RISK ASSESSMENT

[Virtual Presenter] This is a lecture regarding RISK ASSESSMENT.

[Audio] Learning Objectives of this topic. By the end of this lecture, students will be able to: Define occupational health risk assessment and its relevance in workplace health and safety. Identify different types of occupational hazards (biological, chemical, physical, ergonomic, psychosocial). Describe the systematic process of occupational health risk assessment (hazard identification, risk analysis, evaluation, and control). Apply risk assessment tools (for example., HIRARC, Job Hazard Analysis, Risk Matrix) to workplace scenarios. Discuss strategies for risk communication and decision-making in occupational health. Evaluate the role of legislation and international guidelines (e.g., OSHA, ILO, NIOSH)..

[Audio] "Why Occupational Health Is So Important in Public Health" You know, when we talk about public health, we often forget one key group—workers. But think about it: more than 3 billion people are employed around the world. That's a massive part of the population. Their health and safety don't just affect them individually—it impacts entire communities, national productivity, and even economic stability. Basically, a healthy workforce is the backbone of a productive society. Now, why does this matter? Because a lot of diseases and injuries are actually linked to people's jobs. We're talking about things like: Respiratory diseases like asthma or silicosis from dust exposure Musculoskeletal problems from heavy lifting or poor ergonomics Skin conditions from chemical contact Certain cancers that stem from workplace exposure And even mental health issues—stress, burnout, harassment—it's all part of it Occupational health steps in to catch these issues early—before they end up overwhelming the healthcare system. Here's another thing—prevention saves money. If people aren't getting hurt or sick at work, that means: Fewer hospital visits Lower chances of long-term disability And big cuts in healthcare spending So, investing in occupational health isn't just ethical—it's financially smart. Plus, healthy workers are just... better for business. They're more productive, they don't take as many sick days, and that boosts the whole economy. Countries that invest in occupational health often see stronger economic growth and more sustainable development overall. But it's not just about the numbers. It's also about fairness. People in more vulnerable jobs—like migrant workers, those in low-paying or informal jobs—face the worst conditions. Occupational health is a way to promote social justice, making sure everyone has the right to work safely, no matter what their job is. It also connects to other parts of public health. It overlaps with environmental health—like exposure to toxins or waste It supports epidemiology—tracking outbreaks that start at work And it's part of health promotion—encouraging healthy habits at the workplace So, when we talk about things like Universal Health Coverage or Sustainable Development Goals (like SDG 3 & 8)—occupational health is right in the middle of it. And don't forget the role of the workplace in emergencies. Whether it's a pandemic like COVID-19 or a chemical spill, workplaces are often the first place we need to respond. A strong occupational health system improves: Infection control Emergency response And keeps businesses running during crises.

[Audio] Risk assessment is a systematic process of identifying hazards, evaluating the associated risks, and determining appropriate ways to eliminate or control those risks to protect workers' health and safety..

[Audio] "Scope of Risk Assessment in Occupational Health" When we talk about risk assessment in occupational health, we're really talking about a big-picture strategy to keep workers safe, no matter where they work or what they do. It's not just checking off a safety checklist—it's about fully understanding all the risks that can affect a worker's health and making sure protections are in place for everyone. 1. Workplace Environments Risk assessment applies everywhere work happens—from offices to oil rigs: Think of places like factories, construction sites, hospitals, and laboratories But also farms, mines, warehouses, and even home-based setups or gig jobs It covers both formal, well-regulated industries and informal sectors, which are often left out of the safety conversation Basically, if work is happening there, risk assessment should be too. 2. Types of Hazards Assessed A good risk assessment looks at all kinds of dangers that workers might face: Physical hazards: things like loud noise, radiation, extreme heat or cold, and vibration Chemical hazards: such as pesticides, cleaning solvents, toxic gases, and heavy metals Biological hazards: like bacteria, viruses, or mold—especially in places like hospitals or labs Ergonomic hazards: repetitive tasks, poor posture, or heavy lifting—these can lead to long-term injuries Psychosocial hazards: stress, long hours, harassment, and burnout—yes, even emotional strain counts So, it's not just about what you can see—it's about what affects your mind and body over time. 3. Worker Populations We don't all face the same risks at work, and risk assessment should reflect that. It pays special attention to vulnerable groups like: Pregnant workers Migrant laborers Youth and elderly employees People with disabilities These groups might need extra precautions or accommodations. A solid assessment includes both individual and group-level evaluations to make sure everyone is protected fairly..

[Audio] More Key Areas in Occupational Risk Assessment Let's go a bit deeper into the what and how of risk assessment—because it's not just about spotting dangers, it's also about understanding systems, following the law, and thinking long-term. 4. Process Evaluation This part zooms in on the daily routines and workflow at a workplace. It asks: What tasks are people doing? What equipment are they using? What procedures are they following? What's the layout and working environment like? By evaluating these elements, you can figure out exactly where and how risks show up during regular operations. It's like walking through a typical workday with a safety lens. 5. Legal and Policy Compliance Risk assessment doesn't happen in a bubble. It needs to follow the rules—international, national, and local. This includes: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) ILO standards (International Labour Organization) National laws, like from DOSH Malaysia Plus, the company's own internal policies It ensures your workplace isn't just "safe enough"—but legally compliant and accountable. 6. Timeframes Covered Risks don't always show up right away—some take years to surface. That's why assessments must look at: Short-term risks: Immediate dangers like slips, trips, falls, machinery accidents Long-term risks: Things that build up over time—like chemical exposure, hearing loss, stress-related diseases, or even cancer A good risk assessment is proactive and long-sighted, not just reactive. ✅ Final Takeaway: An effective occupational risk assessment is comprehensive, covering: People Places Procedures Policies And even the passage of time It's not just about preventing injury—it's about creating a sustainable, safe, and healthy work culture..

[Audio] Now, when we talk about occupational hazards, we're referring to the various factors in our work environment that could potentially harm our health or safety. These hazards can come in many forms—chemical, physical, biological, ergonomic, and even psychosocial. Let's start with chemical hazards. These are harmful substances we might inhale, absorb through our skin, or accidentally ingest while working. Think about solvents used in cleaning or painting—they might seem harmless at first, but prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory problems or skin issues. Then there are heavy metals like lead or mercury—common in industrial work—which can cause serious organ damage if we're exposed over a long period. And for those working in agriculture, pesticides are a big concern. These chemicals may lead to neurological problems or even cancer with repeated exposure. So, the level of risk here depends on how toxic the substance is, how much we're exposed to it, and for how long. Moving on to physical hazards. These don't even need to come into direct contact with us to cause harm. For example, noise from loud machinery or power tools—it might not seem like a big deal, but over time it can lead to hearing loss or increase stress levels. Then there's radiation—which includes ionizing types like X-rays and non-ionizing types like UV light. Both can affect our tissues and raise cancer risks. And of course, heat exposure is a major issue, especially in outdoor jobs or hot industrial settings, where workers face risks of dehydration, heat stroke, or fatigue. These risks become more serious the longer or more intensely we're exposed. Next up, we have biological hazards. These are especially relevant for those of us working in healthcare, agriculture, or waste management. We're talking about viruses like hepatitis B or C, HIV, or even airborne ones like COVID-19. Then there are bacteria, such as those that cause tuberculosis or foodborne illnesses like E. coli. Fungi, too—like mold—can cause respiratory problems. The danger here often comes from direct contact or airborne transmission, so strong infection control is a must. Then there are ergonomic hazards—these result from poor job or workstation design. Ever feel sore after a long day at the computer or on the factory floor? That could be due to repetitive strain from typing, lifting, or doing the same motion over and over without proper breaks. Or maybe the workstation setup is just off—like a chair with no lumbar support or a screen that's too high or too low. These issues can lead to back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other musculoskeletal disorders over time. And finally, we have psychosocial hazards. These are often overlooked but just as serious. They include things like work-related stress, which might stem from high workloads or poor communication. There's also harassment—whether it's bullying, discrimination, or sexual harassment—all of which can have a deep impact on a person's mental and emotional well-being. And let's not forget long working hours, which can lead to burnout, poor work-life balance, and even physical health problems like heart disease. These types of hazards might not leave a visible mark, but their effects can be long-lasting. So as you can see, occupational hazards come in many shapes and forms. Understanding them is the first step toward creating a safer, healthier workplace for everyone..

[Audio] Risk Assessment Frameworks These frameworks are essential tools in occupational health because they help us systematically identify, evaluate, and control hazards before they lead to harm. Let's start with one of the most well-known frameworks, especially here in Malaysia: HIRARC. 1. HIRARC – Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk Control HIRARC is a three-step approach that helps us stay ahead of potential problems. Step one is Hazard Identification. This is where we look around the workplace and ask: What could go wrong? We're scanning for anything that might cause harm—chemicals like solvents or heavy metals, physical threats like noise or heat, biological risks such as bacteria or viruses, ergonomic issues like repetitive strain or poor posture, and psychosocial hazards like stress or workplace bullying. This step often involves reviewing past incidents, doing walkthrough inspections, and even just talking to the workers themselves. Step two is Risk Assessment. Once we've spotted the hazards, we need to figure out how likely they are to cause harm and how severe that harm could be. This helps us prioritize—because not all hazards are equal. Some are urgent and need immediate attention, while others can be managed more routinely. And step three is Risk Control. Now that we know the risks, what do we do about them? Control measures can include eliminating the hazard completely, substituting it with something safer, engineering solutions like ventilation systems, administrative controls such as training or policies, and finally, personal protective equipment—or PPE—like gloves, masks, or goggles. Remember, PPE is the last line of defense, not the first. 2. Risk Matrix – Likelihood × Severity To help with the assessment part, many organizations use a tool called the risk matrix. This is a simple grid that plots likelihood against severity. Let's break that down: On the severity scale, risks can range from negligible—meaning no real injury—to catastrophic, which could mean death or permanent disability. On the likelihood scale, we go from rare—something that might only happen in extreme cases—to almost certain—something that's likely to happen regularly. When we combine these two, we can classify risks as low, medium, high, or extreme. For example, if a task is very likely to expose a worker to a toxic solvent, and the resulting health impact could be severe, we're looking at a high or even extreme risk. That tells us action is urgently needed. 3. Job Safety Analysis – JSA or JHA Another practical tool is the Job Safety Analysis, or Job Hazard Analysis. This method zooms in on specific tasks—especially those that are complex or high-risk. Here's how it works: First, we select the job to analyze—ideally one with a history of incidents or high-risk activities. Then we break it down into individual steps. For each step, we identify potential hazards. And finally, we come up with measures to prevent or control those risks. It's a very hands-on approach and a great way to involve workers in safety planning. It also helps clarify procedures and ensures everyone's on the same page before the work even starts. 4. Control Measures – The Hierarchy of Controls Last but definitely not least, let's talk about how we decide on the right controls, and for that we use what's called the Hierarchy of Controls. This framework ranks control measures from most effective to least effective: Elimination – If you can remove the hazard entirely, that's ideal. For example, stop using a dangerous chemical altogether. Substitution – Replace something hazardous with something safer, like using a water-based paint instead of solvent-based. Engineering Controls – These isolate people from the hazard, like installing a ventilation.

[Audio] HIRARC: Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk Control "Alright, let's now dive a little deeper into a key framework that forms the backbone of workplace safety strategies in Malaysia and many other countries: HIRARC, which stands for Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk Control. This structured approach is designed to help organizations proactively manage risks before they result in injury, illness, or any kind of operational loss. a. Hazard Identification Let's begin with the first and most foundational step—Hazard Identification. This phase is all about spotting what could go wrong. It's not just a glance around the room—it's a detailed and methodical examination of the workplace, equipment, processes, and work practices. A hazard, by definition, is anything with the potential to cause harm. So how do we find them? We use tools like: Walkthrough inspections of the actual work environment Reviewing past incident records to learn from history Interviews and consultations with workers—they're often the first to notice small but serious risks Job observations and task analyses—to understand how things are done day-to-day Now, hazards are typically categorized into five main types: Chemical hazards – like solvents, gases, pesticides, and heavy metals. Exposure can lead to everything from skin irritation to chronic diseases like cancer. Physical hazards – such as excessive noise, heat, cold, radiation, or vibrations. These can result in hearing loss, burns, or musculoskeletal problems. Biological hazards – including exposure to bacteria, viruses, and fungi—especially relevant in healthcare, labs, or agriculture. Ergonomic hazards – stemming from poor workspace design, awkward postures, and repetitive tasks. These often lead to long-term issues like back pain or carpal tunnel. Psychosocial hazards – these are about the human and organizational side of things: long hours, high pressure, harassment, and lack of support. Their impact is real, often leading to mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, and burnout. The goal here is to build a comprehensive hazard inventory—a clear list that feeds into our next step: Risk Assessment. b. Risk Assessment Once the hazards are on the table, we move on to Risk Assessment—where we analyze how serious each hazard actually is. Risk is essentially a combination of two things: Likelihood – how likely is it that this hazard will cause harm? Severity – how bad would it be if it did? These are often mapped out using a risk matrix—which we'll look at separately—to give a clear visual of which risks are low, medium, high, or extreme. But we also consider other key factors: How often are workers exposed? How many people are affected? How long does the exposure last? And—how effective are the current safety measures? This process helps us prioritize. We can't solve everything at once, so we need to deal with the most dangerous risks first and fast. c. Risk Control Finally, once we've assessed the risk, it's time to take action. That's where Risk Control comes in. This step is about selecting and implementing the right control measures to reduce risks to acceptable levels. But we don't just throw on a helmet and call it a day. Control measures must be strategic—and we follow the Hierarchy of Controls to guide our choices. Here's how that hierarchy works—from most to least effective: Elimination – Physically remove the hazard. For example, stop using a hazardous chemical altogether. Substitution – Replace the hazard with something safer—like switching from solvent-based to water-based paints. Engineering Controls – Isolate people from the hazard. This could be through ventilation systems, machine guards, or soundproof barriers. Administrative Controls – Change how people work. Examples include rotating shifts, updating SOPs, or conducting regular training. PPE – Personal protective equipment like gloves, goggles, and masks. These are essential but.

[Audio] Risk Matrix: Likelihood x Severity "Now that we've talked about hazard identification and risk assessment, let's move on to an essential tool in occupational health and safety: the Risk Matrix. This tool is widely used to help prioritize and manage risks effectively in the workplace, and it's something that plays a key role in determining how resources should be allocated to control risks. The Risk Matrix is a simple yet effective way to evaluate the level of risk associated with identified hazards by considering two critical factors: likelihood and severity. First, let's look at severity. Severity refers to the expected impact or consequence if a hazard were to occur. To put it simply, it asks, "If this hazard happens, how bad could it be?" The severity of a risk is generally rated on a five-point scale: Negligible: This is where you have an injury or health effect that is so minor it doesn't require any medical attention. For example, a paper cut or mild discomfort. Minor: Here, an injury may require first aid but is temporary and will have no long-term consequences. A minor sprain or a slight eye irritation from dust might fall into this category. Moderate: This level of severity calls for medical treatment or requires restricted work duties. An example would be a laceration or dermatitis, or even a minor fracture. Major: When the severity is major, it involves serious injuries or illnesses that may require hospitalization, time off work, or result in temporary disability. Burns, hearing loss, or serious fractures are good examples of this category. Catastrophic: At the highest level, we have situations that result in permanent disability or death. These are the life-threatening or life-altering events that could occur, such as amputation or fatal accidents. Now, in addition to severity, we also need to evaluate the likelihood of a hazard occurring. Likelihood refers to how probable it is that a hazard will actually cause harm. This is typically rated from "Rare," meaning it may only happen in exceptional circumstances, all the way to "Almost Certain," meaning it will happen in most situations. When you combine these two factors—Likelihood and Severity—you create a visual matrix. By plotting risks on a grid, you can immediately see which hazards pose the greatest danger to the workplace. The higher the likelihood and the greater the severity, the higher the level of risk. This risk matrix helps decision-makers understand which hazards need immediate control measures and which can be managed with less urgency. It's a simple yet powerful way to prioritize safety efforts, allocate resources, and ensure that the right actions are taken. For example, if a task has a high likelihood of exposure to a harmful substance, and the potential consequence is a major illness, that would be classified as a high-risk situation, prompting urgent intervention. On the other hand, a hazard that has a low likelihood of occurring and minimal consequence might only require routine monitoring. By using a risk matrix, we are not just reacting to incidents; we are proactively managing risks to prevent them before they happen, ensuring that our workplaces are as safe as possible for everyone involved.".

[Audio] "As we've discussed, the severity scale helps us understand the potential impact of a hazard, but we also need to assess how likely that hazard is to occur. Likelihood estimates the probability that the hazardous event will take place under the current conditions in the workplace. Just like severity, likelihood is rated on a five-point scale, which helps us measure how probable the event is. Let's take a look at each level of likelihood: Rare: This is the least likely outcome, where the event is so unlikely that it may only happen under exceptional or unforeseen conditions. For instance, an event that could occur once in many years, like a once-in-a-lifetime equipment failure. Unlikely: An event that could happen, but probably won't under normal operations. These are isolated incidents, such as a malfunction that may only happen on rare occasions or under unusual circumstances. Possible: This level refers to events that might occur at some point under certain conditions or over time. For example, a machine malfunction that may happen occasionally due to wear and tear. Likely: Here, the event is expected to happen frequently, perhaps within a few months. Chemical exposure without proper controls could be an example, where workers are at risk of exposure on a regular basis. Almost Certain: The event is very likely to happen repeatedly, or under most circumstances. This would be something like unsafe practices occurring on a daily basis because of a lack of controls or proper procedures. Once we have both the severity and likelihood of an event, we can combine these two elements to assess the overall risk level. The risk matrix helps us plot hazards on a grid, which helps us decide which ones require immediate attention and which ones can be managed with routine controls. The greater the likelihood and the more severe the consequences, the higher the risk, and therefore, the more urgent the need for control measures. This approach allows us to be more precise, organized, and effective in managing risks, ensuring we can prioritize the hazards that truly threaten workplace safety.".

[Audio] "Now that we've assessed both the likelihood and severity of each hazard, we need to combine these values in the risk matrix to determine a risk rating. This risk rating helps us classify the hazard into specific categories, which then guide us in prioritizing how to address the risk and allocate resources. The risk rating typically falls into one of four categories, each representing a different level of urgency and the type of control measures needed: Low Risk (Green): This category indicates that the hazard presents an acceptable level of risk. These risks are not urgent and can be managed through routine procedures or monitoring. While they're still important, they don't pose an immediate threat to safety. Medium Risk (Yellow): A medium risk means the hazard requires attention and additional control measures. While not urgent, it's something that needs to be addressed soon to prevent it from escalating into a higher risk. Enhanced controls should be implemented, and monitoring should be increased. High Risk (Orange): This classification represents a significant hazard that needs to be addressed promptly. High-risk hazards must be acted upon immediately to avoid harm. Control strategies should be initiated without delay to mitigate the risk and prevent accidents or injuries. Extreme Risk (Red): At the highest level, extreme risks are unacceptable and pose an urgent danger to worker safety. If a hazard falls into this category, work should not proceed until the risk is mitigated or eliminated. These risks demand immediate action, such as halting operations, implementing emergency controls, and addressing the hazard to prevent catastrophic outcomes. By using this risk rating system, we can prioritize actions, ensuring that the most severe and likely risks are dealt with first, while still monitoring and managing lower-level risks to maintain a safe working environment. It's crucial to remember that once a risk has been rated, it's not just about knowing what the problem is; it's about implementing the right controls at the right time to make sure the workplace remains as safe as possible for everyone involved..

[Audio] "In occupational risk assessment, the risk matrix table is an essential decision-making tool that helps visualize the interaction between the likelihood of a hazard occurring and the severity of its potential consequences. This two-dimensional grid provides a systematic approach to determine the level of risk posed by each hazard in the workplace. Severity is assessed on a scale ranging from negligible to catastrophic. This means we evaluate everything from situations that cause no injury, like a minor discomfort, to situations that can result in fatalities or permanent disability. On the other hand, likelihood measures how often we expect a hazard to occur, from rare (something that happens once in many years) to almost certain (occurring on a daily or frequent basis). When we combine these two factors—severity and likelihood—the risk matrix maps them to one of four zones: Low Risk (Green): These are acceptable hazards that can be managed through routine procedures. They pose minimal threat. Medium Risk (Yellow): Hazards that require attention and additional control measures but are not an immediate danger. High Risk (Orange): These are significant hazards that require immediate action. They demand urgent control strategies to prevent harm. Extreme Risk (Red): The highest level of risk, representing an unacceptable situation where work should not proceed until control measures are implemented. For example, let's consider a factory worker handling a toxic solvent without proper ventilation or personal protective equipment (PPE). The severity of exposure to this solvent could result in respiratory diseases, so we could rate the severity as Major or Catastrophic. Given that this task is performed daily without the necessary safety measures, the likelihood is Likely or even Almost Certain. The risk matrix would categorize this as High or Extreme Risk, signaling the need for immediate control measures, such as installing ventilation systems, introducing safety training, and mandating the use of PPE like respirators. The beauty of the risk matrix lies not only in simplifying complex risk evaluations but also in its ability to communicate clearly across all levels of staff. It creates a shared understanding of the hazards in the workplace and encourages everyone—from management to employees—to actively engage in risk mitigation strategies. This is vital for fostering a safer working environment for all..

[Audio] "Job Safety Analysis (JSA), also known as Job Hazard Analysis (JHA), is a structured and task-specific approach used in occupational health and safety to proactively identify and control hazards associated with individual job tasks. Unlike broader risk assessment frameworks, JSA/JHA focuses on the detailed analysis of how specific tasks are performed, making it an incredibly practical and targeted method of preventing accidents, injuries, and occupational illnesses. JSA/JHA essentially bridges the gap between high-level risk assessments and the daily realities of the workplace, providing supervisors, safety officers, and workers with a tool to address hazards right at the source. The process begins with selecting the job to analyze. Jobs that are non-routine, involve multiple workers, or have a history of incidents or near misses are often prioritized. Tasks that involve new or modified equipment or procedures are also given special attention. Once a job is selected, it's broken down into individual steps. This step-by-step breakdown involves observing the task as it is being performed and documenting each distinct action required to complete the job. The breakdown should capture each step clearly and simply, avoiding technical jargon, and ensuring that no part of the task is overlooked — even the most routine or seemingly harmless actions. The third stage involves identifying hazards associated with each task step. These hazards may be physical, such as moving machinery or slippery floors; chemical, like exposure to harmful fumes or substances; biological, such as bacteria or viruses; ergonomic, such as repetitive motions or awkward postures; and psychosocial, including high-pressure environments or excessive workloads. It's crucial to involve the workers who regularly perform the task in this phase, as their hands-on experience often uncovers hidden risks that may not be obvious to supervisors. Additionally, reviewing past incident reports and conducting workplace walkthroughs can help ensure that all potential hazards are identified. After identifying the hazards, the final step is to recommend control measures for each hazard. These controls aim to either eliminate the hazard completely or reduce the risk to an acceptable level. The hierarchy of controls guides this process, with the most effective strategies prioritized. First comes elimination, where the hazard is removed entirely. Next is substitution, where the hazard is replaced with something less dangerous. Then come engineering controls, such as physical barriers or ventilation systems to isolate workers from the hazard. Administrative controls, like job rotation or safety training, follow. Finally, when other controls are not feasible, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is used as the last line of defense. Implementing these control measures doesn't just reduce the immediate risk but also helps build a culture of safety and continuous improvement. Once the controls are in place, it's essential to monitor their effectiveness, make revisions as needed, and ensure that workers are properly trained to follow the updated safety protocols. Additionally, the JSA/JHA document should be reviewed and updated regularly, particularly when there are changes in equipment, work processes, or personnel. JSA/JHA offers many benefits in practice. It empowers workers by involving them directly in the safety process, increasing hazard awareness, and improving communication between management and employees. It also serves as an important training tool for new employees, ensuring they know how to perform tasks safely from the outset. In industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, JSA/JHA can also demonstrate compliance with legal and safety standards. In conclusion, Job Safety Analysis or Job Hazard Analysis is not just a compliance exercise — it's a dynamic, proactive strategy for embedding safety into everyday workflows. By.

[Audio] Understanding the Hierarchy of Controls: A Structured Approach to Risk Reduction in the Workplace When we talk about controlling hazards in the workplace, it's important to remember that not all safety measures are created equal. Some are more effective than others in protecting workers and reducing risks. To help guide safety professionals and organizations in choosing the most effective strategies, we rely on what is known as the Hierarchy of Controls — a structured framework that ranks different types of control measures from the most effective to the least effective. This hierarchy is widely accepted in occupational health and safety across the globe, and it plays a crucial role in systematic risk management. Let's walk through this hierarchy step by step, exploring each level in detail, and understand how it contributes to creating safer work environments. 1. Elimination – Remove the Hazard Entirely At the very top of the hierarchy — and rightly so — is Elimination. This is considered the most effective control method because it involves completely removing the hazard from the workplace. If the hazard no longer exists, there is no longer any risk associated with it. Think of it this way: if you're concerned about someone getting burned by a dangerous chemical, the most foolproof way to protect them is simply to eliminate the use of that chemical altogether. For example, consider a situation where a factory uses a toxic solvent for cleaning machinery. If the company can find a new process or method that doesn't require that solvent, or if that step in the cleaning process can be completely removed, then the hazard has been eliminated at the source. No toxic solvent, no exposure, no risk. Of course, elimination is not always possible — some hazards are inherent to the job or process — but when it can be done, it offers the highest level of protection. 2. Substitution – Replace the Hazard with Something Safer When complete elimination isn't practical, the next best thing is Substitution. This means replacing the hazardous material, equipment, or process with a safer alternative. The key here is that the new method or substance must pose significantly less risk while still achieving the same function or result. It's like trading a lion for a house cat — the danger is still there, but it's far more manageable. Continuing with the solvent example, let's say the cleaning process is essential and can't be eliminated. Instead of using a solvent that is known to cause cancer or respiratory illness, the company might switch to a water-based or non-toxic cleaner. This substitution doesn't remove the cleaning step, but it dramatically reduces the associated health risks. One important consideration with substitution is to ensure that the alternative itself doesn't introduce new or unexpected hazards — this should always be evaluated carefully through a risk assessment before implementation. 3. Engineering Controls – Isolate People from the Hazard The third level in the hierarchy is Engineering Controls, which involve redesigning the workplace or equipment to physically separate people from the hazard. These controls don't eliminate the hazard, but they provide a barrier that prevents workers from coming into direct contact with it. Engineering controls are highly effective because they don't rely on human behavior to work — once installed, they function consistently to protect workers. Imagine a laboratory setting where fumes from chemical reactions are a concern. Installing fume hoods is a classic example of an engineering control. These hoods vent dangerous vapors away from the worker and.

[Audio] Legislation and Policy in Occupational Health occupational health and safety (OHS). In every industry, from healthcare to construction, education to manufacturing, ensuring the health and safety of workers is not just a legal obligation but a moral responsibility. Safe workplaces are not only about compliance with laws; they directly influence productivity, job satisfaction, and the well-being of employees. Furthermore, occupational health and safety contribute to the economic prosperity of businesses by reducing healthcare costs and preventing loss of time due to workplace injuries and illnesses. Occupational health and safety are critical, and it is through well-established policies, legislative frameworks, and regulatory bodies that we achieve a safe working environment. Today, I want to focus on the laws and frameworks that shape the field of occupational health and safety, including the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), the International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions, and Malaysia's own Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) and National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) Let's begin with the Occupational Safety and Health Act, a key piece of legislation that has shaped workplace safety around the world. The OSHA laws vary from country to country, but they all share the common goal of ensuring that employers take responsibility for providing safe working conditions for their employees. OSHA laws are built on the principle that safety is not optional. They emphasize a proactive approach to preventing workplace injuries and illnesses rather than simply reacting after incidents have occurred. One of the cornerstones of OSHA is the duty placed on employers to ensure a safe working environment. This includes identifying potential hazards, implementing safety measures, and ensuring that equipment is safe for use. For example, employers must provide workers with personal protective equipment (PPE), ensure proper ventilation in high-risk areas, and use engineering controls to eliminate hazards where possible. The idea is not to wait for something to go wrong but to take proactive measures that will prevent problems before they occur. OSHA also emphasizes worker participation in workplace safety. Employees should not be passive recipients of safety rules; instead, they should have the right and responsibility to participate in identifying hazards and suggesting improvements. This approach ensures that those working directly with equipment and machinery have a voice in how to improve their working conditions. Worker participation is vital because employees often have the best insights into what makes their jobs safe or dangerous. The training and education component of OSHA also cannot be overstated. Workers must be educated about the hazards of their jobs, trained on how to use safety equipment, and understand emergency procedures. By empowering workers with knowledge, employers can ensure that everyone in the workplace knows how to act in case of an emergency and is aware of the potential dangers associated with their tasks. Lastly, OSHA enforces inspections and compliance. Regular inspections help ensure that the guidelines are being followed and that employers are adhering to safety standards. If violations are found, OSHA has the authority to issue citations, fines, and in severe cases, shut down unsafe operations. Enforcement is critical to maintaining accountability and ensuring that safety is not just a guideline but a practice that is actively followed. The Role of the International Labour Organization (ILO) In addition to national laws like OSHA, the International Labour Organization (ILO) plays a significant role in promoting global labor standards, including occupational health and safety. As a specialized agency.