The Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the US identified four primary types of hazard that occur in most workplaces:  

Physical hazards 

These hazards are the most common and can make the workplace an unsafe environment. They include hazards such as dangerous drops, spills, trips, exposed wires as well as more environmental factors such as excessive noise, high or low temperatures and sources of radiation.  

Chemical hazards

This refers to chemicals in the workplace that are dangerous or highly volatile. These could present a specific danger to people and assets. In many cases these chemicals could lead to irritation, burning or fatalities. 

Biological hazards

Mainly referring to specific working conditions, biological hazards include workers being exposed to harmful bacteria, viruses, moulds and microorganisms likely to cause infection. This includes untreated sewage, hypodermic needles and rotting food.  

Ergonomic hazards

When we talk about ergonomic hazards, this refers to the way people work and the tasks or motions that could adversely affect them. That could include heavy lifting, repetitive motions and working conditions that impact on people’s posture and comfort.  

How do you spot potential hazards in the workplace

The best way to identify potential workplace hazards is by performing a thorough risk assessment. Reviewing your facility and observing how people work and interact with equipment and each other allows you to identify where there is the potential for accidents, where people or assets are at risk of harm, or areas where proper safety measures are not in place.  

If you need help identifying the relevant risks to your site, then we can help. At A-SAFE, our team can perform a site survey, either remotely or in person, and help you find the right protection.