Hazards are found everywhere in our daily lives. Being in the office may shelter you from the dangers of the outside world, but it does totally protect you from harm. Hazards are common among workplaces. The rate of peril may vary depending on the type of business you’re in to. Construction workers are mostly exposed to hazards that are material and equipment related while zookeepers are at risk of catching animal/plant related diseases. Hence, it is important that we keep an eye on the different types of hazards that can be found in workplaces.

Physical Hazards

No workplace is built through perfect architecture. Physical hazards are the most common among workplaces. It can be anything in the surrounding that harms the body with or without touching it. Examples are:

• radiation
• high exposure to sunlight
• extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
• loud noises
• confined spaces
• falling debris
• liquid spills that cause trips
• unmonitored machinery
• frayed wires and improper wiring
• scattered pins

Ergonomic Hazards

This may not come as a surprise, but the way we work always takes a toll on the body. Ergonomic hazards target our musculoskeletal system that often causes strains or sprains. Examples are:

• poor posture
• vibrations
• improper setup of the station (tables and chairs)
• too much heavy liftings
• too much force applied to things
• too much uncomfortable repetitive actions

Chemical Hazards

The body can only resist an amount of chemical exposure. Too much of it can lead to tissue and/or brain damage. Chemical hazards occur when workers are exposed to chemical substances such as:

• cleaning products
• paints
• acids
• solvents
• pesticides
• acetylene, propane, helium and carbon monoxide
• vapors and fumes
• flammable liquids

Biological Hazards

Some plants are just not good for decoration. Biological hazards expose the workers to harm brought by animals, infectious plants, and even people. These are the often cause of allergies and irritation. These hazards are common to eco-friendly workplaces that embrace nature as part of their work and culture. Examples of biological hazards are:

• animal droppings
• body fluids
• blood
• insect bites
• plants
• viruses
• bacteria
• mold/fungi

Work Organization Hazards

Organization hazards are ones that cause stress and burnouts. It demotes creativity and morale. It is commonly found during colleague interactions and work distributions. This are usually found in:

• demand on workload
• demand on pace
• lack of respect
• violence
• lacks engagement
• lacks social support
• sexual harassment

Hazards contribute to the demotivation and productivity of workers. A messy floor, dysfunctional air-conditioning, and uncomfortable station make it hard for workers to concentrate on their job. They tend to spend more time thinking what to do to get comfortable and feel safe rather than doing the next project in line. That is why it’s important that the company invests in a housekeeping and maintenance team.In the end, while workers themselves have a say in how much hazard they can be exposed to, it is also the company’s job to reduce the risk as much as possible. Together with proper maintenance and workers’ cooperation, the risk of an encounter is likely to be reduced.And also, remember to clean every after work sessions. Personal hygiene also contributes to making the workplace a better avenue for thinking, collaborating and getting things done.