Other Hazards Flashcards
We already discussed
Biological hazards, Chemical
but what other hazards exist?
Radiation hazards Psychosocial hazards Reproductive hazards Electrical hazards Major Emergencies
For radiation hazards; what is radiation and what are the two types?
- Radiation Definition: Energy emitted from a source.
- Two types:
a) Ionizing radiation
b) Non-ionizing radiation
What is the hazard with ionizing radiation?
Ionizing radiation Enough energy to remove electrons from atoms or molecules when it passes through or collides with some material Loss or gain of electrons is called ionization The electron is called an ion.
What forms are there of ionizing radiation?
Forms of ionizing radiation include: Gamma rays Alpha particles Beta particles X-rays Neutron
What are sources of non-ionizing radiation?
Non-ionizing radiation
Includes: Lasers, microwaves, and UV lights
List four effects that radiation can have on a person.
Examples of radiation effects:
- Cancer: Leukemia, lung, and bone
- Heritable effects: Damage to future offspring
- Somatic changes: Cataracts, leukopenia, and sterility
- Life span: If exposed to acute whole body radiation it will probably result in a shortened life span.
What does the severity of radiation effects on a person depend on?
Effects of radiation depend on: Dose or amount of radiation absorbed Time course Acute or chronic exposure Total dose of radiation Area absorbing dose Type of radiation Dose is the single most important measure of radiation effect
What are three ways to be safe around radiation?
Radiation safety
- Time: Limit your exposure
- Shielding: PPE and plexiglass shields
- Distance: Stay as far away as possible
What are operational requirements for working around radiation?
Operational requirements Radiation hazard symbol posted Authorized personnel only Keep lab locked Quantity should be limited Safety program implemented Documentation
What problems can temperature extremes lead too?
Can lead to thermal burns, frostbite,
hypothermia, and hyperthermia
How can you prevent safety issues with temperature extremes you may encounter in a lab?
Prevention:
Wear heat and cold resistant gloves (insulated
gloves)
Limit exposure
Be careful around equipment
Autoclaves, hotplates, cryostats, -70 freezer, etc
What issues with noise levels can occur in a lab? How does this affect the worker?
- Noise levels in clinical labs can reach levels that may cause noise-induced hearing loss.
- Often affects concentration, communication and the overall quality of the workplace.
What can noise levels be minimized?
Minimize Noise Levels
- Proper evaluation of equipment before purchasing
- Place noise-generating equipment as far as possible from work stations
- Maintain equipment
- Engineering controls– baffling, types of surfaces equipment is on, etc
What is Psychosocial Hazards, like stress? Symptoms?
Stress 1. Described as the psychological state of an individual to cope with the environment 2. Is a cause of anxiety 3. Personal symptoms can be: Physical Behavioural Emotional and Mental
What are the physical symptoms associated with stress?
Physical symptoms Muscle tension Insomnia Loss of appetite Dry throat and mouth Trembling or twitches Headaches High blood pressure Cold, clammy hands
What are the behavioural symptoms of stress?
Behavioural stress Restlessness Irritability Excessive smoking or drinking Withdrawal from others Indecisiveness Impulsive behaviour
What are symptoms of emotional and mental stress?
Emotional and mental stress Lack of concentration Forgetfulness Preoccupation Mood swings Hostility Brooding and worrying Day-dreaming Anxiety Fear
What are some workplace factors that affect stress?
Workplace factors that affect stress: Production line Worker has little control Overtime STAT work Ethical issues Confidentiality of test results, diagnosis, etc. Making errors has serious impacts on patients Poor management-employee relations
What can be done to control and reduce stress in the workplace for yourself and others?
Controlling and reducing stress: Effective communication Provision of regular honest feedback Encouragement of peer support Identification and redistribution of workload Design of tasks Scheduling and organization Establishment of employee health services and employee assistance programs
What can one do to personally manage stress?
Personal management of stress Self-renewal activities Reduction of body metabolism Zen, yoga, meditation, and relaxation exercises Proper nutrition, sleep, and exercise Counselling Medicatio
What are examples of abuse/violence in the workplace that can occur?
Abuse/violence in the workplace Verbal harassment Sexual harassment Physical assault Sexual assault Intimidation and threats Bullying behaviour
What can be done to help eliminate or reduce abuse/violence in the work place?
Early intervention of abuse/violence is key Need to have: A reporting system Early conflict resolution Zero tolerance for disruptive behaviour Well-designed workplace Clear emergency response procedures Training and awareness
What is the hazards with working alone?
Working Alone
Violence risk or injury risk
Secure access, means of emergency
communication if assistance is require
What is technostress? How to prevent?
Technostress
Rapidly changing technology-based
equipment
User-friendly, good training, back up plans
What are reproductive damage that could occur to males?
Male affects: # of sperm Shape of sperm Transfer of sperm Impact sexual performance Alter sperm chromosomes
What are reproductive damage that could occur to females?
Female affects: Menstrual cycle Infertility Miscarriage or stillbirth Birth defects Contamination of breast milk Childhood cancer
