Information according to the main physical hazards in the workplace
Employers must take responsibility for ensuring the physical safety of their workers, in collaboration with them, to prevent work accidents and occupational diseases.
For each type of job, there are specific risks that must be identified, analyzed and prioritized.
There are six types of risk:
- Chemical (e.g. working around hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide or smoke);
- Biological (e.g. exposure to microorganisms in dust, mist, decaying materials, etc.);
- Ergonomic (e.g. repetitive movements, sustained, awkward postures);
- Safety-related (e.g. confined spaces or moving machine parts);
- Physical (e.g. noise, temperature, pressure);
- Psychosocial (e.g. harassment or exposure to potentially traumatic events)
These risks must be ranked according to their severity and likelihood in order to develop an appropriate prevention plan.
Climate
Working in hot or cold environments can be hazardous to health, even fatal in certain circumstances. Proper preventive measures put in place by the employer can reduce the risk of accidents and illnesses associated with working in the cold or heat.
Working in the cold
The three main risk factors are:
- Low temperatures;
- Wind;
- Precipitation (rain and snow).
The most effective preventive measure against cold-related hazards is to avoid or limit exposure to cold conditions whenever possible, whether indoors (e.g. in refrigerated warehouses or poorly heated work areas) or outdoors (e.g. in harsh weather, at high altitudes, or in cold water environments).
Other preventive measures that employers can implement, in collaboration with workers, include:
- Wearing several layers of clothing rather than one thick garment;
- Taking breaks of at least 10 minutes in heated areas;
- Protecting the hands and head;
- Performing cold-related tasks during the warmest hours of the day;
- Avoiding coffee, due to its diuretic effect and impact on blood circulation, as well as alcohol in all its forms, because of its vasodilation effect.
Watch out for frostbite
When working outdoors in freezing conditions for extended periods, it is essential to dress appropriately to prevent frostbite (freezing of exposed skin), particularly extremities (ears, toes, nose, cheeks, and fingers).
It is recommended to take shelter in a warm area every 30 minutes and to check that co-workers are doing the same.
Frostbite may present with the following symptoms: The skin becomes numb and tingling, turns red, then white, and may show slight swelling. If you think you have frostbite, call 811.
While awaiting advice from health professionals, get out of the cold, remove wet or damp clothing and apply lukewarm water to the affected area in the case of superficial frostbite. If sensitivity or sensation persists, call an ambulance.
Smoking or drinking alcoholic beverages can lower body temperature.
Working in the heat
When working in hot environments, it is advisable to:
- Drink a glass of water every 10 to 20 minutes depending on the adjusted air temperature (see CNESST publication below);
- Take regular breaks in shaded or cool areas;
- Cover your head;
- Notify your employer if a colleague is behaving abnormally;
- Watch out for symptoms and signs of heatstroke, such as dizziness or unusual fatigue.
