NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Element 5: Physical & Psychological health

Noise
Noise is defined as "any unwanted sound, And Under the Control of
Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (CNAW), noise is defined as: "Any
audible sound", This "Covers all sound which can result in hearing
impairment or be harmful to health or dangerous or annoying”

Frequency:- Measuring the pitch / tone of the sound waves, measured

in cycles per second or Hertz (Hz)
Human range is 20 Hz – 20 KHz

Intensity:- Measuring the loudness / amplitude of the sound waves

measured in decibel (dB)
Safe limit is 80 dB (8 hours per day 5 days a week)

Rule of 3
Every 3 dB increases means doubling the intensity i.e. 83 dB is double
the intensity of 80 dB
Health effects of noise
Acute Chronic
Psychological effects: such as
Annoyance, Irritability, Stress
nervousness, increased heart rate
and insomnia
Physiological effects: PTS (Permanent Threshold Shift)
TTS (Temporary Threshold Shift): also called NIHL (Noise Induced
instead of hearing everything Hearing Loss): which is a
normally starting from 0 dB & 20 physiological permanent damage
Hz, this will be shifted to a higher to the sensory hair cells in the
value e.g. 20 dB and 3000 Hz, for cochlea inside the inner ear,
a certain period of time, but normal affecting sounds within the audible
hearing comes back after some frequency range progressively
time of removal from the noise worsening with more exposure.
source
Temporary tinnitus (such as Permanent tinnitus
whistle or ringing sound in the ear
for a certain period of time)
Trauma e.g. Burst eardrum (sound Presbycusis (it’s the gradual,
waves causing perforation of the Natural & normal hearing loss
ear drum) caused by old age above 60 or 65
years old)
Blast deafness (complete hearing
loss caused by sudden loud noise)

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Risk factors (Factors increasing the risk from Noise)

- High Frequency in Hz
- High Intensity (Loudness) in dB
- Long Duration & frequency of exposure to noise
- Use of PPE (mis-use or non-use)
- Short distance between source of noise & person exposed to it
- The nature of the place (Environment), also closed or open place

Noise control measures / precautions

Source:

Eliminate or reduce the noise from the source by:

- Improving the design of the machine (Using silencers)
- Damping with absorbents
- Proper maintenance for the machine
- Isolation of machine (total enclosure)
- Relocation of the machine

Path:

Prevent/reduce transmission of noise through air or structures by using

- Screens and barriers
- Enclosure of the path from source to workers
- Absorption (absorbing sound waves)
- Silencer (diverting sound waves)

The Person:

- Increase the distance between the worker & the source of noise
- Reduce the duration & frequency of exposure to the noise
- Providing (it is)
- Placing the worker inside acoustic haven: an isolated booth
where the worker can stay inside and do his/her work protected
from the noise outside
- PPE such as ear plugs (small) & ear muffs (Big) also called ear
defenders
- Minimize wearing headphones whether for music or phone calls;
Use the 60X60 rule: 60 minutes of headphone use, at a volume
equal to 60% of the maximum of the device.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) /

Vibration White Fingers (VWF) / segmental vibration
Health Effects of HAVS (Symptoms & Signs of HAVS)
Acute: Numbness & Tingling in the hands and extremities
Chronic: - Permanent Numbness & Tingling
- Blanching of the fingers (Vibration White fingers)
- Swollen painful joints
- Damage to the nerves
- Reduction in the sensation of touch
- Reduction in the manual dexterity

Whole Body Vibration (WBV)

• The whole body is exposed & affected by vibration like when
driving in the desert, Drivers of certain tractors, seismic vibrators,
fork lift trucks and earth-moving machinery.
• Other workers at risk would be those that stand or sit on
equipment that vibrates

Health Effects of WBV include Headache, insomnia, chronic

Fatigue and Slipped disc

Risk Factors / Aggravating Factors (Factors increasing the risk)

- High frequency of the vibrating tools (in Hz)
- Force exerted (more than normally required)
- Long duration & high frequency of exposure to vibration
- Low temperature and cold weather (cold stress affecting
circulation)
- Individual factors e.g. old age & poor health condition

Control Measures for Vibration (HAVS & WBV)

- Automate or mechanise the job to eliminate the use of vibrating
hand tools such as using excavators
- Select the suitable tool, approved, in a good condition &
ergonomically designed equipment
- Proper maintenance of equipment and to be inspected before use
(Pre-use inspection)
- Reduce the degree of vibration (in Hz) as much as possible
- Reduce the force exerted & the strength of grip with work
equipment
- Reduce the duration of exposure to the vibration
- Health surveillance & treatment of any medical problem
- Use PPE such as Anti-Vibration Gloves and heated pads
- Providing (it is) on the nature of risks
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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Radiation
Non-Ionising (Radiation that does not cause ionisation in the
material that absorbs it.)
Type Occupational Sources & Use in Industry
Infrared (IR) Red hot steel, Heating, brazing, Glass manufacture
LASER & Visible Cutting, Bar code readers, LASER levelling device &
light LASER pointer
Microwaves Food preparation (Microwave Oven), Signal
transmission (Mobile phone antenna in
telecommunication)
Ultra-violet (UV) Sun light, Electric Arc Welding, Commercial tanning
Radio waves Radar and radio communications

Type Health effects Control measures

Infrared - Erythema (Redness of skin) Barrier cream, cover
(IR) - Burns to the skin exposed skin and protect
- Retinal burns the eyes. For example, a
- Cataract metal worker should wear
- Temporary sterility. overalls, gauntlets and a
face visor, goggles or
safety spectacles to
protect the eyes.
LASER &
Visible light Retinal burn; LASER is
Particularly dangerous to the PPE such as goggles and
eyes (because the retina is protective clothing,
very sensitive to it) could SSOW, Safe distance
cause retinal burn if it is very
intense (e.g. from a high-
powered laser).

Visible light can cause

temporary blindness if it is
intense (disability glare) and
even causes permanent eye
damage

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Microwaves since microwaves can be

absorbed internally, the
Microwaves are absorbed and control of exposure is
cause internal heating of the achieved in two main
skin, and High doses cause ways:
internal organ damage and 1- Maintain a safe
can be fatal. distance from the source
of the radiation (generator
or antenna). These types
of radiation obey the
inverse-square law, so
intensity levels drop off
very rapidly as distance
from the source is
increased.
2- Isolate (disconnect the
power) and lock off the
source if workers have to
approach inside safe
distances. This is
achieved by the use of
SSOW and permit-to-
work systems, and by
interlocking sources so
that power has to be
isolated in order to open
access gates/guards.

Ultra-violet - Erythema (redness of skin) Sun block cream, cover

(UV) - Skin Burns e.g. sun burn exposed skin; protect the
- Arc eye; pain and eyes. For example, a
inflammation to the cornea, welder should wear
which is the outer layer of the overalls with long sleeves
eye, leading to temporary to cover the forearms,
blindness known as gauntlets and a full-face
photokeratitis (often called Arc welding visor with a dark
eye or snow-blindness) filter to protect the eyes
- Increased risk of skin from UV and intense
cancer; premature aging of visible light.
the skin.

Radio Same like microwaves Same like microwaves

waves

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Risk factors & Control measures of non-ionizing radiation:

• Duration & frequency of exposure to the radiation

• Distance between the source & the worker
• Shielding
• Providing (it is)
• Proper maintenance & inspection of equipment (source of
radiation)
• PPE e.g. eye protection
• Skin creams (Barrier creams)

_________________________________________________________

Ionising Radiation (Radiation that causes ionisation in the material that

absorbs it)

Type Occupational Sources, Use in Industry & Shielding

Alpha particles Smoke detectors & anti static devices
(+ve charge) Stopped by: Paper, epidermis(upper layer of the skin) or
several centimetres of air
Beta particles Thickness testing & sterilisation of material
(-ve charge) Stopped by: Aluminium & Plastic
Gamma rays Non-Destructive Testing (Industrial radiography) & Radio
(neutral) therapy
Stopped / Reduced by: Lead (centimetres) or thick
concrete (metres)
X-Ray NDT, Radio diagnosis & Baggage security scanners
Stopped / Reduced by: Lead (centimetres) or thick
concrete (metres)

Three typical workplaces where various forms of ionising radiation

would exist: Nuclear power stations, scientific laboratories and
hospitals.

Health effects of ionizing radiation (including Radon)

Acute health effects (high dose) Chronic health effects (small dose)
Blistering and ulceration of the skin Carcinogenic effect (Cancer)
Erythema (Reddening of the skin)
Radiation sickness (Nausea & Mutagenic effect (Hereditary defects)
Vomiting)
Hair loss Teratogenic effect
Diarrhoea Sterility , erythema & cataract
Death Death

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Control measures & Risk factors of ionizing radiation :

Time:
- Reduce the Duration & frequency of exposure to the ionizing
radiation with providing adequate breaks and rest time as well as
using job rotation to avoid cumulative and chronic effect from the
exposure, as the dose of radiation received is directly proportional to
the duration of exposure: halve the duration, halve the dose.
- Selecting the radioactive material with the suitable Half life (Time
taken by 50% of the radioactive material to decay or become
inactive)

Distance:
- Increase the distance between the radioactive material & the people
exposed to it; to decrease the level of exposure decreasing the
biological risk & harmful effect, the greater the distance from the
radiation source to the exposed worker, the lower the dose of
radiation received. Alpha and beta particles cannot travel long
distances through air, so a relatively small separation distance can
have a significant effect. X- And gamma rays travel much greater
distances but obey the inverse-square law. This means that if the
distance from source to person is doubled, the dose of radiation
decreases to a quarter (rather than a half, as you might expect).

Shielding:
- Proper shielding (Plastic, Lead or thick concrete) between the source
and the people exposed according to the substance the type
required will be determined by the type of radiation. Relatively thin
shields can be used to contain alpha and beta-particle radiation; X-
and gamma-rays require thicker, denser material, such as lead.
- Where work potentially exposes people to ionising radiation it may
be necessary to assess the dose of radiation received.
- The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) has
recommended certain dose limits on exposure to ionising radiation
(measured in millisieverts (mSv) – a unit of radiation dose). These
state that:
- The general public shall not be exposed to more than 1 mSv per
year.
- Occupational exposure shall not exceed 20 mSv per year.
- These dose limits have been translated into statutory limits in most
countries.
- Those who are exposed to radiation over a specified national limit
may be known as classified workers.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Other Control measures for ionizing radiation:

- Isolation of the hazard by containment and total enclosure such

as with the use of glove boxes
- PPE e.g. gloves, lab coats, over shoes, and radiation suits
- Prohibiting eating and drinking in areas in unsealed radioactive
areas together with the need for a high standard of personal
hygiene to prevent spread and the covering of all breaks or open
wound in the skin with protective material
- Correct disposal of radioactive materials
- Providing (it is) to workers on the health risks involved and the
control measures to be applied; the preparation of emergency
plans
- Regular monitoring of the work area using Geiger counters as
well as personal monitoring using film badges & dosimeters
- Exclusion of particularly vulnerable groups such as young
persons and pregnant women
- Health surveillance: Workers who are exposed to radiation are at
risk of health effects arising from that exposure, so it may be
necessary to carry out health surveillance. This is usually
conducted by an approved physician.
The precise requirements will vary according to national law, but
circumstances requiring health surveillance may include:
Before an individual begins working as a classified worker (i.e.
someone who is exposed to radiation over a specified national
limit).
During periodic health reviews, e.g. annually.
Special surveillance if a dose limit has been exceeded.
After an individual ceases work as a classified worker.
- Special consideration may also be required for classified workers
who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- As part of this health surveillance, the following types of
examination may be carried out:
- Skin checks – to identify lesions that could allow radioactive
materials to enter the body.
- Respiratory checks – to ensure that workers who may be required
to wear respiratory protection are fit and able to do so.
- Reference to exposure records – checking employees’ records to
determine if dose limits have been exceeded.
- Reference to sickness records – examination of employees’
general health and absence history.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Mental ill health; Stress

Work related stress is:” The adverse reaction people have to

EXCESSIVE pressure placed on them (leading to harmful physical,
psychological and behavioural effects)’

Reasonable pressure is useful and beneficial because it's challenging,

stimulating and motivating the person to achieve his/her goals, BUT
excessive pressure leads to stress.

Physical effects Psychological effects Behavioural effects

Headache Increased anxiety Insomnia (Sleeplessness / Poor
sleep patterns)
Dizziness Low self esteem Reduced concentration
Tiredness, Aching Depression Poor decision-making ability
neck & shoulders
Skin rash, Panic attacks Mood swings & Sudden mood
sweating, muscle changes
tension
Prone to infections Irritability & nervousness
(vulnerable)
Raised heart rate Increased use of alcohol, pain
(Fast heartbeat) & killers & tobacco, drug misuse,
elevated blood
pressure
Diabetes Increased absence from work
Stroke & Heart Reduced work output /
disease performance
Stomach & mouth Inability to cope (unable to fit in
ulcers and become part of team work)

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Causes of stress and other mental ill health:

1. Culture of the organisation: How it approaches work-related

stress, e.g. communication, consultation, staff support systems,
and working hours; blame culture, job insecurity & fear of being
fired.
2. Demands: Workload too high or too low, and excessive overtime
3. Control: Poor work planning, no use of acquired skills, repetitive
or monotonous work;
4. Relationships between employees: Physical violence, threats
or verbal abuse e.g. repeated shouting and swearing, unjustified
picking of faults, prevention of career development; sexual
harassment & discrimination due to gender, race or disability;
5. Change: How organisational change is managed and
communicated in the organisation, e.g. new technology,
restructuring, redundancies (dismissal) and unclear objectives;
6. Role: Unclear roles & responsibilities, conflicting roles (conflict of
different job demands) such as working for more than one
manager; or unclear job description.
7. Individual: Lack of (it is), or skills not matched to the task.
8. Environment: inadequate lighting, reflections / glare on screens,
untidy working conditions, security problems, temperature
extremes and/or humidity, inadequate ventilation, high noise and
high vibration levels, inadequate welfare facilities and poor
weather conditions for those working outside.
9. Non-work related factors: are also a very significant cause of
stress, Non-Work related factors such as financial worries, family
commitments; Individuals will go through many difficult times in
their lives (e.g. bereavement, separation, family illness) that have
nothing to do with their work. Also, some individuals will be pre-
disposed to anxiety and the negative effects of pressure.
Though these factors are not work-related, they still have effects in
the workplace, so they do need to be considered.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Identification of Stress
 Stress within the organisation could be identified by:
 How management could know if there's a stress problem at
work:
 Information sources an employer could use to determine the
extent of work-related stress for workers within organisation:

 Informal observation & conversation with workers & supervisors;

 Performance appraisal with an opportunity for open discussion of
problems with the employees;
 Monitoring of attendance records and conducting ‘return to work’
interviews;
 Reduced productivity of the employees / inability to cope with
others
 Analysis of sickness absence / ill-health trends;
 High staff turnover (many employees quitting their job)

 The last two are the most definitive indications for Stress:
Absenteeism and high staff turnover

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Control Measures for Stress

• Demands – in terms of workload, speed of work and deadlines, etc.

- should be reasonable and, where possible, set in consultation with
workers. Working hours and work patterns should be carefully
selected with reference to guidance and worker preference. Flexible
working should be allowed, where possible. The nature of the job
should also be considered and workers selected on the basis of their
competence, skills and ability to cope with difficult or emotionally-
demanding work. Arrangements should be made to allow workers to
recover from high stress situations without fear of punishment.

• Control – workers should be given as much control of their work as

possible, especially where the work is demanding, i.e. encouraged
(where possible) to take control over:
– What work is to be done and how.
– Priorities
– The working environment.

• Support – workers should be provided with adequate information,

instruction and training; they should have access to additional
support when they need it.

• Relationships – clear policies should exist concerning acceptable

standards of behaviour in the workplace; bullying and harassment
should not be tolerated.

• Role – the organisation should be clear about what an individual’s

role actually is, their responsibilities and authority, and how they fit in
to the larger organisational structure. This should be clearly
Communicated to the workers and to others across the organisation.

• Change – there should be careful planning and preparation of the

change process. The reasons for change should be clearly
explained and workers consulted where possible. In some situations,
change is best done gradually to allow workers to adapt; in others, it
is better to implement change quickly to minimise the impact of
uncertainty.

Most people with mental ill-health can continue to work effectively,

many employers provide a confidential counseling service for
employees, which can be provided in-house (by trained employees) or
outsourced. This service can be useful to employees in dealing with
both work-related and non work-related matters.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Violence at work (Aggression)

Work related violence is "Any incident in which a person is abused,
threatened or assaulted in circumstances relating to their work"

 Verbal abuse / threats

 Physical attacks

Violence could also be classified into:

 Internal violence
 External violence

Risk Factors / Causes of Violence / Aggression

Certain Jobs, occupations and types of work are associated with an

increased risk of violence for the employees.

The following risk factors are common to those occupations & situations:

 Cash handling – any work that involves handling quantities of cash or

valuables puts workers at risk of violence associated with robbery.
 Lone working – any lone working that takes the worker into urban
areas, or puts them in contact with members of the public at remote or
private locations.
 Representing authority – any work where the worker represents
authority, such as police, traffic wardens, etc.
 Wearing a uniform – uniforms are often seen as a symbol of
authority, but even where they are not workers may still be singled out
for abuse.
 Dealing with people under stress – when people are under stress
they are less capable of handling their emotions and can lose control.
 Dealing with people under the influence - of drugs and alcohol, or
with mental-health problems, when normal inhibitions on behaviour
have been affected.
 Censuring or saying no – workers who have to give warnings,
penalties, fines, or who have to refuse a service, or say no (e.g. bar
staff).

Examples of Jobs / Activities / Occupations at high risk of violence

(Related to the above risk factors)
Customer care, Call centres, Taxi drivers , Health care professionals,
School teachers, custom service & Call centre, Cash transactions,
Delivery/collection of money, Representing authority e.g. policemen &
enforcement officers
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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Control measures / Preventive and Precautionary Measures for

violence in offices or while conducting home visits:

- Providing (it is): on absorbing anger, how to recognise early signs

of aggressive behaviour & how to deal with it wisely
- Providing information on delays (so as not to give anyone a
reason to become violent)
- Proper queue management (to avoid things like people fighting
together in case of not organising the work)
- Welcoming environment & nice decor (to help people relax and
being in a good mood)
- Checking visitors’ credentials (IDs) so as to be known for security
- Safe & secure design of workplace e.g. wide counters, coded
locked doors & physical barriers
- Security officers & CCTV cameras for monitoring
- Good means of Communication & alarm systems
- Regular removal of cash from the workplace
- Avoid Lone working; safe precautions for lone workers especially
during conducting home visits, for example by a nurse,
Precautions such as Visit-logging with a supervisor, Pre- and
post-visit telephone calls, Training for staff, e.g. lone-working
procedures, break-away techniques (self-defence), etc., Always
having a means of communication (e.g. mobile phone), No visits
after dark, Parking in secure areas, Not carrying cash or
valuables.
- Reporting, recording and investigating violent incidents
- Zero tolerance of aggressive behaviour

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Substance abuse / misuse at work:

- Alcohol, Solvents, Legal drugs and illegal drugs e.g. Narcotics

Substance abuse may result in serious problems for the workers, and
for the employers and for anyone else involved in the incident.

Symptoms of alcohol and drug abuse:

• Being late to work.
• Increased absenteeism.
• Reduction in quality of work (reduced work performance)
• Reduction in work rate and achievements.
• Dishonesty.
• Theft.
• Irritability and mood swings.
• Deterioration in working relationships.
• Alcohol and drug abuse at work can lead to many physical problems
(e.g. sensory impairment; liver damage) and psychological problems
(e.g. lack of awareness of danger near high risk machinery,
depression and nervousness).

 Causes of substance abuse: Addiction (Dependence) , Stress,

Personal issues, History of mental illness, Neglect or other
childhood trauma, Poor social skills or lack of social support
structure, Peer pressure or the belief that drug abuse is not a bad
thing.

Control measures & Precautions: Establishment of a clear drugs

and alcohol policy which might contain the following:
• Rules restricting access to alcohol in the workplace or during
working hours.
• Statutory legal requirements prohibiting workers from being under
the influence of drugs and alcohol and non-statutory requirements
set by the employer prohibiting workers from being under the
influence of drugs and alcohol.
• Arrangements for any random drugs and alcohol testing that
workers will be subject to (What is the Best strategy?)
• Rehabilitation and treatment programmes for workers if they
admit to having a problem.
• Disciplinary procedures for those who refuse assistance, to be
tested or who fail a test.
• Provision of information, instruction and training to workers,
supervisors and managers; (it is) = awareness campaigns about
the devastating consequences of drugs & alcohol
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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Element 6: Musculoskeletal health

Ergonomics: The relation & interaction between the worker & the work
including tools, equipment e.g. the ease of use of control panels,
workplace environment e.g. suitability of lighting & organisational factors
e.g. patterns of work (how to fit the work to the worker)

OR: Ergonomics is the study of designing equipment and devices that

fit the human body, its movements, and its cognitive abilities.

The aim of ergonomics is to minimise ill-health effects and optimise

efficiency by matching the tools and the workplace to the needs of the
individual.
This means taking into account both a person’s physical factors (such
as height, shape, muscle strength, etc.) and their mental attributes
(such as processing speed, decision-making ability, etc.).
So, ergonomic principles can be applied to a manual- handling
operation to reduce the risk of injury.
Please refer to ISO 6385 Ergonomics principles in the design of work
systems.

WRULDs (Work Related Upper Limb Disorders)

Examples for WRULDs / ill health conditions associated with

WRULDs

 Tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons: which is connecting the

muscles to the bones)
 Epicondylitis (inflammation of the elbow bone)
 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Pain in the hands and fingers caused
by pressure on the nerves in the hand)

Symptoms & Signs of Work-Related Upper Limb Disorders

(WRULDs):

Numbness & tingling in fingers

Pain in hands or arms
Restriction of joint movement
Soft tissue swelling

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Causes & Risk factors of WRULDs and MSD / Ergonomic factors

influencing risk of WRULDs and MSD:

 Task
 Environment
 Equipment
 Worker

- Long Duration & high frequency of operation

- Force exerted (if not moderate force or more effort than needed)
- Repetitive movements of fingers, hands or arms such as using
Screwdrivers, keyboard operation, assembly of small components,
Bricklaying and checkout operators; WITHOUT adequate breaks, rest
Or recovery time
- Awkward Posture (abnormal & uncomfortable position of the arm such
As Twisting movements, Squeezing, Hammering, Pushing, pulling or
Over reaching movements)
- Vulnerability e.g. smokers or existing medical condition
- Constraints on space(no enough space available for comfortable work)
- Poor Environmental conditions (low temperature)
- Equipment design – the shape of the equipment and how this affects
Ease of use (e.g. a large, shaped handle on a scraper makes it easier
to hold and use).
- Equipment adjustability – the scope available for the user to adjust the
Equipment to suit their personal requirements (e.g. the height of the
seat for a computer user).

MSD & WRULDs Control measures: Improve / fix above causes &
risk factors PLUS:

- Automate or mechanise task e.g. using power tools

- Use suitable, correct tools and equipment: well maintained and
Ergonomically designed
- Use the required PPE such as gloves
- Providing (it is) .....

So, The control of ergonomic risk can be achieved by making changes

to the previously mentioned four factors:

 Task and the way that it is done;

 Environment
 Equipment, tools and machinery; and
 Worker

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Health effects of computer & DSE use (Display Screen Equipment)

- Work Related Upper limb disorders (WRULDs) such as Carpal Tunnel

Syndrome
- Eye and eyesight effects (Dryness, fatigue, or strain on the eyes from
excessive glare, poor lighting, screen flicker, etc.)
- Epilepsy (Trigger epileptic fits)
- Facial dermatitis
- Electromagnetic radiation & effect on pregnant women
- Body aches, stress, Discomfort and muscle strains from being
required to make movements such as over-reaching, continuously
getting up and down, turning, twisting, etc. Also, poor seating design
and positioning in relation to workstation items and tasks, as well as
Poor positioning of keyboards and display screens can contribute to
this.
- General fatigue due to temperature difference (either too high or low),
humidity, monotony, poorly placed controls, or difficult-to-read
displays.
- Headaches from excessive glare, noise or poor lighting.

These ill-health effects of poorly designed tasks and workstations

(ANY Workstation not only DSE or computers)

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Computer and DSE control measures & Precautions:

1- General control measures for computer & DSE use:

- Adequate breaks (regular & mini breaks)
- Eye sight testing & medical check-up
- Providing (it is) on the safe use of DSE

2- Workstation minimum requirements (safe requirements)

- Adequate lighting (general & local lighting)
- Low noise
- Enough legroom
- Windows to allow natural lighting & ventilation
- Screen at eye level & suitable distance
- Keyboard at suitable level & suitable distance
- Suitable software
- Organized work surface
- Foot rest if necessary
- Document holder if needed
- Suitable seat / work chair (See below)

 Characters of the Suitable seat work chair - Ergonomically

Designed

- Good lumbar support

- Arm rests
- Comfortable material with good width and depth
- Adjustable (Ability to adjust seat back and height)
- Stable base (5 legs or 5 points of contact with the ground)
- Wheels for easy movement
- Ability to swivel

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Manual Handling
Manual Handling Injuries
External: Cuts, bruises (Contusions), abrasions, Burns
Internal: Fractures, Slipped Disc (Prolapsed Disc), Muscle Strain,
Tendon tears, ligament tears, joint dislocation, Hernia

Activities at risk
- Handling excessive loads
- Repetitive handling without adequate breaks or recovery time
- Prolonged handling of loads especially if including excessive:
Bending, stooping, twisting & over reaching

Factors affecting the manual handling risk:

Load

Weight, Size, Shape, Rigidity, Difficulty to grasp, Stability (centre of

gravity), Sharp edges, Hot / cold surface, Content (hazardous or not)
etc.

Individual

Gender (male or female)

Physical capability, energy, Stamina, Height, pregnancy or illness
Competence (Manual handling Training, physical abilities & experience)
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) e.g glove & steel toe safety shoes

Task

Number of boxes needed to be lifted

Duration & frequency of the job
Vertical & Horizontal distance where the load will be lifted to.
Job rotation / sufficient rest or recovery (breaks)
Team lifting
Any need for excessive pulling, pushing, twisting, bending & over-
reaching.

Environment
Constraints on Space / need to adopt awkward posture
Floor condition & type of floor surface
Level of housekeeping
Hot/Cold/ humid conditions or strong wind
Environmental factors e.g. Lighting
remember LITE

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Hierarchy of control to reduce manual handling injuries:

- Avoid manual handling (automate or mechanise the job by using
forklifts, cranes, hoists or conveyors)
- Team lifting (several workers to handle large loads)
- Using manually operated load handling aids (Mechanical aids)
e.g. Trolley, sack trucks, Pallet trucks or Wheelbarrow.
- Dividing the load into smaller packages (reduce weight)
- Reduce duration & frequency of manual handling task
- Provide adequate breaks and recovery time
- Avoid stooping & twisting by modifying workstation
- PPE e.g. gloves & safety shoes
- Provide (it is) on manual handling training, etc.
- Follow safe system of work (safe handling technique) 

 Safe handling technique / Kinetic Handling Technique / safe way

of lifting a box / Good Practice of lifting a box (Manual Handling)

Before lifting:

- Plan the job = Mental lifting

- Check the load (make sure it’s weight is not too heavy, well
secured, no sharp edges and it's safe for lifting)
- Assess the route (check the way ensure it's clear & well lit)
- Get as Close as possible to the load with suitable feet position
- Ensure secure & firm grip with PPE e.g. gloves & safety shoes

During The lift

- Lift the load using the correct technique: bend the knees; keep
the back straight; hold the load close to the body while walking;
avoid twisting and jerking.

Finishing & setting down

- Same principles as lifting; maintain a good balance

- Put down the load then slide into position.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Mechanical lifting equipment

(Powered Load Handling Equipment / Mechanical Handling)

1- Forklifts (See page 49)

2- Conveyors
3- Cranes
4- Hoists

2- CONVEYORS

Hazard Control measures & Precautions

Entanglement Guards, No loose clothes or long hair
Drawing in Pop out rollers, nip guards
Cuts - Sharp edges Edge protection, eliminate edges
Items jamming conveyor Adequate design, guards
Fall of objects Edge guards, barriers
Riding or crossing conveyor Bridges, complete enclosure
Impact with objects Helmets
Noise Ear plugs
Manual handling Mechanical handling & (it is)
Electricity Maintenance & good selection

3- Hazards of CRANES
Fall of people .....
Fall of objects .....
Collapse .....
Overturn .....
Contact with overhead services .....

Types of CRANES
Mobile
Tower
Gantry
Overhead Gantry

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Factors that might make a mobile crane unstable, over turn or

topple over:

• Overloading the crane beyond its lifting capacity.

• If the crane is on uneven or unstable ground.
• Failure to use the outriggers (legs) correctly.
• Using the crane in high winds.
• Extending the jib of the crane too far out for the weight being lifted.
• Structural failure of parts (perhaps due to lack of maintenance).

4- Types / Examples of HOISTS

- Chain hoist
- Goods hoist
- Persons hoist (Patients or rescue hoist)

 Same hazards & control measures as working at height

Precautions & general requirements for ANY safe mechanical

lifting operation e.g. Safe use of Cranes

- Suitable certified crane, well maintained & in a good condition.

- Suitable certified, colour coded lifting accessories & correct
slinging technique
- Competent crane operators & banks men using good means of
communications & agreed signals.
- Suitable ground conditions (firm levelled surface)
- Use of ALL outriggers
- Clear pathway avoiding any obstructions.
- Avoiding overhead services such as power lines
- Segregation of working area by using barriers & warning signs so
NO one could walk under the load.
- Visual & Audible alarms to warn that lifting is taking place.
- Load to be lifted vertically and to correct height & kept near
ground when travelling.
- Ensure load is secured, balanced & guided by tag lines.
- Avoid exceeding WLL (Working Load Limit) known before as SWL
(Safe Work Load)
- Ensure Good visibility with adequate lighting & reduced noise.
- Ensure suitable weather conditions and stop the lifting operation
in adverse weather conditions e.g. strong wind
- PPE e.g. Gloves, steel toe safety shoes and reflective jackets
- When the load is placed on the ground; Release the tension first
to avoid load tackling.
- Using Rigger (Slinger) "The competent person responsible for
preparing and slinging a load in readiness for a crane lift, and for
attaching or detaching load slings from the crane hook"
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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Element 7: Chemical & biological

agents
Respiratory defences (Body defences against dust)
- The hair in the nose acting as a filter to purify the air from the dust
particles.
- Wetness of the nose (mucus) so the dust would stick to it & will
be trapped and will go no further inside the lung.
- The change of direction to the larynx so the dust particles in the
air would stick to the nasal wall.
- Sneezing and coughing which would expel the dust outside the
respiratory system.
- Turbulent motion of the air in the nose leading to the centrifugal
force which will throw the dust to the sides sticking to the mucus
- Ciliary escalator in the trachea : The hair cells in the respiratory
tract pushing the particles upwards till it reach the throat where it
could be removed from the body
- The immunity system of the body: White Blood Cells (WBC) in the
alveoli
- Fibrosis of the lung: isolating the affected non-functioning part
from the rest of the healthy lung
- Tears and blinking of the eyes (not part of the respiratory
defences)

Digestive defences (Body defences against ingested substances)

- Digestive juices & enzymes, the useful bacteria and the strong
acid (HCl) which could destroy the harmful substances inside the
stomach.
- Vomiting & diarrhoea which get rid of the toxins and the harmful
substance out of the body.
- Smell & taste protecting the person from eating or drinking
harmful substances or bad food.

Skin defences
- Sweating: Cooling down the temperature of the body
- Keratin: Forming the protective hard layer of the skin
- Melanin: Responsible for the pigmentation of the skin, more
melanin makes the skin darker providing more protection from the
sun and ultra violet light
- Sebum: The oily substance secreted by the skin to prevent it from
dryness
- Hair: Protecting and filtering the skin
- Sensory nerves: The sense of touch in the skin
- Blisters, rash and inflammation to fight any infection of the skin

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Other defences (General body defences)

- Tears & Blinking of the eye (cleaning the eye and preventing
dryness)
- Pain (which is an alarm that there's a problem to look after)
- Hormones e.g. Adrenaline

Types of Dermatitis (Eczema):

1- Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD)
2- Allergic (Sensitive) Contact Dermatitis (ACD)

Symptoms & Signs of dermatitis: Starting with mild irritation of the

skin, develops into Inflammation of the skin, forming blisters, rash,
swelling, redness, hotness, Dryness and cracking of skin, and in the
severe cases: Ulcers & infections

Protective measures against dermatitis (Precautions / Control

measures of dermatitis)
- Eliminate the dermatitic substance / reduce the amount
- Substitution by a less hazardous one
- Reduce duration & frequency of exposure to the substance
- Medical check-up for the workers
- Good hygiene practices e.g. washing hands carefully & ban eating in
workplace
- Use the required PPE e.g. gloves and coveralls
- Using the suitable Barrier creams
- Extractor fans & LEV
- Providing (it is)

Dose-response relationship
ALL substances are poisons; there is NONE which is not a poison;
ONLY the right dose differentiates a poison and a remedy.

Target Organ: The part OR parts of the body which could be affected
by an external substance.
Example: Inhalation of asbestos fibres will affect the lung causing
asbestosis & lung cancer SO the lung is the target organ for asbestos

Other examples: Mercury, Lead  brain & nervous system

Ammonia  eyes, skin & lungs
Organic solvents  liver, skin & lungs
- Also see examples for target organs page 33 & 34
 Local effect: The effect of the substance happens at the same
point of contact

 Systemic effect: The effect of the substance happens away from

the point of contact

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

 Acute effect: Adverse health effects resulting from single or

short term exposure to a large dose of the harmful substance
producing an immediate or rapid effect, it is usually reversible.
EXAMPLE: Alcohol intoxication due to drinking large amount of
alcohol in short time.

 Chronic effect: Adverse health effects resulting from prolonged

& repeated exposure to a small dose of the harmful substance
producing a gradual & latent effect which usually stays
unrecognized for several years, it is usually irreversible.
EXAMPLE: Drinking small amount of alcohol for many years could lead
to cirrhosis (Liver damage)
_________________________________________________________

The four stages of Occupational Health (Hygiene) practice

1- Identification of health hazards
2- Measurement of health hazards
3- Assessment of health hazards
4- Control of health hazards

1- Identification of health hazards:

Forms of chemical agents:

- Dust: Total inhalable AND Respirable (0.5 – 7.0 micron)
- Fume
- Mist
- Fibres
- Smoke
- Gas
- Vapour
- Liquid

Forms of biological agents:

- Fungi such as Yeast, Rot, Mould, and Mushroom
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Parasites such as Bilharzia
_____________________________________________________

Routes of entry into the body (Chemical agents)

- Inhalation (Through mouth or nose to the respiratory system)
- Ingestion (Take in or swallow through mouth to digestive system)
- Injection (Puncturing the skin by syringe or needle etc.)
- Absorption (Through the skin or eyes)
- Direct entry (through open wounds)

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Classification of Hazardous Substances / Types or classes of

health hazards

Corrosive: Substances which on contact with living tissue may destroy

it and cause burns
Example: acids (such as sulphuric acid) and alkalis (such as caustic
soda)

Irritant: Non-corrosive substances which through immediate, prolonged

or repeated contact with skin or mucous membrane may cause
inflammation (Dermatitis)
Example: Petrol, cement, weak acids & alkalis

Harmful: Substances which if ingested, inhaled or absorbed by the skin

may cause damage to health (cause diseases / ill health)
Example: Petrol, cement

Toxic: A poisonous substance which may cause DEATH

Example: Arsenic

Very Toxic: A poisonous substance which may cause DEATH even in

small dose (low quantity)
Example: Cyanide

Carcinogenic: Substances which may cause malignant tumours

(cancer): which is Abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells.

“Carcinogens are Substances & exposures that can lead to cancer”.

When a substance or exposure has been labelled a carcinogen, it

means it has been studied extensively by researchers, and one or more
agencies have evaluated the evidence and determined it to be a cause
of cancer” www.cancer.org

Example: Asbestos, Alcohol, Coal (Coke production), Hepatitis B and C

virus, HIV causing AIDS, Ionizing radiation (all types), Outdoor air
pollution, Tobacco smoking, Welding fumes and Processed meat:
Processed meats are any meats that aren’t fresh, so it’s a meat that has
been treated in some way to preserve or flavour it; through salting,
curing, fermenting, and smoking, such as sausages, hot dogs, canned
meat, salami, Pepperoni and deli meat (cold meat) — whether red (like
roast beef or ham) or white (like turkey or chicken).

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Mutagenic: Substances which cause changes to the chromosomes

(DNA / genetic material) leading to hereditary defects in the offspring of
the affected person.
Example: Bromine & Benzene

Teratogenic (Reproductive Toxin): Substances which cause harmful

effects to the embryo (baby) inside the uterus of the pregnant woman.
Example: Drugs & medications

Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Known before as

Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
= Information on hazard data sheet

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provides basic information on a

material or chemical product. It contains information on the
properties and potential hazards of the material, how to use it
safely, and what to do if there is an emergency.

1- Identification of the substance & Manufacturers …

2- Hazard identification …
3- Composition & information on ingredients ...
4- First aid measures …
5- Fire fighting measures ...
6- Accidental release measures ...
7- Handling & Storage ...
8- Exposure control & Personal protection ...
9- Physical & Chemical properties ...
10- Stability & Reactivity ...
11- Toxicological information ...
12- Ecological information ...
13- Disposal consideration ...
14- Transport information ...
15- Regulatory information ...
16- Other …

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL)

Also known as Workplace Exposure Limits (WEL), Threshold Limit
Values (TLV), Maximum Allowable Concentrations, Maximum
permissible Concentrations, or Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), Time
Weighted Average (TWA)

Occupational Exposure limit (OEL) is "the concentration in the air of a

harmful substance which does not cause adverse health effects
including long-term effects and effects on future generations (in the light
of present scientific knowledge)."

OR

Occupational exposure limit (OEL) is "an upper limit of the acceptable

concentration of a hazardous substance in workplace air for a particular
material or class of materials. It is typically set by competent national
authorities and enforced by legislation to protect occupational safety
and health of the workers."

• Long-term exposure limit (LTEL) 8 hour/day 5 day/week

• Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 15 minute/day 5 day/week

Limits are expressed in:

– ppm (parts per million) for gases and vapours
– mg/m3 for airborne particles such as dust and fume

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 NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

2- Measurement of health hazards:

THREE survey techniques:-

1) Initial appraisal: Gathering information such as OEL, details of

the substances used, people affected, types of hazards, risks,
and precautions; FROM different sources such as Product labels,
MSDS, manuals, experts, Guidance documents e.g. UK HSE
Guidance Note EH40, EU list of Indicative Limit Values, ACGIH
list of Threshold Limit Values (US)

2) Basic survey:

 Qualitative observations: Smoke tube & Dust lamp

 Quantitative observations: Stain tube detector (Grab sampler)

Diagram of Chemical stain tube detector (Grab Sampler)

Glass tube Direction of flow

READ

1 2 3 5 1020

Porous
Fused tip Pre-layer granules, Fused tip
e.g. silica gel,
chemical
reagent Scale
divisions

Advantages Disadvantages
Low cost Inaccurate
Takes little time Positioning of tube affects reading
Immediate result Only a snapshot
Little training needed Limited shelf life (short expiry date)
Information during spillage Chemical use only (gas & vapour)
Good for coarse indication Substance specific

3) Full survey:

 Direct reading instruments: such as multi gas detector and

Carbon dioxide gas analyzer

 Indirect reading instruments:

 Passive (by diffusion) such as Radiation Badge (Film Badge)
 Active (powered by mechanical pump) such as Dust Monitoring
Equipment

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3- Assessment of health hazards:

Risk assessment (5 STEPS AS USUAL - IGC1 page 27)

4- Control of health hazards:

Eliminate: remove the substance or avoid the activity.

Example: Pressure jetting a blocked drain instead of using
dissolving chemicals

Reduce: reduce the risk by:

- Reducing the amount or the concentration of the hazardous

substance
- Substituting the material with a less hazardous one e.g. using
water based paint instead of solvent based paint OR using
granular material instead of fine powder

Isolate:

- Total Enclosure of the machine inside a glove box

- Worker to be isolated inside a ventilated control room

Control

- Engineering Control: LEV & adequate maintenance for equipment

- Administrative control: Change the work pattern or method, job
rotation, reducing duration & frequency of exposure to health
hazard, adequate breaks, good levels of Hygiene and
housekeeping & providing the needed (it is)

PPE:
- Respiratory protection such as breathing apparatus to protect
from chlorine or ammonia.
- Hand & skin protection such as gloves to protect from detergents
or solvents.
- Eye protection such as goggles to protect from corrosives or
ammonia.
- Protective clothing such as chemical splash suits to protect from
acids & biological agents.
- Skin creams (Barrier creams)

Discipline .......

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Labelled diagram of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)

LEV may become inefficient because of:-

- Failure of operators to use it properly (incompetence)

- Lack of proper maintenance
- Unauthorised modifications
- Incorrect settings
- Hood damaged or not well positioned
- Blocked / damaged ducts
- Full / damaged dust collection bags
- Blocked / damaged filter
- Wear & tear of fan blades
- Increased contaminant level
- Poor design of the LEV (inadequate capacity)

Checks / inspection of LEV: Opposite of the above factors.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Examples of chemical agents, hazardous / Toxic substances & Target

Organs

 Ammonia
Strongly corrosive alkaline colourless gas with a pungent odour.
Affecting the skin, eyes & the lungs.
Leading to eye irritation, dermatitis, inflammation of the lungs and in the
large concentrations can cause blindness, Pulmonary oedema (fluid in
the lungs) and emphysema (Abnormal presence of extra air in lung
tissue) . Eye protection and respiratory protection are essential.

 Asbestos
Affecting the lungs causing 1- Asbestosis (non-cancerous Fibrosis of
the lungs with formation of a collagenous scar tissue), 2- Lung cancer
(cancer of the lung tissue) 3- Mesothelioma (cancer of the membranes
surrounding the lungs.)

 Carbon Dioxide CO2

Colourless and odourless gas which is heavier than air.
Affecting the lungs increasing the rate of respiration and high levels
inhibit / depress the rate of respiration leading to fainting & even death

 Carbon Monoxide CO
More toxic than CO2, Colourless and odourless and tasteless gas.
Caused by incomplete combustion occurs e.g. boilers, vehicle exhausts
Affecting the lungs & the blood causing headache, drowsiness, flushed
“pink” appearance and ultimately asphyxiation and death

 Chlorine
A greenish toxic gas with a pungent smell.
Affecting the eyes & the respiratory system causing severe irritation.

 Lead
A heavy, soft and easily worked metal. Can enter body by eating
contaminated food or by breathing fumes or dust.
Affecting the brain & the nervous system causing acute lead poisoning
Resulting in nausea, headaches, nervous problems and in severe cases
causing death.

 Organic Solvents
These dissolve other substances & are also used as cleaning &
degreasing agents. They are volatile & evaporate quickly at room
temperature so their vapours can be breathed easily.
Affecting the skin, nasal passages, throat, lungs, eyes, & the liver.
Effects may be headaches, nausea, dizziness & loss of consciousness
and in extreme cases leading to death.

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 Isocyanates
Organic compounds widely used in industry for products such as spray
painting of vehicles and production of polyurethane rubbers and foams.
Affecting the nasal passages, throat & the lungs leading to lung
Inflammation & asthma.

 Silica
Found in sand, granite & glass
Affecting the lungs as breathing silica could lead to serious fibrosis and
lung disease = silicosis

 Dust
Affecting the respiratory system causing asthma, bronchitis,
emphysema and conditions such as asbestosis or Silicosis if
the dust contains asbestos or silica.

Dust Identification (How to know if there's dust problem at work):

- Poor visibility or Visual signs of dust in the air or deposited on
surfaces or clothes
- Eye problems: Excessive tears & blinking of the eyes
- Respiratory problems: coughing, sneezing, breathing difficulty
- Maintenance problems e.g. abnormal blocking of filters
- Results of monitoring using dust lamps or smoke tube

Control measures for dust:

- Elimination of dusty operation (outsourcing)
- Bringing pre-formed components
- Substitution e.g. granules or paste instead of powders
- Enclosure of the dusty operation or machines
- Extractor fans & Local exhaust ventilation (LEV)
- Vacuuming instead of sweeping
- Damping down the dust by spraying water
- Providing (it is) on work & proper use of equipment to reduce dust
- Reduce duration & frequency of the dusty operations
- Reduce duration & frequency of exposure to dust
- Reduce number of workers exposed to dust
- Isolation of workers in ventilated control room
- PPE: Respiratory protective equipment e.g. dust mask
- Medical check up & Health surveillance with medical treatment for
any health problem

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Biological Agents
 Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease)

Bacterial infection transmitted to humans by ingesting anything

contaminated with rat urine.

The bacteria is called Leptospira

The most common source is in construction sites, sewers, river water,

water sports (swimming pools), etc.

Symptoms & Signs: Flu like symptoms (Fever, sneezing, coughing &
headache), Pneumonia, meningitis & Jaundice.

Fatal in 20% of the cases (Attacks the kidneys & liver)

Precautions & Control measures: Pest control, PPE, covering damaged

skin, Education & Providing (it is), good hygiene & housekeeping

 Legionellosis (Legionnaire’s disease)

Bacterial infection transmitted to human by inhaling airborne bacteria

found in water sources such as air conditioning systems, cooling
towers, stagnant water etc.

The Bacteria is called Legionella.

Symptoms & Signs: Flu like symptoms (Fever, sneezing, coughing &
headache), Pneumonia & difficulty in breathing

Fatal in 20% of the cases.

Those at greatest risk are smokers or old people with chest problems.

Precautions & Control measures: Temperature control and monitoring,

avoiding stagnation & avoiding “dead legs” in pipe work, biocide
treatment, effective cleaning & maintenance, Testing and sampling for
water, Education & Provide (it is)

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

 Viral Hepatitis A, B and C

Inflammation of the liver caused by viral infection.

Hepatitis A transmitted through ingesting food contaminated with faeces

of infected person.

Hepatitis B & C are blood-borne = transmitted by blood & body fluids.

Hepatitis B & C infections could become chronic: lasts more than six
months.

Infection of Hepatitis B & C can happen:

 as an infected mother gives birth
 during sexual activity
 Through sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection
equipment
 Through unsafe tattoo techniques
 By sharing personal hygiene items such as razors or
toothbrushes

Symptoms & Signs of viral hepatitis:

- Inflammation of the liver (Rising in liver enzymes & increase of body

toxins causing tiredness, abdominal pain and general body aches, and
general sense of feeling unwell)
- Fever (increase in body temperature 38oC or above)
- Nausea (feeling sick and vomiting) and Loss of appetite
- Malaise (weakness, fatigue and feeling lazy)
- Jaundice (Yellowish brown discolouration of the skin and the eyes)
- At the end It can cause fibrosis and scarring of the liver tissue, liver
failure, and liver cancer.

Precautions & Control measures: Vaccination (immunisation),

disinfection, Education (it is), good hygiene practices, Proper disposal of
Contaminated waste and Avoiding sharp implements.

Routes of entry into the body (Biological agents)

- Inhalation (Through mouth or nose to the respiratory system)

- Ingestion (Take in or swallow through mouth to digestive system)
- Injection (Puncturing the skin by syringe or needle etc.)
- Direct entry (through open wounds)

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Element 8: General workplace

issues
Hazards to pedestrians
- Slips, trips and falls
- Falls from height
- Hit by (struck by) moving, flying or falling objects
- Hit against (struck against) fixed (stationary) objects e.g. narrow or low
doorways OR glass doors
- Collision with moving vehicles

Causes of slips, trips & falls / Slip & trip hazards / Causes of
accidents on walkways or staircases / Problems to safe movement
of people in the workplace

1- Old age e.g. above 60 years old (may have chronic diseases)
2- Sensory impairment e.g. Uncorrected Poor eyesight
3- Unsuitable foot wear (not appropriate to the surface)
4-Slippery surface e.g. polished floor or absence of slip resistant floors
5- Spillage e.g. oil on floor or during the floor cleaning
6- Lack of (it is) ...
7- Poor environmental conditions such as insufficient lighting / limited
vision because of the dust or fog
8- Uneven surface (Presence of bumps or holes)
9- Moving from one kind of floor surface to another (from dry to wet)
10- Carrying heavy loads causing unbalance / carrying large loads
causing obstruction to the vision
11- Poor physical condition / ill health / consciousness problems e.g.
Pregnancy or disability
12- Rainy weather without suitable drainage system to get rid of excess
water
13- Poor housekeeping / Obstacles on the walkway (e.g. protrusions)
14- Bad organisation / poor layout of the work place e.g. Furniture or
equipment not well organized
15- Lack of enough attention / distractions and not concentrating
16- Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol ....
17- Fatigue & exhaustion of the workers .....
18- Loose / Untied shoe laces may be trapped in steps causing falls
19- Poor emergency procedures: people crowding, panicking & rushing
to evacuate
20- Not using the handrails while on the stairs to keep the balance
21- Not keeping 3 points of contact while using ladders
22- Walking backwards e.g. banks man
23- Broken steps / steps of different heights
24- Running, jumping & Horseplay
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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Working at height
Hazards / Risks of working at height
Fall of people ....
Fall of objects ....
Collapse of the working platform (Structure failure) ....
Overturn of the working platform (Stability failure) ....
Contact with overhead services .....

Control measures & precautions:

- Avoid working at height by using long tools to do job from ground

level or automate / mechanise the job e.g. using cranes
- Issue permit to work authorized by the responsible persons
before starting the job
- Reduce the height as much as possible
- Reduce duration & frequency of working at height
- Providing (it is) .... or competent workers (KATE .....) - the same
- Using suitable working platform, carrying out pre use inspection &
regular maintenance
- PPE e.g. Helmets with strap as well as using safety harness and
fall arrestors
- Falling protection and Edge protection: Life line, guard rail, toe
boards, barriers, Safety net, Air bags and soft fall beanbags.
- Ensure safe access & egress to the work place
- Barricade / cordon off the area underneath using caution tape
and barriers, and warning signs and posters
- All workers and visitors at the area underneath should be wearing
the suitable PPE (hard hats)

Control measures & precautions of working on ANY roof:

The above precautions of working at height PLUS:

- Using crawl boards (To distribute the weight of the worker on a

large surface area to avoid damaging the roof and falling down by
the localized pressure on small area)

- Locating & covering the lights on the roof (if any) as they're
considered weak points and could easily be damaged leading to
falls and fatal injuries.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Hazards of ladders
Fall of people ...
Fall of objects ....
Collapse of the ladder ....
Overturn of the ladder ...
Contact with overhead services ...

Control measures & precautions of using ladders:

- Ladders should never be used as a working platform (no one

should be allowed to work while he is sitting or standing on a
ladder) EXCEPT for short term jobs (Light work of short duration;
a maximum of 30 minutes at a time = Using Podium)
- Ladder resting with both feet (with rubber ends) on a levelled firm
floor
- Distance between the ladder & the wall in the ratio 1 : 4
- Rested & fixed against solid surface
- Suitable for the task, approved, NOT painted, inspected & in a
good condition
- Fixed and secured at the top & bottom
- Three steps extra length at the top to maintain stability & balance
- Clean firm non-slip steps
- Only one person at a time
- Keeping three points of contact with the ladder at all times
- PPE e.g. gloves, safety shoes, coveralls & helmets with straps
- Used only by Competent workers (KATE .....)

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Independent tied Scaffold

Control measures & precautions of Independent tied Scaffold

- Designed, erected, altered, dismantled, inspected & maintained

by competent certified people
- Scaffold should be inspected before each shift, periodically, after
adverse weather conditions like sand storm or after any accident
or incident that could affect the scaffold
- Should be suitable for the job & certified (Use scaff-tag)
- Use of guard rails, toe boards, life lines and other edge protection
- Stop work in adverse weather conditions e.g. strong wind
- Provide (it is) = Competence of the workers (KATE .....)
- PPE e.g. helmets with strap & safety harness
- Avoid overloading and never exceed SWL (Safe Working Load;
also called WLL Working Load Limit) which is the maximum
working load designed by the manufacturer, This represents a
mass or force that is less than that required to make the lifting
equipment break or fail.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Mobile Tower Scaffold (Rolling Scaffold)

Hazards

Fall of people
Fall of objects
Collapse of the Mobile tower scaffold
Overturn of the Mobile tower scaffold
Contact with overhead services

Control measures & precautions:

Above precautions for independent tied scaffold PLUS:

- Positioned on firm ground

- Use of outriggers to broaden base & locking the wheels
- Braced & tied to permanent structure
- People and materials removed before moving from one place to
another

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWP)

 Cherry Picker (with articulated boom)

 Scissors lift

Hazards
- Fall of people
- Fall of objects
- Collapse of the MEWP
- Overturn of the MEWP
- Contact with overhead services
- Crushing between carrier and a fixed structure
- Crushing in-between the Scissors lift
- Collision with vehicles, people or buildings

Causes of MEWP Accidents, Collapse or overturning

Unsuitable ground conditions (uneven surface or fragile, sandy soil)

Defective or unused outriggers (leading to unbalance & overturn)
Unsuitable MEWP or in bad condition (lack of maintenance)
Overloading & exceeding SWL
Struck by load or vehicles
Incompetent operator
Interference with controls by others
Adverse weather conditions such as Strong wind / storms

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Precautions / Control measures for safe use of MEWPs:

• Vehicle should be on firm, stable ground.
• Sufficient clearance from obstructions and overheads when
operating.
• Barriers around the MEWP to prevent it being struck by vehicles or
mobile plant. Barriers also act to keep people out from underneath
the cradle.
• Guard-rails incorporated into the man basket, as an additional
backup Safety harnesses worn and attached inside the basket.
• Controls of the MEWP should be inside the cradles so that the
person actually working at height has some control.
• Must not be driven with the man basket raised up unless
specifically designed to do so.
• Avoid overloading, never exceed the SWL (Safe Working Load)
• Must be certified by a third party and inspected as an item of lifting
equipment designed to carry people.
• Use should be restricted to competent ,authorised workers only.

Suspended access cradle

Hazards
Fall of people ...
Fall of objects ...
Collapse of the suspended access cradle ...
Overturn of the suspended access cradle ...
Contact with overhead services ...
Collision with vehicles or pedestrians (while descending from buildings)

Precautions & control measures = Same like MEWP

_________________________________________________________

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Excavations
Hazards of excavations

- Fall of people (if there's no edge protection)

- Fall of objects e.g. tools or fluids causing flooding or drowning
- Collapse of the excavation (Cave-in)
- Overturn of vehicles close to edge
- Contact with underground services (electric cables, gas pipelines,
sewage, telephone cables)
- Being a confined space: Difficult access & egress, Hazardous
atmosphere & Contamination (sewage, spores)
- Type of soil and relevant hazards (sand or rock etc.)
- Removal of soil (causing Loosening layers in the ground as well
as removal problems)
- Undermining foundations of near buildings

Precautions & control measures

- Plan the job using up to date location maps for the underground
services such as gas pipelines and sewers
- Locate & avoid underground cables e.g. CAT (cable avoidance tools)
- Proper risk assessment and emergency response plan
- Issue permit to work authorized by the responsible persons before
starting the job
- Safe digging procedures (following safe system of work SSOW)
- Use competent workers (KATE......)
- Use the required (Personal Protective Equipment) PPE e.g. coveralls,
helmets & safety shoes
- Ensure environmental factors such as Sufficient lighting &
Good ventilation
- Ensure safe access & egress to the excavation
- Segregation of work areas by using barriers and warning signs all
around the excavations
- Shoring (sides supports) to prevent cave-in / collapse
- Providing the needed welfare facilities such as a caravan containing a
shower and bathrooms for the workers

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Demolition
Methods of Demolition:
 Hand-held tools e.g. Sledge-hammer, concrete breaker / crushers
 Machine e.g. Balling machine (Wrecking Ball)
 Chemical agents (Explosives)

Hazards of Demolition

1- Safety hazards:
- Fall of People from the building (if there's no edge protection)
- Fall of objects such as tools or parts of the building (debris)
- Premature collapse of the building (Sudden uncontrolled collapse)
- Overturn of machines making the demolition
- Contact with underground & overhead services
- Fire & Explosion
- Electricity

2- Health hazards;
- Dust, gases, fumes and vapours causing respiratory diseases
- Asbestos (from the ceiling or walls) causing asbestosis & lung cancer
- Lead (from pipes) causing renal failure & damage to nervous system
- Silica (from sand & glass) causing silicosis in the lungs
- Noise
- Vibration
- Ionising radiation (like alpha particles causing cancer)
- Biological hazards (from sewage & soil causing infection)

Control measures & Precautions:

- Pre-demolition surveys & area maps with proper communication and
cooperation
- Proper risk assessment and emergency response plan
- Safe method of demolition & safe organized demolition sequence
- Competent workers (KATE.....)
- Evacuating near buildings if needed
- Using the required PPE e.g. helmets, reflective vest , steel toe safety
shoes
- Safe access & egress
- Segregation of work areas
- Providing the needed welfare facilities
- Issue permit to work & legislative permits / documents from
government

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Work in Hot & Cold environment

Physiological effects of heat Stress (Excessive heat)
(Working in desert, foundries, glass works, ovens or laundries)
Skin burns
Cataracts (Opacity of the lens of the eye)
Dehydration
Heat cramps
Raised heart rate
Headaches
Confusion & Loss of concentration
Vomiting
Fainting (Loss of consciousness) = Heat Syncope
Sun stroke & Heat stroke

Physiological effects of cold Stress or Excessive cold

(open air during winter, cold stores, food preparation area, big
freezers & sub-zero temperature)
Lowered heart rate
Hypothermia (decrease in core body temperature)
Shivering
Confusion & Loss of concentration
Frost bite & trench feet
Increased risk of strains & sprains
Slips & falls because of ice on floor

Risk factors of heat

- Body activity & health condition

- Type & amount of clothes
- Long Duration & frequency of exposure to heat / cold
- Ambient temperature & weather conditions
- Type of Source of heat / cold temperature and distance to person

Control measures of heat and temperature extremes

- Acclimatisation (The body adapting itself to the new climate reducing
sweating; just thin layer evaporating as needed then another layer)
- Health surveillance & regular medical check-up
- Hot / cold drinks (according to the type of hazard hot or cold)
- Reduce duration & frequency of exposure to heat / cold
- Temperature control (Hot / Cold)
- PPE e.g. Light clothes for hot weather or heavy insulating clothes for
cold weather
- Providing (it is) .....

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

 ‘‘Confined Space” is any space of an enclosed nature where

there is:
- Specified hazards & risks arising because of the nature
of the Space
- It’s Not designed for people to live or stay in for long time
- Difficult / limited access and egress

Examples of confined space : a chamber, tank, silo, pit, trench,

pipe, well , mines, sewers, manholes, tunnels, vaults or other similar
space.

What are the specified hazards / risks in a confined space?

o Fire & explosion: There may be an explosive /flammable

atmosphere due to flammable liquids and gases and combustible
dusts which if ignited would lead to fire or explosion.
o Process-related hazards such as residual chemicals, release of
contents of a supply line.
o Physical hazards – noise, heat/cold, radiation, vibration,
electrical, and inadequate lighting.
o Safety hazards such as moving parts of equipment, structural
hazards, engulfment, entanglement, slips, falls.
o Biological hazards – viruses, bacteria from faecal matter and
sludge, fungi, or moulds.
o Flooding / Engulfment which could lead to Suffocation and death.
o Oxygen deficiency & oxygen enrichment: Poor air quality: There
may be an insufficient amount of oxygen for the worker to
breathe. The atmosphere might contain a poisonous substance
that could make the worker ill or even cause the worker to lose
consciousness. Natural ventilation alone will often not be
sufficient to maintain breathable quality air.
o Asphyxiation due to free flowing solids / Toxic gases / oxygen
depletion (displace oxygen in the air which is normally about 21
percent).
o Loss of consciousness due to increased body temperature OR
Asphyxiation
o Rescue of the victim is more difficult. The interior configuration of
the confined space often does not allow easy movement of
people or equipment within it

Confined space entry is usually hazardous, and usually the accident

results in multiple fatalities, Work activities may introduce hazards not
present initially from the beginning, also the conditions inside the
confined space can change very quickly.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Control measures / Precautions for working in a confined space

o Eliminate risk and Avoid entry by modifying the confined space so

entry not required OR have work done from outside using
automated long tools or robots
o Issue permit to work before starting the job
o Competent workers (KATE ...)
o Body system; not one worker alone inside.
o Appoint a supervisor (watcher) outside the confined space with
good means of communication between the watcher & the
workers inside the confined space
o Isolate all sources of energy & use LOTO
o Ensure suitable size of entry & safe access / egress
o Gas purging
o Continuous testing of the atmosphere (Gas & oxygen levels)
including Personal gas detectors & PAS
o Special tools such as non-spark hammers
o Suitable environmental conditions such as adequate lighting &
good ventilation
o Use the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as
breathing apparatus to protect from toxic gases or oxygen levels,
gloves & safety shoes to protect from sharp edges or slip hazards
o Reduce duration & frequency of the work inside the confined
space as much as possible
o Emergency procedures in place as well as rescue equipment

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

‘‘Lone workers” Those who are working by themselves without close

or direct supervision, both in fixed establishments and working away
from their fixed base.

[Please note that Lone workers include people who work on their own
for periods of time, or those who are not alone but are NOT with
colleagues on whom they can rely for help, even if they may be in sight
of other people at all times during their working day.]

Factors to be considered during lone working

- Work location
- Type of work & hazards in this work
- The equipment & tools used
- Manual handling risk (Lifting objects that are too heavy for one person)
- Competence / sex of the worker
- Emergency facilities
- Lack of Supervision
- Means of communication
- Weather & environmental conditions
- Security level

Precautions to ensure the safety of lone workers

- (it is) : Information on hazards, Training on how to deal with hazards;

So the lone workers will be competent enough to do the job on their
own away from direct help & supervision.
- Means of Communication e.g. radio or mobile phones with regular
checks to an external contact
- Regular visits by supervisors to check on them
- Inspections by members of staff to ensure any hazards have
been dealt with which may affect the worker, for example chemical
stored away in laboratories
- Security measures such CCTV, lighting for trespassers & violence
from members of the public
- A psychological profile to ensure the person is suitable for lone
working
- First aid kits, Emergency procedures & First aider if required
- Journey management plan to Check the worker has returned home /
base safely
- The required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) with extra amount
- A personal alarm which may be connected to the local police station if
attacked or threatened
- Providing welfare facilities, such as a place to rest & eat food / drink

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

General Hazards of vehicles and

Forklift trucks
- Overturning - Overloading
- Loss of loads - Fire and Explosions
- Poor visibility, especially when reversing - Noise & Vibration
- People in unsafe position (fall of people from vehicles)
- Collision with other vehicles, pedestrians, buildings or fixed
objects e.g. Light posts or signs

Propulsion systems: 1. Electric (battery), 2. Petrol or diesel 3. LPG (Gas)

The advantages of each type (what power should you choose for your forklift):
1. Electric forklifts are clean, without noise, compact and nimble
(Quick and light in movement and action)
2. Diesel forklifts are best outdoors and cheap to run.
3. Gas forklifts are best performers & have indoor/ outdoor flexibility.

Specific hazards of battery operated (electric) forklifts (including

any electric and hybrid vehicle)
- Inhalation of fumes & Hydrogen gas release during battery
charging
- Corrosives leading to burns (Sulphuric acid in battery)
- Electricity problems can cause arcing, shock, burns or fire.
- Fire & Explosion of the battery (from hydrogen gas)
- Sudden stop of the forklift during work
– Hazards of Manual handling of battery during recharging as
Batteries are extremely heavy and present a manual-handling risk
if they have to be changed for charging purposes.
- Battery-powered vehicles can be very quiet or almost silent,
increasing the risk of collision with pedestrians (People may not
hear them coming)
- Availability and location of charging points
- Retained electrical charge in components even when the vehicle
is switched off
- Unexpected movement of the vehicle or engine components due
to the motor’s magnetic forces
- Potential for the release of explosive gases and harmful liquids
from damaged batteries

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

 Precautions to ensure safety of vehicles / forklift

operation
 Safety of pedestrians in vehicle moving areas
 Precautions to prevent collision / accidents between
vehicles and pedestrians
 Control measures for safe workplace transport
operations

THREE main aspects: Safe site, safe vehicles & safe drivers:

- Segregation between vehicular route & pedestrian route

- Sufficiently wide entrances, separate gateways & suitable traffic
routes
- Carrying out regular maintenance for the vehicles as well as the
road and its surface
- Pre-use visual inspection for the vehicles by the drivers especially
to check the tyres, horn, lights & mirrors
- Setting & enforcement of site traffic rules, proper signs & floor
marking
- Designated marked crossing points for pedestrians
- Suitable designated parking areas
- Suitable environmental conditions e.g. adequate lighting &
reduced noise
- Avoid sharp bends & blind corners, or use convex mirrors at the
blind corners
- Vision aids e.g. CCTV cameras or mirrors on vehicles
- Vision panels in doors or transparent doors
- Setting speed limits for cars e.g. 20 km/h
- PPE e.g. steel toe safety shoes & High visibility jackets
- Provide (it is) Driver training & qualification, refresher training,
Proper selection of drivers by Suitable age, Medical examination
& Routine medical checks at regular intervals and Assessment
and testing after prolonged absences
- Seatbelts for the driver and ALL passengers (three-point or four-
point seatbelts)
- FOPS
- ROPS

 Special precautions for reversing

- Avoid reversing if possible e.g. One-way systems, drive through

parking, circling the vehicles
- Using ground guides in reversing (reversing assistant like
Signallers / Banks man)
- Reversing alarms (audible & visual)
- Refuges & Barriers in loading docks

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Element 9: Work equipment

Types & examples of work equipment
• Simple hand tools, e.g. a hammer, screwdriver or chisel.
• Hand-held power tools, e.g. a portable electric drill or circular saw.
• Single machines, e.g. a bench-mounted abrasive wheel,
photocopier, lathe or compactor.
• Mobile work equipment, e.g. a tractor or mobile crane.
• Machine assemblies, where several machines are linked together to
form a more complex plant, such as a bottling plant.

Suitability of the work equipment:

- Initial integrity: The work equipment must be in a good condition, of

good quality, of a good design and approved for use e.g. CE
'CE' are the abbreviation of the French phrase ' Conformité
Européenne), which means 'European Conformity'. marking within
the UK and Europe.

- Purpose for use: The equipment must be used in the same purpose it
was designed for, otherwise it will not be suitable even if it's in a good
condition

- Place of use: The equipment must be used in a safe place, the

equipment which is in a good condition, and used in the same purpose
it was designed for, will NOT be suitable for work unless it is used in a
safe place, one place could make the equipment suitable while
another could make the same equipment unsuitable for work.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Maintenance can be carried out according to various regimes

(Systems or Strategies), such as:

• Planned preventive maintenance (PPM) – where servicing work is

carried out at prescribed intervals and parts are replaced or
changed, irrespective of their condition. For example, oil in an
engine might be changed every year regardless of the amount of
use that the engine has received.
• Condition-based maintenance (CBM) / Predictive maintenance –
where servicing is carried out and parts changed only where
inspection or alarms indicate that use has caused deterioration.
For example, the brake pads on a car might be changed when they
show signs of heavy wear.
• Breakdown maintenance (Emergency / Run to Fail / Corrective
maintenance) – where maintenance is only carried out during repair
and in case of failure.

Maintenance work often creates greater risk for the staff involved
because:
• Guards and enclosures have to be removed to allow access.
• Safety devices have to be removed or disabled.
• Equipment has to be partially or completely dismantled.
• Power sources may be exposed (e.g. electrical supply).
• Stored power may be accidentally released (e.g. compressed
spring).
• Access may be awkward (e.g. space constraints or work at height).
• Handling of parts may be difficult (e.g. heavy parts).
• Additional hazards may be introduced (e.g. power tools).

Precautions for maintenance Work:

- Issue permit to work if the job is non-routine or high risk as
example if the whole body or the whole arm of the worker will be
inside the machine
- Isolation of power source (disconnection & lock out tag out)
- Dissipation of stored energy e.g. release stored pressure,
earthing for electricity or leaving the hot surface to cool down
- Segregation of the work place by means of barriers & warning
signs Safe means of access
- Use suitable PPE e.g. safety shoes, coveralls and safety glasses
- Ensure that all workers doing the job are Competent enough
(KATE ....)
- Ensure safe environmental conditions e.g. adequate lighting,
enough space for work & good ventilation
- Emergency procedures in place / following SSOW

_________________________________________________________

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Hazards of Machinery: Mechanical & non-mechanical

1- Mechanical Hazards of Machinery (ENTICE)
Entanglement: (Catching and withdrawing part of the worker)
Traps (Drawing in & crush / shear) : Caught & Compressed in machine
Impact: (Hit by / strike by)
Contact (stab/puncture – cuts – abrasions – burns)
Ejection: Flying parts or debris

Entanglement

Traps (Drawing in)

Traps (Crush / shear) Impact

Contact (puncture / stab) Contact (cuts)

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Contact (abrasions) Ejection

2- Non-Mechanical Hazards of Machinery (according to BS EN ISO 12100:2010)

Chemical / biological hazards

Ergonomics / Manual Handling
Electricity / Noise
Fire / Explosion
Vibration / Radiation / Ultra violet radiation
Temperature extremes
Dust and fumes

 Hazards of machinery are described in BS EN ISO

12100:2010 Safety of Machinery.
_________________________________________________________

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Hierarchy of Controls / Precautions & control measures for

hazards of machinery both mechanical & non mechanical
(PREVENTION OF ACCESS TO DANGEROUS PARTS OF
MACHINERY) = FIAT

Using three principles:

1- Place a physical barrier between a person & the dangerous part.
2- Use devices that only allow access while the equipment is in a
safe condition.
3- Detect a person’s presence and stop the machine.

FIAT

Fixed guards
Interlocking guards, Adjustable guards & Automatic sweep guards.
Protection Appliances & Protection devices (Trip devices / Sensitive)
Training, Information, Instruction, and Supervision (it is) and PPE

Fixed Guards:- A physical barrier, kept at its place at all times, has no
moving parts, not linked to the machine controls and usually requires a
tool to remove it.

Advantages Disadvantages
Minimal maintenance Not linked to machine controls
Only defeated by deliberate act No protection when removed
Visual inspection is enough Full access to dangerous parts
when removed
May protect against other hazards More difficult to remove: not
e.g. noise, dust, ejection of practical when frequent access
materials required
Tends to be left unfixed when
frequent access required
May hamper visibility

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Interlocking Guard: - Linked to the machine controls so that the worker

can’t gain access when the machine is in a dangerous condition ALSO
opening the guard causes the machine to become safe

Advantages Disadvantages
Allow safe access for feeding Increase the complexity of the
materials (frequent opening) machine
Convenient to use Difficult to test and maintain
Less likely to be deliberately May need a brake or time delay
defeated
Speeds up operations May fail to danger
Regular maintenance required

Adjustable Guards the length of the guard could be adjusted

(changed) according to the length of the material being used, two types
of this guard: 1) Manual (fixed) and 2) Automatic (self adjusting)

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Automatic Sweep Guard Where the guard is gently pushing the

worker away from the danger zone

Protection Appliances:- Simple hand tools such as holders & push

sticks separating the hand of the worker from the hazard

Protection devices (Trip devices or Sensitive Protective

Equipment):- Electronic devices such as Trip bars, safety trip wire,
photo electric cells, pressure sensitive mat, Emergency stop button, two
hand control device & Hold-To-Run Controls (dead man switch)

Two-hand control device advantages Disadvantages

allow full visibility and access to the require operator discipline with
machine proper training and supervision
simple inexpensive design only suitable in restricted areas
as it only protect the operator
Easily defeated

iT is: Safe working procedures, training on how the machine is

operated safely, good housekeeping, how & when to be maintained,
who is authorized to use it, restricting the use of work equipment to
competent operators only.

This relates to all equipment where risk of serious injury to the operator
or to others (“specific risks”) exists, e.g. a metal-working lathe.
Repair, modification or maintenance of equipment should be restricted
to designated competent people.

Users of work equipment should:

• Only use equipment they are authorised to use.
• Use equipment according to the given instruction and training.
• Only use equipment for its intended purpose.
• Carry out all necessary safety checks before using equipment.
• Not use the equipment if it is unsafe.
• Report defects immediately.
• Not use equipment under the influence of drugs or alcohol (this
includes some medication that causes drowsiness).
• Keep equipment clean and maintained in safe working order.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

PPE: such as

- Coveralls for chemical splash & entanglement

- Goggles for ejected material
- Ear plugs for noise
- Steel toe safety shoes for crush injuries
- Hair nets for hair entanglement

 GLOVES should be banned near rotating shafts

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Element 10: Fire

The fire triangle:-
 Fuel (Combustible material)
 Heat (Source of ignition)
 Oxygen (air)

When these three components combine in the right

proportions, the chemical reaction of combustion takes place.

Causes of fire (Sources of ignition)

Arson
Smoking & smokers’ materials
Oil/gas heating equipment and portable heaters
Unsafe storage or unsafe use of flammable materials
Hot work: welding, cutting, etc.
Mechanical heat (Sparks/friction)
PLUS causes of electrical fires page 61

Flash point:- The temperature at which gas & vapour will ignite
momentarily by an external source of ignition e.g. spark
OR The minimum temperature at which a liquid gives off sufficient
vapour to ignite on the application of an ignition source

Fire point:- The temperature at which gas & vapour will sustain a flame
when ignited by an external source of ignition e.g. spark

Auto-Ignition Temperature (Ignition/Self ignition/Kindling point):-

The temperature at which gas & vapour will ignite without any external
source of ignition.

 Methods of Heat Transfer / Causes of Fire spread

1- Direct burning (Direct Contact):- The flame and a combustible fuel

are in direct contact (touching each other) The fuel heats up and ignites.

2- Radiation:- Heat is radiated (transferred through the air) causing

heating of a materials at a distance from the fire.

3- Conduction: Heat travels within solid material from the hot part to
cooler part

4- Convection:- Hot air current rises up to replace cooler air , causing

the build up of hot and unburned gases under ceilings, and so fire
spreads upwards from one room to another.

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Classes of fire (British & European Fire Classification)

A Carbonaceous material (Combustible solids)

EXAMPLE: Wood & paper
B Flammable liquids EXAMPLE: Alcohol & Petrol
C Flammable gases EXAMPLE: Butane, methane & propane
D Metals EXAMPLE: Sodium & Magnesium
F Cooking oil EXAMPLE: Vegetable oil & animal fats

Electrical Fire Classified according to the source of ignition NOT type of

fuel

Types of fire extinguishers

For class A  Water, Dry powder or Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)
For class B  Dry powder, AFFF, Sand or CO2
For class C  Dry powder or CO2 AFTER closing the source of gas
For class D  Special powder or dry sand
For class F  Wet chemicals or fire blanket in case of small kitchen
fire (e.g. cooking pan)

For Electrical  Dry powder or CO2

 Wet Chemicals (potassium acetate, carbonate, or citrate) extinguishes the fire

by forming a soapy foam blanket over the burning oil and by cooling the oil.

 In the UK the use of Halon gas is now prohibited except under certain
situations such as on aircraft and in the military and police

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

Control measures / Precautions to prevent & control risk of fire

AND to minimise the risk to people in the event of fire

- Eliminate / reduce the amount of flammable materials

- Segregate fuel & ignition sources
- Good level of housekeeping to prevent accumulation of waste
paper
- Good security measures to prevent arson
- Safe storage of flammable material with good ventilation
- Compartmentation: dividing the building into isolated units
(compartments) by means of fire doors & fire walls so that any fire
in any of these units will be contained there & won’t spread to the
rest of the building
- Proper regular maintenance for all types of equipment
- Electrical safety
- Providing (it is) & following SSOW
- Suitable fire alarms & fire detectors.
- Fire marshals to guide the employees during the evacuation
- Suitable means of fire fighting such as water sprinklers, hose reel
and fire extinguishers
- Unobstructed means of escape with reasonable travel distances,
fire doors, exit signs, Emergency lighting & illuminating signs
- Muster point / assembly point (clearly identified & proper location)
- Regular drills & practices on evacuation

Control measures / Precautions to ensure safe evacuation in the

event of fire
- Adequate fire detection equipment e.g. smoke detectors
- Good means of raising alarms (visual & audible)
- Adequate fire fighting equipment such as: Fire extinguishers,
sprinklers, hose reels
- Automatic contact with the emergency services & fire department
- Safe evacuation plan.
- Special consideration for disabled people, pregnant women, etc.
- Regular drills & practices on evacuation
- Unobstructed means of escape with reasonable travel distances
fire doors, exit signs, Emergency lighting & illuminating signs
- Muster point / assembly point (clearly identified & proper location)
- Lists for head count & Roll calls
- Closing the windows & fire doors after leaving
- Fire marshals / fire wardens helping in the above.

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Element 11: Electricity

 Electrical hazards / Risks (Hazards / risks of Electricity)  Be SAFE
Burns
Shock
Arcing
Fire
Explosions

 Burns
- INTERNAL burns to the body organs (Kidney or spleen etc.) and
EXTERNAL burns to the skin.; both can be very severe and fatal.
- THREE degrees (First, Second and Third degree burn).
- Could cause melting of any worn metals e.g. watches or rings.
- DIRECT electrical burns – where current causes overheating as it
passes through the skin and the internal tissues of the body; with inlet
and exit burns.
- INDIRECT electrical burns – which do not occur as a result of current
passing through the body, but when an electrical accident causes
something to overheat and explode. For example, dropping a spanner
(wrench) onto a high-voltage cable can cause a short circuit, resulting
in a flash of radiant heat and an explosion of molten metal.

 Shock (Electric shock / Electrocution)

When a system is connected to an electrical power source it is
described as “live” , “hot” or "energized"). Once it has been
disconnected from its power source it might be described as "dead”.
Electrocution is death caused by electric shock. The word is derived
from "electro" and "execution", but it is also used for accidental death.

Factors affecting / influencing severity of electrical shock:

- Voltage "V" (The higher the voltage the higher the risk)
- Current "I" (How many amperes can kill?)
- Time (duration) Long time = High severity
- Conductivity or resistance of the body "R" (Wet body or standing
in water decreases resistance increasing conductivity leading to
severe shock): Ohm's law (V= I X R)
- Current path through the body (whether it crossed a vital organ
like the heart or not)
- Nature of contact (touch or grip which will increase time of shock
as the shocked person will not be able to let go)
- Contact surface area: The more the skin that is in contact with
live surface the more severe the shock will be
- Individual factors (age (old people or children with thin skin ,
general health condition, Nature of the clothing and footwear)

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Emergency action on finding someone in contact with electricity

- Isolate the supply if possible or move the person away from the
source of electricity using an insulating material e.g. wood
- Call for help (Ambulance or first aiders)
- Check ABC
- Apply CPR if needed
- Treat burns if any
- Remain with casualty till emergency services arrive

 Arcing / Arc flash / Flashover

When electricity has sufficient potential to jump across insulation
material such as air, the higher the voltage, the greater the distance.
High-voltage power lines can arc across distances of more than 10
metres through air.
An arc flash is the light and heat produced from an electric arc supplied
with sufficient electrical energy to cause damage, harm, fire, or injury.
Electrical arcs causes the electrical resistance to decrease as the arc
temperature increases. Therefore, as the arc develops and gets hotter
the resistance drops.

 Fire
Causes of Electrical Fires
- Inadequate circuits or wires
- Overloading electrical circuits as too much current passes through, it
overheats.
- Using incorrect fuse or bypassing the fuse
- Portable devices overheating during charging
- Damaged insulation
- A flammable atmosphere: Using flammable materials too close to
electrical equipment
- Overheating of cables on coils
- Inadequate ventilation for electrical equipment & cables
- Faulty electrical equipment, electric faults or loose connections e.g. it
may be connected into the mains supply by pushing bare wires into
the socket rather than using the proper plug.
- Static Electricity: the build-up of potential difference (voltage) between
surfaces as a result of friction between them.
For example, if a person walks across a new carpet and rubs their feet
they may get a small static shock when they touch a door handle, this is
because they have built up a voltage on their body through the friction
between their shoes and the carpet. This voltage has then been
discharged in the form of a very short-duration spark.
The risk is low from the normal static shock found in most workplaces,
UNLESS there are flammable liquids or flammable atmospheres
present there is then the risk that the static shock will ignite the liquid or
atmosphere, causing fire or explosion.
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 Explosion
Common example is Ignition of gas.

 Secondary effects of electrical hazards

- Falls from height (leading to fractures or fatalities)

- Throw off Sudden movement of the body away from the source of
electricity if the person was on ground level)
- Unintentional movement of machine (due to vibration and kinetic
energy)
- Failure / De-activation of control measures & security systems
- Loss of information
- Tripping over cables
- Loss of corporate reputation

 Health / physical effects of electricity on the body (The harm

caused by electricity in case of shock)

- External burns to the skin

- Internal burns to the body organs e.g. Heart , Liver or Spleen
- Irregular heartbeat = disruption of heart rhythm (Fibrillation or
Arrhythmia)
- Stopping of the heart (cardiac arrest)
- Stopping of breathing (Respiratory failure due to Respiratory muscles
Paralysis)
- Muscular contractions (Muscle spasm)
- Damage to nervous system (may include seizures, chronic pain,
severe headaches, nerve damage, paralyzed limbs, memory loss and
other forms of brain damage)

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Control measures for electricity / Precautions to ensure electrical

safety / Precautions when using portable electric tool

 Ensure competence of workers : KATE

 PPE e.g. insulating gloves &insulating safety shoes
 Avoid overloading electrical circuits
 Regular preventive maintenance for the electrical equipment
including thermo-graphic tests
 Safe correct routing of cables avoiding the following: run over by
vehicles, dragged over rough surface, trapped in machinery or
getting in contact with chemicals or hot surface and Avoid using
in wet conditions (unless the equipment and supply cables are
suitable for this).
 Pre use visual inspection to ensure good insulation and that
wiring and casing are free from damage
 Using approved suitable equipment & in good condition: It should
be able to withstand normal, overload and fault currents. It should
also be used within the manufacturer’s rating and in accordance
with any instructions supplied.
 Equipment and cables need to withstand exposure to adverse
weather conditions like rain, snow, ice, wind, dust and lightning,
also Natural hazards, e.g. solar radiation, plants and animals (e.g.
gnawing of cables by rats), as well as Extremes of temperature
and pressure, e.g. heat from motors.
 Avoid homemade or temporary connections
 Always pull the plug NEVER the Lead & Avoid continuous flexing
 Use the suitable protective systems 

 Protective systems:

Fuse:- A weak link designed to melt, breaking the circuit at excessive

currents, and so protecting the equipment from damage.

Advantages Disadvantages
 Cheap  Does not protect the
individual from shock
 Effective Protection against  Slow to operate
current overload that might
damage the equipment, or
cause overheating, fire or
explosion
 Readily available  Inaccurate
 Unsuitable or wrong fuse
may be used
 Easy to bypass / override
 Could need tools to replace

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Circuit Breakers CB (Miniature Circuit Breakers):-

Electromagnetic device which perform the same function as fuses i.e.
break the circuit at excessive current but faster, since it's an
electromagnetic device; it does not melt in response to current overload;
it simply trips out and can be reset by pressing a button.

Advantages Disadvantages
 Automatically switch off or  Does not protect the
trip under fault conditions individual from shock
 No tools to reset
 Not easy to bypass
 No reset until fault cleared
 Protects against overload

Earthing:- Electricity will always try reach earth and earthing means
providing an easy path to earth at much lower resistance than the
human body, and so the person will not receive an electrical shock.

Advantages Disadvantages
 May prevent indirect shock  Specialist testing and
by providing a very low maintenance, professional
resistance path to earth installation
 Readily identified  Protection defeated if
removed

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Isolation:- The disconnection and separation of the electrical

equipment from every source (using Lock out & Tag out- LOTO)

Advantages Disadvantages
 Safest option as it eliminates  May isolate other equipment
electricity
 High effective protection as  May be reconnected unless
it Could be physically locked locked off
off
 Prevents live fault finding

Battery operated tools:- Using battery instead of electrical wires

Advantages Disadvantages
 Minimal risk during normal  Limited battery capacity
use
 Range not restricted by  Limited power output
cable
 No tripping hazards as  Precautions need to be
there's no trailing cable followed during recharging
 No overheating of cables  Heavier
 More expensive

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Residual Current Device (RCD):- It protects the person against

electric shock; as It compares the current flowing into the system with
the current flowing out. When the level differs by a preset value the
RCD will open rapidly and interrupt the supply

RCD is also known as GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) or ELCB

(Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker)

Advantages Disadvantages
 Rapid and sensitive  May isolate crucial
equipment if one RCD
covers a number of
distribution points, e.g.
freezers and computers
 Difficult to defeat  Mechanical device, which
could fail
 Easy to use, test and reset  Only protects against earth
leakage faults (No overload
protection; and so it Doesn't
protect equipment)
 No reset until fault cleared

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Reduced voltage systems:- By reducing the voltage present system,

the possibility and the consequences of electrical shock can be greatly
reduced

Advantages Disadvantages
 Available voltage difference  Special equipment required
is 55V ac - injury is highly for 110 V
unlikely
 Colour coded cabling  Lead from supply to
system for easy recognition transformer at higher
voltages and will need
protection with a RCD

Double Insulation:- Covering live parts by two separated layers of

insulation

Advantages Disadvantages
 Two layers of insulation  Physical damage may
prevent user contact with defeat double insulation
any live parts
 No earth required  No earth provided in double
insulation extension leads,
therefore defeats protection
if used with equipment that
requires an earth

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NEBOSH IGC Summary – Week 2 (IG 2)

The end of week 2 (IG 2)

GOOD LUCK

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