PH Y S I C A L HA Z A R D A N D

C O N T R O L
PHYSICAL HAZARD – A physical hazard are simply hazards that can
cause physical harm. They can be classified as type of occupational
hazard or environmental hazard. Physical hazards include ergonomic
hazards, radiation, heat and cold stress, vibration hazards, and noise
hazards. They are the most common and are present in most workplaces at
one time or another. These include unsafe conditions that can cause injury,
illness and death.
Physical hazards are a common source of injuries in many industries. They
are perhaps unavoidable in certain industries, such
as construction and mining, but over time people have developed safety
methods and procedures to manage the risks of physical danger in the
workplace.
PHYSICAL HAZARDS

Energy can enter our body through our skin (heat, cold, vibration,
radiation, electric shock), through our ears (noise, music,
shouting), or through our eyes (light, lasers, sunlight). Exposure
to the physical hazards mentioned above can cause pain and
injury. If it occurs day after day, we may develop a disease and
possibly a disability. Physical hazards include exposure to slips,
trips, falls, electricity, noise, vibration, radiation, heat, cold and
fire.
Physical Hazards Examples
There are several examples of physical hazards, but few will be highlighted here.

 Temperature: Both very cold and very hot temperatures can be dangerous
to your health. In a very hot environment, the most serious concern is heat
stroke, and in a cold environment, hypothermia and frostbite. While there is
no maximum temperature specified, legislation does include a range of
acceptable temperatures for various circumstances.
 Indoor Air Quality: Common causes of indoor air problems include
inadequate temperature, lack of humidity or lighting; exposure to
chemicals, dusts, gases, vapors and odors; or a lack of fresh air from
the ventilation system. People generally develop symptoms within a few
hours of starting the workday and feel better after leaving the building.
 Noise: Noise is one of the most common workplace health hazards. In
heavy industrial and manufacturing environments, as well as in farms,
cafeterias, permanent hearing loss is the main health concern.
Annoyance, stress and interference with speech communication are the
main concerns in noisy offices, schools and computer rooms.

 Radiation: Sunlight is the greatest source of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Man-made UV sources include UV lamps, arc welding, and mercury vapor
lamps. UV radiation is widely used in industrial processes and in medical
and dental practices for a variety of purposes. Excessive exposure to UV
radiation is associated with skin cancer, sunburn, accelerated skin aging,
and eye disease.
 Compressed Gas: Leaks and ruptures can cause asphyxiation or turn the
gas cylinder into a projectile. Compressed gas cylinders must be restrained
in an upright position in the lab at 1/3 and 2/3 the height of the tank,
preferably with chains. Caps must be in place when cylinder is not in use.
 Make sure regulator and supply lines are in good condition.
 Never use rigid plastic tubing, which can shatter if the pressure limits
are exceeded.
 When turning on the gas,
o Ensure that the flow valve is open (so there will be no pressure in the
supply line). Adjust flow valve only after you have opened the
regulator.
o Turn your head away from the tank
Vibration: Vibration has long been recognized as a serious
occupational hazard. Continuously repeated exposure to high levels
of vibration results in injuries or illnesses. Vibration exposure is
classified into two general types: hand-arm and whole-body
vibration. Hand-arm vibration causes direct injury to the fingers and
hand and affects feeling, dexterity, and grip of the hand. It is a known
causative factor for other ergonomic-related fatalities. Hand-arm
vibration injury associated with use of appliances or equipment with
vibration such as grinders, impact drills, chipping hammers,
pavement breakers, dental tools, sanders, air-powered wrenches,
and saws of all types
Repeated long time use of vibrating machinery results in long-term
effects- independent vascular, neurosensory and musculoskeletal
disorders of the hand and arm which is known as Hand-arm
vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Whole-body vibration is one of the
most common causes of lost time and production output and
causes low back pain and injury and due to higher than expected
levels of vibration. Whole-body vibration injuries associated with
off-road vehicles in industries such as
agriculture, forestry, mining, quarrying and with small-fast boats
used off-shore.
Combination of control measures such as redesigning the
appliances to reduce vibration exposure, using machines that
are designed to decrease the vibration transmitted to the
operator, implementing speed limits, scheduling regular work
breaks, posture changes or job rotation to reduce exposure
time, providing training, information and supervision on
adjusting and operating equipment can be used for successful
vibration exposure reduction.
Sunlight: Sunlight is the most commonly known physical
hazard which affects the people who work outside. Outdoor
workers get highest sunlight exposure during high-intensity
hours between 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and during the
summertime. The risk of getting sunburned is more
throughout these times. Some commonly used medicines
such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDS), antihistamines, tetracycline, thiazides, sulfa
antibiotics, and diuretics increase sensitivity to sunlight and
resulting in skin rashes and sunburn.
 Moreover, sunlight is a source of ultraviolet (UV) rays which are
the form of non-ionizing radiation. UV rays directly from sunlight
and indirect sun exposure, such as light reflected by snow and
light-shaded sand can penetrate worker’s uncovered skin. Long
time, continuous exposure to ultraviolet radiation results in
suppression of the immune system, eye damage, skin aging,
and skin cancer. Some non-solar sources of UV radiation, for
example, projection lamps, the curing of paints and inks,
equipment disinfectant used in hospitals, fluorescent
tubes, sunlamps, and welding arcs, can also cause adverse
health effects in other workers.
Personal protective equipment, engineering,
and administrative controls such as the provision of
shade cover, and rotating job shifts can minimize the
risk of sun exposure for outdoor workers. In case of
non-solar sources of UV radiation, suitable engineering
controls and administrative controls such as safety
signs and training of employees can useful.
 Physical Hazard at Workplace
 Body stressing machinery
 Confined spaces  Poor lighting
 Electricity  Fire
 Heat  Radiation
 Heights  Flammable gases
 Noise  Flammable aerosols
 Vibration  Oxidizing gases
 Slippery floors  Gases under pressure
 Objects in walkways  Flammable liquids
 Unsafe or misused
 Flammable solids pressure or vacuum)
 Self-reactive substances and  Physical hazards not
mixtures otherwise classified
 Pyrophoric liquids  Combustible dusts
 Pyrophoric solids  Simple asphyxiants
 Self-heating substances and
mixtures
 Substances and mixtures
which, in contact with water,
emit flammable gases
 Oxidizing liquids
 Oxidizing solids
 Organic peroxides
 Corrosive to metals
 Pyrophoric gases
 Magnetic fields
 Pressure extremes (high
Physical Hazard Symbol
Here are some physical Hazard Symbols:

FLAMMABLE EXPLOSIVE
HOT SURFACE RADIATION HAZARD
How to Prevent Physical Hazards
To prevent and/or control physical hazards, take the following steps:
 Provide safety equipment to employees that reduces their exposure to the
physical safety hazard
 Reduce noises and vibrations present in the workplace
 Place barriers between employees and physical hazards such as radiation or
microwaves
 Provide proper ventilation and air conditioning for employees
 Insulate any surfaces that could be prone to extremes in temperature
 Ensure handling of smaller quantities of dangerous and reactive chemicals
 Ensure that workers spend less time in areas of exposure
 Ensure workers Work away from noise when possible
 Provide employees with rest breaks away from physical hazards
 Train employees to recognize and avoid physical hazards
Main Classes of Physical Hazards

Explosives
These substances can undergo a rapid chemical reaction that produces
large amounts of gas and heat. This can lead to an explosion which can
lead to fatal injuries to your body or even death. Proper precautions
such as keeping a safe distance, wearing protective clothing, and
avoiding ignition sources will keep workers safe from harm.

Oxidizing Agents
These are substances that supply oxygen to a fire to help it burns.
These materials can make a fire spread and grow, which is very
dangerous, especially when you are in enclosed spaces.
Flammable Materials
Flammable materials can easily catch on fire and burn. They can be in
the form of liquids, gases, or solids. Flammables are often used in our
daily lives, so it is important to be cautious when handling them.

Corrosive Materials
Corrosive materials can damage your skin, eyes, and respiratory tract if
you are exposed to them. They can also damage metal surfaces. This is
because it can eat away at materials, causing them to break down. It is
important to wear proper protective gear when working with corrosive
materials.
Gas Under Pressure
These materials contain gasses and are under pressure so that
they can explode or burst. They can explode when heated and can
lead to serious or fatal injuries to the body. Some examples
include:
•Aerosol cans
•Propane tanks
•Butane lighters
•Oxygen tanks
Some Examples of Physical Hazards?
Many types of hazards can pose a risk to our safety and health. But what are
the examples of physical hazards that can be found in a workplace?
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are the most common physical hazards. Slips and
trips are often caused by wet floors, cluttered walkways, or loose
carpeting. Falls can lead to serious injuries, so it’s important to be
aware of these hazards and take steps to avoid them.

Exposure to Harmful Substances

This can include chemicals, fumes, and particles that can cause
irritation or harm our health. It’s important to be aware of these
hazards and take steps to protect ourselves from them.
Confined Spaces
Working in confined spaces can be dangerous because there is limited
space to move around, and it can be difficult to breathe. If you’re
working in a confined space, it’s important to take precautions to avoid
any body parts being caught or stuck.

Electricity
Electricity is a physical hazard that can cause burns, shocks, or even
death. It’s important to be aware of this hazard and take steps to
protect ourselves from it. Make sure to inspect any wet areas before
dealing with electricity. Lastly, wearing proper PPE is essential to
prevent any unexpected electrocutions.
Extreme Temperatures
Working in extreme temperatures can be dangerous because our
bodies can’t regulate the temperature well in these conditions. If
you’re working in extreme heat or cold, it’s important to take steps to
stay cool or warm and stay hydrated.

Toxic Materials
Toxic materials can hurt your body or even kill you if you are exposed
to high concentrations of them. These hazards can be in the form of
gases, liquids, or solids. It is important to wear proper protective gear
when working with toxic substances.
 Sources and Health Effects of Physical Hazards
types Possible sources Health effects prevention
Noise Noisy machines Hearing loss, Stress, Buy quieter machines and
Annoyance equipment. Build enclosures and
barriers to stop noise from reaching
people. Wear ear protection. Reduce
exposure time.
Hand / Arm Operation of vibrating hand held White finger, Hand-Arm Select tools with antivibration
Vibration equipment Vibration Syndrome mounting. Cover handles with
(HAVS) vibration absorbing material.
Minimize time of use. Avoid cold
exposure to hands.

Whole- Body Working on a vibrating Back disorders, Wide Vibration isolator mounted seats
Vibration platform, driving farm tractors range of health for vehicle operators. Vibration
or other heavy vehicles, conditions. isolator mounted rotating
especially on rough terrain machines. Vibration absorbing
covering on floors where people
stand and work for a long time.
types Possible sources Health effects prevention
Hot Working near furnaces. Summer Heat stroke, Heat Dress in light loose clothing to allow
Environments outdoor work Syncope (fainting) sweat evaporation. Acclimatize
yourself at a slow pace before
starting full work. Pace your work or
play to avoid over-exertion. Drink
plenty of water frequently even if you
are not thirsty. Take rest in a cool
place or shade if you feel very hot.
Ask for training to recognize
symptoms of heat stroke. Seek
immediate medical help if you notice
that someone might be getting heat
stroke.
Cold Working outdoors in cold Hypothermia, Frostbite, Dress properly. Learn to recognize
Environment weather. Working in cold Trench foot hypothermia symptoms. Seek
s storage. medical help if you notice someone
developing hypothermia. Seek warm
shelter if you start shivering
excessively or feeling confused.
types Possible sources Health effects prevention
Hyperbaric Diving "Bends" or Make sure that you have proper
(High decompression training and equipment
Pressure) sickness, joint pain,
Environment breathing or ear
s disorders.
Hypobaric High altitude work Disorders of the lungs, Do not over-exert. Stop climbing if
(Low Mountain sickness breathing problem continues. Seek
Pressure) (headaches, nausea, first aid
Environment vomiting)
s
Ionizing Working near x-ray machines. Radiation sickness Spend the least possible time near a
Radiation Handling radioactive materials. within hours or days radiation source. Stay as far away
Uranium mining. Working in after exposure to very from a radiation source as possible.
nuclear energy power plants. high radiation levels. Use a shielding device such as a lead
Working in nuclear research Cancer after several barrier to stop radiation before it
laboratories years of low-level reaches people. Use gloves, aprons
exposure. etc. to prevent contamination of
hands and the body
types Possible sources Health effects prevention
Non- Exposure to electro magnetic Does not produce Stay away from sources, use
Ionizing waves, lights and lasers. See ions in the body recommended personal
Radiation the chart below. chemicals. Reach by protection, seek first aid and
causing heat and medical attention.
other effects
Ultraviolet Sunlight, Arc welding, Skin Cancer, Eye Avoid midday sun (11 am - 3 pm).
Blacklight lamps, Germicidal damage, Retinal Seek shade when outdoors.
lamps damage Apply sun protection cream on
exposed skin. Wear appropriate
clothing to prevent UV exposure
to the skin. Avoid staring at sun
or bright light sources.
Light, Lasers, Welding Retinal damage
Lasers
Never, ever look into a laser
beam.
types Possible sources Health effects prevention
Microwave Microwave ovens, radio and TV Heating of the body, Stay as far away from a source as
and Radio- transmission, radar, antenna, cell Central Nervous System possible. Use appropriate shielding
frequency phones (CNS) effects such as making sure that the
microwave oven door seals properly
so that no radiation leaks when the
oven is on. Avoid all unnecessary
exposures.
Power Working near electric power Indications of leukemia Do not work or play under the power
Frequency transmission or distribution lines. in children. lines or near power distribution
Electromagnet transformers.
ic Field (ELF)
Slips, Trips Slippery and cluttered floors and Bodily injury, broken
and Falls working surfaces. bones, permanent When working at heights: Use proper
disability safety equipment; Follow safe work
practices; Keep the floors free from
clutter, debris and spills; Clean up
spills immediately.
types Possible sources
Fires Chemical reactions, heat,
ignition, electrical short
circuit, static electricity,
friction.
Health effects prevention
Burns, inhalation of Follow fire prevention rules. Set
toxic fumes off alarm and leave the house or
school as soon as possible. Call
911 for help.
PS Y C HO S O C I A L HA Z A R D
Psychosocial hazards are any hazards or risks in
one’s environment and society that can cause harm.
In a workplace setting, psychosocial hazards are
things that can cause stress, which can then affect a
person physically, psychologically, or both.
Construction is one of the most dangerous sectors in which to
work, with an unacceptably high number of accidents and
cases of ill health. Research shows psychological and social
(psychosocial) factors inherent in work design organization
and management are contributory factors to work-related
accidents and ill health. This article outlines and discusses
some of the key psychosocial issues or work characteristics
that may lead to the experience of stress amongst construction
workers and the associated health and safety problems that
could occur.
Difference Between Psychosocial and Psychological Hazards
In terms of workplace hazards, psychological safety and psychosocial
safety are separate concerns. However, managing psychological safety
can help greatly with managing psychological safety and hazards as
well.
By definition, anything “psychosocial” refers to the relationships
between humans with their thoughts, behaviors, and social environment.
It is a term that refers to how mental health, or psychological factors,
work with social factors and how they can affect a person. On the other
hand, the term “psychological” refers to things, feelings, and
experiences that relate to the human mind and mental health.
Following this, it can be said then that psychological factors are an aspect
of one’s psychosocial state, and managing it can be very beneficial.
How to Determine Psychosocial Hazards
There is no one way to determine if one thing is a psychosocial hazard or
not, as each work setup and person is different.

However, according to the

Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), something can be
classified as a psychosocial hazard if they affect one or all of the following:

•The management of work

•The organizational structure of a workplace
•The stress levels of an employee
•The health of a worker, whether it be physical, mental, or both
•The turnover rate of employees
•The satisfaction one has with their job
Usually, a psychosocial hazard can be identified by
company owners and team leaders based on how they
themselves and their staff react to certain stressors and
situations. Other ways of identifying them, however, are
through:
•Company-wide surveys
•Consultations
•Injury and absence reports
•General workplace assessments
Examples of Psychosocial Hazards in the Workplace
According to Safe Work Australia and IOSH, the most common examples
of psychosocial hazards can be summarized into the following:

•Work relationships — The lack of close relationships at work and

isolated working environments can lead to poor interactions, which can
affect motivation. On the other side of things, instances of bullying,
discrimination, aggressive or violent behavior, and different forms of
harassment may also lead to stress, thus being psychosocial hazards as
well.

•Job insecurity and organizational changes — The lack of job or

position security and prospects can cause mental stress, which can then
affect the physical condition of an employee. The lack of recognition for
achievements may also contribute to this.
•Work demands — The effort required of a certain position or task may be
too much for different people to handle. Similarly, the lack of support or job
clarity can also be a psychosocial hazard, as feeling isolated when
stressed can lead to more stress and work-life imbalance, which can
possibly lead to burnout, injury, and the like.

•Traumatic events — The presence of abuse, the threat of harm, distress,

and fear from work-related violence can lead to trauma, stress, anxiety,
and even physical harm. Work-related violence can come from within the
same company or team, or in certain cases, from external factors such as
customers, robbers, and the like. Witnessing or experiencing socially
traumatic events such as natural disasters can also affect one’s mental
health.
Importance of Managing Psychosocial Safety
It is essential to manage psychosocial hazards in the workplace to ensure that
workers are motivated, safe, and healthy physically and mentally. A psychosocially
safe workplace is a workplace that is more encouraging to work in and can help
foster better connections between employees.
Psychosocial hazards can cause:
•Work-related stress
•Lack of motivation
•Injury
•Anxiety
•Fatigue
•Confusion
•Anger
•Depression
•Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
•Death
Additionally, psychosocial hazards can also affect the people around the
person experiencing them. This includes family, friends, and even
coworkers.

Psychosocial hazards have many ways to be addressed, depending on the

nature of the hazard. Some hazards may be mitigated by removing certain
stressors and simply improving communication between employers and
employees, as well as workers and customers. However, some may require
more drastic changes, such as restructuring certain organizational
processes, relocating or repositioning employees, and asking for help from
certain professionals for intervention. Approaching psychosocial hazards
with a behavior-based safety approach can also help.
Psychosocial issues, such as stress, have been linked to specific
detrimental outcomes related to performance and health, (such as,
job dissatisfaction) and poor mental health (
including anxiety and depression) amongst both management and
workers in the construction industry.
 Psychosocial factors (or work characteristics) that could negatively influence the health and
wellbeing of construction workers.

Category 1: Job characteristics (i.e. work environment, work quantity)

 This covers productivity pressures; mainly pressures from clients for shorter production
times and construction workers feeling that they have too many jobs to be completed in
a short timeframe. Poor weather conditions can also be a source of stress as bad
weather (rain, snow) can delay the completion of projects and therefore, add to existing
time pressures.
Category 2: Role in the organisation (i.e. role description, responsibility)
 Skill underutilization seems to be an issue in construction; hence not making full use of workers’
existing skill base in their current work can be a source of stress.
Category 3: Social aspects (i.e. social support)

 This refers to a lack of supervisor or colleague support to help buffer the negative effects of
potential work characteristics on construction workers. This presents a challenge given the
constantly changing workforce in construction, where it may be difficult to establish lasting
relationships.

Category 4: Job prospects (i.e. career development, salary)

 The typical stressor for construction workers referred to in the literature is ‘job insecurity’ (e.g.
employed on a project basis, fixed term contracts lasting one year or less).
Category 5: Organizational factors (i.e. management, procedures, culture)
 This includes OSH leadership and the organizational culture, which have the potential to
lead to stress amongst construction workers. For example, lack of information and
consultation on work issues, including involvement in health and safety decision making,
can result in stress through a reduced feeling of autonomy.
 Organizational-level strategies to reduce psychosocial risks in construction
Prevention strategy
Systems that allow for working long hours during periods of
high demand but then allow time off in lieu when demands
are less.
Providing services (e.g. a bus service to get workers to site
on larger projects) and use of technology (e.g. mobile
phones, wireless internet connections) to help solve some
problems from a distance (e.g. when visiting multiple sites).
Encouraging all workers to be responsible for their own
health and wellbeing, and not assume it is solely a
management responsibility (e.g. company policy).
Educating the workforce (including the supply chain’s
workforce) on psychosocial issues, consequences and
controls, e.g. through toolbox talks. Regular refresher training
is important for transient workforces.
Psychosocial issues addressed
Issues arising from the job: To allow some ‘down time’ for
construction workers after going through demanding times.
Issues arising from the job and/or social aspects: To enable
supervisor support for solving problems and to assist
supervisors with completing tasks when working across
different sites.
Organizational factors: To promote a culture of increased
awareness whereby workers are given the possibility and are
willing to raise psychosocial issues to management and take
responsibility to challenge any poor practice that they
observe.
Issues related to job prospects, social aspects and
organizational factors: To promote a culture of increased
awareness and responsibility amongst workers for raising
psychosocial risks to management who treats all the
concerns seriously, addressing them as quickly as possible.
Also, helps to remind workers of the importance of raising
psychosocial issues when they regularly change sites.
Prevention strategy
Encouraging greater communication within
organizations. E.g., a ‘suggestion box’ scheme and
acting on suggestions.
Communication skill training that targets on-going site
communication within teams, and between teams or
workers who are only in contact for short periods.
Providing resources for training to support and up-skill
staff (e.g. time management training for construction
managers and site supervisors, stress management
training so that stress does not act as a distractor and
refresher training to prevent skill fade).
Providing assertiveness training for workers so they
feel confident to speak up when they feel that the
demands of their jobs are too great.
Psychosocial issues addressed
Organizational factors: To establish communication
mechanisms for becoming aware of psychosocial
issues and encouraging workers to come up with
solutions (important for culture change).
Social and organizational issues: E.g. encourages
better OSH leadership and supervisor/colleague
support and should help to maintain the morale of
workers who regularly move sites.
Issues arising from the job, role in the organization
and/or social aspects: E.g. to help manage time
pressures/competing demands, encourage supervisors
to support workers with managing their work demands,
and prevent skill loss through underutilization of skills.
Issues arising from the job: To encourage construction
workers to notify their supervisor should they feel they
have too much to do and not enough time to complete
work safely.
There are a number of psychosocial issues prevalent in the
construction sector that impact on workers’ health and wellbeing.
Economic and performance factors appear to be the most
stressful. It is important for construction management to be
aware of the range of factors that have the potential to cause
stress. Managers should consider strategies for assessing and
reducing psychosocial risks. These include raising construction
workers awareness of psychosocial issues to promote a culture
in which workers actively raise potential stressors to
management and putting in place adequate support mechanisms
(work design, social support networks and training).