Workers may encounter numerous hazardous materials on their job. These can pose health threats to employees and may also pose financial threats. If an employee is accidentally exposed to or harmed by a hazardous material, the employer may be liable for any resulting injuries or losses.
1. Unattended or Ignited Fires
Unattended or fire that has been started by an ignition source is the most common cause of fire in the workplace. It is also the most difficult to prevent and the most deadly. This means that there are several ways to prevent this fire from igniting, growing or spreading to your property. A lot of these can be done at little to no cost. As a reminder, these are things you can do yourself: Install a fire extinguisher in every room of your business. Make sure that the extinguisher is accessible for quick use if needed. Have a fire exit plan. Make sure your business is prepared in case of an emergency.
2. Electrical Fires
Electricity is something you’ll need to have at any workplace . Make sure that electrical circuits are properly enclosed and grounded. This means that cables are contained and that electrical outlets are sealed and enclosed.
3. Flammable and Volatile Substances
Flammable or volatile substances can be found in everyday objects at home, work or school. You have to be careful when using them in your workplace. Flame Retardant or non-combustible products can be used to protect flammable items in the workplace. Make sure that there is adequate ventilation and that there is no chance of ignition. If it’s possible to remove flammable products before work begins, do it.
4. Fireworks and Explosives
Fireworks are a hazard in any workplace. They can produce harmful amounts of noxious chemicals. They can start fires and cause serious injury. They are not for sale to or within the workplace. Fireworks are also known as pyrotechnic materials or, depending on how they are sold, “firecrackers.” If the only time fireworks are used at work is on the 4th of July, you have to make sure there is adequate ventilation during that time and you have to make sure there is no risk of an explosion. The best way to protect your employees, your equipment and your property from fireworks is to not allow the use of fireworks in your workplace at all. They can be very dangerous and should not be allowed.
5. Smoking
Smoking can be hazardous to your health and it can be hazardous to your workplace. Smoking can cause serious health problems, like emphysema, bronchitis, and heart disease. Your office space should be smoke-free. Smoking also contaminates the air. There can be serious health risks associated with second-hand smoke. Your employees and your clients should not be exposed to it.
6. Stoves and Ovens
If you’re using a stove, you’ll need to make sure it’s free of grease and that there is adequate ventilation. Do not store food on a hot stove, even if you have the oven turned off. Stoves can catch fire and cause burns. If you use a stove, you have to make sure that you take the proper precautions.
7. Chemical Fires
Chemicals and toxins can cause burns, asphyxiation and other hazardous conditions. You should be knowledgeable about these products, and they should never be left unattended. If there is a chemical fire, the emergency responders will need to assess it and know what to do. They will need to know the composition of the chemical and how to put it out. They will also need to be able to identify hazardous materials before they are ignited. Make sure that hazardous materials and substances are locked away and not accessible to people who do not need to have access to them.
8. Fire Hazards
Fire hazards are everywhere. You have to be careful not to expose your employees to danger. Do not have matches or lighters in your workspace or have an ashtray or ashtray that is hot. Fire extinguishers are important in the workplace. Make sure that there is enough to extinguish any sparks that occur in the workplace.
9. Water
It’s not just chemicals that can be hazardous, the job may involve some exposure to water. As a general rule, most workplaces don’t use the majority of water, and the only time it could come into contact with an employee is through flooding, leakages, or burst pipes. It’s the job of the employer to provide a safe work environment, and provide protection for their employees from any water that comes their way. If the workplace has to deal with floods, the employer needs to provide emergency exit facilities in accordance with the law. It’s also important that staff know where they can go if they need to take cover during a water hazard.
10. Gases
The biggest concern that you’ll face as an employee is the potential exposure to a variety of different types of gases. They can come from a variety of sources, but many workplaces have specific types of gas that can be dangerous. The employer needs to keep their employees safe from these types of hazards. This includes carrying out safety equipment requirements, training for employees to make sure they are aware of the risks, and providing an appropriate workplace to avoid any potential health and safety concerns. Any time there is an elevated concentration of gas in the atmosphere, the employer needs to be aware of the danger and prepare for it. This includes: The gas inlet and outlet controls, the presence of an emergency flare Access and escape routes
NIST Global - NEBOSH IGC | Safety 