height
- it is
- Using proper working platform, carrying out pre use inspection &
regular maintenance
- PPE e.g. safety harness, fall arrestors & helmets with strap
- Edge protection & Safety net
- Ensure Safe access & egress to the work place
Precautions & Control measures of working on ANY roof:
The above precautions PLUS:
- Using crawl boards
- Locating & covering the lights on the roof (if any)
Hazards of ladders
Fall of people Fall
of objects
Collapse Overturn
Contact with overhead services
Precautions & Control measures:
- Ladder resting with both feet on a levelled firm floor
- Distance between the ladder & the wall in the ratio 1 : 4
- Rested & fixed against solid surface
- Suitable for the task, approved, inspected & in good condition
- Fixed & secured at the top
- 3 steps extra length at the top
- Only one person at a time
- Keeping 3 points of contact
- PPE e.g. gloves,safety shoes, coveralls & helmets with straps
- Clean firm non-slip steps

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Page 2

Should only be used as a mean of access NOT as a working

platform

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Page 3

Independant tied Scaffold

Draw and label key parts of an independent Tied Scaffold

Control measures & precautions

-

Designed, erected, inspected, altered & maintained by competent

certified people
Should be suitable for the job & certified
Inspected before each shift & after any accident, incident or
adverse weather conditions
Avoid overloading or exceeding SWL
Use of guard rails & toe boards
Stop work in adverse weather conditions e.g. strong wind
it is
PPE e.g. helmets with strap & safety harness

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Mobile Tower Scaffold

Hazards
Fall of people
Fall of objects
Collapse
Overturn
Contact with overhead services
Precautions & control measures
Above precautions for independant tied scaffold PLUS:
-

Positioned on firm ground

Use of outriggers to broaden base & locking the wheels
Braced & tied to permenant structure
People and materials removed before moving

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP)

Hazards
- Fall of people
- Fall of objects
- Collapse
- Overturn
- Contact with overhead services
- Crushing between carrier and a fixed structure or inbetween the
Scissors lift
Accidetns, Collapse or overturning of MEWP caused by
Equipment failure
Unsuitable ground conditions
Defective or unused outriggers
Unsuitable MEWP or in bad condition (lack of maintenance)
Overloading
Struck by load or vehicles
Incompetent operator
Interference with controls by others
Strong wind / storms
Precautions & control measures = Same like Tower scaffold
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Suspended access cradle

Hazards
Fall of people
Fall of objects
Collapse
Overturn
Contact with overhead services
Crushing between carrier and a fixed structure
Precautions & control measures = Same like Tower scaffold

Excavations
Main
-

hazards
Fall of people
Fall of objects e.g. tools or fluids causing flooding
Collapse of the excavation (Caving)
Overturn of vehicles close to edge
Contact with underground services (electrical cables, gas pipes,
sewage, telephone)
Access and egress (being a confined space: Difficults access &
egress, Hazardous atmospheres
Contamination (sewage, spores)
Type of soil
Removal of soil
Undermining foundations

Precautions & control measures

Plan the job using location maps
Locate & avoid underground cables e.g. CAT (cable avoidance tools)
Issue permit to work
Safe digging procedures (follwoing SSOW)
Use competent workers it is
PPE e.g. coveralls, helmets & safety shoes
Improving evironmental factors such as lighting & ventillation
Ensure safe access & egress

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Demolition
Methods of Demolition
Hand-held tools
Machine
Chemical agents (Explosives)
Hazards of Demolition
Safety hazards:
Fall of People
Fall of objects
Premature collapse
Contact with underground & overhead services
Fire & Explosion
Electricity
Health hazards;
Gases, fumes and vapours
Asbestos
Lead
Silica
Noise
Vibration
Ionising radiation
Biological hazards
Control measures & Precautions:
Pre-demolition surveys & area maps
Safe method of demolition & safe organized demolition sequence
Competent workers
Evacuating near buildings if needed
PPE e.g. helmets, reflective vest , steel toe safety shoes
Safe access & egress
Issue pertmit to work & other legislative documents
Site Precautions for children
- Fencing & barriers all around the site
- Security guards & patrols
- Monitoring the area with CCTV Cameras
- Warning signs & Posters
- Visit schools & provide information to the people in charge
- Take children to site on visits (arranging class trips to the site)
- Lock the vehicles & remove the keys
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Page 7

Remove ladders & prevent access to scaffolds

Lock away hazardous chemicals
Cover holes & excavations
Reduce heights of materials

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Page 8

Element 2: Transport hazards and

risk control
Hazards of vehicles including fork lift trucks (General)
- Overturning
- Overloading
- Loss of loads
- Collision with pedestrians, buildings or other vehicles
- Fire and Explosions
Additional hazards of electric battery fork lifts
- Hydrogen gas released during battery charging
- Inhalation of fumes
- Corrosives leading to burns
- Electricity problems
- Manual handling of battery during recharging
- They are quiet (People may not hear them coming)
Procedures to follow when parking fork lift trucks
- To be parked in the designated parking area (on a levelled surface not
Blocking Walkways or exits)
- Switch off engine, lights, radio, etc...
- Remove the key & keep it with the responsible person / place.
- Put gears (controls) in neutral position.
- Apply the handbrake and the wheel chock to prevent rolling away
- Forks to be resting on the floor
- Mast slightly tilted forward
-Surround the forklift with cones & barriers to prevent trips over the
Forks.
Driver selection
Suitable age
Medical examination & Routine medical checks at regular intervals
Assessment after prolonged absences
Competence (KATE, Proper qualifying training & Refresher training)

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Page 9

 Safety of pedestrians in vehicle moving areas

Precautions to prevent collision between vehicles and
pedestrians
Precautions to ensure safety of vehicles operation
-

Setting & enforcement of site traffice rules, proper signs & Floor
marking
Segregation between vehicular route & pedestrian route
Suitable designated parking areas
Proper environmental conditions e.g. adequate lighting & reduced
noise
Avoid sharp or blind bends
Vision panels in doors or transparent doors
Sufficiently wide entrances, gateways & traffic routes
Vision aids e.g. CCTV cameras or mirrors on vehicles & at blind
corners
Setting speed limits for cars e.g. 20 km/h
Designated marked crossing points for pedestrians
FOPS
ROPS
PPE e.g. steel toe safety shoes & High visibility jackets
Driver training & qualification
Using ground guides in reversing (Signallers / Banks men)
Avoid reversing if possible e.g. One-way systems, drive through
parking, circling the vehicles
Reversing alarms (audible & visual)
Refuges & Barriers in loading docks

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Page 10

Element 3:- Musculoskeletal

hazards & risk control
Ergonomics: The relation & interaction between the work & the worker;
how to fit the work to the worker.
In other words, Ergonomics is the study of designing equipment and
devices that fit the human body, its movements, and its cognitive
abilities.
Causes of WRULDs
Repetitive movements of fingers, hands or arms
Twisting movements
Squeezing
Hammering
Pushing, pulling or over reaching movements
Symptoms
Numbness & tingling in fingers
Pain in hands or arms
Restriction of joint movement
Soft tissue swelling
Examples for WRULDs
Tendonitis
Epicondylitis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Risk factors to consider
Force exerted
Duration & frequency of operation
Repetition of movement without rest or recovery time (frequent breaks)
Awkward Posture
Vulnerability e.g. smokers or existing medical condition
Constraints on space
Environment (low temperature)
Control measures: Improve or fix above plus:Automate or mechanise task
Use correct tools and equipment
it is
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Page 11

Health effects of DSE use (Display Screen Equipment)

Upper limb disorders (WRULDs)
Eye and eyesight effects
Epilepsy
Facial dermatitis
Electro magnetic radiation effect on pregnant women
Fatigue, stress & Discomfort
Workstation requirements
Adequate lighting (general & local lighting)
Minimum noise
Suitable legroom
Suitable screen at eye level
Keyboard at suitable distance
Suitable software
Organized work surface
Footrest if necessary
Document holder if needed
Suitable work chair
Characters of the Suitable Seat
Good lumbar support
Comfortable material with good width and depth
Adjustable (Ability to adjust seat back and height)
Stable base (5 legs or 5 points of contact with the ground)
Ability to swivel
Provision of arm rests
Other control measures:
- Adequate breaks (regular & mini breaks)
- Eye sight testing & medical checkup
- it is

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10

Manual Handling
Manual Handling Injuries
External: Cuts, bruises (Contusions), abrasions, Burns
Internal: Fractures, slipped disc (Disc prolapsed), Muscle Sprains,
Tendon tears, ligaments tears, joint dislocation, Hernia
Activities at risk
- Handling excessive loads
- Repetitive handling without adequate breaks or recovery time
- Prolonged handling of loads especially if including excessive:
Bending, stooping, twisting & over reaching
Factors affecting the manual handling:
Load
Weight, Size, Shape
Rigidity, Difficulty to grasp
Stability (centre of gravity)
Sharp edges
Hot / cold surface
Contents (hazardous or not)
Individual
Gender
Physical capability, energy, Stamina, Height, pregnancy or illness
Competence (Manual handling Training, physical abilities & experience)
PPE
Task
Number of boxes needed to be lifted
Duration & frequency of the job
Vertical & Horizontal distance where the load will be lifted to.
Job rotation / sufficient rest or recovery (breaks)
Team lifting
Any need for excessive pulling, pushing, twisting, bending & overreaching.
Environment
Constraints on posture / Space
Floor condition & type of floor surface
Level of housekeeping
Hot/Cold/ humid conditions or strong wind
Environmental factors e.g. Lighting

remember LITE

Hierarchy of control to reduce manual handling injuries:

- Avoid manual handling (automate or mechanise the job by using
forklifts, cranes, hoists or conveyors)
- Team lifting
- Mechanical aids e.g. trolley
- Dividing the load into smaller packages (less weight)
- Reduce duration & frequency of manual handling tasks
- PPE e.g. gloves & safety shoes
- it is (manual handling training , etc..)
- Follow safe system of work (safe handling technique)
Kinetic Handling Technique (safe way of lifting a box)
- Assess the load
- Check the route
- Get as Close as possible to the load with suitable feet position
- Ensure secure & firm grip with PPE
- Lift the load keeping the back straight & bending only the knees
- Keep the Load close to the body while walking
- Walk Smoothly avoiding jerky movements
- Put down the load then slide into position

Mechanical lifting equipment

-

Forklifts
Conveyors
Cranes
Hoists

CONVEYORS
Hazard
Entanglement
Drawing in
Sharp edges
Items jamming conveyor
Fall of objects
Riding or crossing conveyor

Control measures &

Precautions
Guards,
No loose clothing
Pop out rollers, nip guards
Edge protection, eliminate edges
Adequate design, guards
Edge guards, barriers
Bridges, complete enclosure

Impact with objects

Noise
Manual handling
Electricity

Helmets
Ear plugs
Mechanical handling & it is
Maintenance & good selection

Hazards of CRANES
Fall of people
Fall of objects
Collapse
Overturn
Contact with overhead services
Types of CRANES
Mobile
Tower
Gantry
Overhead Gantry
Types of HOISTS
Chain hoist
Goods hoist
Patient hoist (rescue hoist)
Safe use of Cranes (Precautions for ANY safe mechanical lifting)
- Suitable certified crane
- Suitable certified, color coded lifting accessories & correct
slinging technique
- Competent crane operators & banks men using good means of
communications & agreed signals
- Suitable ground conditions (firm levelled surface)
- Use of outriggers
- Clear pathway avoiding any obstructions
- Avoiding overhead services such as power lines
- Segregation of working area by barriers & warning signs so one
could walk under the load
- Visual & Audible alarms to warn that lifting is taking place
- Load to be lifted vertically and to correct height & kept near
ground when travelling
- Ensure load is secured, balanced & guided by tag lines
- Avoid exceeding of the SWL
- Ensure Good visibility with adequate lighting & reduced nosie
- Ensure suitable weather conditions and stop the lifting operation
in adverse weather conditons e.g. strong wind
- PPE e.g. Gloves, steel toe safety shoes and reflective jackets
- When the load is placed on the ground; Release the tension first
to avoid load tackling

Element 4:- Work equipment

hazards & risk control
Suitability of the work equipment
- Initial integrity
- Purpose for use
- Place of use
Precautions for maintenance Work
- Issue permit to work if the job is high risk or non-routine as
example if the whole body or the whole arm of the worker will be
inside the machine
- Isolation of power source (disconnection & lock out tag out)
- Dissipation of stored energy e.g. release stored pressure,
earthing for electricity or leaving the hot surface to cool down
- Segregation of the work place by means of barriers & warning
signs Safe means of access
- Use suitable PPE e.g. safety shoes, coveralls and safety glasses
- Ensure that all workers doing the job are Competent enough
- Ensure safe environmental conditions e.g. adequate lighting &
good ventilation
- Emergency procedures / SSOW
Mechanical Hazards of Machinery (ENTICE)
Entanglement
Traps (drawing in crush / shear)
Impact
Contact (stab/puncture cuts abrasions burns etc.)
Ejection
Draw labelled diagram of each one

Entanglement

Traps (Drawing in)

Traps (Crush / shear)

Contact (puncture / stab)

Contact (abrasions)

Imapct

Contact (cuts)

Ejection

Non-Mechanical Hazards of Machinery

Chemical / biological hazards
Ergonomics / Manual Handling
Electricity / Noise
Fire / Explosion
Vibration / Radiation / Ultra violet radiation
Temperature extremes
Dust and fumes
Office machinery: - Photocopier and document Shredder
Manufacturing / Maintenance Machinery: Bench top grinder
and Pedestal drill
Agricultural Machinery: - Cylinder mower & trimmer
Retail Machinery:- Waste Compactor & Checkout Conveyor
Construction Machinery:- Cement Mixer, Circular Saw & petrol
chainsaw
Machinery Hierarchy of Controls (FIAT)
Fixed guards
Interlocking guards, Adjustable guards & Automatic sweep guards.
Appliances (Holders / Push Sticks) & Protection devices (Trip device,
safety trip wire, photo electric cells, pressure sensitive mats and two
hand control system)
Training, Information, Instruction, and Supervision (it is) and PPE
Fixed Guards:- A physical barrier, kept at its place at all times, has no
moving parts, not linked to the machine controls and usually requires a
tool to remove it.
Advantages
Minimal maintenance
Only defeated by deliberate act
Visual inspection is enough
May protect against other hazards
e.g. noise, dust, ejection
of materials

Disadvantages
Not linked to machine controls
No protection when removed
Full access to dangerous
parts when removed
More difficult to remove: not
practical when frequent
access required
Tends to be left unfixed
when frequent access
required
May hamper visibility

Interlocking Guard: - Linked to the machine controls so that the worker

cant gain access when the machine is in a dangerous condition ALSO
opening the guard causes the machine to become safe
Advantages
Allow safe access for
feeding materials (frequent
opening) to use
Convenient
Less likely to be
deliberately defeated
Speeds up operations

Disadvantages
Increase the complexity of
the machine
Difficult to test and maintain
May need a brake or time delay
May fail to danger
Regular maintenance required

Adjustable Guards the length of the guard could be adjusted

(changed) according to the length of the material being used, two types
of this guard: 1) Manual (fixed) type and 2) Automatic type
Automatic Sweep Guard Where the guard pushes the worker away
from the danger zone
Protection Appliances:- such as holders & push sticks
Protection devices:- such as Trip device, safety trip wire, photo
electric system, pressure sensitive mat & two hand control device
iT is: on how the machine is operated safely, how & when to be
maintained, who is authorized to use it, etc.
PPE:
-

such as
coveralls for chemical splash & entanglement
goggles for ejected material
ear plugs for noise
steel toe safety shoes for crush injuries
hair nets for hair entanglement
GLOVES should be banned near rotating shafts

Element 5:- Electrical Safety

Hazards of Electricity Be SAFE Burns
Shock
Arcing
Fire
Explosions

Burns

Internal burns to the body organs & external burns to the skin
3 degrees
Melting any worn metals e.g. watches or rings
Shock
electric shock (Electrocution)
Factors affecting / influencing severity of electrical shock
- Voltage
- Current (amperes)
- Time
- Conductivity or resistance of the body
- Current path through the body
- Nature of contact (grip or touch)
- Individual factors (age, general health condition, children with thin
skin)
Emergency action on finding someone in contact with electricity
- Isolate the supply if possible or move the person away from the
source of electricity using an insulating material e.g. wood
- Call for help
- Check ABC
- Apply CPR if needed
- Treat burns if any
- Remain with casualty till emergency services arrive
Arcing
When electricity has sufficient potential to jump across insulating
material such as air

 Fire
Causes of Electrical Fires
Inadequate circuits
Overloading electrical circuits
Incorrect fuses
Damaged insulation
Loose connections
Using flammable materials too close to electrical equipment
Overheating of cables on coils
Inadequate ventilation for electrical equipment & cables
Explosion
Ignition of gas
Secondary Effects of Electricity
Falls from height
Throw off (away from the source of electricity)
Unintentional movement of machine
Failure / De-activation of control measures & security systems
Loss of information
Tripping over cables
Loss of corporate reputation
Health effects of Electricity on the body
External burns to the skin
Internal burns to the body organs
Irregular heartbeat (Fibrillation)
Stopping of the heart (cardiac arrest)
Stopping of breathing (Respiratory paralysis)
Muscular contractions
Damage to nervous system
Precautions to ensure safety of portable electrical equipment
Ensure competence of workers : KATE
PPE e.g. insulating gloves & safety shoes
Avoid overloading circuits
Regular preventive maintenance for the electrical equipment
including thermographic tests
Safe correct routing of cables to avoid being ran over by vehicles,
dragged over rough surface, trapped in machinery or getting in
contact with chemicals or hot surface
Pre use visual inspection to ensure good insulation and that
wiring and casing are free from damage
Using approved suitable equipment & in good condition
Avoid home made or temporary connections

 Always pull the plug NEVER the Lead & Avoid continous flexing
Use the suitable protective systems such as

Protective systems:
Fuse:- A weak link designed to melt, breaking the circuit at excessive
currents
Advantages
Cheap and readily available

Protects equipment

Disadvantages
Does not protect
the individual from
shockto operate
Slow
Inaccurate
Unsuitable or wrong
fuse may be used
Easy to override
Could need tools to replace

Circuit Breakers:- Electromagnetic device which perform the same

function as fuses i.e. break the circuit at excessive current although
slightly faster

Advantages
Automatically switch or
trip under fault
conditions
No tools to reset
Not easy to override
No reset until fault cleared
Protects against overload

Disadvantages
Does not protect
the individual from
shock

Earthing:- Electricity will always try reach earth and earthing means
providing a path to earth lower than the human body
Advantages
May prevent indirect
shock by providing a
very low resistance path
Readily identified

Disadvantages
Specialist testing and
maintenance,
professional installation
Protection defeated
if removed

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20

Isolation:- The disconnection and separation of the electrical

equipment from every source of electrical equipment in such a way that
the disconnection and separation is secure (Lock out & Tag out)
Advantages
Safest option as it
eliminates electricity
May be physically locked off

Disadvantages
May isolate other
equipment
May be reconnected
unless locked off
Prevents live fault finding

Battery operated tools:- Using battery instead of electrical wires

Advantages
Minimal risk during
normal use
Range not restricted
by cable
No trailing cable =
No tripping hazards
or overheating

Limited power output

Precautions need to
be followed during
mains charging
Heavier
More expensive

Disadvantages
Limited battery capacity

Reduced voltage systems:- By reducing the voltage present system

the consequences of electrical shock can be greatly reduced
Advantages
Available voltage
difference is 55V ac injury is highly unlikely
Colour coded cabling
system for easy
recognition

Disadvantages
Specialist
equipment
required for 110 V
Lead from supply to
transformer at
higher voltages and
will need protection
with a RCD

Residual Current Device (RCD):- It compares the current flowing into

the system with the current flowing out. When the level differs by a
preset value the RCD will open rapidly and interrupt the supply

Advantages
Rapid and sensitive

Difficult to defeat

Easy to use, test and reset

Cannot be reset with a

fault on the circuit

Disadvantages
May isolate crucial
equipment if one
RCD covers a
number of distribution
points, e.g. freezers
Mechanical device,
which could fail
Only protects against
earth leakage faults (no
overload protection)

Double Insulation:- Covering live parts by two separated layers of

insulation
Advantages
Two layers of
insulation prevent user
contact with any live
No earth required

Disadvantages
Physical damage may
defeat double
insulation
No earth provided in
double insulation
extension leads,
therefore defeats
protection if used with

Element 6:- Fire safety

The fire triangle: Fuel (Combustible material)
Heat (Source of ignition)
Oxygen (air)
Causes of fire
Arson
Smoking & smokers materials
Oil/gas heating equipment and portable heaters
Unsafe storage of flammable materials
Use of flammable liquids or gases in unsuitable areas
Hot work: welding, cutting, etc.
Mechanical heat (Sparks/friction)
PLUS causes of electrical fires page 19

Flash point:- The temperature at which gas & vapour will ignite
momentarily by an external source of ignition e.g. spark
Fire point:- The temperature at which gas & vapour will sustain a flame
when ignited by an external source of ignition e.g. spark
Auto-Ignition (Self ignition):- The temperature at which gas & vapour
will ignite without any external source of ignition.
Methods of Heat Transfer
Direct burning:- The flame and a combustible fuel are in direct contact
and the fuel heats up and eventually ignites.
Radiation:- Heat is radiated through the air causing heating of a
materials at a distance from the fire.
Conduction: Heat travels within solid material from the hot part to
cooler part
Convection:- Hot air current rises up to replace cooler air , causing the
build up of hot and unburned gases under ceilings etc. and allows fire to
spread from one room to another.

Classes of fire
A
B
C
D

Carbonaceous material (Combustible solids)

EXAMPLE: Wood & paper
Flammable liquids
EXAMPLE: Alcohol & Petrol
Flammable gases
EXAMPLE: Butane, methane & propane
Metals EXAMPLE: Aluminium & Magnesium
F Cooking oil
EXAMPLE: Vegetable oil & animal fats
Electrical Classified according to the source of ignition rather than fuel
Source

Types of fire extinguishers

For
For
For
For
For

class A
class B
class C
class D
class F

Water, Dry powder or Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)

ry powder, AFFF or CO2
D
Dry powder or CO2
pecial powder or dry sand
S
Wet chemicals

For Electrical Dry powder or CO2

Wet Chemicals (potassium acetate, carbonate, or citrate) extinguishes the fire

by forming a soapy foam blanket over the burning oil and by cooling the oil.

In the UK the use of Halon gas is now prohibited except under certain
situations such as on aircraft and in the military and police

Precautions to prevent & control risk of fire AND to minimise the

risk to people in the event of fire
-

Eliminate / reduce the amount of flammable materials

Segregate fuel & ignition sources
Good level of housekeeping to prevent accumulation of waste
paper
Good security measures to prevent arson
Safe storage of flammable material
Compartmentation: dividing the building into isolated units
(compartments) by means of fire doors & fire walls so that any fire
in any of these units will be contained there & wont spread to the
rest of the building
Proper regular maintenance for all types of equipment
Electrical safety
it is & following SSOW
Suitable fire alarms & fire detectors.
Fire marshals to guide the employees during the evacuation
Suitable means of fire fighting such as water sprinklers, whose
reels and fire extinguishers
Unobstructed means of escape with reasonable travel distances,
fire doors, exit signs, Emergency lighting & illuminating signs
Assembly points (Muster points)
Regular drills & practices on evacuation

Precautions to ensure safe evacuation in the event of fire

- Adequate fire detection equipments e.g. smoke detectors
- Good means of raising alarms (visual & audible)
- Automatic contact with the emergency services & fire department
- Roll calls
- Safe evacuation plan.
- Special consideration for disabled people, pregnant women, etc.
- Regular drills & practices on evacuation
- Unobstructed means of escape with reasonable travel distances
fire doors, exit signs, Emergency lighting & illuminating signs
- Muster point / assembly point (clearly identified & proper location)
- Closing the windows & fire doors after leaving
- Adequate fire fighting equipment such as: Fire extinguishers,
sprinklers, hose reels
- Fire marshals & fire wardens helping in the above

Element 7:- Chemical & biological

health hazards & risk control
Respiratory defences (Body defences against dust)
- The hair in the nose acting as a filter to purify the air from the dust
particles
- wetness of the nose (mucus) so the dust would stick to it & will be
trapped and will go no further inside the lung
- The change of direction to the larynx so the dust particles in the
air would stick to the nasal wall
- Sneezing and coughing which would expel the dust outside the
respiratory system
- Turbulent motion of the air in the nose and the centrifugal force
which will throw the dust to the sides sticking to the mucus
- The hair cells in the respiratory tract (Ciliary escalator) pushing
the dust upwards till it reach the throat where it could be removed
from the body
- The immunity system of the body: White Blood Cells (WBC) in the
alveoli
- Fibrosis of the lung: isolating the affected non-functioning part
from the rest of the healthy lung
- Tears and blinking of the eyes (not part of the respiratory
defences)
Digestive defences (Body defences against ingested substances)
- Digestive juices & enzymes, the useful bacteria and the strong
acid (HCL) which will destroy the harmful substances inside the
stomach.
- Vomiting & diarrhoea which get rid of the toxins and the harmful
substance out of the body.
- Smell & taste protecting the person from eating or drinking
harmful substances or bad food.
Skin
-

defences
Sweating: Cooling down the skin and killing harmful organisms
Keratin: Forming the protective hard layer of the skin
Melanin: responsible for the pigmentation of the skin, more
melanin makes the skin darker providing more protection from the
sun and ultra violet light
Sebum: the oily substance secreted by the skin to prevent it from
dryness
Hair: protecting and filtering the skin
Sensory serves: the sense of touch in the skin
Blisters, rash and inflammation to fight any infection of the skin

Other defences
- Tears & Blinking of the eye
- Pain
- Hormones e.g. Adrenalin
Types of Dermatitis:
1- Irritant / Contact
2- Allergic / Sensitive
Symptoms: - Irritation of the skin, Inflammation, Blisters, rash, swelling,
redness, hotness, Dryness and cracking of skin, and in severe cases:
Ulcers & infections
Protective measures against dermatitis (Precautions)
Eliminate the substance
Substitution by a less hazardous one
Reduce duration & frequency of exposure to the substance
Medical checkup for the workers
Good hygiene practices
PPE e.g. gloves and coveralls
Barrier creams
Extractor fans & LEV
it is
Dose-response relationship
All substances are poisons; there is none which is not a poison; The
right dose differentiates a poison and a remedy.
Target Organs: The part / parts of the body which could be affected by
an external substance
Example: Inhalation of asbestos fibres will affect the lung causing
cancer (asbestosis) SO the target organ of the asbestos is the lung
Other examples: Mercury, Lead brain & nervous system
Ammonia eyes, skin & lungs Organic
solvents liver, skin & lungs
Also see examples page 34

Local effect: The effect of the substance happens at the same

point of contact

 Systemic effect: The effect of the substance happens away from

the point of contact

 Acute effect: Adverse health effects resulting from single or

short term exposure to a large dose of the harmful substance
producing an immediate or rapid effect, it is usually reversible.
EXAMPLE: Alcohol intoxication due to consuming large amount of
alcohol in short time.
Chronic effect: Adverse health effects resulting from prolonged
& repeated exposure to a small dose of the harmful substance
producing a gradual & latent effect which usually stays
unrecognized for several years, it is usually irreversible
EXAMPLE: Liver damage (cirrhosis) caused by consuming small
amount of Alcohol for many years.
Occupational Hygiene & Health hazards
1- Identification of health hazards
2- Measurement of health hazards
3- Assessment of health hazards
4- Control of health hazards
1- Identification of health hazards:

Forms of chemical agents:

Dust: Total inhalable & Respirable dust (0.5 7.0 micron)
Fume
Mist
Smoke
Vapour

Forms of biological agents:

Fungi
Bacteria
Viruses

Routes of entry into the body (chemical agents)

- Inhalation
- Ingestion
- Direct entry (open wounds)
- Injection
- Absorption

Classification of Hazardous Substances

Irritant: Non-corrosive substances which through immediate, prolonged
or repeated contact with skin or mucous membrane may cause
inflammation (Dermatitis)
Example: Petrol, cement, weak acids & alkalis
Corrosive: Substances which on contact with living tissue may destroy
it by burning
Example: acids (sulphuric acid) and alkalis (caustic soda)
Harmful: Substances which if swallowed, inhaled or penetrated the skin
may cause damage to health (cause diseases ill health)
Example: Petrol, cement
Toxic: A poisonous substance which may cause acute or chronic
damage to health or DEATH
Example: Arsenic
Very Toxic: A poisonous substance which may cause acute or chronic
damage to health or DEATH even in low quantity
Example: Cyanide
Carcinogenic: Substances which cause disorders to cell growth that
may lead to cancer (malignant tumours)
Example: Asbestos
Mutagenic: Substances which cause changes to the chromosomes
(DNA / genetic material) leading to hereditary defects in the offspring of
the affected person.
Example: Bromine & Benzene
Teratogenic: Substances which cause harmful effects to the embryo
(baby) inside the uterus of the pregnant woman.
Example: Drugs & medications

Material Safety Data sheet (MSDS) = Information on hazard data sheet

1234-

Identification of the substance & Manufacturers information

Composition & information on ingredients
Hazard identification
First aid measures
5- Fire fighting measures
6- Accidental release measures 7Handling & Storage
8- Exposure control & Personal protection
9- Physical & Chemical properties
10- Stability & Reactivity
11- Toxicological information
12- Ecological information
13- Disposal consideration
14- Transport information
15- Regulatory information
16- Other
Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL)

Long-term exposure limit (LTEL) 8 hour

Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 15 minute

Limits are expressed in:
ppm (parts per million) for gases and vapours
3
mg/m for airborne particles such as dust and fume

2- Measurement of health hazards:

THREE survey techniques:1) Initial appraisal: Gathering information such as OEL, details of
the substances used, people affected, types of hazards, risks,
and precautions; from different sources such as MSDS, manuals,
experts, etc.
2) Basic survey:
Qualitative observations: Smoke tube & Dust lamp
Quantitative observations: Stain tube detector (Grab sampler)

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Diagram of Chemical stain tube detector (Grab Sampler)

Glass tube

Direction of flow

READ

Fused tip

Pre-layer

Advantages
Low cost
Takes little time
Immediate result
Little training needed
Information during spillage
Good for coarse indication

3 5 1020

Porous
granules,
e.g.
silica gel,
chemical reagent

Fused tip
Scale
divisions

Disadvantages
Inaccurate
Positioning of tube affects reading
Only a snap shot
Inefficient
Chemical use only
Substance specific

3) Full survey:
Direct reading instruments: such as Carbon dioxide gas
analyzer
Indirect reading instruments:
Passive (by diffusion) such as radiation badge / film badge
Active (powered by mechanical pump) such as H2S detector

3- Assessment of health hazards:

Risk assessment (5 STEPS AS USUAL)

4- Control of health hazards:

Eliminate: remove the substance, or avoid the activity or process e.g.
pressure jetting a blocked drain instead of using dissolving
chemicals
Reduce: reduce the risk by
-

reducing the duration / frequency of exposure to the hazard

substituting the material with a less hazardous one e.g. using
water based paint instead of solvent based paint OR using
granular material instead of powder

Isolate:
-

Total Enclosure of the machine inside a glove box

Worker to be isolated inside a ventilated control room

Control
-

Engineering Control: LEV & adequate maintenance for equipment

Administrative control: Change the work pattern or method, job
rotation, adequate breaks, good levels of Hygiene and
housekeeping & providing the needed it is

PPE:
- Respiratory protection such as breathing apparatus to protect
from chlorine or ammonia
- Hand & skin protection such as gloves to protect from detergents
or solvents
- Eye protection such as goggles to protect from corrosives or
ammonia
- Protective clothing such as chemical splash suits to protect from
acids & biological agents
- Barrier creams
Discipline

Labelled diagram of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)

LEV becomes inefficient because of:- Failure of operators to use it properly

- Lack of proper maintenance
- Unauthorised modifications
- Incorrect settings
- Hood damaged or not well positioned
- Blocked / damaged ducts
- Full / damaged dust collection bags
- Blocked / damaged filter
- Wear & tear of fan blades
- Increased contaminant level
- Poor design of the LEV (inadequate capacity)
Checks / inspection: opposite of above

Examples of chemical agents (hazardous substances) & Target Organs

Ammonia
Strongly corrosive alkaline colourless gas with a pungent odour.
Affecting the skin, eyes & the lungs.
Leading to eye irritation, dermatitis, inflammation of the lungs and in the
large concentrations can cause blindness and fluid in the lungs
(emphysema)
Eye protection and respiratory protection are essential.
Asbestos
Affecting the lungs causing Asbestosis (Lung cancer)
Carbon Dioxide CO2
Colourless and odourless gas which is heavier than air.
Affecting the lungs increasing the rate of respiration and high levels
depress the rate of respiration leading to unconsciousness and even
death
Carbon Monoxide CO
More toxic than CO2, Colourless and odourless and tasteless gas.
Found where incomplete combustion occurs e.g. boilers, vehicle
exhausts
Affecting the lungs & the blood casuing headache, drowsiness, flushed
pink appearance and ultimately asphyxiation and death
Chlorine
A greenish toxic gas with a pungent smell.
Affecting the eyes & the respiratory system casuing severe irritation.
Lead
A heavy, soft and easily worked metal. Can enter body by eating
contaminated food or by breathing fumes or dust.
Affecting the brain & the nervous system casuing acute lead poisoning
Resulting in nausea, headaches, nervous problems and in severe cases
causing death.
Organic Solvents
These dissolve other substances & are also used as cleaning &
degreasing agents. They are volatile & evaporate quickly at room
temperature so their vapours can be breathed easily.
Affecting the skin, nasal passages, throat, lungs, eyes, & the liver.
Effects may be headaches, nausea, dizziness & loss of consciousness
and in extreme cases leading to death.

 Isocyanates
Organic compounds widely used in industry for products such as spray
painting of vehicles and production of polyurethane rubbers and foams.
Affecting the nasal passages, throat & the lungs leading to lung
Inflammation & asthma.
Silica
Found in sand, granite & glass
Affecting the lungs as breathing silica could lead to serious lung
disease silicosis
Dust
Affecting the respiratory system causing asthma, bronchitis,
emphysema and conditions such as asbestosis or Silicosis if the dust
contains asbestos or silica.
Dust
-

Identification:
Visual signs of dust in the air or deposited on surfaces or clothes
Results of monitoring using dust lamps or smoke tube
Poor visibility or excessive tears & blinking of the eyes
respiratory problems: coughing, sneezing, breathing difficulty
Maintenance problems e.g. abnormal blocking of filters

Control measures for dust:

- Elimination of dusty operation (outsourcing)
- Bringing pre-formed components
- Substitution e.g. granules or paste instead of powders
- Enclosure of the dusty operation or machines
- Extractor fans & Local exhaust ventilation (LEV)
- Vaccuming instead of sweeping
- Damping down the dust by spraying water
- Reduce duration & frequency of exposure to dust
- Reduce duration & frequency of the dusty operations
- Reduce number of workers exposed to dust
- Respiratory protective equipment e.g. dust mask
- Medical check up & Health survillance with medical treatment for
any health problem
- it is

Biological Agents
Leptospirosis (Weils disease)
Bacterial infection transmitted to humans by ingesting contaminated rat
urine.
The most common source is in construction sites, water sports, river
water, swimming pools, sewers, etc.
Symptoms: Flu like symptoms (Fever, sneezing, coughing & headache),
Pneumonia, meningitis & Jaundice.
Fatal in 20% of the cases (Attacks the kidneys & liver)
Precautions & Control measures: pest control, covering damaged skin,
it is, good hygiene & housekeeping
Legionella (Legionnaires disease)
Bacterial infection transmitted to humann by inhaling airborne bacteria
found in water sources such as air conditioning systems, cooling
towers, stagnant water etc.
Symptoms: Flu like symptoms (Fever, sneezing, coughing & headache),
Pneumonia & difficulty in breathing
Fatal in 20% of the cases.
Those at greatest risk are smokers or old people with chest problems.
Precautions & Control measures: Temperature control and monitoring,
avoiding stagnation & avoiding dead legs in pipe work, biocide
treatment and effective cleaning and maintenance.
Hepatitis A, B and C
Viral inflammation of the liver caused by viral infection transmitted
through ingesting food contaminated with faeces (hepatitis A)
Or by blood & body fluids (hepatitis B & C)
Symptoms: Inflammation of the liver, fever, nausea, malaise & jaundice.
Precautions & Control measures: Vaccination, disinfection, it is,
Avoiding sharp implements, Proper disposal of contaminated waste and
good hygiene practices.

Routes of entry into the body (Biological agents)

- Inhalation
- Ingestion

Direct entry (open wounds)

Injection

Precautions for safe storage of waste

- Choosing a Suitable location
- Sufficient storage area
- Labelled & individual containers
- Ensure storage area is well secured
- Store different types of waste separately
- Never store incompatible waste together
- Select appropriate containers
- Keep quantities of waste to a minimum
- Protect waste from the elements
- Protection form adverse weather conditions
- Avoid contamination of general waste with hazardous materials

Element 8:- Physical & psychological

hazards
Noise:

is any unwanted sound

Frequency:- Measuring the pitch / tone of the sound waves, measured

in cycles per second or Hertz (Hz)
Human range is 20 Hz 20 KHz
Intensity:- Measuring the loudness / amplitude of the sound waves
measured in decibel (dB)
Safe limit is 80 dB
Rule of 3
Every 3 dB increases means doubling the intensity i.e. 83 dB is double
the intensity of 80 dB
Health effects of noise
Acute
Stress, Irritability, nervousness ,
increased heart rate and
insomnia
Temporary threshold shift
Temporary tinnitus
Trauma e.g. Burst eardrum
Blast deafness

Chronic

Permanent threshold shift

(Noise Induced Hearing
Loss)
Permanent tinnitus
Presbycusis

Factors affecting the risk from Noise

- Frequency in Hz
- Loudness in dB
- Duration & frequency of exposure to noise
- Use of PPE
- Distance between the source of noise & the person exposed to it
- The nature of the place
Noise control measures / precautions
Source:
Eliminate or reduce the noise from the source by
- Improving the design of the machine
- Damping

Isolation
Proper maintenance

Path:
Prevent/reduce transmission of noise through air or structures by using
- Screens and barriers
- Enclosure
- Absorption
- Silencer
The Person:
- Increase the distance between the worker & the source of noise
- Reduce the duration & frequency of exposure to the noise
- it is
- PPE such as ear plugs & ear muffs

Hand-Arm Vibration
Health Effects
Acute:
Numbness & Tingling in the hands and extremities
Chronic: - Permanent Numbness & Tingling
- Blanching of the fingers (Vibration White Fingers)
- Swollen painful joints
- Reduction in manual dexterity
- Reduction in the sensation of touch
Risk
-

Factors
Frequency of the vibrating tools ( in Hz)
Force exerted
Duration & frequency of exposure
Low temperature
Individual factors e.g. age & health condition

Control Measures for hand-arm vibration

- Automate or mechanise the job to elimination the use of vibrating
tools
- Select the suitable tool with low vibration
- Reduce the degree of vibration as much as possible
- Select ergonomically designed equipment
- Proper maintenance of equipment

Reduce the force exerted & the strength of grip with work
equipment
Reduce the duration of exposure to the vibration
Health surveillance & treatment of any medical problem
Use PPE such as Gloves and heated pads
it is on the nature of risks

Work in Hot & Cold environment

Physiological effects of heat Stress (in foundries, glass works &
laundries)
Skin burns
Cataracts
Dehydration Heat
cramps Raised
heart rate
Headaches
Confusion & Loss of concentration
Vomiting
Fainting
Sun stroke & Heat stroke
Physiological effects of cold Stress (cold stores, food preparation
area, big freezers & open air during winter)
Lowered heart rate
Hypothermia
Shivering
Confusion & Loss of concentration
Frost bite
Increased risk of strains & sprains
Risk factors
- Body activity & health condition
- Type & amount of clothes
- Duration & frequency of exposure
- Ambient temperature & weather conditions
- Source of heat / cold temperature
Control measures
- Acclimatisation
- Health surveillance & medical checkup
- Hot / cold drinks
- Reduce duration & frequency of exposure
- Temperature control
- PPE e.g. insulating clothes
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- it is

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Radiation
Non-Ionising
Type
Infrared
Lasers
Microwaves
Ultra-violet
Radio waves

Use in Industry
Heating and brazing
Cutting, Bar code readers
Food preparation, Signal transmission
Welding
Radar and communications

Health effects of non-ionizing radiation

Burns
Erythema (Reddening of the skin)
Cataract
Arc eye
Retinal burn
Temporary sterility
Risk

factors & Control measures of non-ionizing radiation:

Duration & frequency of exposure
Distance between the source & the worker
Shielding
it is
Proper maintenance & inspection of equipment (source)
PPE, e.g. eye protection
Skin creams

Ionising Radiation
Type
Alpha
Beta
Gamma
X-Ray

Use in Industry
Smoke detectors & anti static devices
Thickness testing & sterilisation of material
Non-Destructive Testing & Radio therapy
NDT & Radio diagnosis

Health effects of ionizing radiation

Acute health effects (high dose)
Erythema (Reddening of the skin)
Radiation sickness (Nausea
& Vomiting)
Hair loss

Chronic health effects (small dose)

Carcinogenic effect (Cancer)
Mutagenic effect (Hereditary defects)
Teratogenic effect

Diarrhoea
Death

Sterility , erythema & cataract

Death

Risk
-

factors & Control measures ofionizing radiation

Duration & frequency of exposure
Distance between the radioactive material & the people
Proper shielding (Lead or thick concrete)
Using suitable PPE e.g. radiation suit
Correct disposal of radioactive materials
half life of the radioactive material
Good hygiene practices
it is
Monitoring exposure using film badges & Geiger counters

Violence at work
Verbal abuse / threats AND Physical attacks
Internal AND external violence

Occupations at risk
Taxi drivers , Health care professionals, Schools, Cash transactions
Delivery/collection of money, Representing authority e.g. policemen &
enforcement officers
Control measures
- it is: on absorbing anger, how to recognise aggressive behaviour
& how to deal with it wisely
- Providing information on delays
- Proper queue management
- Welcoming environment & nice decor
- Checking visitors credentials (IDs)
- Safe & secure design of workplace e.g. wide counters, coded
locked doors & physical barriers
- Security officers & CCTV cameras
- Good means of Communication & alarm systems
- Regular removal of cash from the workplace
- Avoid Lone working; safe precautions for lone workers
- Reporting, recording and investigating violent incidents
- Zero tolerance of aggressive behaviour

Stress
Physical Effects
Headaches
Dizziness
Aching neck and shoulders
Skin rash
Prone to infections
Raised heart rate &
Increased blood pressure
Diabetes
Heart disease
Stomach & mouth ulcers

Psychological effects
Increased anxiety
Reduced concentration
Irritability & nervousness
Panic attacks & Sudden mood
changesto cope
Inability
Reduced work output / performance
Increased use of alcohol, drugs,
pain killers & tobacco
Insomnia (Poor sleep patterns)

Causes of stress:
1.
2.
3.
4.

5.
6.

7.
8.

Culture of the organisation: how it approaches work-related

stress, e.g. communication, consultation, staff support systems,
and working hours;
Demands: workload too high or too low, shift work and unsocial
hours, excessive overtime, and exposure to violence and bullying;
Control: how much control the person has in the way they do
their work, e.g. work planning, use of acquired skills, repetitive or
monotonous work;
Relationships between employees: physical violence, threats
or verbal abuse e.g. repeated shouting and swearing, malicious
gossip; unjustified picking of faults, prevention of career
development; sexual harassment; & discrimination due to gender,
race or disability;
Change: how organisational change is managed and
communicated in the organisation, e.g. new technology,
restructuring, redundancies, and unclear objectives;
Role: job insecurity, fear of redundancy, being unclear about
roles, responsibilities and expectations, conflicting roles, e.g. the
conflict of different job demands such as working for more than
one manager;
Individual: skills not matched to the task, inadequate training,
unclear job description, and fair and open feedback on the work
and role, illness, financial worries, family commitments; and
Environment: inadequate lighting, problems with glare, cramped
or untidy working conditions, security problems, extremes of
temperature and / or humidity, inadequate ventilation, draughty
conditions, high noise and vibration levels, inadequate welfare
facilities and poor weather conditions for those working outside.

Identification of Stress
Stress within the organisation may be identified by:

informal observation & conversation with workers & supervisors;

performance appraisal with an opportunity for open discussion of
problems;
monitoring of attendance records and conducting return to work
interviews;
sickness absence / ill-health trends;
reduced productivity of the employees
High staff turnover.

The end of week 2

GOOD

LUCK

Please Turn Over

Examination rules & tips

-

Each question MUST be answered on a separate page (subsections of the same question should be answered in the same
page, ONLY a NEW question should be on a new separate page)
The number of the question must be mentioned in the box at the
top of the page
All answers must be Specific , complete & meaningful sentences
The handwriting should be CLEAR enough
Use the regular blue pen & in the drawings use a pencil
In General: 8 mark question = 8 points answer, 6 mark = 6 points
etc.
In General: the answer of 8 mark question should be about half a
side of A4 page and the answer of 20 mark question should be
about one side & half of A4 pages
The exam starts at 9:00 am SHARP
Bring your passport or ID
The exam is 2 hours ; If your mother tongue is not English
(according to the nationality registered in the exam) you will be
given extra 30 minutes, so the exam will be 2 & half hours instead
of 2 hours but ONLY if you bring a non-technical bilingual
dictionary (regular book not electronic one)
Nothing else is alowed as its a closed book exam

Time of the exam is enough but just enough , dont waste your
time
Read the question 3 times carefully before starting the answer
If you run out of time , answer in the form of list
Dont cross any answer as theres no negative marking
As much as possible; Structure your answer into separate
headings e.g. external & internal / short term & long term etc.
Action Verbs in exam questions:
o

Explain, Describe or Outline: Give a detailed word picture ;

Give a clear account of, or reasons for
o List / Identify / Give / state : Select & name: Provide without
explanation nor details
o Define: Provide a generally recognised or accepted definition
PLUS an appropriate example
o Sketch: Draw a labelled diagram (using a pencil)