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A safe workplace is something every employee is entitled to and every employer is responsible for providing. This duty extends beyond obvious hazards in workplaces such as construction sites, manufacturing plants or factories where heavy machinery and equipment is used, to include less visible risks.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there were 4,695 preventable work deaths in 2022 across a number of different industries. While this includes high-risk fields like mining and construction, even low-risk sectors such as government and finance experienced fatalities, highlighting the need for safety across all fields. This article considers some hidden hazards in the workplace and steps employers can take to reduce the risk of harm or injury to their staff.
High Noise Levels
High noise levels can pose risks in various work environments as prolonged exposure to sound levels at or above 85 decibels can cause noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Employees who work in loud environments such as construction sites, music venues, nightclubs, or bars are most at risk of developing NIHL, however, office workers can also be exposed to excessive noise. For instance, loud HVAC equipment, frequent alarms, or noise from neighboring construction sites or roadworks can contribute to hearing problems over time. In addition, open-plan office layouts can result in increased noise levels, leading to not only hearing risks but also reduced concentration and increased stress.
Excessive noise levels don’t just affect hearing. They can also pose non-auditory hazards in the workplace due to adverse effects such as fatigue, and heightened stress levels, which can impact overall productivity and well-being. To reduce the risks presented by high noise levels, employers can provide their staff with hearing protection such as noise-masking earplugs or by using soundproofing measures such as insulation or acoustic panels to minimize noise levels and protect their employees from long-term hearing damage.
Indoor Pollution
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the levels of many air pollutants can be two to five times higher indoors compared to outdoors and in some cases, indoor air pollutants can be as much as 100 times higher than outdoors.
Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in work environments such as offices can cause respiratory problems, allergies and other health complications. Poor IAQ can be caused by factors such as the following:
- Mold and dampness: Workplaces that are damp or moldy can be a hidden hazard for staff. These environments can cause symptoms which include sore throat, coughing or wheezing, burning eyes, or skin rash. In extreme cases, mold can lead to chronic lung diseases and infections. Mold growth often occurs in poorly ventilated or damp or water-damaged areas, making regular maintenance and inspections in the workplace critical.
- Construction or renovation dust: This dust can contribute to respiratory problems. In some cases, the results can be more life-threatening such as with the release of asbestos fibers which can cause diseases such as asbestosis and cancers like mesothelioma, particularly in old buildings. Fine silica dust from concrete or drywall can also lead to a condition like silicosis, which is a progressive and potentially fatal lung disease.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Many office supplies, paints and cleaning products contain (VOCs) which can irritate the eyes, cause breathing difficulties, and damage bodily organs. Long-term exposure to VOCs may lead to serious health issues, including damage to the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and in extreme cases, some VOCs can be carcinogenic. High concentrations of VOCs are especially dangerous in poorly ventilated spaces making it crucial for employers to ensure proper ventilation of office spaces. Where possible, low-VOC or zero VOC products should be used in these environments to protect employee health and well-being.
By addressing each of these areas, employers can improve IAQ, and ensure a safer and healthier work environment for their staff.
Ergonomic Issues
Employees in office environments can suffer from postural issues as a result of poor seating and desk alignment. This includes back, and neck strain which can cause problems over time. To overcome these problems, employers should invest in ergonomically designed seating that provides adequate lumbar support and adjustable features to promote proper posture. Employers can also encourage staff to take breaks throughout the day to stretch and walk around to help reduce strain on their muscles and joints.
Poor lighting conditions, such as insufficient or excessive brightness and glare, can also contribute to eye strain, headaches, and reduced productivity. Additionally, prolonged screen time without adequate breaks can cause digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome.
Another hidden hazard in the workplace is the risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) such as carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive typing, mouse usage, or other office tasks that cause repetitive motions of muscles, tendons and nerves.
Electrical Hazards
Damaged wiring, hidden circuits and improper grounding can be common electrical hazards within the workplace. These electrical hazards can often go unnoticed until they cause severe problems, such as electric shocks, equipment failure, or fires.
Overloaded circuits occur when too many devices are drawing power from the same source, increasing the risk of overheating and fire. Damaged wiring, often hidden behind walls or under flooring, can expose live wires, leading to accidental contact or short circuits. Improper grounding is another risk that can result in dangerous electrical surges.
To mitigate these hazards, employers should conduct regular inspections of electrical systems, ensure proper load distribution, and swiftly address any visibly damaged or frayed wiring. By using surge protectors, maintaining circuit breaker systems, and adhering to electrical safety standards employers can ensure their staff are safe from electrical hazards. Training employees on electrical safety and emphasizing the importance of reporting potential issues can reduce risks even further, ensuring a safer workplace.
By being aware of these hidden hazards within the workplace, employers can take steps to minimize their risk to employees, ensuring a safer and healthier work environment for their staff. This not only contributes to greater employee wellbeing and productivity but also reduces the likelihood of accidents, injuries and potential legal liabilities at work.
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