Workplace Health Risks: Understanding and Prevention

Major Hazard Categories

• Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs): From repetitive motions, awkward postures, heavy lifting, vibration, cold.
• Stress: Long hours, high demands, low control, job insecurity, conflict.
• Chemical hazards: Inhalation, ingestion, skin absorption in manufacturing, labs, construction, auto repair.
• Biological hazards: Bacteria, viruses, fungi in healthcare, labs, animal farms, sewage plants.
• Physical hazards: Noise, vibration, heat, cold, radiation.
• Safety hazards: Slippery floors, unmarked dangers, unsafe machinery, lack of PPE.
• Psychological hazards: Discrimination, harassment, bullying, burnout.

Employers should implement risk assessments, engineering controls, administrative policies, and PPE to protect workers.