Types of Hazards

Physical Hazards

Defined as factors within the environment that can harm the body without necessarily touching it.
Includes: extreme temperatures, radiation, noise, vibration.

Chemical Hazards

Typically result from substances that could potentially damage the body.
Examples: cleaning products, drugs, gasses, dust, fumes.

Biological Hazards

Include organisms or substances produced by organisms that cause illness in humans.
Common examples: bacteria and viruses, blood and other body fluids, fungi and mould.

Psychological Hazards

Hazards that affect the mental well-being or mental health.
Includes: stress, violence or bullying at work, workload demands.

Ergonomic Hazards

Improperly set up work areas, or off-the-job conditions that contribute to illnesses and stress.
Includes: poor workstation setup, inadequate safety training, repetitive movement.

Safety Hazards

Unsafe working conditions that may cause injury, illness, or death.
Common examples: spills on floors, exposed wires, unguarded machinery.

Environmental Hazards

Result from natural or man-made elements in the environment.
Examples: extreme weather events, pollution, landscapes.

Security Hazards

Vulnerabilities that can result in financial loss, harm or other forms of damage.
Examples are unmonitored areas, poor lighting, lack of security systems.

Biomechanical Hazards

Result from the body performing certain repetitive motions, overexertion or awkward postures.
Examples: lifting heavy items, trips and falls, prolonged activity.

Each type of hazard may require a distinct approach to ensure it is adequately controlled. Understanding the different types of hazards is key to improving health and safety management.