To ensure the safety of staff and visitors at your business, consider ways to manage the level of risk the are exposed to. An awareness of potential hazards and harm that people could experience helps put measures in place to minimise the chances of accidents occuring.
But what is classed as a hazard and what can you do to make things safer for everyone? Take a look at this guide to hazards and risk at work to get a better understanding.
What is classed as a Hazard at work?
The HAZARDS faced by staff at work vary depending on the nature of the company and the role performed by the individual. In general terms, it is any process, material, practice or substance that could harm or have a negative effect on the health of someone carrying out their professional duties.
The RISK posed by a hazard is how likely it is that the person could be harmed or have their health negatively affected by exposure to it.
Categorising Risk
The level of risk should be based on the potential harm or negative health effect that can be caused by the hazard, how often people are exposed to it and the amount of people it could affect. For example; a high level risk could be linked to repeated exposure to hazardous substances, or slipping at the top of a stairwell. While a low level risk may be something looking at a computer display screen for periods of time as potential harm or adverse health effects are minimal compared to the high level risk. It’s important to have clear definition on the level of risk for each hazard so you can apply the appropriate control measures to minimise the risk of harm.
What are some examples of work Hazards?
Below are some of the most common examples faced by people in the workplace environment. While there are many more hazards that can be experienced, this gives you an idea of common types of risks that are regularly faced by people.
Heights
People that work at height throughout their working day require safety equipment such as harnesses and in-depth training to ensure they follow the latest practices. This helps them to understand the level of risk they are dealing with, assess hazards and maintain equipment to the appropriate standard.
Electrical hazards
Working with electrical wires poses an ongoing risk that needs to be managed at all times. This also applies to low voltage material which can produce shocks, so training and hazard signs are required to keep everyone aware of the risks. Electrical wires are used throughout a work environment, including everyday processes such as using plug sockets and extension cords, so training should also be given about what to look out for and how to manage any potential hazards which will vary greatly across workplace environments.
Unsafe structures
Any structure that is used by workers throughout the day should be thoroughly inspected before use to ensure they are stable and secure. This must be carried out every time it is used due to the risks created by wear and tear over time. For structures of height this is particularly important due to the risk of falling and facing serious injury.
Collisions
Collisions can happen all around the workplace, especially in areas where there are blind spots or movement occurs at speed. This is especially true if the work environment includes regular use of vehicles. Warning signs and training should be given to ensure people understand the risks and precautions that can help to avoid accidents.
Carry out a Risk Assessment
By carrying out a risk assessment that looks at the risks faced by people in the workplace, you will be able to review the current situation and suggest safety improvements. By law, you don’t have to write anything down if you have less than 5 employees, although it is a good idea to have a written record for clarity.
Producing a risk assessment for your organisation does not require you to produce stacks of paperwork during the process. There is no set format and the most important thing to keep in mind is that a thorough analysis is carried out to ensure employees are as safe as possible at all times.
How can Hazards be avoided at work?
There are control measures that any employer can put in place to reduce the risk faced by workers and the likelihood of experiencing any serious threat or danger. You can implement the most appropriate actions once you have finished your risk assessment.
Six possible changes that could be taken include:
Elimination
If possible, the hazard could be removed so the risk is no longer present. For example, if there is asbestos in an old building it would be a good idea to have it removed completely.
Substitution
Another option may be to substitute the hazard with something that is less harmful or risky. It may not remove all of the hazards and could even introduce new ones, but if the overall health effects or harm is reduced it could be a better solution.
Isolation
By isolating the hazard you may restrict access to it by implementing strict controls. For example, if sensitive chemicals are kept on the premises, they can be stored in specific storage areas which can only be accessed by trained staff following safety procedures.
Engineering controls
This is similar to isolation, although instead using machinery or other electronic systems to safeguard against the hazard. It can include things such as extraction systems or proximity guarding to install a fixed barrier between a hazard and worker.
Administrative controls
Introducing safer work practices using administrative controls can reduce harm and/or adverse health effects caused by exposure to hazards. Whether it’s via training or other forms of information/instruction, this can make the workplace a safer place to work.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
While PPE is a legal requirement in some industries, it can be implemented in other work places to reduce potential risks. This can include items such as safety visors or glasses, safety footwear, gloves, safety clothing, ear protection and more. In most cases PPE is used along with other control measures to enhance safety practises.
Using appropriate Safety Signage
Safety signs are low-cost visual guides that can be used to educate and remind staff and visitors around your workplace of potential risks. Hazard Safety Signs typically contain pictorial symbols with clear messages to instruct or inform about the potential hazards within close proximity.
Types of Hazard Signs can include:
Warning Signs
Warn of potential harm in the surrounding areas to help reduce accidents. eg: a Warning Fork Lift Truck Sign
Danger Signs
Indicate the proximity of a very hazardous situation, one that could result in serious injury or death. eg; a Danger Asbestos Sign
Caution Signs
Typically indicate that a person should take care to avoid sustaining a minor injury. eg: Caution Hot Surface Sign
Electrical Signs
Are a specific type of Warning Sign associated with electrical risk. eg: Danger of Death Electrical Warning Sign
Trip Signs
Warn of potential Slip and Trip Hazards in the surrounding areas. eg: Mind the Step Sign . (see our Guide to preventing Slips and Trips in the Workplace for some useful info on Trip Hazards)
Flammable Signs
For situations where flammable gasses and liquids are present. eg: Warning Flammable Liquid Sign
There are many other types of Workplace Hazard Signs available for specific situations with some being a legal requirement and others practicle messages to reduce risk in the workplace.
Summary
Almost every type of workplace features hazards that need to be managed and controlled to keep staff and visitors safe. Even if you have carried out a risk assessment before it is good practice to review your findings at least once year to ensure that potential hazards are being properly monitored. In order to produce the best for your business - people need to feel safe in their roles and performing a risk assessment is the best place to start.
