Health and Safety at Work
Expert-defined terms from the Specialist Certification in Employment Law in the European Union course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Agent #
In the context of health and safety at work, an agent refers to any substance, machine, or process that can cause harm to workers. This can include chemicals, physical agents like noise or radiation, and ergonomic factors like repetitive movements or poor body positioning.
Asbestos #
A fibrous mineral that was commonly used in construction materials until the 1970s. Asbestos is a known carcinogen and can cause serious lung diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Chemical Agent #
A chemical substance that can cause harm to workers if not handled properly. This can include substances that are toxic, corrosive, or flammable, as well as substances that can cause skin or eye irritation or allergic reactions.
Confined Space #
A space that is large enough for a worker to enter, but has limited means of entry or exit, and is not designed for continuous occupancy. Confined spaces can pose serious hazards to workers, including asphyxiation, explosions, and electrocution.
Display Screen Equipment (DSE) #
Equipment that is used for visual display, such as computers, laptops, and tablets. DSE can cause a range of health problems, including musculoskeletal disorders, eye strain, and fatigue.
Ergonomics #
The study of how to design workspaces and tasks to fit the capabilities and limitations of the human body. Ergonomics can help to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries that can be caused by repetitive movements, poor body positioning, or heavy lifting.
Hazard #
Any situation or substance that has the potential to cause harm to workers. This can include physical hazards like falls or heavy machinery, chemical hazards like asbestos or solvents, and biological hazards like viruses or bacteria.
Hazardous Substance #
A substance that can cause harm to workers if not handled properly. This can include chemicals, dusts, fumes, and other substances that can cause acute or chronic health effects.
Manual Handling #
The movement of objects by hand or with the use of simple tools. Manual handling can cause a range of musculoskeletal disorders, including back pain, sprains, and strains.
Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) #
Injuries or disorders of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels. MSDs can be caused by repetitive movements, poor body positioning, or heavy lifting.
Noise #
Sound that is loud enough to cause harm to workers. Noise-induced hearing loss is a common health problem in many industries, and can be prevented through the use of hearing protection and noise reduction measures.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) #
Equipment that is worn by workers to protect them from hazards. This can include items like helmets, gloves, safety glasses, and respirators.
Risk #
The likelihood that a hazard will cause harm to workers. Risks can be assessed and managed through the use of risk assessment tools and control measures.
Risk Assessment #
The process of identifying, evaluating, and controlling risks in the workplace. Risk assessments are an important part of health and safety management, and help to ensure that workers are protected from harm.
Safe System of Work #
A systematic approach to identifying and controlling hazards in the workplace. A safe system of work includes policies, procedures, and training programs that are designed to prevent accidents and injuries.
Slip, Trip, and Fall #
Accidents that are caused by slipping, tripping, or falling on surfaces that are wet, uneven, or cluttered. Slips, trips, and falls are a common cause of workplace injuries, and can be prevented through the use of good housekeeping practices and slip-resistant surfaces.
Violence at Work #
Any physical or psychological violence that occurs in the workplace. Violence at work can include harassment, bullying, and physical assault, and can have serious consequences for workers' physical and mental health.
Workplace Inspection #
A systematic examination of the workplace to identify and control hazards. Workplace inspections are an important part of health and safety management, and help to ensure that workers are protected from harm.
Workplace Stress #
The physical and emotional response to work-related pressures, demands, and challenges. Workplace stress can have serious consequences for workers' physical and mental health, and can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and turnover.
Young Workers #
Workers who are under the age of 18. Young workers are at particular risk of injury and illness in the workplace, and require special protections and training to ensure their safety and health.
In conclusion, this glossary provides a comprehensive overview of key terms and… #
Understanding these terms is essential for employers, workers, and safety professionals who are responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy workplace. By following best practices and implementing effective control measures, it is possible to prevent workplace accidents, injuries, and illnesses, and to create a safe and productive work environment for all.