Lecture 1: Introduction (170 Slides)

Safety definition
Is the requirement not to harm people, the environment or any other
assets during a systems life cycle

Physical hazard class A

Can detonate or deflgrate rapidly

Physical hazard class B

But is liable to undergo a thermal exposition in a package

Physical hazard class C

Cannot undergo a thermal explosion

Physical hazard category 1 is more restrictive than physical hazard category 2

Yes

Flamable gases have flammable ranges when

Mixed with air at 20 degree C and pressure of 101.3 kpa

Flammable aerosol

Aerosol despencer with a concentration less that or equal to 1% and heat combustion less that 20KJ/g

Foam Aerosol

spray at a distance of less than 15 cm and in form of gel or foam

critical temperature

temperature above which a gas cannot be liquefied , regardless of the degree of compression

Oxidizing means

Combustion of other materials more than air does

Gas under pressure

Gauge pressure of 200kpa or more at 20 degree centegrate

Flammable liquid means

A liquid that has a flash point not more than 93 degree cent

Flammable solid means

Contribute to fire through friction

Readily combustible solid means

Easily ignited by brief contact with an ignition and has a flame that spreads rapidly

Self reactive in relation to a thermally unstable liquid

300 j/g even without oxygen

Phrophoric liquid

Within 5 minutes after contacting with air

Phrophoric solid

Within 5 minutes after contacting with air

Self-heating

self heat by reaction with air and without energy supply

oxidizing liquid means

a liquid whether or not combustable, that is liable to cause or contribute to the combustion of other
materials

oxidizing solid means

a solid, whether or not combustable, that is liable to cause or contribute to the combustion of other
materials

corrosive to metal means

liable to damage or destroy metal by chemical action

combustible dust

is liable to catch fire or explode when dispersed in air

Simple asphyxiant

Any gas is liable to cause asphyxiation by the displacement of air

Pyrophoric gas

Ignite spontaneously in air at a temperate of 54 degree or less

Skin corrosion

Epidermis and into dermis 14 day observation

Skin Irritation

Reversible damage to the skin

Eye Irritation

Fully reversible in 21 days

Serious Eye damage

Not fully reversible within 21 days

Skin Sensitization

Allergic response following skin contact

Respiratory sensitization

Hepersensitivity of airways

Genotoxicity

Alteration of structure or segregation of DNA

Mutagenic

Increased occurances if mutations

Carcinogenic

In relation to a mixture or substance liable to lead to cancer or increase the incidence of cancer.

Biohazardous

Any microorganism with or without toxicity.

Boiling point

Temp at which a material turns into gas

Flash point

The lowest temp at which a liquid or solid gives off enough vapour to form flammable air vapour
mixture.

Evaporative equilibrium

If evaporation takes place in an enclosed area the escaping molecules accumulative as a vapour above
the liquid. Many of molequles return to the liquid with returing moluques becoming more frequent as
the density and pressure increases.

Evaporation rate

Rate at which how quickly the material becomes vapor at normal room temperature.

Minimum ignition temp

Minimum temp at which a heated cloud or layer ignites

Minimum explosible concentration

Concentration below which propagation of a flame does not occur when in contact with an ignition
source

OSHA Occupational safety and health Administration

ACGIH American confirence of governmental Industial hygenists
ASHRAE American society of heating, refrigerating and Air conditioning engineers
NIOSH National Institute for Ocupational safety and health

1- How is safety involved in the lifecycle of a home appliance design? (L1: Slides 46 – 53)

KEEP IN MIND THAT THE COMPANY ALWAYS HAS TO KEEP A SAFE WOKRING ENVIRONMENT FOR ITS
ENGINEERS WHILE GOING THROUGH THE BELOW PROCESS.
➢ Definition/Concept
Engineers define the THEORETICAL and OPERATIONAL safety requirements for a product.
Example:
• Freon loss / leak
• electric shock
• mechanical stability (e.g. fridge will not fall on the user when the door is opened)
• unit integrity (e.g. doors and shelves do not fall)
➢ Design
Engineers VERIFY that the previously defined technical requirements can be met by the
proposed design.
Example:
• A plastic container for Freon could never meet the safety requirement on the leak
because:
o The Freon might react with the plastic
o The box might easily crack due to shocks and vibration (earth quake,
transport, door slammed, motor vibration)
o material properties change in time (the plastic might become breakable)
➢ Validation
Engineers are SETTING TEST PLANS to VALIDATE the previously verified safety measures
(they are preparing the certification of the product).

Example:

• The aluminum Freon container is now validated against safety requirement “Freon
leak”. How do we check this validation? The aluminum Freon container will be
under different TESTS and has to be:
o immune to Freon
 o Robust enough to retain the gas
o keep properties over time
o does not rust: a rust test will be performed
➢ Manufacturing
The MANUFACTURING PROCESS must be VALIDATED as being safe. The company has to ensure
a SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT for the MANUFACTURING LINE.
Example:
• noise level, ventilation, light
• electrical requirements
• maximum weight a worker can lift
• working with dangerous substances

➢ Transport/storage
COMPANY AND RETAILERS have to meet the SAFETY REQUIREMENTS covering the product
from the moment when it LEAVES THE MANUFACTURING PLANT until IT’S INSTALLED AT THE
USER’S LOCATION.

Example:

• securing the truck, not overloading, not exceeding the height

• storing as per manufacturer's instruction – do not top boxes one over the other
• ensuring maximum weight lifted by worker
• ensuring protection equipment (e.g. gloves) to workers handling
• safety of the trucks, trains and vessels
➢ Operation
COMPANY AND RETAILERS have to meet the SAFETY REQUIREMENTS covering the product
from the moment when it LEAVES THE MANUFACTURING PLANT until IT’S INSTALLED AT THE
USER’S LOCATION.

Example:

• Operating manuals
• Maintenance procedures
• Explicit repair manuals
THE USER MUST ALSO BE RESPONSIBLE WHEN OPERATING THE PRODUCT:

• operating within limits conditions, e.g. temperature should not exceed 45°C
• use as per intended use and follow usage instructions (do not close the cat in the
fridge)
➢ Disposal
Safety concerns for the END OF LIFE of the product.
Example:
• Disconnecting
• Transport: on top of the transport issues occurring for a new product, transporting an
old item might induce new risks: e.g. leak of the Freon due to age of the canister
• Storage: storing used items (or trashing them) is generally an environmental concern
 • Dismemberment of the units for recovery of parts exposes workers to risks
EXTRA: (L1: Slides 34 – 45)
➢ V-Model
Shows the relationship between EACH PHASE OF THE DEVELOPMENT lifecycle and its phases of
testing
• Definition, Design, Validation, and Manufacturing (First 4)
• Know the V’s points later

OSHA Occupational safety and health Administration

ACGIH American confirence of governmental Industial hygenists
ASHRAE American society of heating, refrigerating and Air conditioning engineers
NIOSH National Institute for Ocupational safety and health

2- Define (L1: Slide 55)

➢ Safety engineering (SYSTEM SAFETY) → FOCUS is on DESIGN OF SYSTEM
An ENGINEERING DISCIPLINE which assures that ENGINEERED SYSTEMS provide acceptable
levels of safety. It assures that a life-critical system behaves as needed, EVEN when
components fail. Example:
• a safe aircraft reduces the risk of fatal accidents
NOTE: IT IS RELATED TO INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING/SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

➢ Occupational safety or (OSH/OHS/WHS) → FOCUS is on WORKER

A MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD concerned with the SAFETY, HEALTH, and WELFARE of PEOPLE in
the workplace. Focuses on primary PREVENTION OF HAZARDS.
Example:
• safe environment for engine maintenance team of an aircraft – reduces the risk of an
engine falling on workers
➢ Process safety → FOCUS is on the PLANT
A blend of ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT SKILLS focused on preventing ANYTHING that
can have a SERIOUS effect to the PLANT AND ENVIRONMENT.
Process Safety helps us prevent:
• Catastrophic accidents and near misses
• Structural collapse
• Explosions, fires and toxic releases associated with:
o Loss of containment of energy
o Dangerous substances such as chemicals and petroleum products,
• Releases of chemicals, energy, or other potentially dangerous materials (including
steam)
Example:
• Reduced risk of an explosion of a gas reservoir

3- What is the difference between prevention and reaction? (L1 – Slide 56)

Note that these are both ACTIONS FOR SAFETY

 ➢ Prevention (Past & Future)
• Reducing the PROBABILITY of the OCCURRENCE
o Example: electric circuit wire overheating addressed by larger wires (12 instead
of 14 for heating)
• Reducing the DAMAGE if the EVENT OCCURS (fail safe)
o Example: fire proof doors to stop the air flow
➢ Reaction (Future only)
• Reduces damages (short and long term) AFTER THE EVENT
o Example: fire alarms and fighters

4- Define the following terms: (L1: Slides – 57 – 75)

➢ Risk:
The combination of the LIKELIHOOD of the occurrence of a HARM and the SEVERITY of that
HARM. It is also dependent on the EXPOSURE to the Hazard.

Example: The risk of getting cancer from smoking cigarettes. Factors that influence the degree
or likelihood of risk are:
• The nature of the exposure: how much a person is exposed to a hazardous thing or
condition (e.g., several times a day or once a year),
• How the person is exposed (e.g., breathing in a vapour, skin contact), and
• The severity of the effect. For example, one substance may cause skin cancer, while
another may cause skin irritation. Cancer is a much more serious effect than irritation.
➢ Damage:

Severity of injury or the physical, functional or monetary loss that could result if control of a
hazard is lost. An unprotected man falling from a steel beam 10 feet above a concrete pavement
might suffer a sprained ankle or broken leg. He would be killed in a similar fall from 300 feet.
The hazard (possibility) and danger (exposure) of falling are the same. The difference is in the
severity of damage that would result if a fall occurred.

➢ Hazard:

Condition with the potential to cause injury to personnel, damage to equipment or structures,
loss of material, or lessening of the ability to perform a prescribed function. When a hazard is
present, the possibility exists of these adverse effects occurring

➢ Danger:

Expresses a relative exposure to a hazard. A hazard may be present, but there may be little
danger because of precautions taken. A high-voltage transformer bank, such as those in power
transmissions systems, has an inherent danger of electrocuting someone as long as it is
energized. A high degree of danger exists if the bank is unprotected in the middle of a busy,
inhabited area. The same hazard is present even when the transformers are completely
 enclosed in a locked, underground vault. However, there is almost no danger to personnel. An
above ground installation with a high fence and locked gate has a danger level between those
two. Numerous other examples can be cited showing how danger levels differ even though the
hazard is the same. A person working on a very high structure is subject to the hazard that he
could fall to his death. When he wears a safety harness, the danger is reduced but is still present
since the harness might break

➢ Safety:

Frequently defined as “freedom from hazards”. However, it is practically impossible to

completely eliminate all hazards. Safety is therefore a matter of relative protection from
exposure to hazards; the opposite of danger

➢ Risk assessment:

Expression of possible loss over a specified period of time or number of operational cycles. It
may be indicated by the probability of an accident times the damage in dollars, lives or
operating units.

5- Why is risk assessment important?

Risk assessments are very important as they form an integral part of an occupational health and safety
management plan. They help to:
Create awareness of hazards and risk.
• Identify who may be at risk (e.g., employees, cleaners, visitors, contractors, the public, etc.).
• Determine whether a control program is required for a particular hazard.
• Determine if existing control measures are adequate or if more should be done.
• Prevent injuries or illnesses, especially when done at the design or planning stage.
• Prioritize hazards and control measures.
• Meet legal requirements where applicable.

6- What is the goal of risk assessment?

The aim of the risk assessment process is to evaluate hazards, then remove that hazard or minimize the
level of its risk by adding control measures, as necessary. By doing so, you have created a safer and
healthier workplace.
The goal is to try to answer the following questions:
(a) What can happen and under what circumstances?
(b) What are the possible consequences?
(c) How likely are the possible consequences to occur?
(d) Is the risk controlled effectively, or is further action required?

7- When should a risk assessment be done?

There may be many reasons a risk assessment is needed, including:
• before new processes or activities are introduced,
 • before changes are introduced to existing processes or activities, including when products,
machinery, tools, equipment change or new information concerning harm becomes available
• when hazards are identified.

8- For the asbestos case, identify the 10 Elements of the risk:

1: Intended Function: _use of asbestos for fire proofing steel structures_________________

2a: Intended Function Failure: _Failure of asbestos to fire proof steel structure______________

2b: Damage: End result, fatality is high_____________

2c: Severity: _Medium_________________

3: Hazard: _Asbestos entering human body____________

4: Danger: _High_(rating)________________

5: Likelihood: _(probability) Using asbestos without safety precautions, low danger, not leading to
undesired event and high likelihood of damage happening_________________

6: Risk: _High_________________

7: Control: __detection, transport, removal ________________

8: Expected control effects: _High expected severity, medium expected desired event likelihood, low
expected risk level_________________

9- What are the 6 method types used to control a risk? Group these 6 methods under 3 levels.
Sort the 6 methods by efficiency, from the highest efficient to the lowest one.

Level 1 (HIGHEST EFFECTIVENESS)

1) Elimination
REMOVE the hazard. E.g.:
• Eliminating a requirement to carry out the task, use a piece of equipment or utilize a
chemical

Level 2

2) Substitution
 SUBSTITUTE the hazard for something safer. E.g.:
• Replace solvent-based paints with water-based ones.
• Replace the material, plant or work practice with a less hazardous one – such as
replacing a hazardous chemical with a less hazardous one.
3) Isolation
ISOLATE the hazard from PEOPLE. This involves PHYSICALLY SEPARATING the SOURCE OF
HARM from people by distance or using barriers. E.g.:
• Install guard rails around exposed edges and holes in floors,
• Use remote control systems to operate machinery
• Store chemicals in a fume cabinet.

4) Engineering
CHANGE the WORKPLACE, EQUIPMENT or work PROCESS. E.g.:
• Use mechanical devices such as trolleys or hoists to move heavy loads
• Place guards around moving parts of machinery
• Install residual current devices (electrical safety switches)
• Set work rates on a production line to reduce fatigue.
Level 3 (LOWEST EFFECTIVENESS)

5) Administration
Use ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS. E.g.:
• Develop procedures on how to operate machinery safely
• Limit exposure time to a hazardous task by job rotation,
• Carry out preventative maintenance on machinery and equipment
• Provide training and instruction on safe handling for a manual task
• Use signs to warn people of a hazard.
6) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE LIMITS EXPOSURE to the HARMFUL EFFECTS OF A HAZARD but only if workers wear and
use the PPE correctly. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) which also includes protective
clothing.
Examples of PPE include:
• Breathing protection
• Hard hats
• gloves
• Aprons
• Protective eyewear.

10- Explain the following elements of a risk:

1: Intended Function
This line describes the “positive thinking”, the functional approach, and the EXPECTED VALUE in
NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS. Many times, this line is very generic and unclear.
Example:
 • Ensure workers were provided with protective equipment that included a supplied-air,
positive-pressure full-face-piece respirator for a Type 3 asbestos removal
• Ensure worker’s physical integrity
• Use of the device should not harm in anyway the user

Note: If the safety line is related to a COMPLEX SYSTEM, for example an aircraft, this Element is
directly linked to the system’s function, example:
• Tow the aircraft on ground

2a: Intended Function Failure

This line translates the “positive thinking” into the complementary “negative thinking” and
implies a DYSFUNCTIONAL APPROACH, based on the FAILURE of the EXPECTED FUNCTION.

This Element verbalizes the NEGATIVE of the Element 1 and defines the very generic term
“Failed to” previously mentioned in the Element 1. If needed, this Element can be broken-down
for convenience into multiple sub-Elements.
Example:
• If Element 1 says generically “Ensure workers’ integrity”, then the undesired event
might be:
o “Worker is injured”
o “Worker is exposed to psychological stress”.

2b: Damage
The CONSEQUENCES incurred once the UNDESIRED EVENT happens. We verbalize the INJURY,
the PHYSICAL, FUNCTIONAL or MONETARY LOSS.

This column can be BROKEN DOWN INTO MULTIPLE COLUMNS to better integrate different
consequences on different stakeholders for the same Undesired Event
Example:
• A worker’s injury has of course consequences on the worker, but might:
o Affect the company’s operating certification
o Imply financial penalties
o Negative publicity, etc.

2c: Severity (first Element of the RISK evaluation)

Severity classification is DEFINED by the COMPANY’S INTERNAL or INDUSTRY’S SPECIFIC
STANDARDS.
For examples → see Safety Engineering PDF, Safety standards across industry Slides.
3: Hazard
the condition with the potential to CAUSE INJURY to personnel, DAMAGE to equipment or
structures, loss of material, or lessening of the ability to perform a prescribed function.

When a Hazard is present, the possibility exists of these adverse effects occurring (Damage).
Dysfunctional logic requires you to consider the “worst-case scenario” where all the potential
barriers and protections failed at the same time and all the required particular conditions
actually happened at the same time. A Hazard is something that can cause harm and is a
potential source of damage. Without the Hazard, there is no Damage.
Example:
• A knife is a Hazard and is linked to the Damage “injuries by cut”
• Presence of bacteria’s in the environment (Hazard) is linked to the Damage infection
• A simple plastic bag used to transport food is a Hazard as it can lead to the Damage
“physical injury” if the plastic bag is dropped on the floor and the worker slips and falls
on it.

Note: When identifying the Hazard, DO NOT THINK “what are the steps necessary leading to
Damage?” as this is part of the Danger Element. (Below)

4: Danger
This Element expresses a RELATIVE EXPOSURE to a hazard, DESCRIBES how a Hazard can lead
to the Damage. Most probably, the Danger needs to be broken-down to better represent the
STEPS that are required for a Hazard to lead to a Damage.

5: Likelihood
This Element evaluates the PROBABILITY of the lowest level of the danger break-down to
happen.

Probability levels are defined by the Company’s internal or industry’s specific standards.
For examples → see Safety Engineering PDF, Safety standards across industry Slides.

A natural human instinct says that:

• If the occurrence of a danger with a high probability leads straight to the occurrence of
the damage, then the final probability of the damage occurrence is high.
• If on the contrary, multiple events need to happen at the same time for the damage to
occur, the final probability is lowering.

6: Risk
The combination of the LIKELIHOOD of the occurrence of a DAMAGE and the SEVERITY of that
DAMAGE.

7: Control
The possible action or actions that can be taken to reduce the risk.
 • There are controls that impact the hazard by ELIMINATING it or SUBSTITUTING.

• ISOLATION and ENGINEERING are impacting the dangers by changing the chain of event
that is required for the damage to happen. The user activity is not affected but the RISK
IS REDUCED.

• ADMINISTRATION and PPE are affecting the user’s work process

o (e.g. wearing a mask) and/or is counting on the user’s responsibility (training,
following the process) to reduce the danger risk.

8: Expected control effects

This element presents the EFFECT of the INVESTMENT INTO CONTROLS. The expected values
are the severity, likelihood and risk levels AFTER the controls will be in effectively in place.
It is a way to measure the effectiveness of the proposed controls and can serve as input to
decisions makers by prioritizing the controls to implement.

9: Control Responsible
This section defines the RESPONSIBLE for the implementation of the controls and might be
completed by a schedule

10: Monitor
required to ensure that the EXPECTED RESULTS are ACTUALLY OBTAINED once the CONTROLS
ARE SET in place. A KPI should be defined, TARGETS VALUE, as well as monitoring methods and
reporting frequency.

11- Why is it preferable to have multiple events and/or conditions required simultaneously for a
danger? It will lower the probability of the event occurring.

12- Define the damage and the danger in this photo

Picture of a women working in the manufacturing industry, in the 1800s. Back in the day, no safety gear, no PPE
(personal protective equipment was not used).
For example, in this picture:
- No safety glasses, no shield
- No gloves
- No helmet
Damage (end result) is very high, loss of eyesight, loss of fingers, parts hitting her.
Danger (hazard equipment) is very high, exposure to the lathe machine without PPE.
 13- What are the common work-related injuries and diseases?
• Occupational lung diseases: [asbestosis, silicosis, lung cancer, occupational asthma]
• Musculo-skeletal disorders: [ disorders of back, trunk, arms, legs, neck, vibration disease]
• Occupational cancers (other than lung cancer): [ leukemia, cancers of bladder, nose, liver Amputations,
fractures, eye loss, cuts, traumatic deaths]
• Cardio-vascular disease: [hypertension, heart attack, coronary artery disease]
• Disorders of reproduction: [infertility, spontaneous abortions, abnormal fetus]
• Neuro-toxic disorders: [peripheral neuropathy, toxic encephalitis Noise-induced hearing loss]
• Dermatologic conditions: [dermatoses, burns (heat or chemical), abrasions]
• Psychological disorders: [alcoholism, drug dependency, neuroses]

14- As per the table below, is a pilot exposed to a higher risk than a fisherman? Justify

NO, fishermen are more exposed to a higher risk than pilots since compare to the fatalities per 100,000 employees
for fishermen is higher (80.8) whereas for pilots its (63.2). This is because there are more fishermen employed,
giving a higher probability because they are larger in number compare to pilots. Fishermen don’t have much safety
gear, safety procedures – not much government policies for the fishermen compare to pilots.

15- How do we find out if an illness or disease is work related?

Three methods to find out if its illness or disease work related:
The illness could have non-work related causes. The field of epidemiology can be used to evaluate this.
1) Epidemiology: study of the distribution and determinants of disease or injury occurrence in a group of
people, if the disease spreads.
2) Relative risk RR : (incidence of disease in exposed population)/ (incidence of disease in non-exposed or
control population)
3) Standardized mortality rate SMR : 100* (number of deaths in exposed group/number of death in control
group)

16- What is the BLS mission? [DEFFINITION]

US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
 17- What are the BLS recordable cases? (LIST SOME CASES AND ASK WHICH ARE RECORDABLE
CASES FOR BLS…. MAYBE PICK FROM A LIST 3/5
BLS recordable cases include work-related injuries and illness that result in:
- Deaths
- Loss of consciousness
- Days away from work
- Restricted work activity or job transfer
- Medical treatment (beyond first aid)
- Significant work related injuries or illnesses that are diagnosed by a physician or other licensed health
care professional. These include any work related cases involving cancer, chronic irreversible disease,
a fractured or cracked bone, or a punctured eardrum.

18- According to BLS, what is a skin disease or disorder? [DEFFINITION GIVEN AND ATTACH THE
RIGHT TITLE]
Skin disease/disorder: are illness involving the worker’s skin that caused by work exposure to chemicals, plants or
other substances. (Examples: eczema, rashes, oil aches, inflammation of the skin)

19- According to BLS, what is a respiratory condition?

Respiratory conditions: are illness associated with breathing hazardous biological agents, chemicals, dust, gases,
vapors, and fumes at work. (Examples: asbestosis)

20- According to BLS, what is poisoning?

Poisoning: includes disorders evidenced by abnormal concentrations of toxic substances in blood, other bodily fluids
Or the breath that are caused by the ingestion or absorption of toxic substances into the body. (Eg. Poisoning by
lead, mercury, etc).

21- According to BLS, what is hearing loss?

It is defined as a change in hearing threshold relative to the baseline audiogram of an average 10 dB or ,pre om
either ear at 2000, 3000 and 4000 hertz and the employee’s total hearing level in 25 decibels or more above the
audiometric zero.

22- According to BLS classification, provide 5 other examples of occupational illnesses, except for
poisoning, hearing loss, respiratory conditions and skin disease. [YES NO QUESTIONS]

All other occupational illnesses examples: heatstroke, sunstroke, heat exhaustion, heat stress and other effects of
environmental heat; freezing, frostbite, and other effects of exposure to low temperatures; decompression sickness;
effects of ionizing radiation (isotopes, x-ray, radium); effects of nonionizing radiation (welding flash, ultra violet
rays, lasers)

23- What is the Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities (IIF) program?

Injuries, illness and fatalities program provides annual information on the rate and number of work-related injuries,
Illness and fatal injuries and how these statistics vary by incident, industry, geography, occupation, and other
characteristics. These data are collected through the survey of occupational injuries and illnesses (SOII) and the
census of fatal occupational injuries (CFOI).

24- What is the conclusion of the study on Traumatic brain injury (TBI)? [ALWAYS TAKE INTO
ACCOUNT THE WORST EVENT]
Conclusion: The use of occupational injury and illness classification systems (OIICS) verses ICD-9-CM codes
underestimated TBI and changed the attributable cause distribution, with potential implication for prevention efforts.
Surveillance methods that can more fully and accurately capture the impact of work related TBI across the US are
needed.

25- What is the Canadian document that regulates the Occupational Health and Safety? []
One of the leading OHS research centers in Canada, the Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du
travail (IRSST) conducts and funds research activities aimed at eliminating risks to worker health and safety and at
promoting worker rehabilitation.
In the spirit of Québec’s Act respecting occupational health and safety, whose goal is the identification and
“elimination, at the source, of dangers to the health, safety and physical well-being of workers,” the IRSST’s
mission is

26- Define the incidence rate for injuries. Explain why and how the Factor is used.[WHICH IS THE
RIGHT FORMULA OR CALCULATION] don’t forget 100 full time for injuries, 10,000 for illness,
deaths 100,000

I (incident) = N (incident)/EH * factor. Factor: base of 100 or 200,000, for full-time workers

27- Define the incidence rate for illnesses or diseases. Explain why and how the Factor is used.

I (diseases) = N (diseases) /EH *factor

28- Define the incidence rate for injuries. Explain why and how the Factor is used.

I (injuries) = N (injuries)/EH * factor

29- Define the fatality rate. Explain why and how the Factor is used.

Fatality Rate = Number of fatally injured workers/W=total number of workers * factor (100,000). Factor
is based on full-time and part-time working hours

30- Based on the graph below, identify the highest risk job. [ Logging workers]
 31- Explain why the rates have decreased despite an increasing number of cases.

The rates have decreased because based on the formula, FR = N/W * factor, (W) total number of workers have
highly increased since FR is inversely proportional to W, thus resulting in a lower fatality rate in 2015.

32- Interpret the graph below. Why is the total lower than self-employed?

The total is lower than the self-employed because all

workers = self-employed workers + wage and salary
workers, which means W is high. In the case of all
workers, FR = N/W * factor, since FR inversely
proportional to W, the fatality rate decrease in this
case of having a high total number of workers.
 33- Based on the below table, is it correct to say that, in the private industry, there’s a
higher chance (probability) to be exposed to harmful substances or environment than to
contact with objects and equipment?

Answer: NO, as the whole industry is analyzed, the EH total actual number of hours worked by all
employees is the same for all the cases on the same line. This means that the incidence rate between the
2 events listed above is in direct relationship with the number of the events. As there are 406 cases of
harmful substances or environment and 694 cases of contact with objects and equipment, this means that
the second exposure has higher incidence rate and thus higher probability or chance.

34- Define the nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses requiring days away from work and
explain its importance.
NONFATAL OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES AND ILLNESSES REQUIRING DAYS AWAY FROM WORK, 2015
The overall incidence rate of nonfatal occupational injury and illness cases requiring days away from
work to recuperate was 104.0 cases per 10,000 full-time workers in 2015, down from 107.1 cases in
2014, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today.
- In 2015, there were 1,153,490 days-away-from-work cases in private industry, state
government, and local government—essentially unchanged from the number of cases
reported in 2014.
- The median days away from work to recuperate—a key measure of severity of injuries
and illnesses—was 8 days in 2015, 1 day fewer than reported in 2014.

35- On the graph below, explain why transportation traumatic fatality rate in 2015 is higher than
all sectors traumatic fatality rates in 2015.
 Transportation traumatic fatality rate (42.87) in 2015 in higher than all
sectors traumatic fatality rates (12.51) in 2015 because in transportation
they have a low number of workers (W) whereas the all sector includes
workplace, safety, insurance have a high number of workers (W).

36- Explain the meaning of the following graph

This graph shows the difference between employment share and traumatic fatalities. During the span of 9 years
(2006-2015), the first graph shows among the total employment share, only 28.5% are small business whereas the
case of traumatic fatalities, the small business are accounted for 63.5%. Therefore, even though the employment
share is low still the traumatic fatality rate is quite large for small businesses. This may be due to improper safety
precautions taken by the organization.
“In 2015: Small businesses employed about 30 percent of Ontario workers [15] but they
accounted for almost 51 percent of all fatalities.[16] From 2006 to 2015, small businesses
accounted for 63.5 percent of all traumatic fatalities. [17]”

37- What is the mission of the IRSST?

Mission of the IRSST: Institut de recherché Robert-Sauvé (research center under OHS)
Their missions:

38- Explain the meaning of each term in the formula and give their units
39- How is modeled the infiltration and exfiltration air for rooms in buildings made of ordinary
construction? How about airtight buildings? How about buildings with poorly closing windows
and doors?

40- What happens when changes in one ore more parameters of the above equation happen?

41- In the case of no recirculation, what is the impact on the formula?

42- Define the steady concentration and the impact on the above formula.

43- Explain the meaning of each term in the formula and also give their units [fill in the letter for
units] definition of words
 44- The 8 WHMIS hazard symbols are: [Match definitions or 5 definitions 3 signs ]

Class A: Compressed Gas

This symbol indicates that the contents of the container are under pressure - anything done to weaken
the structure of the container could result in an explosion or a dramatic release of pressure. A
compressed gas is a material which is a gas at normal room temperature and pressure, and is packaged
under compression.

Helium and propane are common examples of materials that are supplied as a compressed gas.

Class B: Flammable/Combustible

"Flammable / Combustible" materials are solids, liquids or gases that will ignite and continue to burn if
exposed to a flame or source of ignition. These materials may also be explosive in certain situations or
react with other materials to produce a flammable material.

Diesel and gasoline are examples of commonly used flammable materials.

Class C: Oxidizing Materials

These materials produce oxygen or another oxidizing substances, which can cause or contribute to the
combustion of another substance.

Chlorine is an example of an oxidizing material.

Class D: Poisonous and Infectious

These materials are further separated into three categories D1, D2, and D3.

D1: Materials causing immediate and serious toxic effects

The effects of Class D1 materials are very harmful based on short-term exposures. Very little exposure
can produce serious toxic effects or possibly death. These materials are classified for toxicity based on
information such as the lethal dose and the lethal concentration.

Cyanide is an example of a material that causes immediate and serious toxic effects.

D2: Other Toxic Effects

Class D2 substances can produce many different toxic effects. They also have a wide variety of
classifications. For example, D2 substances can be classified as carcinogens, teratogens, reproductive
toxins, respiratory tract sensitizers, irritants, or chronic toxic hazards. Exposure effects range from short
term (e.g. dizziness, difficulty breathing), to long term (cancer, lung disease).
Asbestos is an example of this class of material.
D3: Biohazard Infectious Materials

Class D3 materials refer to any organism, or the toxins produced by these organisms, that have been
shown or are believed to be a biological hazard in either humans or animals. These materials are usually
limited to laboratory and testing environments.

Class E: Corrosive

Class E materials are corrosives that can cause decomposition of other materials (e.g. metals) or damage
human tissue.
Sulphuric Acid and Ammonia are examples of corrosive materials.

Class F: Dangerously Reactive

Class F materials may react with other substances to produce a wide range of negative reactions. These
reactions can range from decomposition to condensation. The stability of these materials may be
adversely affected by exposure to certain elements such as water, pressure, or temperature.

Ozone is an example of a dangerously reactive material.

 45- What is WHMIS? [what do the letters stand for]

WHMIS is a short form for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. It is a comprehensive
plan for providing information on the safe use of hazardous materials used in Canadian workplaces.
Information is provided by means of product labels, material safety data sheets (MSDS) and worker
education programs.

(Slides) What is WHMIS? “An information System designed to advise you on the Hazardous Materials
you may encounter in your Workplace” WHMIS stands for: W orkplace H azardous M aterials I
nformation S ystem

46- How is WHMIS implemented?

WHMIS is implemented through coordinated federal, provincial and territorial legislation. This
coordinated approach avoids duplication, inefficiency through loss of scale and the potential for
interprovincial trade barriers to arise if each province and territory established its own hazard
communication system.
- In WHMIS, Health Canada administers the Hazardous Products Act (HPA) and associated regulations,
which set labelling and (M)SDS requirements for suppliers.
- Health Canada acts as the secretariat for this federal, provincial and territorial government partnership
system. WHMIS regulators maintain regular consultative contact with key industry and labor WHMIS
Stakeholders.

47- The main elements of WHMIS are:

Product classification Labels Safety data sheets (SDSs) Worker education

48- The excluded sectors are: [check which are included]

WHMIS supplier hazard communication requirements do not apply to certain chemical products used in
Canadian workplaces. Prior to the amendments made to the HPA in 2014, Section 12 of the Act
stipulated all of the excluded sectors.

The excluded sectors are:

• Explosive as defined in section 2 of the Explosives Act;

• Cosmetic, device, drug or food as defined in section 2 of the Food and Drugs Act;
• Pest control product as defined in subsection 2(1) of the Pest Control Products Act;
• Nuclear substance, within the meaning of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act, that is radioactive;
• Hazardous waste, being a hazardous product that is sold for recycling or recovery or is intended
for disposal;
• Consumer product as defined in section 2 of the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act;
• Wood or product made of wood;
• Tobacco or tobacco products as defined in section 2 of the Tobacco Act; and
• Manufactured articles as defined in section 2 of the HPA.
 49- The Primary WHMIS Routes of Entry
According to WHMIS 2015, there are 4 major routes of exposure to hazardous chemicals. They Include:
1. Inhalation: Hazardous gases and airborne particles can enter the body when breathed in
through the nose or mouth.
2. Absorption: Hazardous chemicals, such as vapors, mists, dust or smoke, can enter the body
through the skin or eyes.
3. Ingestion: Hazardous chemicals can enter the digestive system when eaten or swallowed
through the mouth.
4. Injection: Hazardous chemicals can enter the body through accidental puncture, cut or impact
on the skin.

50- Why WHMIS? [to align with the Globally Harmonized System]

- WHMIS was created to prevent injuries, illness and death caused by hazardous materials known as
“Controlled Products”

WHMIS (2015) Many countries have systems for chemical classification and hazard communication. In
Canada, this system is called WHMIS. Canada has aligned WHMIS with the “Globally Harmonized System
for the Classification and Labelling of Chemicals”, or GHS.

Benefits of Aligning WHMIS with GHS

• Improved, consistent hazard language worldwide
• Encourages safe transport, handling, and use of hazardous products
• Promotes better emergency response
• Better regulatory efficiency and compliance
• Easier trade between countries • Reduced costs
• Reduced need for testing and evaluation

51- Differences between WHMIS (1988) and WHMIS (2015) [Check which one is 2015]
• New classification rules and hazard classes
• Hazards are broken down into two main hazard classes in WHMIS 2015: physical hazards and health
hazards
• New labelling requirements (WHMIS 2015), including pictograms instead of symbols, signal words,
hazard statements, and precautionary statements
• New format for Safety Data Sheets (WHMIS 2015), previously Material Safety Data Sheets (WHMIS
1988)
52- Draw the information flow as per WHMIS 2015. []
There are 3 key elements in this Information System called WHMIS:
1. Labels
2. Material Safety Data Sheets (WHMIS 1988) or Safety Data Sheets (WHMIS 2015)
3. Worker Training

53- List the hazard groups, classes and categories as per WHMIS 2015

- Hazard # 3 is environmental. With 2 classes

54- List Supplier Labels requirements [check which is from each year]
Labels alert you to the major hazard and provide some precautions.

Responsibility: SUPPLIER must

• Classify product and develop the supplier label
• Develop label according to WHMIS criteria
• Attach labels to all containers

55- Describe the meaning of each numbered item in the photo

56- WHMIS Responsibilities
The roles and responsibilities are the same in both WHMIS 1988 and WHMIS 2015, which
include:
Suppliers / Manufacturers:
• Identify and classify controlled products
• Prepare supplier labels and MSDSs or SDSs
• Revise/update MSDSs or SDSs and labels, as required
Employers / Supervisors:
• Create/apply workplace labels to ensure all hazardous products are labelled
• Obtain current MSDSs or SDSs
• Provide worker education and training and review the program annually
• Ensure appropriate control measures are in place to protect workers’ health and safety
• Establish a WHMIS Program
Workers:
• Use or wear the personal protective equipment and personal protective clothing as
required by the employer
• Participate in the identification and control of hazards
• Participate in training
• Understand and use information provided in training, on product labels, and on product
MSDS/SDS

57- List the sections in the SDS. []

58- Associate the below image to the right section of the SDS

59- List the main elements of a WHMIS program

The main elements of a WHMIS program are:
a) Purchasing and Inventory
b) Hazard Identification
c) Inspections
d) Worker Education and Training
e) Review and Evaluation
f) Document and Record Keeping
60-

1: Intended Function
2a: Intended Function Failure
2b: Damage
2c: Severity
3: Hazard300
4: Danger
5: Likelihood
6: Risk
7: Control
8: Expected control effects
9: Control Responsible
10: Monitor
Boiling point

Temp at which a material turns into gas

Flash point

The lowest temp at which a liquid or solid gives off enough vapour to form flammable air vapour
mixture.

Evaporative equilibrium

If evaporation takes place in an enclosed area the escaping molecules accumulative as a vapour above
the liquid. Many of molequles return to the liquid with returing moluques becoming more frequent as
the density and pressure increases.

Evaporation rate

Rate at which how quickly the material becomes vapor at normal room temperature.
Minimum ignition temp

Minimum temp at which a heated cloud or layer ignites

Minimum explosible concentration

Concentration below which propagation of a flame does not occur when in contact with an ignition
source

Concentration below which propagation a flame does not occur when in contact with an