physical and mechanical hazards at the workplace Flashcards
what are the health effects of UV radiation at the workplace ?
- conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers
( welders flash ) - skin erythema ( basal cell carcinoma )
what is the presentation of welders flash ?
redness, severe pain, photophobia, gritty eye sensation
what is the prognosis of welder’s flash ?
self limiting within 48 hours
what are the occupations exposed to ultraviolet rays ?
electric welding
phtocopying machines
photo therapy of skin disorders
sterilization of surgical equip
what occupations are exposed to infrared rays ?
iron and steel industry
melted metals
glass industry
what is the main health effect of exposure of infrared rays ?
posterior polar cataract
what occupations are exposed to microwave ?
hotels kitchens and homes
what is vibration measured in ?
Hz
what are the types of vibration ?
segmental
whole body
what are the health effects of whole body vibrations ?
git symptoms decreased visual acuity vertigo muscoskeletal disorders trophic skin lesions
what is HAVS ?
hand arms vibration syndrome which is also known as white finger , which happens due to vibrations occurring at a localized part of the body that is in contact with the tool
who are the exposed group to HAVS ?
pneumatic drills
jackhammers
chain saw
drilling tools
what are the risk factors of HAVS ?
too tight grasp
awkward positions
what is the clinical picture of HAVS ?
tingling in the fingers followed by numbness
colour changes : intermittent blanching, followed by cyanosis then red flush
what is the association between the seasons and HAVS ?
the attack starts on exposure to cold environments, as the condition worsens the attack s occur inn the summer
what is the treatment of HAVS ?
most cases are treated by removing the worker form the exposure
in severe cases calcium channel blockers can be used or sympathectomy
at what level does NIHL occur ?
on prolonged exposure to sounds that are above 85 dB
where does the acoustic dip lie in NIHL ?
4000-6000 Hz
what factors influence the severity of electrical injury ?
- characteristics of the electric current
- length of contact
- the size of the individual
- pathway of the current through the body
what type of electrical currents carry a higher rate of morbidity ?
morbidity is higher in low voltage injuries
what may be the clinical picture of electrical injuries ?
assortement of burns VF respiratory arrest coma blunt trauma
what are the proper measures to free an individual from contact with an electric current ?
- if possible power should be turned off
2. if not, a non conducting object should be used to pull the victim away
what is an example of a repeated impact action ?
using the knee or the hand as a hammer
