MEV 002: Block-4 (Unit 03) – Mitigation of physical hazards and chemical hazards

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 UNIT 3: MITIGATION OF PHYSICAL HAZARDS AND CHEMICAL HAZARDS

3.0 Introduction

Workplaces and living environments are frequently exposed to various physical and chemical hazards that can adversely affect human health and safety. Physical hazards such as extreme temperatures, noise, vibration, and radiation can lead to serious injuries or long-term health issues. Similarly, exposure to hazardous chemicals—especially flammable, corrosive, or reactive substances—can result in fire, explosions, or toxic exposures. The effective mitigation of these hazards is essential for creating a safe working environment and protecting public health.

3.1 Objectives

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Identify different types of physical and chemical hazards.
  • Understand the health impacts of exposure to these hazards.
  • Explain preventive and control measures to mitigate each type of hazard.
  • Apply risk reduction strategies in workplace and community settings.

3.2 Mitigation Measures of Physical Hazards

Physical hazards are environmental factors that can harm an individual without necessarily touching them. They include temperature extremes, noise, vibration, and radiation.

3.2.1 Extreme Hot Temperatures

Hazards:

  • Heat exhaustion
  • Heat stroke
  • Dehydration
  • Burns in industrial settings

Mitigation Measures:

  • Provide proper ventilation and air conditioning.
  • Ensure access to cool drinking water.
  • Adjust work-rest cycles and schedule heavy tasks during cooler parts of the day.
  • Use heat-protective clothing and PPE (personal protective equipment).
  • Educate workers on symptoms and first-aid for heat-related illnesses.

3.2.2 Extreme Cold Temperature

Hazards:

  • Frostbite
  • Hypothermia
  • Reduced dexterity and productivity

Mitigation Measures:

  • Provide heated shelters and rest areas.
  • Issue thermal protective clothing and gloves.
  • Educate workers on cold stress and early warning signs.
  • Schedule frequent warm-up breaks.
  • Monitor weather forecasts and adjust work plans accordingly.

3.2.3 Noise

Hazards:

  • Hearing loss (temporary or permanent)
  • Fatigue, stress, and communication barriers
  • Increased accident risk due to miscommunication

Mitigation Measures:

  • Conduct regular noise level assessments.
  • Install noise barriers or sound-dampening materials.
  • Use quieter machinery and maintain equipment regularly.
  • Provide hearing protection (earplugs/earmuffs).
  • Implement a hearing conservation program in the workplace.

3.2.4 Vibration

Hazards:

  • Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
  • Musculoskeletal disorders
  • Circulatory problems

Mitigation Measures:

  • Use vibration-damping tools and gloves.
  • Rotate jobs to limit exposure duration.
  • Maintain machinery and tools to reduce vibration.
  • Monitor exposure levels regularly.
  • Train workers on the risks and safe handling techniques.

3.2.5 Radiation

Hazards:

  • Ionizing radiation (e.g., X-rays, nuclear material): can damage DNA and cause cancer.
  • Non-ionizing radiation (e.g., UV, microwave): can cause burns, eye damage.

Mitigation Measures:

  • Use shielding barriers and containment (e.g., lead aprons, radiation-proof glass).
  • Limit exposure time and maintain distance from the source.
  • Monitor radiation levels using dosimeters.
  • Follow all legal and safety regulations for handling radioactive materials.
  • Provide training and ensure compliance with radiation safety protocols.

3.3 Mitigation Measures of Chemical Hazards

Chemical hazards arise from the handling or exposure to hazardous chemical substances that can cause health effects such as burns, respiratory problems, poisoning, or explosions.

3.3.1 Flammable Chemical Material

Examples: Petrol, alcohol, acetone, ether

Hazards:

  • Fire and explosion
  • Toxic fumes

Mitigation Measures:

  • Store chemicals in flameproof containers and ventilated areas.
  • Keep sources of ignition (sparks, flames) away from flammable materials.
  • Use explosion-proof electrical fittings in hazardous zones.
  • Train personnel in safe handling and emergency procedures.
  • Clearly label all containers with hazard symbols.

3.3.2 Corrosive Chemical Material

Examples: Hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide

Hazards:

  • Burns to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract
  • Environmental damage if spilled

Mitigation Measures:

  • Use appropriate PPE: gloves, goggles, face shields, aprons.
  • Store chemicals in corrosion-resistant containers.
  • Provide emergency eyewash stations and showers near work areas.
  • Train workers in first-aid and spill containment procedures.
  • Segregate corrosive substances from incompatible materials.

3.3.3 Reactive Material

Examples: Sodium, potassium, peroxides, ammonium nitrate

Hazards:

  • Violent chemical reactions
  • Fire, explosion, or toxic gas release

Mitigation Measures:

  • Store reactive materials under controlled conditions (e.g., inert atmosphere).
  • Avoid exposure to water, air, or other reactive substances.
  • Maintain updated Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all materials.
  • Install gas detection and automatic shutdown systems.
  • Implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and regular training.

3.4 Let Us Sum Up

This unit highlighted the various physical and chemical hazards encountered in industrial and occupational settings. Physical hazards such as temperature extremes, noise, vibration, and radiation can have serious health consequences if not properly managed. Similarly, chemical hazards—especially those that are flammable, corrosive, or reactive—require careful storage, handling, and response strategies. Mitigation involves engineering controls, use of personal protective equipment, worker training, and emergency preparedness to ensure a safe and healthy environment.

3.5 Key Words

  • Physical Hazards: Environmental factors like heat, noise, or radiation that can harm the body.
  • Chemical Hazards: Dangerous substances that may cause fire, poisoning, burns, or explosions.
  • Flammable: Easily ignitable and capable of burning rapidly.
  • Corrosive: Able to destroy living tissue or materials through chemical reaction.
  • Reactive: Chemicals that can undergo violent reactions under certain conditions.

 

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