Workplace Safety: Hazards, Risks, and Prevention

Risks Linked to Security Conditions

The following are common risks associated with security conditions in the workplace:

• Falls of persons, both at the same level and different levels.
• Clashes with mobile and immobile objects.
• Entrapments, cuts, and projections of particles.

Preventive Measures for Security Conditions

To avoid these risks, the following measures should be implemented:

• Premises must have a minimum height of 3 meters, and offices should have a minimum height of 2.5 meters.
• Each worker must have a working space of at least 2 square meters of surface area and 10 cubic meters of volume.
• Main corridors should have a minimum width of 1.20 meters, and side corridors should have a minimum width of 1 meter.
• Passage areas and workplaces must be properly illuminated, including emergency lighting.
• Doors and exits should be clearly marked and open outwards. Their minimum width should be 80 centimeters. Emergency doors should never be locked.
• Stairs should have a minimum width of 1 meter, except for those that can be 55 centimeters. They should be protected by railings on open sides and have handrails if the width exceeds 1.20 meters. Handrails should be installed at a height of 90 centimeters.
• The floor should be fixed, non-slippery, and without irregularities or dangerous slopes to prevent falls.

Occupational Risks from Machinery Use

The separation between machines should be at least 0.80 meters to allow workers to operate comfortably and safely. The risks posed by machines include mechanical hazards (blows, snags, dragging, crushing, cuts) and electronic hazards due to poor machinery condition and the sounds they produce. To avoid accidents, workers must receive proper training, maintain machinery in good working order, ensure that safety devices are functioning, and exercise special care during handling.

Physical Agents

Noise Hazards

Excessive noise can damage the hearing apparatus and cause psychological alterations in work, such as lack of concentration, distraction, fatigue, and aggression.

Preventive Measures for Noise

• Isolate workers in soundproof booths.
• Provide protective equipment, such as earplugs and earmuffs.
• Conduct periodic medical check-ups.
• Organize work to reduce exposure time.

Radiation Hazards

There are two main types of radiation hazards in the workplace:

Ionizing Radiation

Non-ionizing Radiation

Preventive Measures for Radiation

• Identify and mark controlled areas and free access areas, taking into account the level of risk.
• Place protective barriers between radiation sources and personnel.
• Use protective equipment for different body parts.
• Inform and educate workers about radiation risks and safety procedures.
• Conduct regular medical check-ups.