DIPLOMA IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

ASSIGNMENT 1
Describe elements that need to be included in an emergency plan. Explain criteria for
suitable escape route
Smith, J. (2019) provide information on the elements that are included in an emergency plan.
The elements include the following; Risk Assessment: identifying potential emergencies,
evaluating their likelihood and potential impact. Communication plan: internal
communication procedures and external communication procedures (with emergency
services, stakeholders, media, etc.), backup communication methods like alarms, intercoms
and phone trees. Evacuation plan: Evacuation routes and assembly points, procedures for
assisting vulnerable individuals and training and drills for stuff. Emergency Equipment and
resources: inventory of emergency supplies (first aid kits, fire extinguishers, etc.) instruction
on how to use safety equipment. Training and education: Training programs for employees
on emergency procedures, regular drills and exercise to test the plan and documentation of
training sessions. Emergency response team: Roles and responsibilities of team members also
communication protocols within the team. In any emergency situation, having a clear and
efficient escape route is paramount to ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals
within a facility. By adhering to these criteria, organizations can minimize risks and optimize
evacuation procedures, ultimately safeguarding lives and property. One fundamental criterion
for determining suitable escape routes is accessibility. Routes must be readily accessible to all
occupants, including those with disabilities or mobility limitations. The Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) provides guidelines for designing accessible routes, emphasizing
features such as adequate width, minimal slopes, and appropriate handrails (United States
Access Board, 2010). Compliance with ADA standards ensures inclusivity and facilitates the
swift evacuation of all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities. Another crucial
aspect is capacity. Escape routes must have the capacity to accommodate the expected
number of occupants within a reasonable timeframe (NFPA, 2019). Routes should be free
from hazards that could impede or endanger evacuees. This includes ensuring clear pathways,
unobstructed exits, and adequate lighting to facilitate visibility, particularly in low-light
conditions. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to promptly identify and
address any potential hazards, thereby enhancing the overall safety and reliability of escape
routes (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 2002). Implementation of accessible,
well-designed escape routes not only enhances the safety of individuals within a facility but
also contributes to the overall resilience and preparedness of the organization in mitigating
potential risks.
Discuss factors which determine the type of first aid facilities required in the workplace.
Differentiate between degradable and non-degradable waste.
Effective first aid facilities in the workplace are essential for providing prompt medical
assistance to employees in the event of injuries or illnesses. Nature of Work and Hazards:
The nature of the work performed within a workplace is a primary factor influencing the type
of first aid facilities needed. Industries involving high-risk activities such as construction,
manufacturing, or chemical processing require more extensive first aid provisions due to the
elevated potential for accidents and injuries. Conversely, office-based environments may
necessitate simpler first aid kits tailored to address minor injuries such as cuts, bruises, or
sprains (Health and Safety Executive, 2013). Occupational Hazards: The specific
occupational hazards present in a workplace significantly influence the type of first aid
facilities required. For example, workplaces where employees are exposed to chemical
substances necessitate specialized first aid supplies for treating chemical burns or exposure-
related illnesses. Similarly, industries involving machinery operation may require first aid
kits equipped with items for addressing crush injuries, lacerations, or amputations. Assessing
and addressing potential hazards is crucial for ensuring that first aid facilities are adequately
equipped to manage workplace-specific injuries (Occupational Safety and Health
Administration, 2001). Workforce Characteristics: The size and composition of the workforce
also impact the type of first aid facilities needed. Larger workplaces with a higher number of
employees may require multiple first aid stations strategically located throughout the
premises to ensure accessibility in case of emergencies. Moreover, workplaces employing
individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or disabilities may require specialized first
aid training and equipment to address their unique needs effectively. Tailoring first aid
provisions to accommodate the demographics and health status of the workforce enhances the
overall effectiveness of emergency response efforts (Australian Red Cross, 2018). Proximity
to Medical Facilities: The proximity of the workplace to medical facilities influences the type
of first aid facilities required. Workplaces located in remote or isolated areas may need more
comprehensive first aid provisions to bridge the gap until professional medical assistance can
be accessed. Conversely, workplaces situated in urban areas with readily available medical
services may focus on providing immediate first aid interventions to stabilize injured
individuals before transferring them to nearby healthcare facilities. Considering the response
time for emergency medical services enables employers to optimize first aid resources and
minimize the impact of injuries on employee health outcomes (Health and Safety Executive,
2009). Degradable waste, also known as organic waste, refers to materials derived from plant
or animal sources that can be broken down by biological processes over time. Examples
include food scraps, yard waste, paper, and certain types of plastics. Degradable waste
undergoes decomposition through microbial activity, ultimately returning nutrients to the soil
and participating in natural nutrient cycles (Singh et al., 2018). Management strategies for
degradable waste typically involve composting, anaerobic digestion, or other organic
recycling methods aimed at harnessing the biodegradation potential of these materials (EPA,
2020). Non-degradable waste, also known as persistent or inert waste, consists of materials
that do not undergo significant breakdown or degradation over time. Common examples
include plastics, glass, metals, and certain synthetic chemicals. Unlike degradable waste, non-
degradable waste accumulates in the environment and can persist for extended periods,
posing serious challenges for waste management and environmental sustainability (Jambeck
et al., 2015). Management of non-degradable waste often involves recycling, incineration, or
landfill disposal, with varying degrees of effectiveness in mitigating environmental impacts
(UNEP, 2019). Differences Between Degradable and Non-Degradable Waste include,
Breakdown Mechanisms: Degradable waste decomposes through biological processes,
whereas non-degradable waste does not undergo significant breakdown and remains largely
unchanged over time. Environmental Impact: Degradable waste contributes to nutrient
cycling and soil health, whereas non-degradable waste accumulates in the environment,
leading to pollution, habitat degradation, and harm to wildlife. Management Strategies:
Degradable waste is often managed through composting and recycling, leveraging natural
processes to facilitate decomposition. In contrast, non-degradable waste requires more
complex management strategies, including recycling, incineration, or landfill disposal.
Persistence: Degradable waste breaks down relatively quickly under favourable conditions,
while non-degradable waste can persist in the environment for decades or even centuries,
contributing to long-term pollution and ecosystem disruption.
Discuss the key components of the epidemiological theory and explain how their
interaction affect accident causation. What are the 3 broad factors that lead to human
error in human factor theory?
Epidemiological theory provides a framework for understanding the distribution and
determinants of health-related events within populations. Key components of this theory
include; Agent: The agent refers to the factor or substance that initiates or perpetuates a
health-related event. In accident causation, agents can include physical hazards such as
machinery, chemicals, or biological pathogens. The characteristics of the agent, including its
potency, toxicity, and mode of action, determine its potential to cause harm (Rothman,
Greenland, & Lash, 2008). For example, a sharp object in the workplace can serve as an
agent of injury if not properly managed or controlled. Host: The host represents the
individual or entity susceptible to the health-related event. In the context of accidents, hosts
can include workers, passengers, pedestrians, or any other individuals exposed to hazardous
environments or activities. Host factors such as age, gender, occupation, health status, and
behaviour influence susceptibility to accidents and the severity of resulting injuries (Bonita et
al., 2006). For instance, inexperienced workers may be more vulnerable to workplace
accidents due to lack of training or awareness. Environment: The environment encompasses
the physical, social, and organizational factors surrounding the host and agent. Environmental
factors play a crucial role in shaping the context in which accidents occur, including
workplace conditions, infrastructure design, regulatory policies, and cultural norms (Last,
2001). Poor lighting, inadequate safety protocols, and lack of supervision are examples of
environmental factors that can contribute to accident occurrence and severity. The interaction
between the agent, host, and environment determines the likelihood and severity of accidents.
Epidemiological theory recognizes that accidents result from the convergence of multiple
factors, rather than isolated events (Krieger, 2012). For example: Interaction between Agent
and Host: The potency of the agent and the susceptibility of the host interact to determine the
likelihood of injury. A hazardous chemical in the workplace poses a greater risk to workers
who lack proper protective equipment or training. Interaction between Host and
Environment: Host characteristics and environmental factors influence behaviour and
exposure to hazards. For instance, a distracted pedestrian (host) crossing a busy road with
inadequate crosswalks (environment) increases the risk of being involved in a traffic
accident. Interaction between Agent and Environment: The presence of hazardous agents in
the environment exacerbates the risk of accidents, particularly in settings with inadequate
safety measures. For example, the release of toxic chemicals into the air or water due to
industrial activities can lead to environmental disasters with widespread health impacts.
Human factor theory explores the interaction between humans and their environment,
emphasizing the role of cognitive, physical, and organizational factors in shaping human
performance and behaviour. Within this framework, three broad factors contribute to human
error; Individual Factors: Individual factors pertain to characteristics inherent to the person
performing a task. These factors encompass cognitive abilities, skills, knowledge, personality
traits, and physiological states. Cognitive limitations, such as attentional lapses, memory
failures, and perceptual errors, can lead to human error, particularly in complex or high-
pressure situations (Reason, 1990). For instance, a pilot experiencing fatigue due to sleep
deprivation may overlook critical information on an aircraft instrument panel, resulting in an
operational error. Additionally, skill-based errors can occur when individuals lack proficiency
or experience in executing a task. Novice drivers, for example, may struggle to maintain
control of a vehicle in adverse weather conditions due to insufficient driving skills.
Personality traits, such as impulsivity or risk-taking propensity, can also influence behaviour
and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of errors in certain contexts (Hollnagel, 2014).
Task Factors: Task factors refer to the characteristics of the task being performed, including
its complexity, novelty, clarity, and workload demands. Tasks that are complex, ambiguous,
or unfamiliar pose a greater risk of error, as they require more cognitive effort and are prone
to misinterpretation or misunderstanding (Wickens et al., 2004). For instance, performing
emergency medical procedures in a chaotic environment may overwhelm healthcare
professionals, leading to errors in patient care. Moreover, high workload and time pressure
can impair performance and increase the likelihood of errors. In fast-paced environments,
such as air traffic control or emergency response settings, operators may struggle to process
information efficiently and make accurate decisions under pressure (Endsley, 2015).
Inadequate task design, including unclear instructions or poorly defined procedures, can also
contribute to errors by introducing ambiguity and confusion into the task environment.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors encompass the physical, social, and
organizational aspects of the work environment that influence human performance. Physical
environmental factors, such as lighting, noise, temperature, and ergonomic design, can either
facilitate or hinder task execution (Salmon et al., 2017). For example, working in a poorly lit
area may compromise visibility and increase the risk of errors in tasks requiring visual
precision. Social and organizational factors, including leadership styles, communication
patterns, team dynamics, and organizational culture, also play a significant role in shaping
behaviour and performance (Helmreich & Merritt, 1998). A supportive and cohesive team
environment fosters collaboration and effective decision-making, whereas a culture that
tolerates errors or prioritizes productivity over safety may inadvertently encourage risky
behaviours and compromise safety standards.
Referencing
Smith, J. (2019)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). (2018).
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). (2019).
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (2002).
United States Access Board. (2010). ADA Standards for Accessible Design.
Australian Red Cross. (2018). First Aid in the Workplace.
Health and Safety Executive. (2009).
Health and Safety Executive. (2013).
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2001).
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2020).
(Jambeck et al., 2015).
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2019).
Bonita, R., Beaglehole, R., & Kjellström, T. (2006).
Krieger, N. (2012).
Last, J. M. (2001).
Rothman, K. J., Greenland, S., & Lash, T. L. (2008).
Endsley, M. R. (2015).
Helmreich, R. L., & Merritt, A. C. (1998).
Hollnagel, E. (2014).
Reason, J. (1990).