Emerging Chemical Risks in the Work Environment: A Comprehensive Guide to Occupational Safety and Health

Chemical hazards are a major concern in the workplace, as they can pose serious risks to the health and safety of workers. Emerging chemical risks are those that have recently been identified or are becoming more prevalent, and they can present unique challenges for employers and workers alike.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of emerging chemical risks in the work environment, including their sources, effects, and how to control them. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to ensure the safety and health of their employees.

Emerging Chemical Risks in the Work Environment (Occupational Safety, Health, and Ergonomics)

by Lizzie O'Shea

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11741 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	278 pages

FREE

Sources of Emerging Chemical Risks

Emerging chemical risks can come from a variety of sources, including:

• New chemicals: New chemicals are constantly being developed for use in a variety of products, from plastics to electronics to pharmaceuticals. These chemicals may not have been fully tested for their potential health effects, and they can pose a risk to workers who are exposed to them.
• Byproducts of chemical reactions: Chemical reactions can produce hazardous byproducts that can be harmful to workers. For example, the combustion of fuels can produce carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous gas.
• Contaminated materials: Materials that have been contaminated with hazardous chemicals can pose a risk to workers who handle them. For example, soil that has been contaminated with lead can pose a risk to workers who work in construction or landscaping.
• Natural sources: Some emerging chemical risks are naturally occurring. For example, radon is a radioactive gas that can be found in underground spaces, such as basements and mines. Radon can cause lung cancer.

Effects of Emerging Chemical Risks

Emerging chemical risks can have a variety of effects on workers, including:

• Acute effects: Acute effects are those that occur shortly after exposure to a chemical hazard. Acute effects can include skin irritation, eye irritation, respiratory irritation, and nausea.
• Chronic effects: Chronic effects are those that occur over a long period of time after exposure to a chemical hazard. Chronic effects can include cancer, reproductive problems, and neurological damage.
• Sensitization: Sensitization is a condition in which a person becomes allergic to a chemical hazard. Sensitization can make a person more susceptible to the effects of the chemical hazard in the future.

Controlling Emerging Chemical Risks

There are a number of ways to control emerging chemical risks in the work environment, including:

• Substitution: Substituting a less hazardous chemical for a more hazardous chemical can reduce the risk of exposure to workers.
• Engineering controls: Engineering controls are physical barriers that can be used to reduce exposure to chemical hazards. Engineering controls can include ventilation systems, exhaust hoods, and personal protective equipment.
• Administrative controls: Administrative controls are policies and procedures that can be used to reduce exposure to chemical hazards. Administrative controls can include training, medical surveillance, and work practices.
• Personal protective equipment: Personal protective equipment (PPE) is clothing and equipment that can be used to protect workers from exposure to chemical hazards. PPE can include respirators, gloves, and coveralls.

Emerging chemical risks are a serious concern in the workplace, but they can be controlled with proper planning and implementation of safety measures. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of emerging chemical risks, their sources, effects, and how to control them. By following the recommendations in this guide, employers and workers can help to ensure the safety and health of everyone in the workplace.

Emerging Chemical Risks in the Work Environment (Occupational Safety, Health, and Ergonomics)

by Lizzie O'Shea

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11741 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	278 pages

FREE