A ‘confined space’ is a space which is substantially (though not always entirely) enclosed, and presents one or more ‘specified risks’. Dangers can arise in confined spaces because of the following issues. A lack of oxygen; Poisonous gas, fume or vapour; Liquids and solids which can suddenly fill the space, or release gases into it, … Read more
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations state that: “During working hours, the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable.” What is reasonable depends on the nature of the workplace. The expectation in an office will be different than in a warehouse. The Approved Code of Practice to the regulations states that: “The … Read more
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH) Regulations requires the management of risks associated with substances in use or otherwise affecting the workplace if they are deemed to be ‘hazardous to health’. CoSHH doesn’t cover lead, asbestos or radioactive substances because these have their own specific regulations. What is a hazardous substance? Hazardous substances … Read more
The misuse of drugs (illegal, prescription, or industrial substances such as solvents) and alcohol can damage individual health and cause difficulties for employers because of increased absenteeism and reduced productivity. The approach to tackling workplace problems with drugs and/or alcohol involves : A clear policy (introduced after consultation with the workforce); Screening; and Support and/or … Read more
The HSE has defined work-related violence as: “any incident in which a person is abused, threatened or assaulted in circumstances relating to their work.” Workers who deal directly with clients or customers may face aggressive or violent behaviour including verbal abuse, threats of violence and physical attacks. Fortunately, physical attacks are comparatively rare. Workers engaged … Read more
A degree of stimulation or pressure in the workplace is beneficial; however, when that pressure is excessive, harmful stress levels can occur and cause ill-health. The HSE has defined stress as: “Stress is the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand placed on them.” The average length of sick leave … Read more
Radiation is energy transmitted in waves or a stream of particles. Different types of radiation are used in a diverse range of industrial, medical, research and communications applications. Some can create harmful exposures that must be effectively controlled. Radiation is typically categorised as ionising or non-ionising. The main difference is in the amount of energy … Read more
Hand Arm Vibration Hand arm vibration is vibration transmitted into the hands and arms when using handheld powered work equipment. Regular users of handheld or hand-guided power tools and machines are at risk. Workers holding work-pieces which vibrate while being processed by powered machinery such as pedestal grinders are also at risk. Hand Arm Vibration … Read more
Noise is sound that is loud, unpleasant, or undesired. Sound is vibration energy that passes through air (or other media) and is received by the ear, stimulating the auditory nerves and producing the sensation of hearing. The energy produced when something vibrates produces sound waves that have a definite pattern. The wavelength determines the pitch … Read more
Auditing is defined as the structured process of collecting independent information on the efficiency, effectiveness and reliability of the total health and safety management system and drawing up plans for corrective action. All control systems tend to deteriorate over time or to become obsolete because of change. Auditing supports monitoring by providing managers with information … Read more
