Identifying basic hazards is a fundamental step in
Impact Hazards: Risk of being struck by flying objects,
designing resilient architecture. Resilience in
architecture is theability of a building or infrastructure
to withstand and recover from various hazards, both
natural and man-made.
By understanding and addressing basic hazards,
architects can create designs that are better equipped
to protect occupants, reduce damage, and ensure the
long-term functionality of a structure.
Hazard Identification:
Begin by conducting a comprehensive hazard
assessment to identify the types of threats your region
or location is susceptible to. These hazards can include
natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, hurricanes,
typhons,
wildfires, and climate-related events such as extreme
temperatures, droughts (el niño), la-niña, sea-level rise.
Additionally, consider man-made hazards like fires,
explosions, and acts of terrorism.
Hazard identification is a crucial step in risk assessment
and management, and it involves recognizing and
categorizing various types of hazards that can pose a
threat to human health, the environment, or property.
These hazards can be broadly categorized into three
main groups: physical hazards, chemical hazards, and
biological hazards.
A. PHYSICAL HAZARDS:
Physical hazards are typically related to the physical
properties of objects or the environment and can cause
harm through direct contact or interaction. They
include:
a. Mechanical Hazards: These are hazards associated
with moving objects, machinery, and equipment.
Examples:
1. Entanglement Hazard: Workers' clothing, hair, or
body parts getting caught in moving machinery, such as
conveyor belts or rotating equipment.
2. Pinch Points: Employees' fingers or hands getting
trapped in pinch points, like the hinges of heavy
equipment or machinery.
3. Crushing Hazards: Risk of workers getting crushed or
caught between heavy objects or machinery parts.
4. Shearing Hazards: The risk of cutting or severing body
parts, as can happen in the moving parts
of metalworking machinery or hydraulic presses.
5. Puncture Hazards: Workers can get punctured or
impaled by sharp objects, such as nails,
staples, or metal shards.
6.
tools, or falling materials in construction or
manufacturing environments.
7. Abrasive Wheels: Hazards from using grinding
wheels, wire brushes, and abrasive discs, which can
explode if not used properly.
8. Unintended Movement: Hazards from equipment
starting unexpectedly or moving on its own, such as a
vehicle rolling backward.
9. Overexertion: Risk of injuries due to excessive
physical strain, such as lifting heavy objects manually
without proper equipment.
10. Tool Hazards: Dangers from hand and power tools,
including the risk of electric shock, cutting injuries, or
machinery malfunctions.
B. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS: Electrical hazards
involve the potential for electrical shock or fire. They
may result from exposed wires, malfunctioning
equipment, or improper electrical installations.
1. Exposed Wires: Exposed electrical wires in a
workplace can lead to electric shock if touched.
2. Overloaded Circuits: Overloading electrical circuits
with too many devices can cause overheating and
potential fires.
3. Faulty Wiring: Old or damaged wiring can lead to
electrical fires and short circuits.
4. Water and Electricity: Mixing water and electricity
can result in electrical shock, especially in wet
environments.
5. Lack of Grounding: Inadequate grounding can
increase the risk of electric shock in case of a fault.
6. Damaged Electrical Cords: Frayed or damaged cords
on appliances or power tools can pose a hazard.
7. Electric Arcs: Electric arcs can cause burns or fires,
especially in high-voltage electrical systems.
8. Inadequate Electrical PPE: Failure to use proper
personal protective equipment when working with
electricity, such as insulated gloves.
9. Inadequate Lockout/Tagout: Failing to properly
lockout/tagout equipment during maintenance can lead
to unexpected electrical startup.
10. High Voltage: Exposure to high-voltage electrical
systems without proper training and equipment can be
life-threatening.

C. THERMAL HAZARDS: Thermal hazards relate
to extreme temperatures and can include both heat and
cold-related risks.
1. Burns from Hot Surfaces: Employees coming into
contact with hot machinery surfaces or pipes that can
cause burns.
2. Scalding: Exposure to high-temperature liquids or
steam, such as in industrial processes or commercial
kitchens.
3. Heat Stress: Overexertion in hot environments
leading to heat-related illnesses, such as heat
exhaustion or heat stroke.
4. Fires: The risk of fires in the workplace, whether from
electrical faults, chemical reactions, or other sources.
5. Flash Fires: Sudden, intense fires, often caused by the
ignition of flammable gases or liquids.
6. Molten Metal Hazards: Working with molten metal in
foundries, forges, or metalworking industries, which can
result in severe burns.
7. Radiant Heat: Exposure to high levels of radiant heat,
such as in close proximity to industrial furnaces or kilns.
8. Cold Stress: Exposure to extreme cold temperatures
that can lead to frostbite or hypothermia.
9. Boiling Water: Risks of scalds or burns from boiling
water, common in cooking and food service industries.
10. Solar Radiation: Outdoor workers exposed to direct
sunlight and UV radiation, leading to sunburn and
potential skin damage.
D. RADIATION HAZARDS: Radiation hazards are
associated with exposure to ionizing radiation, such as
Xrays, gamma rays, and radioactive materials.
Prolonged or high levels of exposure can cause serious
health issues.
Ionizing Radiation Hazards:
1. X-ray Machines: Workers in medical facilities and
radiology departments may be exposed to ionizing
radiation when operating X-ray machines.
2. Nuclear Power Plants: Employees in the nuclear
power industry can face ionizing radiation risks due to
the presence of radioactive materials.
3. Radiation Therapy: Patients receiving radiation
therapy for cancer treatment are exposed to ionizing
radiation.
4. Nuclear Medicine: Medical professionals who work
with radioactive tracers and isotopes may be exposed to
ionizing radiation.
5. Industrial Radiography: Technicians using
radiographic equipment for testing welds and materials
can encounter ionizing radiation hazards.
6. Airline Crews: Pilots and flight attendants are
exposed to higher levels of ionizing radiation at
high altitudes.
Non-Ionizing Radiation Hazards:
1. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: Outdoor workers, such as
construction workers and lifeguards, are at risk of skin
damage and skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to
UV radiation from the sun.
Welding arcs emit high-intensity UV radiation, which
can cause damage to the eyes and skin if not adequately
protected. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead
to conditions like arc eye, welder's flash (a painful eye
condition), and skin burns.
2. Laser Hazards: Workers in industries using lasers, like
manufacturing and healthcare, are at risk
of eye injuries from exposure to laser radiation.
3. Microwave Ovens: Improperly maintained microwave
ovens can leak non-ionizing radiation,
which can be harmful if there is prolonged exposure.
4. Radiofrequency (RF) Radiation: Workers in the
telecommunications and broadcasting
industries can be exposed to RF radiation from cell
towers and broadcasting equipment,
which can have health effects if not controlled.
It's important to note that while ionizing radiation poses
significant health risks, non-ionizing radiation,
such as UV radiation and RF radiation, can also be
harmful when exposure levels are excessive. Safety
measures and protective equipment are crucial in
minimizing the risks associated with radiation
hazards.
e. Falling hazards are situations or conditions that can
lead to individuals falling from a height, whether
it's at a worksite, in a public area, or even within a
home. Falls can result in injuries ranging from minor
cuts and bruises to severe fractures or even fatalities
1. Unprotected Edges: Open edges without guardrails or
protective barriers on elevated
surfaces, such as construction sites or rooftops.
2. Slippery Surfaces: Slippery floors, sidewalks, or
staircases due to rain, ice, oil, or spills in areas
like supermarkets, restaurants, or outdoor walkways.
3. Uneven Ground: Uneven surfaces, such as sidewalks
with gaps or damaged pavement, that
can cause tripping and falling.
4. Ladders and Scaffolds: Incorrectly positioned or
poorly maintained ladders and scaffolding on
construction sites.
5. Holes or Excavations: Unmarked holes, ditches, or
excavations at construction sites, which can
lead to falls if not properly safeguarded.
6. Clutter: Cluttered walkways and work areas with
obstacles and debris that increase the risk of
tripping and falling.
7. Improper Handrails: Missing or poorly maintained
handrails on staircases or ramps in public
buildings.
8. Unsecured Tools and Materials: Objects left
unsecured at heights, which can fall and strike
individuals below.
9. Roof Work: Work on roofs without adequate fall
protection, such as guardrails, safety nets, or
personal fall arrest systems.
10. Slippery Steps: Staircases with worn-out or slippery
steps and a lack of anti-slip measures,
potentially leading to accidents.
Chemical Hazards:
Chemical hazards refer to the potential dangers
associated with exposure to hazardous chemicals in
various settings, including workplaces, laboratories, and
industrial facilities. These chemicals can pose
health risks when inhaled, ingested, or in contact with
the skin.
a. Toxic Substances: These are chemicals that can be
harmful when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed
through the skin. Examples include toxic gases, heavy
metals, and pesticides.
b. Flammable and Explosive Materials: Chemicals that
are highly flammable or can explode under certain
conditions pose significant risks. Examples include
gasoline, propane, and explosive chemicals.
c. Corrosive Substances: Corrosive chemicals can cause
severe damage to living tissues or materials on
contact. Examples include strong acids and bases.
d. Carcinogens and Mutagens: Certain chemicals are
known to cause cancer (carcinogens) or genetic
mutations (mutagens) if exposure occurs over an
extended period.
f. Allergens: Some substances can trigger allergic
reactions in susceptible individuals. Common
allergens include certain chemicals, foods, and airborne
particles.
g. Respiratory Irritants: Airborne chemicals that can
irritate the respiratory system, like dust, fumes, and
vapors in industrial settings.
h. Asphyxiants: Gases that can displace oxygen in the
air, leading to oxygen deficiency and suffocation,
like nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
i. Reproductive Hazards: Chemicals that can harm the
reproductive system or pose risks to the
developing fetus, including certain solvents and heavy
metals.
Biological Hazards:
Biological hazards are associated with exposure to living
organisms that can cause illness or disease. They
include:
a. Pathogens: Pathogens are microorganisms, such as
bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, that can
cause infections and diseases in humans and animals.\
1. Bacteria:
Escherichia coli (E. coli): Certain strains of E. coli can
cause food poisoning and gastrointestinal
infections.
Salmonella: Commonly found in contaminated food, it
can lead to salmonellosis with
symptoms of diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
Raw chicken can be a source of salmonella bacteria.
Salmonella is commonly associated
with poultry, including chicken and turkey. The bacteria
can be present in the intestinal tracts
of these birds, and if the meat or eggs become
contaminated during processing or handling,
they can carry salmonella.
To reduce the risk of salmonella infection from raw
chicken:
Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure that chicken is cooked
to a safe internal temperature of at
least 165°F (73.9°C) to kill any salmonella bacteria
present.
Prevent Cross-Contamination: Avoid cross-
contaminating other foods and surfaces by
keeping raw chicken separate from other foods and
using separate cutting boards and
utensils.
Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands, utensils, and
surfaces thoroughly after handling raw
chicken.
Store Chicken Properly: Refrigerate or freeze chicken
promptly to prevent bacterial growth.
Be Cautious with Raw Eggs: Raw or undercooked eggs
can also carry salmonella, so it's
essential to handle them safely.
Salmonella infections can lead to food poisoning with
symptoms such as diarrhea, fever,
abdominal cramps, and vomiting. It's important to
follow safe food handling and cooking
practices to reduce the risk of contracting salmonella or
other foodborne illnesses.
2. Viruses:
Influenza Virus: Responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks
that affect the respiratory system.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): Causes acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS),
which affects the immune system.
Covid 19 Virus
SARS
Rabies is a viral disease that affects mammals, including
humans. It is primarily transmitted
through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, most
commonly through the bite of a rabid
dog. Here are some key points about rabies:
Causative Agent: Rabies is caused by the rabies virus, a
member of the Lyssavirus genus.
Transmission: The rabies virus is typically transmitted
through the saliva of an infected animal
when it bites or scratches another animal or human. It
can also be transmitted through mucous
membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Symptoms: The initial symptoms of rabies in humans
may include fever, headache, and
discomfort at the site of the bite. As the disease
progresses, it leads to neurological symptoms,
such as confusion, hallucinations, paralysis, and
difficulty swallowing. Once clinical symptoms
appear, rabies is almost always fatal.
Wildlife Reservoir: In many parts of the world,
particularly in regions with a high incidence of
rabies, the virus is maintained in wildlife populations,
such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes.
Vaccination: Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended
for individuals at high risk of rabies
exposure, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, and
certain travelers. Post-exposure
prophylaxis, which includes vaccination and rabies
immune globulin, is administered to
individuals who have been potentially exposed to
rabies.
Prevention: To prevent rabies, it is important to avoid
contact with potentially rabid animals,
vaccinate domestic pets (especially dogs and cats), and
seek immediate medical attention
if bitten or scratched by an animal, as prompt treatment
can prevent the onset of symptoms.
Rabies is a deadly disease, and it is crucial to take
preventive measures and seek medical
attention if there is any suspicion of exposure.
Vaccination of pets and responsible animal
control are key strategies to control the spread of rabies
in both wildlife and domestic animal
populations.
3. Fungi:
Candida albicans: Causes candidiasis, which can affect
the mouth, throat, and genital areas.
Aspergillus fumigatus: Can lead to lung infections in
individuals with weakened immune
systems.
4. Protozoa:
Plasmodium falciparum: Responsible for the most
severe form of malaria, which affects the
blood and can be fatal.
5. Parasites:
Giardia lamblia: Causes giardiasis, a gastrointestinal
infection, often contracted through
contaminated water.
Toxoplasma gondii: Can lead to toxoplasmosis,
especially dangerous for pregnant women
and individuals with compromised immune systems.
6. Prions:
*Prions are misfolded proteins that can lead to rare,
fatal brain diseases in humans and
animals, such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) or
bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE,
or "mad cow" disease).
7. Helminths (Parasitic Worms):
Ascaris lumbricoides: A roundworm that can infect the
human digestive system, causing
intestinal blockages.
Pathogens can be transmitted through various routes,
including person-to-person contact,
contaminated food and water, vectors (e.g., mosquitoes
for malaria), and environmental
exposure. Preventing the spread of infectious diseases
often involves good hygiene practices,
vaccination, and the use of antimicrobial medications
when necessary. Proper sanitation and
public health measures are essential to control and
combat the spread of pathogens.
b. Toxic Plants and Animals: Certain plants and animals
can be toxic or venomous, leading to health
issues upon contact or ingestion.
Toxic Plants:
Manchineel Tree (Hippomane mancinella): This tree
produces toxic, milky sap that can
cause severe skin irritation and blindness if it comes
into contact with the eyes.
Rosary Pea (Abrus precatorius)(matam-buyod): The
seeds of this plant contain a toxic
substance called abrin, which can be lethal if ingested or
even chewed, as it releases the
toxin.
Oleander (Nerium oleander): All parts of the oleander
plant contain toxic compounds
known as cardiac glycosides, which can be lethal if
ingested. So beware mga plantito
and plantitas.
Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia spp.): This is a very
popular houseplant that contains
calcium oxalate crystals that can cause skin irritation,
swelling, and discomfort if touched
or ingested. Again, careful tayo ditey.
Castor Bean Plant (Ricinus communis): The seeds of this
plant contain ricin, a potent toxin
that can cause severe illness if ingested or inhaled.
Guys, bako po ini marijuana.. so.. we’re
good.
Venomous Animals:
Philippine Cobra (Naja philippinensis): This snake
species is highly venomous and found in
the Philippines. Its bite can be lethal if not treated
promptly.
Box Jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri): Found in the waters
around the Philippines, this jellyfish is
one of the most venomous marine species and can
deliver extremely painful stings.
Blue-Ringed Octopus (Hapalochlaena spp.): These small,
highly venomous octopuses are
found in the Philippine waters and carry neurotoxins
that can cause paralysis and death if
bitten.
Marbled Cone Snail (Conus marmoreus): This marine
snail has a venomous harpoon-like
tooth that can inject potent neurotoxins into its prey,
and it is capable of stinging humans.
Stonefish (Synanceia spp.): Stonefish are among the
most venomous fish in the world and
are found in the Philippines. Their spines contain venom
that can cause intense pain, tissue
damage, and even death if stepped on.
Sorry.. your Ahas and malanding ibeshy is not included!
It's important to exercise caution and awareness when
dealing with potentially toxic or
venomous plants and animals in the Philippines and
elsewhere. In the case of bites or
stings, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial, as
some of these toxins can have
severe and even fatal effects.
c. Allergenic Substances: Some biological materials, like
pollen, can trigger allergic reactions in
individuals.
Ergonomic Hazards:
Ergonomic hazards are related to the design of
workspaces and job tasks that can lead to
musculoskeletal injuries
and discomfort. They often result from repetitive
movements, poor posture, and inadequate equipment.
Examples include:
a. Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Conditions like carpal
tunnel syndrome or tendonitis due to repetitive tasks,
such as typing or assembly line work.
b. Back Pain: Poor posture and heavy lifting without
proper equipment can lead to back pain and injuries.
c. Eye Strain: Prolonged use of computer screens
without ergonomic setups can result in eye strain and
discomfort.
Resilient building design in the Philippines involves
addressing a range of natural hazards and
environmental
challenges that are prevalent in the region. The
Philippines is susceptible to a variety of hazards due to
its
geographical location in the Pacific Ring of Fire and its
exposure to tropical cyclones, earthquakes, floods,
landslides, and volcanic eruptions. Additionally, climate
change and sea-level rise are increasing the
vulnerability
of coastal areas. Here are some of the key hazards
related to resilient building design in the Philippine
context:
Typhoons and Storm Surges:
The Philippines experiences a high frequency of tropical
cyclones (typhoons) each year. Resilient building design
should incorporate features such as elevated
foundations, reinforced structures, impact-resistant
windows, and
roofing materials that can withstand strong winds.
Flooding:
Flooding, whether from heavy rainfall, storm surges, or
river overflow, is a common hazard. Buildings should be
designed to withstand inundation by elevating living
spaces, using flood-resistant materials, and ensuring
proper
drainage systems.
Earthquakes:
The Philippines is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire,
making it prone to seismic activity. Resilient design
considerations include structural reinforcement, flexible
building materials, and proper foundation systems to
mitigate earthquake-related risks.
Landslides:
Hilly and mountainous areas in the Philippines are
prone to landslides during heavy rains. Resilient
architecture
should incorporate slope stabilization and adequate
drainage systems.
Volcanic Eruptions:
The country has active volcanoes, and volcanic
eruptions can cause ashfall and pyroclastic flows.
Buildings in
volcanic zones should have robust filtration systems to
prevent ash infiltration and offer protection from
extreme
heat and flying debris.
Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Erosion:
Rising sea levels due to climate change pose a
significant threat to coastal areas. Resilient designs
should
consider elevating buildings, building protective
seawalls, and using materials resistant to saltwater
corrosion.
Heat and Humidity:
The Philippines experiences high temperatures and
humidity. Resilient buildings should incorporate
energyefficient designs to reduce indoor heat, proper
ventilation, and shading to enhance comfort and reduce
the
need for energy-intensive cooling systems.
Tsunami Risk:
Coastal regions may be vulnerable to tsunamis triggered
by undersea earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.
Resilient
designs should consider safe evacuation routes and
tsunami-resistant structures in high-risk areas.
Integrate early warning systems into building designs to
provide occupants with timely alerts about impending
natural disasters.