Engg Safety or Industrial & Safety Standards by Saurabh Kr

Pandey
Introduction
Safety engineering concepts provide the structure for both safety and industrial
design engineers to develop intrinsically safe equipment, systems, processes and
facilities. When employed early in a design process, safety engineers provide
insight into how people will interface with the equipment and facility design.
Ideally, early focussing on safety design will ensure not only safe design for
people, but also, a safe operational concept that will carry over into capabilities
for the facility to handle industrial and non-industrial incidents and minimize
the cause-effect.
Engineering safety includes fail safe process equipment, fault-tolerant
equipment, fire safety features and enclosed hazardous systems that prevent
exposure to both workers and the environment.
Safety engineering also is the key component for eliminating hazards that would
otherwise be controlled by either administrative controls or use of personal
protective equipment (PPE) as a barrier between a hazard and a worker. These
engineered safeguards include machine guards, selection of less hazardous
equipment, development of maintenance schedules to ensure equipment safety,
audit and inspection procedures, selection of safer tools, safety review of new
equipment, employee maintenance training, safe design of the flow of material
and people through a facility and risk analysis for both possible man-made and
natural incidents.
Safe engineered design concepts include all environmental aspects of the
workplace such as lighting, noise levels, atmospheric contaminants, ambient
and localized temperature extremes, slip resistance of flooring materials,
emergency escape routes and fire suppression and alarm systems.
Safety evaluation of in-coming utilities includes ensuring backup supplies for
process critical systems for both power and water. Electrical systems are
evaluated to prevent additional facility expansion or equipment from creating
stresses to the electrical distribution system.
Safety engineering is the process of designing workplaces to prevent accidents.
Engineering Safety Concepts provides detailed approaches and modes for
accident reduction by using a risk management process to identify and "design
out" hazards.
Workplaces and factories which may use machinery, chemicals, and other
potentially hazardous elements, are always possible sites for accidents which
may cause injury, or even death if a comprehensive engineering safety approach
is not taken into consideration.
The multidisciplinary nature of safety engineering means that a very broad array
of professionals are actively involved in accident prevention or safety
engineering.
Safety Analysis techniques can be split into two categories:
(i)qualitative & (ii) quantitative methods.
Both approaches share the goal of finding causal dependencies between
a hazard on system level and failures of individual components.
Qualitative approaches focus on the question "What must go wrong, such that a
system hazard may occur?", while quantitative methods aim at providing
estimations about probabilities, rates and/or severity of consequences.
The complexity of the technical systems such as Improvements of Design and
Materials, Planned Inspections, Full-proof design, and Backup Redundancy
decreases risk and increases the cost. The risk can be decreased to as low as
reasonably achievable or as low as practically achievable levels.
Traditionally, safety analysis techniques rely solely on skill and expertise of the
safety engineer.
Note: In the last decade model-based approaches, like STPA (Systems Theoretic
Process Analysis), have become prominent. In contrast to traditional methods,
model-based techniques try to derive relationships between causes and
consequences from some sort of model of the system.
The two most common fault modeling techniques are called failure mode and
effects analysis (FMEA) and fault tree analysis (FTA). These techniques are just
ways of finding problems and of making plans to cope with failures, as
in probabilistic risk assessment.
FMEA
Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is a bottom-up, inductive analytical
method which may be performed at either the functional or piece-part level. For
functional FMEA, failure modes are identified for each function in a system or
equipment item, usually with the help of a functional block diagram.
For piece-part FMEA, failure modes are identified for each piece-part
component (such as a valve, connector, resistor, or diode). The effects of the
failure mode are described, and assigned a probability based on the failure
rate and failure mode ratio of the function or component.
Failure modes with identical effects can be combined and summarized in a
Failure Mode Effects Summary. When combined with criticality analysis,
FMEA is known as Failure Mode, Effects, and Criticality Analysis
FTA
Fault tree analysis (FTA) is a top-down, deductive analytical method. In FTA,
initiating primary events such as component failures, human errors, and external
events are traced through Boolean logic gates to an undesired top event such as
an aircraft crash or nuclear reactor core melt. The intent is to identify ways to
make top events less probable, and verify that safety goals have been achieved.
FTA may be qualitative or quantitative. When failure and event probabilities are
unknown, qualitative fault trees may be analyzed for minimal cut sets.
Industrial Safety
Industrial Safety is a multi-disciplinary approach to developing and ensuring
compliance with regulatory agencies, safe working practices, and maintaining
the health and well-being of those employed in a particular occupation or
workplace.
Strategies to accomplish these goals maintain a strong focus on injury
prevention through hazard identification, prevention and controls; education and
training; audits and inspections; engineering modifications, and enforcement.
Industrial Safety Engg
Industrial Safety engineering is an engineering discipline which assures that
engineered systems provide acceptable levels of safety. It is strongly related
to systems engineering, industrial engineering and the subset system
safety engineering. Safety engineering assures that a life-critical system behaves
as needed, even when components fail.
Functions of Safety Engineer:
The major areas relating to the protection of people, property and the
environment are:
 Anticipate, identify and evaluate hazardous conditions and practices.
 Develop hazard control designs, methods, procedures and programs.
 Implement, administer and advise others on hazard control programs.
 Measure, audit and evaluate the effectiveness of hazard control programs.
 Draft a future safety plan and statement based on real time experiences
and facts.
Industrial Safety & Health: National Laws
Industrial Safety & Health Acts comes under Ministry of Labour and
Employment.
Some of the acts are:
The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020
The Factories Act, 1948
The Dock Workers (Safety, Health & Welfare) Rules,1990 (16 Feb 1990)
The Mines Act, (15 March 1952)
International Standards
ISO 45001
ISO 45001 is the international occupational health and safety standard. It
alleviates factors that would harm employees' physical or mental well-being to
reduce the likelihood of work-related accidents and illnesses. It was developed
in March 2018 by International Organization for Standardization (ISO). ISO
was established in 1947 & its headquarters located at Geneva (Switzerland)
ISO 45001 is based on OHSAS 18001, conventions and guidelines of
the International Labour Organization (ILO H.Q: Geneva)
OHSAS 18001
OHSAS 18001 was one of the International Standard for Occupational Health
and Safety Management Systems. It provided a framework for the effective
management of OH&S including all aspects of risk management and legal
compliance, and it addressed occupational health and safety rather than any
specific product safety matters. The goal of it is the reduction of occupational
injuries and diseases, including promoting and protecting physical and mental
health.
It was developed in March 1999 by Occupational Health and Safety Assessment
Series Project Group, by a national standards bodies, academic bodies,
accreditation bodies, certification bodies and occupational health and safety
institutions, with the UK’s national standards body, BSI Group.
Hazard
A Hazard is any potential source of harm (which may cause any physical injury
or death or any property damage) or adverse health effect on something or
someone.
or
Hazard can also be defined as a process, phenomenon or human activity that
may cause loss of life, injury or other health impacts, property damage, social
and economic disruption or environmental degradation.
Hazards may be natural, anthropogenic or socionatural in origin. Natural
hazards are predominantly associated with natural processes and
phenomena. Anthropogenic hazards, or human-induced hazards, are induced
entirely or predominantly by human activities and choices.
Hazards may be single, sequential or combined in their origin and effects. Each
hazard is characterized by its location, intensity or magnitude, frequency and
probability.
Note:-
Workplace hazards can come from a wide range of sources, it may include
various practices or conditions like release of uncontrolled energy, some
chemical reaction, release of compressed gas, contact with electrodes of a
battery, entanglement of hair or clothing in any rotating equipment, an object
falling from height etc.
Type of Hazards in Safety
Hazard Identification and Assessment
One of the "root causes" of workplace injuries, illnesses, and incidents is the
failure to identify or recognize hazards that are present, or that could have been
anticipated. A critical element of any effective safety and health program is a
proactive, ongoing process to identify and assess such hazards.
To identify and assess hazards, employers and workers:
 Collect and review information about the hazards present or likely to be
present in the workplace.
 Conduct initial and periodic workplace inspections of the workplace to
identify new or recurring hazards.
 Investigate injuries, illnesses, incidents, and close calls/near misses to
determine the underlying hazards, their causes, and safety and health
program shortcomings.
 Group similar incidents and identify trends in injuries, illnesses, and
hazards reported.
 Consider hazards associated with emergency or nonroutine situations.
 Determine the severity and likelihood of incidents that could result for
each hazard identified, and use this information to prioritize corrective
actions.
Some hazards, such as housekeeping and tripping hazards, can and should be
fixed as they are found. Fixing hazards on the spot emphasizes the importance
of safety and health
Risk
Risk is the chance or probability that a person will be harmed or experience an
adverse health effect if exposed to a hazard. It may also apply to situations with
property or equipment loss, or harmful effects on the environment.
Risk can also be defined as the combination of the probability or likelihood of occurrence of harm
and the severity of that harm

Factors that influence the degree or likelihood of risk are:

 the nature of the exposure: how much a person is exposed to a hazardous
thing or condition (e.g., several times a day or once a year),
 how the person is exposed (e.g., breathing in a vapour, skin contact), and
 the severity of the effect. For example, one substance may cause skin
cancer, while another may cause skin irritation. Cancer is a much more
serious effect than irritation.
Risk Assessment?
Risk assessment is the process where you:
 Identify hazards and risk factors that have the potential to cause harm
(hazard identification).
 Analyze and evaluate the risk associated with that hazard (risk analysis,
and risk evaluation).
 Determine appropriate ways to eliminate the hazard, or control the risk
when the hazard cannot be eliminated (risk control).
Engg Safety or Industrial & Safety Standards by Saurabh Kr
Pandey
Fire Safety
Fire safety engineering involves “the application of scientific and engineering
principles, rules, and expert judgement, based on an understanding of the
phenomena and effects of fire and of the reaction and behaviour of people
against fire, to protect people, property, and the environment from the
destructive effects of fire.
The overall objectives of fire safety engineering are "life safety," such as to
ensure that the occupants can safely evacuate a building without any exposure
to hazardous conditions during a fire; this includes protecting people from
smoke, heat, and flames, allowing firefighters to effectively rescue individuals,
and preventing the extensive spread of fire & helps in Property Protection also.
A fire safety engineering design should therefore provide a framework in
demonstrating whether the performance requirements of legislation can be met,
even though the design solutions adopted fall outside the prescriptive
recommendations.
Essentially, the fire safety engineering approach can be described by the
flowchart given below:
For minor non-compliance with the prescriptive requirements, the like-to-like
substitution or equivalence is adopted. Most prescriptive codes allow for
alternative designs, as long as the safety levels they provide are equivalent to or
even better than that have been intended by the code. Because of this
equivalency clause, a number of building designs are currently based on
engineering calculations rather than following the prescriptions of the code.
The quantification process of satisfying the performance requirements of the
different components of the fire safety design can be achieved by:
 The use of fire safety engineering design tools to investigate a specific
fire scenario in isolation, in order to analyze a particular aspect of the
design.
 Hazard Analysis of Multiple Fire Scenario’s
 Fire Risk analysis where the probabilities of the scenario’s are added up
proportionally to determine the most safe & Cost effective Design.
Fire Triangle
A Fire needs 3 elements i.e, Heat, Oxygen & Fuel. Without these elements, a
fire will not start or spread. A key strategy to prevent fire is to remove one or
more component.
Heat: It can be generated by work processesand is an essential part of some
proceses.
Types of Fires

Class A: Class A fires (or Ordinary Fires) are those in which ordinary
combustibles such as wood, cloth, Rubber, Plastics, Trash and paper etc. are
burning.
Despite being “ordinary”, don’t rule this class of fire as low-risk. If there’s an
abundance of fuel present, these fires can intensify quickly. It’s best to put out a
Class A fire quickly before it spreads by using water or monoammonium
phosphate (Non conducting but Corrosive dry chemical).
Class B: Class B fires involve flammable liquids and gases, especially fuels like
petroleum or petroleum-based products such as gasoline, paint, Tar, Alcohol,
Solvents and kerosene etc. Other gases that are highly flammable are propane
and butane, which are common causes of Class B fires. The best way to deal
with these types of fires is by smothering (or suppressing) them or removing
oxygen using foam or CO2 fire suppression equipment.
Note:- Class B fires do not include grease fires or cooking fires, which belong
to their own class, Class K.
Class C: Class C fires are fires involving energized electrical equipment such as
Computers, Servers, Motors, Transformers, electrical Appliances etc.
Electrical fires require non-conductive materials to extinguish the flame.
Facilities with sensitive equipment may prefer clean agent suppression because
it won’t leave residue or damage electrical equipment.
Class D: Class D fires (or metallic fires) are not as common as the other classes,
but they do require special attention because they can be especially difficult to
extinguish. Metallic fires involve flammable materials like titanium, aluminum,
magnesium, potassium, lithium etc.
Class D fires cannot be extinguished with water, as this can spread the fire and
be potentially dangerous. Dry powder agents are the best solution for
smothering the flames and limiting damage to property or people.
Class K Fires: Class K (or Grease Fires or Cooking Fires) involve flammable
liquids, similar to Class B fires, but are specifically related to food service and
the restaurant industry. These common fires start from the combustion of liquid
cooking materials including grease, oils, and vegetable and animal fats.
Because they can spread quickly and be difficult to manage, Class K fires are
some of the most dangerous. Water can make the situation worse, but
smothering the flames or using a wet agent fire extinguisher is effective.
Note: BIS has published various standards on fire extinguishers related to their
performance, reliability, and safety. Out of these standards, the following two
are widely used in various building occupancies and industries:
• IS 15683: 2018 Portable Fire Extinguishers
• IS 16018: 2012 Wheeled Fire Extinguishers
1) Portable Fire Extinguishers
Portable fire extinguishers are immediately available and can be used by
one/two person(s). The weight of a fully charged portable fire extinguishers
shall not be more than 17 kg as per IS 15683: 2018.
2) Wheeled Fire Extinguishers
Wheeled fire extinguisher is a fire extinguishing appliance on wheels having a
total mass of more than 17 kg and less than 450 kg (with all accessories), which
is designed to be operated and transported to the seat of fire even by one person.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

Water
Water is the primary liquid used in these extinguishers, although sometimes
other additives are also included. A drawback for pure water fire extinguishers
is that it is not suitable for use in freezing conditions since the water inside will
freeze and render the extinguisher unusable. Certain types of water fire
extinguishers contain antifreeze which will allow the extinguisher to be used in
freezing conditions. Water type fire extinguishers can also sometimes contain
wetting agents which are designed to help increase its effectiveness against fire.
These extinguishers are intended primarily for use on Class A fires.
Water fire extinguishers have a red label and a class A rating. Often the least
expensive extinguisher, these extinguishers are not toxic or harmful to the
environment as they contain only water.
Water mist extinguishers are a type of water fire extinguisher that uses
distilled water and discharges it as a fine spray instead of a solid stream. Water
mist extinguishers are used where contaminants in unregulated water sources
can cause excessive damage to personnel or equipment. Typical applications
include operating rooms, museums, and book collections.
Film-forming foam type
AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) and FFFP (film-forming fluoroprotein) fire
extinguishers are rated for use on both Class A and Class B fires. As the name
implies, they discharge a foam material rather than a liquid or powder. They are
not suitable for use in freezing temperatures. An advantage of this type of
extinguisher when used on Class B flammable liquid fires of appreciable depth
is the ability of the agent to float on and secure the liquid surface, which helps
to prevent reignition.
Note:
Soapy Foam Extinguisher contain Potassium Acetate.
Carbon Dioxide type
The principal advantage of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishers is that the
agent does not leave a residue after use. This can be a significant factor where
protection is needed for delicate and costly electronic equipment. Other typical
applications are food preparation areas, laboratories, and printing or duplicating
areas. Carbon dioxide extinguishers are listed for use on Class B and Class C
fires. Because the agent is discharged in the form of a gas/snow cloud, it has a
relatively short range of 3 ft to 8 ft (1 m to 2.4 m). This type of fire extinguisher
is not recommended for outdoor use where windy conditions prevail or for
indoor use in locations that are subject to strong air currents, because the agent
can rapidly dissipate and prevent extinguishment. The concentration needed for
fire extinguishment reduces the amount of oxygen in the vicinity of the fire and
should be used with caution when discharged in confined spaces.
Halogenated agent types
Halon
The bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon 1211) fire extinguisher has an agent
that is similar to carbon dioxide in that it is suitable for cold weather installation
and leaves no residue. It is important to note that the production of Halon has
been phased out because of the environmental damage it causes to the earth’s
ozone. Some larger models of Halon 1211 fire extinguishers are listed for use
on Class A as well as Class B and Class C fires. Compared to carbon dioxide on
a weight-of-agent basis, bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon 1211) is at least
twice as effective. When discharged, the agent is in the combined form of a
gas/mist with about twice the range of carbon dioxide. To some extent, windy
conditions or strong air currents could make extinguishment difficult by causing
the rapid dispersal of the agent.
Note:-
Bromofluoromethane (CF3Br or Halon1301) is a close relative of 1211 but it
has much lower boiling point & toxicity. This has made Halon 1301 as the
firefighting chemical where we cannot use water. Nowadays, we are also using
HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) like CHF3, C2HF5, C3HF7 etc.
Halon Alternative Clean Agents
There are several clean agents that are similar to halon agents in that they are
nonconductive, noncorrosive, and evaporate after use, leaving no residue.
Larger models of these fire extinguishers are listed for Class A as well as Class
B and Class C fires, which makes them quite suitable for use on fires in
electronic equipment. When discharged, these agents are in the combined form
of a gas/mist or a liquid, which rapidly evaporates after discharge with about
twice the range of carbon dioxide. To some extent, windy conditions or strong
air currents could make extinguishing difficult by causing a rapid dispersal of
agent. Clean agent type extinguishers don’t have a detrimental effect on the
earth’s ozone so these are more widely available than Halon type extinguishers.

Dry chemical types

Ordinary Dry Chemical
The fire extinguishing agent used in these devices is a powder composed of
very small particulates. Types of agents available include sodium bicarbonate
(non toxic & non corrosive) base and potassium bicarbonate base. Dry chemical
type extinguishers have special treatments that ensure proper flow capabilities
by providing resistance to packing and moisture absorption (caking).
Multipurpose Dry Chemical
Fire extinguishers of this type contain an ammonium phosphate base agent.
Multipurpose agents are used in exactly the same manner as ordinary dry
chemical agents on Class B fires. For use on Class A fires, the multipurpose
agent has the additional characteristic of softening and sticking when in contact
with hot surfaces. In this way, it adheres to burning materials and forms a
coating that smothers and isolates the fuel from air. The agent itself has little
cooling effect, and, because of its surface coating characteristic, it cannot
penetrate below the burning surface. For this reason, extinguishment of deep-
seated fires might not be accomplished unless the agent is discharged below the
surface or the material is broken apart and spread out.
Wet chemical
The extinguishing agent can be comprised of, but is not limited to, solutions of
water and potassium acetate, potassium carbonate, potassium citrate, or a
combination of these chemicals (which are conductors of electricity). The liquid
agent typically has a pH of 9.0 or less. On Class A fires, the agent works as a
coolant. On Class K fires (cooking oil fires), the agent forms a foam blanket to
prevent reignition. The water content of the agent aids in cooling and reducing
the temperature of the hot oils and fats below their autoignition point. The
agent, when discharged as a fine spray directly at cooking appliances, reduces
the possibility of splashing hot grease and does not present a shock hazard to the
operator. Wet chemical extinguishers also offer improved visibility during
firefighting as well as minimizing cleanup afterward.

Dry powder types

These fire extinguishers and agents are intended for use on Class D fires and
specific metals, following special techniques and manufacturer’s
recommendations for use. The extinguishing agent can be applied from a fire
extinguisher or by scoop and shovel. Using a scoop or shovel is often referred to
as a hand propelled fire extinguisher.

Note:
Soda-Acid fire extinguisher
Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and sulphuric acid (H2SO4) are used in soda-
acid fire extinguishers. It is the most effective fire extinguisher for home usage.
Working
The fire extinguisher contains sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) in water solution
as well as sulfuric acid (H2SO4) in a separate bottle.
By turning the knob on the fire extinguisher, the sulphuric acid reacts with the
sodium bicarbonate solution and produces a little amount of carbon dioxide
gas (CO2).
Carbon dioxide is a non-combustible gas that does not support combustion. It is
heavier than air and hence cuts off the oxygen supply to the air, putting out the
flames.
Engg Safety or Industrial & Safety Standards by Saurabh Kr
Pandey

MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work platforms)

Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) - Machine/device intended for

moving persons, tools, and material to working positions, consisting of at least a
work platform with controls, an extending structure, and a chassis, that is
intended for work at height.
MEWPs are available in two basic types: boom (cherry pickers) and vertical
(scissor lifts).
Boom lifts have two types of operation, static or mobile. Vertical lifts can also
be static or mobile.
The most significant MEWP dangers arise from operation & use of the machine
rather than from their movement as a site vehicle.

MEWP hazards

Most fatal and serious injuries involving MEWPs arise from:

 Entrapment: operator trapped between part of the basket and a fixed

structure, eg when manoeuvring in confined overhead areas of steelwork.
Operators may become trapped against the platform controls, and if this
happens they may not be able to stop the machine running.
 Overturning: the machine may overturn throwing the operator from the
basket;
 Falling: an operator may fall from the basket during work activities; and
 Collision: the vehicle may collide with pedestrians, overhead cables or
nearby vehicles.

These hazards should be identified within a risk assessment and suitable control
measures put in place.

Controlling the risk

It is important to select the right MEWP for the job and site.

Have a plan for rescuing someone from a MEWP and practise it – someone on
the ground should know what to do in an emergency and how to operate the
machine's ground controls.

There are a number of precautions that can reduce the risk from MEWP
hazards. These are:

 Confined overhead working: Brief operators on the dangers, and the

safe system of work to be followed. If there are overhead structures
against which an operator could be trapped and then pushed onto the
MEWP controls, consider selecting a MEWP that has been designed to
prevent such accidental contact.
 Keeping the platform tidy will reduce the risk of the operator tripping or
losing balance while in the basket.
 Ground conditions: The platform should be used on firm and level
ground. Any temporary covers should be strong enough to withstand the
applied pressure. Localised ground features, eg trenches, manholes and
uncompacted backfill, can all lead to overturning.
 Outriggers: Outriggers must be extended and chocked before raising the
platform. Spreader plates may be necessary

 Guardrails: Make sure the work platform is fitted with effective guard
rails and toe boards.
 Arresting falls: if there is still a risk of people falling from the platform a
harness with a short work restraint lanyard must be secured to a suitable
manufacturer provided anchorage point within the basket to stop the
wearer from getting into a position where they could fall from the carrier.

 Falling objects: barrier off the area around the platform so that falling
tools or objects do not strike people below.
 Weather: high winds can tilt platforms and make them unstable. Set a
maximum safe wind speed for operation. Storms and snowfalls can also
damage platforms. Inspect the platform before use after severe weather.
 Handling materials: if used to install materials check the weight and
dimensions of materials and consider any manual handling and load
 distribution issues. You may need additional lifting equipment to
transport materials to the work position.
 Nearby hazards: do not operate a MEWP close to overhead cables or
other dangerous machinery, or allow any part of the arm to protrude into
a traffic route.

Training and competence

MEWP operators should have attended a recognised operator training course

and received a certificate, card or 'licence', listing the categories of MEWP the
bearer is trained to operate.The expiry date of the training licence or card should
be checked.

In addition to formal training for the type of MEWP, operators should have
familiarisation training on the controls and operation of the specific make and
model of MEWP they are using.

Inspection, maintenance and examination

A programme of daily visual checks, regular inspections and servicing

schedules should be established in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions and the risks associated with each MEWP.

Operators should be encouraged to report defects or problems. Reported

problems should be put right quickly and the MEWP taken out of service if the
item is safety critical.

The MEWP must be thoroughly examined at least every six months by a

competent person or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by
such a competent person.

Stepladder Safety
A stepladder is a portable, self-supporting, A-frame ladder. It has two front side
rails and two rear side rails. Generally, there are steps mounted between the
front side rails and bracing between the rear side rails.
Workers who use ladders in construction risk permanent injury or death from
falls and electrocutions. These hazards can be eliminated or substantially
reduced by following good safety practices. Here, we examine some of the
hazards workers may encounter while working on stepladders and explains what
employers and workers can do to reduce injuries.

Safety Plan
A competent person must visually inspect stepladders for visible defects on a
periodic basis and after any occurrence that could affect their safe use. Defects
include, but are not limited to:
• Structural damage, split/bent side rails, broken or missing rungs/steps/cleats
and missing or damaged safety devices.
• Grease, dirt or other contaminants that could cause slips or falls.
• Paint or stickers (except warning or safety labels) that could hide possible
defects.
Provide the Right Stepladder for the Job with the Proper Load Capacity:
 Use a ladder that can sustain at least four times the maximum intended
load
 To determine the correct ladder, consider your weight plus the weight of
your load. Do not exceed the load rating and always include the weight of
all tools, materials and equipment.
Employers must train each worker to recognize and minimize ladder-related
hazards.
Common Stepladder Hazards
• Damaged stepladder
• Ladders on slippery or unstable surface
• Unlocked ladder spreaders
• Standing on the top step or top cap
• Loading ladder beyond rated load
• Ladders in high-traffic location
• Reaching outside ladder side rails
• Ladders in close proximity to electrical wiring/equipment
Prevention Plan:
 Read and follow all the manufacturer’s instructions and labels on the
ladder.
 Look for overhead power lines before handling or climbing a ladder.
 Maintain a 3-point contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand)
when climbing/ descending a ladder.
 Stay near the middle of the ladder and face the ladder while climbing
up/down.
 Use a barricade to keep traffic away from the ladder.
 Keep ladders free of any slippery materials.
 Only put ladders on a stable and level surface that is not slippery.
Cranes Safety
Cranes are a marvel of engineering, and an essential component of many
industries including construction, manufacturing, warehousing, and more.
Operating a crane takes extensive training, and following set standards to ensure
both the crane operator, and those in the surrounding area, are safe.
Crane safety is an important component of overall workplace safety
Having a detailed crane safety program in the workplace is an important step for
all employers where cranes are used. This can start by identifying potential
crane related hazards, and continues with finding ways to eliminate the hazards,
or compensate for them in some way.
All workplace safety is important, but crane safety in particular is critical.
Common Crane Hazards
 Electrical Hazards - Cranes operate at great heights, which put them in a
terrible position for accidently hitting electrical lines. The metal in the
crane is an excellent conductor, and can cause fatal electrocution. Crane
operators must be aware of where every electrical line is at all times. Use
a spotter when working near power lines and use non-conductive tag
lines.
 Materials Falling - Every load that a crane lifts needs to be properly
secured. But even when the loads are secured, there is always a risk of
something falling off. Those below the crane should avoid working in the
area, and wear hard hats and other appropriate PPE when it is
unavoidable.
 Overloading a Crane - Cranes can lift an astounding amount of weight,
but there are limits. Crane operators, and those that load cranes, need to
know precisely how much weight it can handle, and exactly how much
weight they have added at any given time. Overloading a crane can cause
it to tip over, or to drop the load, which can have devastating
consequences.
 Crane Movement (pinch points) - Cranes often need to twist or move to
get the load where it needs to go. This can create pinch or crush points
where someone could be seriously injured.
 Dropped Loads - If a crane drops its load, whatever is under it will be
crushed. Even vehicles or structures can be crushed from the impact of a
heavy load dropped from a significant height. Nobody should work
directly under a crane load for any reason, even with PPE.
  Oil Leaks / Fuel Spills – Cranes bring oil, hydraulic oil and diesel to the
workplace. A spill kit and spill response plan should be developed.
Preventing Crane Accidents:
Crane accidents can be catastrophic, but they can also be prevented.
From initial training to Pre-operation inspections, employers are responsible for
implementing preventive measures & arming employees with the knowledge &
equipment they need to stay safe on the job. It is important to first understand
the kind of crane that is being operated, this might have an effect on the hazards
taken into account. The employer can then go on to conduct training sessions,
purchase PPE & Post crane safety signs.
What should you do before moving a load?
 Make sure you have the required training, qualifications, or certification
as determined by your jurisdiction to operate the crane.
 Make sure the crane is suitable to lift and travel the load.
 Make sure the job site is planned and laid out. Allow room for emergency
vehicles to enter if necessary. Do not work near overhead power lines,
etc.
 Check ground conditions to ensure stability.
 Visually inspect the crane before use.
 Make sure all loose materials, parts, blocking and packing have been
removed from the load before lifting.
 Remove any slack from the sling and hoisting ropes before lifting the
load.
 Make sure that the lifting device seats in the saddle of the hook.
 Verify that the load is not heavier than the maximum load capacity.

Safety Tips for Overhead Crane Operations

 Do not carry anything in your hands when going up and down ladders.
Items that are too large to go into pockets or belts should be lifted to or
lowered from the crane by rope.
 Do not operate a crane if limit switches are out of order, or if cables show
defects.
 Do not lower the blocks below the point where less than two full wraps of
cable remain on the drum.
 Do not attempt lifts beyond the rated load capacity of a crane or slings.
 Do not lift a load from the side. Centre the crane directly over the load
before hoisting to avoid swinging the load.
  Do not allow anyone to ride on a load or hooks.
 Do not leave slings dangling from the load hook. Have sling hooks placed
on the sling ring when carrying slings to the load.
 Do not raise loads higher than necessary to clear objects.
 Do not move or pass a load over workers.
 Do not reverse a motor until it has come to a full stop except to avoid
accidents.
 Do not walk on the crane runway.
 Do not leave suspended loads unattended.

What should you do before leaving the crane?

 Remove the load hanging on crane hooks.

 Raise all hooks to a mid-position.
 Spot the crane at a designated location.
 Before closing the main switch, make sure that all controllers are in the
"off" position.

Types of Cranes
There are several different types of cranes used in industries today, and each of
them will have a different set of hazards that need to be accounted for.
Understanding what type of crane is used in a given area, and how to improve
safety for that specific type, is a critical component of an overall crane safety
plan. Some of the most common types of cranes are:
 Tower Crane - Tower cranes can reach very high heights (265+ feet) and
are commonly used in construction of skyscrapers or other buildings.
These cranes can be secured at the ground, or attached to the top of a
structure to aid in its completion.
  Gantry Crane - A gantry crane is fixed in one spot and gets support from
the structure it is fixed to. These cranes are common in places like
trainyards, shipyards, and factories.
 Rough Terrain Crane - Cranes equipped with treads rather than tires are
important for construction sites with unpaved or otherwise rough terrain.
It is critical to ensure the crane is secured safely before loading it to avoid
accidents.
 Aerial Crane - An aerial crane, or sky crane, is attached to a helicopter.
The wind caused by the helicopter makes securing loads properly
especially important.
 Floating Cranes - Cranes that are based on a ship or platform in the
water are known as floating cranes. In some cases, these cranes can be
unstable due to waves, which must be taken into account when planning
for their use.
 Vehicle Mounted Cranes - A crane can be mounted on a vehicle to make
it more mobile for easier use. In most cases, the vehicle will be a large
truck equipped with heavy outriggers to stabilize the crane while it is in
use.

Note:
What is personal protective equipment?
Personal protective equipment, commonly referred to as "PPE", is equipment
worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and
illnesses. These injuries and illnesses may result from contact with chemical,
radiological, physical, electrical, mechanical, or other workplace hazards.
Personal protective equipment may include items such as gloves, safety glasses
and shoes, earplugs or muffs, hard hats, respirators, or coveralls, vests and full
body suits.
What can be done to ensure proper use of personal protective equipment?
All personal protective equipment should be safely designed and constructed,
and should be maintained in a clean and reliable fashion. It should fit
comfortably, encouraging worker use. If the personal protective equipment does
not fit properly, it can make the difference between being safely covered or
dangerously exposed. Employers are also required to train each worker required
to use personal protective equipment to know:
 When it is necessary
 What kind is necessary
  How to properly put it on, adjust, wear and take it off
 The limitations of the equipment
 Proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of the equipment
If PPE is to be used, a PPE program should be implemented. This program
should address the hazards present; the selection, maintenance, and use of PPE;
the training of employees; and monitoring of the program to ensure its ongoing
effectiveness.
Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code, 2020:
Strengthening Workplace Protections

Background
The Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions (OSHWC)
Code, 2020, is a significant reform in India’s labour laws, aiming to simplify
and consolidate workplace regulations. Passed by the Lok Sabha on 22nd
September 2020, Rajya Sabha on 23rd September 2020, and receiving
Presidential assent on 28th September 2020, the code merges 13 existing laws,
including the Factories Act, 1948, Mines Act, 1952, and Building and Other
Construction Workers Act, 1996. From a constitutional perspective, labour is a
subject in the Concurrent List (List III) under the Constitution of India, allowing
both the Centre and States to legislate on matters related to workers’ safety,
health, and conditions.
The need for the OSHWC Code stemmed from the complexity and inefficiency
of managing fragmented labour regulations, many of which were outdated and
difficult to enforce uniformly across states and industries. As identified by
the Second National Commission on Labour (2002), India’s labour laws
needed consolidation to improve compliance and ensure consistency in how
worker rights were enforced.
The OSHWC Code specifically addresses the working conditions of the
following beneficiaries, including:
 Formal and informal labourers: With the informal sector making up a
large part of India’s workforce, the code expands protections to workers
who previously may not have been covered under older laws.
 Contract workers: The code extends safeguards for contract workers,
ensuring they receive similar health, safety, and welfare provisions as
regular employees.
 Workers in hazardous industries: Sectors like mining, construction,
and manufacturing are prioritized in the code, with specific provisions
to minimize occupational hazards in these high-risk industries.
 Inter-state migrant workers: Migrant workers often face difficulties in
accessing social and health benefits, and the code aims to provide clear,
uniform protections, including health and safety standards across states.

Objectives
 Unified regulation of workplace safety, health, and welfare.
  Protecting the socio-economic rights of all workers, including gig and
migrant workers.
 Standardizing working hours, safety guidelines, and leave policies to
ensure consistent working conditions across sectors.
The OSHWC Code also extends protections to informal and contract workers,
improving their safety and welfare standards, particularly in industries prone to
accidents and unsafe working environments. By doing so, the code creates a
more inclusive framework that benefits a wider array of workers in India’s
rapidly changing labour market.

Functioning
The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020
(OSHWC) is a comprehensive overhaul of India’s labour laws, amalgamating
provisions from 13 distinct enactments. This code aims to enhance worker
welfare by expanding its scope across various industries, including factories,
mines, construction sites, and motor transport undertakings, covering
establishments with 10 or more workers. By simplifying compliance and
broadening worker protections, the OSHWC seeks to create safer and healthier
workplaces.
One of the key features of the OSHWC Code is its streamlined registration
process, replacing the multiple registration requirements under older laws such
as the Factories Act and the Mines Act. Through the Shram Suvidha Portal,
businesses can register electronically, making compliance faster and less
cumbersome. This shift from manual, establishment-specific registrations to a
unified digital system represents a significant administrative improvement,
particularly for businesses operating across multiple states.

The OSHWC has further expanded key definitions within labour law. The code
broadens the definition of “employer” to include those indirectly responsible for
workers and introduces clearer categories for employees. It also distinguishes
between managerial and non-managerial roles, excluding supervisory
employees earning above a certain threshold from certain worker protections.
This ensures more comprehensive coverage for workers across different job
functions. The code has also enhanced workplace safety protocols, mandating
employers to maintain hygienic working environments and conduct annual
health checks, particularly in industries involving hazardous processes. This
includes provisions carried over from the Factories Act, further underscoring
the importance of safety in high-risk sectors.

Moreover, the code modernizes working conditions by reducing the maximum

workday to 8 hours, aligning with global standards, and making overtime
contingent on worker consent. Workers are now entitled to double wages for
overtime, which marks a significant improvement in worker rights.
Additionally, the OSHWC allows women to work night shifts with their
consent, provided the employer ensures safety measures and transport, thus
expanding opportunities for women in sectors with 24/7 operations. Inter-state
migrant workers are also covered, with the OSHWC mandating that employers
provide travel allowances, thereby extending protections to previously
vulnerable groups.
Enforcement is facilitated by Inspector-cum-Facilitators, who play a dual role
in ensuring compliance and helping businesses meet the code’s requirements.
The introduction of stringent penalties for non-compliance, including fines up
to INR 3,00,000 and potential imprisonment in cases of serious injury or death,
underscores the code’s focus on worker safety and accountability.
 The Mines Act, 1952

This act aims to regulate the working conditions of workers, ensure adequate safety measures,
and promote the health and wellbeing of mine workers.

2. Let’s take a look at some important definitions outlined within this Act:

 “Adult” means a person who has completed their eighteenth year of age.

 A person working or employed in a mine is considered to be ‘below ground’ if he is

working or employed in a shaft that has been or is in the process of being sunk, or in
any excavation that extends below the superjacent ground. Conversely, he is deemed
‘above ground’ if he is working in an open-cast mine or in any other manner that is
not specified as below ground.

16. Notice of Mining Operations. The mines’ Owner, Agent, or Manager are required to give
notice to the Chief Inspector, the Controller of the Indian Bureau of Mines, and the District
Magistrate one month before starting mining operations in the mine.

17. Managers. Every mine must have a sole manager with specified qualifications. The owner
or agent of the mine must appoint a qualified person as manager; however, the owner or agent
can also appoint themselves as manager if they meet the qualifications.

18. Duties and responsibilities of owners, agents and managers. The owner and agent of
every mine are responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations, rules, by-laws, and
orders, including making financial arrangements and taking necessary steps.

The owner and agent of the mine, along with any person appointed by them (excluding the
manager), are solely responsible for certain matters and ensuring compliance, including:

 Providing suitable childcare rooms for female employees with children under the age
of six, meeting specific standards and supervision requirements.
 Maintaining bathing facilities with shower baths and locker rooms for both men and
women, as well as establishing separate facilities or rooms for men and women.
 Establishing a canteen for employees when the number of employees is 250 or more.

The employer is responsible for taking care certain health and safety measure of their
employees, including:

1
 19. Drinking Water. Water facilities providing ample, cool, and clean drinking water
must be maintained. They should be clearly labeled with ‘DRINKING WATER’ in
bold letters in a language understood by the majority of the employees. Furthermore,
these water points must be situated at least 6 meters away from any washing area,
urinals, or toilets.

For employees working underground, written permission from the chief inspector is
required to maintain alternative arrangements for water supply.

20. Conservancy. Each mine must have enough separate and conveniently located
latrines and urinals for both males and females. These facilities must be well-lit,
ventilated, and consistently kept clean and sanitary.

21. Medical appliances. In every mine, there must be an adequate number of first-aid
boxes or cupboards provided and maintained. These must be easily accessible at all
times and managed by a trained individual responsible for administering first-aid
treatment. This individual must be available throughout the working hours.

Every mine must maintain easily accessible arrangements for conveying injured or
sick workers to hospitals or dispensaries. Additionally, a first-aid room must be
provided and maintained, equipped with necessary supplies, and overseen by medical
and nursing staff when the number of employees exceeds 150.

22. Powers of Inspectors when causes of danger not expressly provided against exist or
when employment of persons is dangerous. If the Chief Inspector or an Inspector finds any
part of a mine or any practice within it unsafe or defective, posing a risk to human life or safety,
they can take appropriate action and issue an order to cease mining operations in the affected
areas.

If the employment of persons in the mines is prohibited by the Chief Inspector or an Inspector
due to order, the owner, agent, or manager is responsible for paying full wages to the affected
persons. Otherwise, the owner, agent, or manager may offer the affected person alternative
employment at the same wage rate.

23. Notice to be given of accidents. If an accident occurs in a mine causing loss of life or
serious injury, explosions, fires, sudden water or liquid influx, toxic gas leaks, lift machinery
failures, cage over winding, or structural collapses, including any premature collapse of any

2
part of the working or any other types of accidents. The mine owner, agent, or manager must
report the accident to the authority through a notice within 24 hours and simultaneously display
a copy of the notice on a designated notice board.

After the accident happens, the manager, owner, or agent must record it in a register and give
a copy of the entries to the chief inspector quarterly.

25. Notice of certain diseases. If any person employed in the mines is affected by a disease
listed by the central government in the official gazette, the mine owner, manager, or agent is
required to notify the same to the chief inspector.

28. Weekly Day of Rest. No person is allowed to work in a mine for more than six days in any
one week.

29. Compensatory days of rest. If workers are not given their weekly day of rest for any
reason, the mining authorities must compensate by providing them with a compensatory day
of rest within the same month or within the following two months.

30 Hours of Work above ground. The working hours of employees employed above the
ground in mines must not exceed 48 hours per week and 9 hours per day. Any increase in the
maximum hours of work per day requires approval from the chief inspector.

31. Hours of Work below Ground. The working hours of employees employed below the
ground in mines must not exceed 48 hours per week and 8 hours per day, and work must be
carried out through a system of shifts. Any increase in the maximum hours of work per day
requires approval from the chief inspector. Managers must ensure that only employees
scheduled for their working hours are present below the ground.

33. Extra wages for overtime. If a person works in a mine above ground for more than nine
hours in a day, below ground for more than eight hours in a day, or works for more than forty-
eight hours in any week, whether above or below ground, He is entitled to wages at twice their
ordinary rate for overtime work. The overtime period is calculated either daily or weekly,
whichever benefits the worker more. The register for the purpose of keeping records of
workers’ overtime must be maintained by the manager.

35. Limitation of daily hours of work including overtime work. No person employed in a
mine is required or allowed to work more than ten hours in any day, including overtime.

3
36. Notices regarding hours of work. Manager must display a notice outside the mine office
indicating the start and end times of work at the mine. If the mine operates using a system of
relays, the notice must also specify the start and end times for each relay. All workers need to
work as per the schedule posted in the notice and are not allowed to work in any manner other
than what is outlined in the notice.

To modify the start or end times of work in the mine, including any relay, rest intervals, or
schedules for workers above ground, a revised notice must be displayed at the mine office and
sent to the Chief Inspector at least seven days before the change takes effect.

40. Employment of persons below eighteen years of age. No person below the age of
eighteen can work in mines. However, apprentices and other trainees who have reached the age
of sixteen can work under supervision with approval from the Chief Inspector or an Inspector.

46. Employment of Women. Women cannot work below the ground in a mine, regardless of
other laws. However, they can work above ground between 6 A.M. and 7 P.M. The working
hours for women must be designed to ensure that those working above ground have at least an
eleven-hour interval between shifts.

52. Annual leave with wages. If a worker is employed in a mine for a calendar years’ service,
he is entitled to leave with wages in the following year. In case a worker works below the
ground, he must be paid one day of leave for every fifteen days of work; otherwise, they will
receive one day of leave for every twenty days of work.

The definition of calendar years’ service varies for different types of work. A calendar years’
service is considered complete for below-ground workers if they attend the mine at least one
hundred and ninety times in a year. For other workers, a calendar years’ service is considered
complete if they attend at least two hundred and forty times in a year.

53. Wages during leave period. For the leave allowed to a person employed in a mine, he
must be paid at a rate equal to the daily average of his total full-time earnings for the days on
which he was employed during the month immediately preceding his leave, excluding overtime
pay and bonuses but including dearness allowance and any cash compensation, including that
received through the provision of food grains and other items entitled to him.

4
71. Owner, etc. to report to Chief Inspector in certain cases. If the owner, agent, or manager
of a mine has taken proceedings against any worker for an offense, they must promptly inform
the Chief Inspector about the outcome within twenty-one days of the judgment or court order.

48. Registers of persons employed. The manager must maintain the register and records of all
workers. Additionally, separate registers for different types of work must be maintained by the
manager: one for below ground and another for above ground in open cast workings.

5
Engg Safety or Industrial & Safety Standards by Saurabh Kr
Pandey
Demolition Safety
Demolition is the dismantling, razing, destroying or wrecking of any building or
structure or any part thereof. Demolition work involves many of the hazards
associated with construction. However, demolition involves additional hazards
due to unknown factors which makes demolition work particularly dangerous.
These may include:
 Changes from the structure's design introduced during construction;
 Approved or unapproved modifications that altered the original design;
 Materials hidden within structural members, such as lead, asbestos, silica,
and other chemicals or heavy metals requiring special material handling;
 Unknown strengths or weaknesses of construction materials, such as post-
tensioned concrete;
 Hazards created by the demolition methods used.
To combat these, everyone at a demolition worksite must be fully aware of the
hazards they may encounter and the safety precautions they must take to protect
themselves and their employees.
PLAN :
Proper planning is essential to ensure a demolition operation is conducted with
no accidents or injuries. This includes, but is not limited to:
 An engineering survey completed by a competent person before any
demolition work takes place. This should include the condition of the
structure and the possibility of an unplanned collapse.
 Locating, securing, and/or relocating any nearby utilities. For help, call
811 before you dig.
 Fire prevention and evacuation plan.
 First Aid and Emergency Medical Services.
 An assessment of health hazards completed before any demolition work
takes place.
Prevention:
Demolition work involves many of the same hazards that arise during other
construction activities. However, demolition also involves additional hazards
due to a variety of other factors.
Some of these include:
Lead based Paint, Sharp or Protruding objects & asbestos containing material.
 Brace or shore up the walls & floors of structures which have been
damaged.
 Inspect PPE before use
 Select wear & use appropriate PPE for task
 Inspect all stairs, Passages & Ladders, illuminate all stairways
 Shut off or cap all electric, gas, water, steam, sewer & other service lines;
notify appropriate utility companies.
 Guard wall openings to a height of 42 inches, cover and secure floor
openings with material able to withstand the loads likely to be imposed.
 Floor Openings used for material disposal must not be more than 25% of
the total floor area.
 Demolition of exterior walls & Floors must start at the top of the structure
& proceed downwards.
 Structural or load supporting members on any floor must not be removed
until all storeys above that floor have been removed.
 All roof cornices or other ornamental stonework must be removed prior
to pulling walls down.

Ergonomics Safety
Ergonomics can roughly be defined as the study of people in their working
environment. More specifically, an ergonomist (pronounced like economist)
designs or modifies the work to fit the worker, not the other way around. The
goal is to eliminate discomfort and risk of injury due to work.
Definition: “Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline
concerned with the understanding of the interactions among human and other
elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and
methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system
performance.”
Ergonomic safety focuses on optimizing systems and other elements to keep
people safe and healthy. Most often, ergonomic safety concerns the workplace.
It involves how positions and situations at work affect the body, from the chair
employees sit in, to the way they lift heavy boxes. More specifically, ergonomic
safety ensures a worker’s tools and environment fit their job requirements and
personal capabilities.
Every industry has specific risks, and it’s the employer’s job to mitigate them.
When you take greater responsibility for your workers’ safety, health, and
comfort, you can lessen muscle fatigue, reduce the number and severity of
work-related injuries, and increase productivity and satisfaction.
Implementing ergonomic safety best practices are necessary to counter various
risk factors and potential hazards at work.
Ergonomic Risk Factors

Most commonly, ergonomic safety considers the physical demands a worker

faces. It encompasses whether those requirements are within the employee’s
purview to the tools and methods they use to perform their tasks. The most
widespread ergonomic risk factors include:

 Repetitiveness: Repetition is one of the top causes of work-related

injuries and strain. Repeated tasks, including typing at a desk and using
the same wrist motions all day long or frequently lifting materials in the
same way, put a strain on your body. This wear and tear adds up over
time and may lead to MSDs or other injuries.
 Required force: Consider how much force or strength is required to
perform certain tasks, such as carrying boxes or loading trucks and
pallets. Overtaxing your employees can quickly lead to injuries, lost time,
and a more stressful workplace. Instead, ensure that physically
demanding tasks fit within each employee’s capabilities and job
responsibilities.
 Prolonged positions: Just as a physically active role can cause injuries,
static work poses significant risks to workers, too. Far too many office
workers are familiar with back pain after spending their day in an
uncomfortable or inadequate office chair. Sitting or standing in the same
place or position, maintaining an awkward posture, and performing
prolonged or excessive tasks all strain parts of your body.
 Inadequate tools: Workers often rely on computers, machines, industrial
equipment, and other tools to get the job done. If these products are
broken, outdated, or otherwise substandard, employees are at a greater
risk for ergonomic disorders and injuries.
In addition to physical job demands and the tools they use, workers are also
susceptible to external risks in their workplace. For example, extreme hot or
cold temperatures on a job site, constant vibrations, or other uncomfortable
environments can lead to cumulative damage that harms workers over time.

Common Ergonomic Injuries

All of these risk factors caused ergonomic safety to develop. Risks can lead to
ergonomic injuries, which can vary from headaches or tension in the neck after
a long day to serious, long-lasting musculoskeletal disorders.

The type and severity of potential injuries depend on your industry and the risk
factors mentioned above. However, the most common ergonomic injuries due to
repetitive, forceful, or awkward work include:

 Musculoskeletal disorders: These wide-ranging conditions affect your

bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and other parts of your muscles and
skeleton. MSDs can be acute injuries, like fractures or chronic conditions
that last for a long time. Workplace musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs)
are conditions caused by your job responsibilities or other work tasks.
 Carpal tunnel syndrome: One of the most common types of
musculoskeletal disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the
median nerve in your wrist is pinched by the tendons that sheath a series
of carpal bones (that form a tunnel), leading to numbness, weakness, and
pain in your hand, wrist, and arm. Repeating the same motions or
prolonged use, such as typing on a keyboard for long periods, can lead to
carpal tunnel syndrome.
 Muscle strain: A number of activities or motions can lead to muscle
strains and pain throughout your body, including your neck and between
the shoulders.
 Rotator cuff injuries: Your rotator cuff is the area around your shoulder,
including the muscles and tendons. While acute injuries like rotator cuff
tears are possible, gradual degeneration caused by the wear and tear of
repetitive motions at the workplace are common WMSDs.
 Lower back injuries: Whether a worker is lifting heavy boxes or sitting
in the same position all day, lower back injuries are widespread on the
job, and more commonly affect men. Proper lifting methods or posture
correcting can help minimize back pain and complications.
 Eye strain: Looking at a computer screen or other electronics for several
hours a day can put stress on the eyes, especially without adequate
breaks.
Preventing Ergonomic Hazards in the Workplace

Ergonomics involves fitting the task to the worker, and a significant part of that
is assessing the potential risk factors and finding solutions. By making
ergonomic changes before tasks are done, you can prevent unnecessary strain,
which causes injuries and MSDs. Here are six tips to prevent ergonomic hazards
in a construction workplace:

1. Promote hand and wrist safety: Reduce tasks that require repeated hand
or wrist-twisting motions. If such motions are needed, provide the proper
hand tools that allow workers to perform the necessary functions while
keeping the hand in a neutral, comfortable position.
2. Protect the back when weight lifting: Use a buddy system when
employees lift heavy loads to distribute the weight more evenly. Educate
workers on the safe way to lift by propelling with the legs instead of the
upper body.
3. Prevent strain from overhead work: Avoid activities requiring
excessive overhead stretching. If necessary, adjust the scaffolds to meet
the proper working height and utilize a lifting device to make it easier to
hold the material in position for overhead work.
4. Protect workers from vibration: Pair vibrating tools with gloves to
absorb the energy or use specialized tools to dampen the vibrating energy.
5. Prevent knee strain: Design work tasks so workers don’t have to strain
their knees by kneeling extensively. If the job requires such tasks, knee
pads can protect them.
6. Reduce repetitiveness: Repeated actions can cause strain on certain
muscle groups or joints. To prevent injuries, rotate tasks between
workers.