There are
many physical hazards to be found in the workplace and these can have a
detrimental effect on the productivity of the staff. Employers should ensure
the occupational health and safety of stand by providing a safe work
environment and taking into consideration noise, vibration, air quality, office
furniture and equipment, office décor, workplace conditions and lighting.
Noise
High level irritating sound/noise is dangerous and
can lead to:
·
High error rate
·
Difficulty in
concentrating on tasks
·
Annoyance
·
Increased stress
levels
·
Headaches
· Interference with verbal communication, leading to misinterpretation of instructions
· Interference with verbal communication, leading to misinterpretation of instructions
·
Noise-induced
hearing loss
External Noise
This may be due to the location of
the building, and may come from heavy traffic, being under an aircraft flight
path or be due to the activities of nearby industry. Although complete
elimination of noise is not possible, the following will be minimized this
problem:
- Provision of thick
masonry walls
- Installation of
acoustic ceilings
- Installation of
double-glazed windows
Internal Noise
A special scale is used to measure
noise. General points for internal noise reduction include:
- Control noise at its
source
- Relocate or place
equipment such as computers, word processors an photocopies in sound-proof
booths, enclosures or rooms
- Use noise-reducing
pads to buffer sound
- Use drapes and
carpets to help with sound absorption
- Choose office
machines which are quiet
- Request acoustic
hoods for items such as noisy printers and computers
Vibration
Vibration
is a common industrial hazard. It is often caused by the rapid to and from
motion of power-driven machines or tools. Vibration can affect the whole body
and/or hands and arms. Intense exposure can result in both short and long term
physical disorders such as:
- High blood pressure
- Digestive and stomach
ailment
- Discomfort
- Fatigue
- Giddiness
- Joint and home damage
- Motion sickness
- Nervous system
damage, such as numbness
General points for vibration
reduction are:
- Install automated
systems for the job
- Control vibration
noise at its source
- Re-design equipment
and tools
- Implement regular
rest periods
- Use insulation and
remote controls
- Use vibration-reduced
equipment
- Place machinery or
equipment on vibration-dampening mounts
Air quality and ventilation
Small offices may use a portable air
conditioner which can be located in different areas when required. Many large
offices have a centrally controlled system which is operated only by authorized
personnel. Both systems are used to provide the following benefits for staff.
Temperature and humidity control
Maintaining comfortable levels of
heat and moisture is necessary for the well-being of employees. This is also an
important factor for the care and protection of computer-based equipment.
Air conditioning/reverse cycle
heating, fans or freestanding heaters may be used to meet individual needs.
Air control
Under floor systems are becoming
popular methods or air control. The floor is raised and. From the cavity below
(plenum), the air is distributed into the working areas through grilles. Where
there is no air conditioning, a good flow of air results from opening a window
and a door opposite one another.
General
points to consider regarding air quality and temperature:
- Maintain comfortable
levels of heat and cold
- Provide a good flow
of air
- Provide cool rest
areas
- Provide appropriate
rest breaks
- Ensure there is
access to hot or cold drinks, depending on requirements.
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