Workplace Environmental Risks: Prevention and Safety Standards

Environmental Risks in the Workplace

Environmental risks, which include unsafe conditions, constitute an important chapter in the study of preventive measures against accidents and occupational diseases. They can damage the health and physical integrity of workers depending on the nature of the agent, the concentration or intensity of the agent, and the exposure time.

Physical Agents

Physical agents include extreme temperatures, noise, vibration, abnormal pressures, radiation, light, and humidity, all of which can cause damage or nuisance to humans.

• Noise factors: Frequency and intensity.
• Noise sources: Machinery, motor vehicles, compressors, and industrial equipment.
• Measurement: Noise is measured in decibels (dB) using a dosimeter, typically expressed as dB(A).

Chemical Agents

Chemical agents are substances that react with human tissue or affect the body, causing changes in its structure or functioning. They can be solid, liquid, or gaseous.

• Solid: Dust and metal fumes (mineral, animal, or plant origin).
• Liquid: Acids and solvents that form small particles suspended in the air, potentially causing respiratory damage.
• Gaseous: Vapors from various substances.

Basic penetration routes: Respiratory, skin, and digestive systems.

Preventive measures: Replacement of toxic substances with less toxic alternatives, modification of processes, and proper use of PPE.

Biological Agents

Biological agents are microorganisms that invade the human body and cause various diseases.

Ergonomic Agents

Ergonomics is the set of sciences and technologies that seek to create a comfortable and productive environment, primarily by adapting working conditions to human characteristics.

Mechanical Agents

Mechanical agents refer to insecure conditions in the workplace capable of causing injury to a worker's physical integrity or damage to machines and installations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE is a device designed to protect the health and physical integrity of the worker. It must be used when general safety measures are insufficient. Its purpose is to prevent injury, mitigate severity, and protect the body from substances that cause occupational diseases.

Collective Protection Equipment (EPC)

EPCs are devices used in the work environment to protect a group of workers from risks inherent in the processes.

Examples:

• Isolation of noise or heat sources.
• Safety guards on machines and equipment.
• Protection on stairs, ramps, and walkways.