OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENT (WORKPLACE ACCIDENT) - SHKK KELAS X (ENGLISH CORNER)

    An occupational accident is an accident that people suffer at work. It is an occurrence that the victim had not planned or expected. An occupational accident may also be an act of violence in connection with or arising out of work. The accident results in at least one worker either dying, becoming ill, or suffering an injury.

    The terms ‘work accident’, ‘workplace accident,’ or ‘accident at work’ mean the same as ‘occupational accident.’

    Work accidents are common all over the world. The International Labor Organization (ILO) says that over 337 million accidents happen at work globally each year. In fact, occupational accidents kill more than 2.3 million people annually.

    Occupational accidents may include attacks by humans or animals, acute poisoning, insect bites, slips, falls, and traffic collisions.

How to prevent occupational accidents (work place accidents):

1.    Know the Hazards

·         Be aware of surroundings.  Look around and identify workplace hazards that could cause harm.

·         Look for ways to reduce or eliminate hazards, and implement them.

·         Report unsafe areas or practices.

·         Dress for the weather.

·         Identify hazards associated with job types.

2.    Create a Safe Work Area

·         Keep an orderly workplace.  Poor housekeeping can cause serious health and safety hazards. The layout of the workplace should have adequate egress routes and be free of debris. 

·         Inspect vehicles before and after use. DRIVE SAFELY.

·         Continually cultivate a safety standard.

·         Take breaks and move around regularly throughout the day. Small breaks (standing up and moving around) can make a big difference in combating the dangers of staying in a static position all day long.

·         Pay attention to workstation ergonomics.

3.    Use Safe Lifting Techniques

·         Follow the following safe lifting practices:

·         Lift from a position of power

·         Keep the load close

·         Use a staggered stance

·         Don’t twist while lifting

·         Training in body mechanics can reduce strain injuries and keep employees safe during lifting and moving.

4.    Personal Protective Equipment

·         The proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can dramatically reduce the risk of injury. Examples of PPE include gear such as earplugs, hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, air-purifying respirators and safety shoes.

5.    Regular Communication

·         Notify supervisors about safety hazards.

·         Speak up and be involved in safety planning.

·         Continually cultivate a safety standard.

6.    Education and Training

·         Ensure everyone has the proper safety training relating to the hazards of the job.

·         Take advantage of Environmental Health and Safety programs.

When you are working with tools and equipment’s make sure to read and understand the manufacture’s label. You have to discontinue using a machine if you observe, hear, or smell any abnormal condition.

Before using a chemical make sure to read the MSDS. MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) is a document with important information about each chemical.

Ergonomics is the process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems so that they fit the people who use them. Ergonomics aims to improve workspaces and environments to minimize risk of injury or harm. So as technologies change, so too does the need to ensure that the tools we access for work, rest and play are designed for our body’s requirements. The simple term of ergonomic is a proper body movement to prevent injuries.

We have to perform a risk free manner and danger free working environment. It is each employee's responsibility to take an active role in maintaining safety. *** (Wall).