Workplace Hazards Flashcards

What is the greatest ergonomic risk factor for musculoskeletal disorders?

Answer: Combination of force, awkward posture, and repetition — especially when combined with static loading

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are caused by the interaction of ergonomic risk factors: force (heavy loads, grip force), repetition (repeated same movements), awkward postures (bending, twisting, reaching above shoulder height), contact stress, vibration, and cold temperatures. The combination multiplies risk significantly.

What is 'display screen equipment' (DSE) risk and how is it managed?

Answer: DSE (computer screens/monitors) causes eye strain, musculoskeletal discomfort, and fatigue — managed through workstation assessment, adjustable equipment, regular breaks, and eye tests

Prolonged DSE use causes eye strain (fatigue, headaches), upper limb and neck musculoskeletal disorders from poor posture, and fatigue. Management: DSE workstation assessment, adjustable chair/desk/monitor, appropriate lighting, regular short breaks (not fewer hours — frequency matters), and employer provision of eye tests.

What biological hazard do healthcare and sewage workers face that construction workers typically do not?

Answer: Exposure to bloodborne pathogens (HIV, Hepatitis B/C) and other infectious agents (MRSA, TB, Legionella in cooling systems)

Healthcare workers face bloodborne pathogen transmission risk (needlestick, splash) and airborne infectious agents (TB, COVID). Sewage workers face bacterial (Leptospira, E. coli), viral (Hepatitis A), and parasitic organisms. Construction workers primarily face physical, chemical, and dust hazards.

What is the health significance of 'legionellosis' in the workplace?

Answer: Legionella bacteria in water systems (cooling towers, hot water systems, showers) cause potentially fatal Legionnaires' disease — Gulf buildings with large HVAC systems have particular risk

Legionella pneumophila thrives in warm water (25–45°C) in cooling towers, hot water systems, and air handling units. It is transmitted via inhaled aerosols. Legionnaires' disease has a fatality rate of 10–15%. Gulf buildings with large HVAC systems require regular water system risk assessments, temperature monitoring, and biocide treatment.

What workplace psychosocial hazards are recognized as risks to worker health?

Answer: Work-related stress, bullying and harassment, excessive workload, lack of control, poor support, and violence — causing mental and physical ill health

Work-related stress, bullying and harassment, violence, excessive job demands, lack of autonomy, poor relationships, and job insecurity are recognized occupational health hazards causing depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal problems. Gulf construction and domestic workers are particularly vulnerable populations.

What is 'contact dermatitis' in occupational health?

Answer: Skin inflammation caused by workplace contact with irritant substances (irritant contact dermatitis) or by allergic sensitization (allergic contact dermatitis)

Irritant contact dermatitis (most common) results from repeated contact with irritants (cement, solvents, cutting fluids, wet work). Allergic contact dermatitis results from sensitization to allergens (nickel, latex, epoxy resins). Both are prevalent in Gulf construction, healthcare, and hairdressing. Prevention: skin assessment, gloves, skin care, substitution.