Common Workplace Risks When It Comes To First Aid in the Workplace.

Dangers may lurk at every turn, and there are many “frequent” workplace hazards that demand awareness. To aid in elevating safety standards within your organization, we’ve assembled the following list. It highlights the six most common safety hazards that demand attention in the context of first aid:

1. Inadequate Maintenance of Cleanliness From obstructions impeding fire exits and walkways to overloading office shelves and the electrical rooms, general workplace “housekeeping” can emerge as a prevalent safety concern in many organisations. Employees should not defer these matters to the housekeeping or maintenance staff and must proactively address them as needed. Another related issue involves leaks, spills, or pooled water, which can contribute to slip-and-fall incidents. However, if addressing clutter or handling spills necessitates specialized training. Employees should promptly inform their managers who can then dispatch the appropriate personnel to rectify the situation.

 2. Electrical Hazards – Extension Cord Misuse One common electrical hazard arises from the improper use of extension cords, particularly when multiple cords or power strips are daisy-chained together. Extension cords, while useful for temporary power needs, should not serve as permanent solutions when used for extended periods, such as weeks or months. Leaving extension cords on the ground over time can lead to tripping hazards, especially in high-traffic areas like factories or warehouses with operating machinery. Continuous wear and tear on extension cords from foot traffic or machinery use can damage wire insulation and create shock risks. Additionally, the excessive use of multiple extension cords can elevate the risk of fires.

3. Chemical Exposures Employees may come into contact with various chemical substances in liquid, gas, vapor, fume, or particulate forms. These chemical hazards encompass substances like acids, pesticides, carbon monoxide, flammable liquids, welding fumes, silica dust, and fibreglass fibres. If your business procures and utilizes chemicals, it is crucial to establish a control system to ensure that your workforce understands the purpose and reasons behind the acquisition of these chemicals.

4. Environmental Hazards This category pertains to factors in the workplace environment that can harm employees’ bodies and skin even without direct contact. It encompasses concerns like radiation, exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet rays, extreme temperatures (hot or cold), and persistent loud noise.

5. Biological Hazards Relevant primarily to businesses dealing with animals, people, or infectious plant materials. Biological hazards often affect workers in settings like schools, daycare facilities, colleges and universities, hospitals, laboratories, emergency response teams, nursing homes, and outdoor occupations. These hazards encompass exposure to blood and other bodily fluids, fungi/Mold, bacteria, viruses, plants, insect bites, and animal droppings. Additionally, there are hazards beyond the scope of first aid: Ergonomic: These arise when the nature of the work, body posture, and working conditions place strain on the body. Work Organisation: These stem from stressors related to workplace issues such as workload, lack of control, and respect.