Chapter 13

Health, Safety and Security at Workplace

Introduction to Health, Safety and Security at Workplace

Every workplace accident, illness or dispute is a cost to organization, as well as a

cost to injured individuals
and their families. All the Employees have to take responsibility for their own health
and safety rather than relying solely on the “safety officer” or management.

Health

Health of an employee is the state of the physical, mental and social well being.
Every organisation must provide the following facilities to their employees.

1. Cleanliness at workplace.

2. A proper air conditioning to provide clean and cool air at workplace.

3. A properly filtered water facility.

4. A food cafeteria must provide fresh and good quality food.

5. The organisation should maintain a clean washroom facility for the employees.

Safety

The work environment of the organisation must be safe. It must be free from hazards
and risk.

A hazard is something that can cause harm to the people. A risk is a probability of
causing harm to the people.

Security

Security is a kind of freedom from any potential harm. Security ensures the safety of
the people working in the organisation. Every organisation must have separate
security department. This department should be responsible for various security
such as personal safety, computer system safety, electrical safety, transport safety
and other equipment safety.

Policies and Procedures for Health, Safety and Security

The Department of Information Technology (DoIT) has prepared the policy to

provide employees with a healthy and safe work environment.
A health, safety and security policy is a written statement by an employer stating the
company’s commitment
for the protection of the health, safety and security of employees and to the public. It
is an endorsed commitment by management to its employees regarding their health,
safety and security.

Reasons for Health, Safety and Security Programs or Policies in Workplace

There are several reasons that can be specified for safety policy as given below.

 It clearly indicates the company’s commitment for their employee’s health

and safety;

 It shows the performance of the business and the safety performance are
compatible with each
other.

 It clearly state that the company is not only doing the business for profits but
it is taking care of all
its stake holders.

 Injuries and illness of the employees is prevented through such policy.

A typical policy of an IT company may contain the following OH&S clauses.

1. Provide adequate resources to ensure continual improvement in its OH&S

performance.

2. Set appropriate OH&S objectives & targets and conduct periodic performance
reviews against these targets.

3. Adopt measures and processes that focus on the prevention of occupation

related accidents, injuries.

Workplace Safety Hazards

Hazard is ‘a danger or risk’ that is associated with something. Workplace hazards

poses potential harm to people at work.

An occupational hazard is the illness one may acquire due to his occupation. Some
types of occupational hazards are : Physical hazards, chemical hazards, biological
hazards, , behavioural hazards, radiological hazards, ergonomic hazards etc.
1. Physical Hazards

It is the risks arising from the physical work environment – floors, facilities, walls,
and ceilings. Physical hazards
could also mean working with machinery and electricity-operated machines.

Falling Off Heights, Slipping and Tripping

The reasons for falling are attributed to faulty scaffolding and ladders, as a result of
contact with electricity, and slipping or crashing into anything that throws the
worker off balance. On the other hand, trips and slips occur right on lower levels,
particularly the floor, on ramps and any uneven surface in the workplace.

Falls and Slips Safety rules

1) Keep the moving area clean and clutter free.

2) Workplace must be proper ventilated receive light.

3) Wear non slippery footwear.

4) Floors must be clean and dry

5) Oil spills, dust must be immediately cleaned.

2. Electrical Hazards
There are many reasons why workers suffer from electric shock at work. For the
most part, it’s due to coming in direct contact with live wires, or having indirect
contact through a conductor

Electrical Safety Rules:

1) Electrical equipment used should be approved by a recognised organization.

2) Workers should be trained to handle the electric equipment safely.

3) Damaged and hazardous electrical equipment should be immediately replaced.

4) Heat emanating equipment should be kept away from the electrical equipment.

3. Fire Hazards

Each establishment must comply with housekeeping standards to ensure fire safety.
Those who do not follows such requirements, may leads to accidents resulting to
fire.

Basic Fire safety rules in an organization are :

1) Fire escape plans must be installed at proper levels

2) Conduct regular drills

3) Smoke alarms must be placed at proper intervals

4) Keep workplace a no-smoking zone

5) Maintenance of safety equipment must be taken care of regularly

Health Hazards

Health refers to the physical well-being of the workers, and this includes the
condition of their skin, eyes, ears and all other body parts. It also includes the health
situation of which we cannot see upfront like their respiratory and cardiovascular
system, and the nervous system. Hazards are present in most workplaces

For example, a noisy machine or factory environment could damage the sense of
hearing of the workers.

Potential Sources of Hazards in an Organisation

A. Bright light sources

Bright light sources behind the display screen can create contrast problems, making
it difficult to clearly see your work. Apply the following possible solutions to avoid
this.

1. Use blinds or drapes on windows to eliminate bright light

2. Reorient the workstation so bright lights from open windows are at right angles
with the computer screen.
3. Furniture placement should be adjusted to allow light into the room, but not
directly into your field of view.

B. Hazards using Computers

Hazards while using computers include poor sitting postures or excessive duration
of sitting in one position.
These hazards may result in pain and strain. Glare from the computer screen can be
harmful to the eyes.

Stretching at regular intervals or doing some simple yoga in your seat can mitigate
such hazards.

C. Handling Office Equipment

Improper handling of office equipment can result in injuries. For example, sharp-
edged equipment if not handled properly, can cause cuts. Staff members should be
trained to handle equipment properly.

Lifting or moving heavy items without proper procedure or techniques can be a

source of potential hazard.

D. Stress at Work

In organisations, we may encounter various stress causing hazards. Long working

hours can be stressful. Have some relaxing hobbies for stress against long working
hours.

E. Working Environment

Potential hazards may include poor ventilation, chairs and tables of inappropriate
height, hard furniture, poor
lighting, staff unaware of emergency procedures, or poor housekeeping.

Hazards may also include physical or emotional intimidation, such as bullying.

Hazard Control

Hazard control measures are a crucial tool to prevent workplace accidents and
injuries. They are taken to eliminate or reduce the risks associated with workplace
hazards.

Control measures should follow the hierarchy with a strong emphasis on eliminating
hazards at the source, whenever possible.

1. Take all feasible measures to eliminate the hazard, for example, by substituting or
modifying the process.

2. If elimination is impractical, take all feasible measures to isolate the hazard.

3. If it is totally impossible to eliminate or isolate the hazard, its likelihood to cause
injury should be minimised.

Safety Guidelines Checklist

1. Store all cleaning chemicals in tightly closed containers in separate cupboards.

2. Throw garbage daily.

3. Make sure all areas have proper lighting.

4. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery when working with machines.

5. Never distract the attention of people who are working near a fire or with
some machinery, tools or equipment.

6. Where required, wear protective items, such as goggles, safety glasses, masks,
gloves, and hair nets.

7. Shut down all machines before leaving for the workplace.

8. Do not play with electrical controls or switches.

9. Do not smoke in ‘No Smoking’ areas.

 Chapter 14
Workplace Quality Measures

Introduction

In any organisation it is necessary to maintain a good air quality to improve the

working capabilities of employees. A pollution free air is an essential requirement
for any organisation. Also most of the IT companies makes use of centralised air
conditioning system to keep the temperature of working place at pleasant level.

Water pollution is another problem faced by many organisations. So an organisation

must ensure to prevent air pollution or water pollution.

Air and Water Quality Monitoring Process

Air and water pollution can be analysed by using several methods. There are three
common forms of analysis –

1. Physical

2. Chemical

3. Biological

NOTE: The PH value of the water can be measured through chemical analysis.

Guidelines for Clean Air and Clean Water

1. Air pollution is mostly caused by production of the dust, mixture of solid particles
and gases in the surrounding air. So avoid dust production, generation of solid
particles and gases in the air.
2. Extensive use of automobile vehicles in the campus can lead to the air pollution.
So organisation must use limited number of vehicles to avoid air pollution.

3. The generation of ozone gas must be kept at low level by the organisation.

4. Extensive use of fertilizers and pesticide must be avoided as it can make the
ground water polluted.

5. The sewage or the waste water should not mixed with the surrounding water.

Importance of Cleanliness at Workplace

It is always safe to keep our workplace clean to avoid hazardous. A clean work
station makes our job easier and more pleasant. Each employee is responsible for the
cleanliness of their work area and all tools and equipment used.

Spaces around machines and equipment should be kept clear and clean at all times
to permit free movement.
Floors should be kept clean and clear to prevent slipping and collision.

Lighting fixtures are to be checked regularly to permit clear vision. Faulty lights
should be reported to administration.

Office Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science concerned with designing and arranging things so that
people can use them
easily and safely. Applying ergonomics can reduce the potential for accidents. The
following office ergonomics emphasize the identification of early warning signs.

Early Warning
Potential Cause Try This
Signs

Use back rest of chair, put small

Sore lower back No lumbar support pillow
or lumbar support on backrest of chair

Burning in the
No upper back support Put document holder or prop up so
upper
from chair you can see without leaning forward
back

Working with head turned

to side tilting head
Move or raise monitor to centre of
Stiff neck forward
desk check if headset is available
holding telephone between
the ear and shoulder

Reaching forward for long Move closer to the keyboard,

periods or reaching Bring mouse down to level of
Sore shoulders
forward keyboard
frequently or 1” higher

Add a wrist rest to the front of

Working with wrists
keyboard and mouse pad rest thumbs
Arching wrists extended too much
on front edge of keyboard so wrists
repetition
can’t drop
 Rest eyes periodically and do simple
Dry eyes Forget to blink
eye exercises

Glares from overhead

Re-orient your desk and computer so
lights
Eye strain and sore light is not directly behind or in front
or windows eye glasses
eyes of
not
you.
correct need vision check

Computer Health and Safety Tips

With the increase use of computer, several health and safety issues related to vision,
musculoskeletal issues, body aches and pains may occur. Some of the issues are
listed below.

1. Musculoskeletal Problems

This problem include different areas of your body, such as neck, back, chests, arms
shoulders and feet. It occurs because of your wrong posture, uncomfortable chair for
sitting. To avoid this problem

1. Position your computer such that the end of the monitor should be at your
eye level.

2. Keep your monitor at least arm length distance, or 20 to 30 inch away from
you.

3. Maximise contact of your back against the backrest of the chair.

4. Minimise any twisting of your wrists from side to side or up and down.
 5. Always take small breaks while working on the computer to stretch your
muscles.

2. Occupational Overuse Syndrome

Occupational overuse syndrome, also known as repetition strain injury (RSI), is a

collective term for a range of conditions, characterised by discomfort or persistent
pain in muscles, tendons and other soft tissues.

One of the most common conditions related to repetitive use of muscles when using
the computer is carpal tunnel syndrome. It causes pain, numbness, and tingling in
the hand and arm.

To avoid RSI

1. Ensure that your fingers should be above the ‘home position’ (asdf and jkl;
keys) on the keyboard, when your elbows are by your sides.

2. You should avoid gripping the mouse too tightly.

3. The keyboard and mouse should be kept at the same level.

4. You should use ergonomic keyboard and mouse which help to reduce the risk
of wrist related conditions.

3. Strain in Legs and Feet

Sitting to work for long time may cause strain in legs. Position your desk chair to sit
comfortably with your feet flat on the floor. Use a footrest for more support. Ensure
that there’s enough space to change position and stretch your legs.

4. Eye Strain

Computer’s bright light, glare and flickering images can cause eye strain and visual
fatigue. Computer Vision Syndrome is caused by poor lighting and glare on the
computer screen.

To reduce the risks of visual problems:

1. Adjust the brightness of computer screen to save your eyes from strain.

2. Keep a proper vision distance from computer.

3. Wear anti-glare glasses while working in computer.

4. Give your eyes periodic breaks from the screen and perform frequent
blinking.

5. Keep your monitor between 18 to 24 inches away from your face.

5. Headaches
Headache may occur due to muscle tension or pain in the neck. Strain on the eyes or
vision problem can also cause headaches.

Try your best to keep your neck straight in front of the computer and take breaks.

6. Obesity

Spending long hours on computers may lead lacks of physical activity and exercise.
You should take a break and try to squeeze in some exercise until you go back to
work.

7. Stress Disorders
Prolonged use of computers may be accompanied by poor health and increased
pressure, which may lead to stress. Stress can lead to decreased attention span, lack
of concentration, dizziness.

Try things from yoga, to natural remedies, to medications as prescribed by a medical

provider to combat your stress.

8. Injuries from Laptop Use

The growing use of laptops cause more pain and strain. In laptop the screen and
keyboard are very close together so if you position the screen at the right height for
your back and neck, it will cause you to have to lift your arms and shoulders too
high to use it and vice versa.

9. Sleeping Problems

Artificial lighting from computer screens can trick your brain and suppress release of
melatonin substance that assists your sleeping patterns. To tackle this, refrain from
using a computer right before going to bed.

Health and Safety Requirements for Computer Workplace

The minimum health and safety requirements for Desktop computers, Laptops,
Tablets, Smart phones, Television screens and Video monitors are as follows:

Display Screen (Monitor)

1. Use the modern LED monitors of legible size.

2. The image on the screen should be stable, with no flickering.

3. The screen must be free of reflective glare and reflections.

Keyboard

1. The keyboard should tilt and separate from the screen to find a comfortable
working position and avoid fatigue in the arms or hands.
 2. The space in front of the keyboard must be sufficient to provide support for
the hands and arms of the user.

3. The keyboard should have a matt surface to avoid reflective glare.

Work Surface

The work desk should be sufficiently large and allow a flexible arrangement of the
screen, keyboard, documents.

Work Chair

1. The work chair must be stable and allow the user to move easily and find a
comfortable position.

2. It should be adjustable in height.

3. The user’s feet must be placed flat on the floor or a footrest should be used.

Space Requirements

The workstation should be designed to provide sufficient space for the user to
change position and vary
movements.

Lighting

There must be satisfactory lighting conditions with appropriate contrast between the
screen and background
environment.

Reflections and Glare

Workstations should be designed so that sources of light, such as windows and other
openings, transparent walls, and brightly coloured fixtures cause no direct glare on
the screen.

Noise and Heat

Noise emitted by equipment should not distract the attention. Noise cancelling
earphones may provide a
solution if some noise is unavoidable.

The equipment may not produce excess heat which could cause discomfort to users.

Cautions while Working on the Computer

It is important to work safely on computer. A battery backup system is the best way
to protect against a power outage, as it provides the system with constant voltage.

Unplug all power sources and cables from computer. If you are working with
plugged in computer then it might damage your hardware.
Watch Out for Cords and Wires

Loose cords and wires can cause hazard and even electrical hazards. If a cord or wire
will cross a pathway safety it should be mark it with hazard tape.

Never touch or try repairing any electrical equipment or circuits with wet hands.

Ch 15 Prevent Accidents and Emergencies Notes Important Points

Introduction

In an organisation, any small accident or unforeseen situation may turn into

emergencies if not given due attention. The emergencies can be natural, such as
floods, hurricanes, earthquakes or man-made emergencies such as fire, toxic gas
releases, chemical spills etc.

No one expects such emergencies and disasters that can strike anyone, anytime,
anywhere.

Accidents and Emergencies

An accident is an unplanned, uncontrolled, or unforeseen event resulting in injury or

harm to people and damages to goods. For example, a person falling down and
getting injured.

Emergency is a serious or crisis situation that needs immediate attention and action.
For example, a customer having a heart attack or sudden outbreak of fire in your
organisation.

Each organisation has procedures and practices to handle and report accidents and
to take care of emergencies. The following are some of the guidelines for identifying
and reporting an accident or emergency:

1. Notice and Correctly Identify Accidents and Emergencies

2. Get help Promptly and in the most suitable way.

3. Follow Company Policies and Procedures for preventing further injury while
waiting for help to arrive.

4. Act within the Limits of your Responsibility and Authority when Accidents and
Emergencies arise.
5. Promptly Follow Instructions given by Senior Staff and the Emergency Services.

Types of Accidents

The following are some of commonly occurring accidents in organisations:

1. Trip and Fall

Customers or employees can trip on carelessly left loose material, such as tripping
on loose wires, goods left on aisles. This type of accident may result in simple
bruises to serious fractures.

2. Slip and Fall

Slips are mainly due to wet floors, spilling of liquids on floors. Slip and fall is
generally caused by negligence or due to broken or uneven walking surface. A “wet
floor” sign should be kept on freshly mopped floors to avoid accident.

3. Injuries caused due to Escalators or Elevators (or lifts)

People may be injured in elevators by falling down due to sudden, jerking

movement of elevators. They may also get stuck in elevators resulting in panic and
trauma. Escalators and elevators should be checked regularly for proper and safe
functioning.

4. Accidents due to Falling of Goods

Goods can fall on people from shelves or wall hangings and injure them. This
typically happens if pieces of goods have been piled improperly.

5. Accidents due to Moving Objects

Moving objects, such as trolleys, can also injure people in the organisation. In
addition, improperly kept props
can result in accidents. For example, nails coming out from props can cause cuts.

Handling Accidents

In case of an injury to a colleague in an organisation due to an accident, do the

following.

1. Attend to the Injured Person Immediately.

2. Inform your Supervisor.

3. Assist your Supervisor.

Procedures to handle Emergencies

We should be aware of at least the basic procedures to handle emergencies. Here are
some general emergency handling procedures that we can follow:

First Aid

It should contain all the important items for first aid required to deal with common
problems such as cuts, burns, headaches and muscle cramps.

Electrical Safety
1. Employees must be provided instructions about electrical safety such as keeping
water and food items away from electrical equipment.

2. Electrical staff and engineers should carry out routine inspections of all wiring to
make sure there are no damaged or broken wires.

3. Regularly check that all emergency handling equipment such as the fire
extinguisher and fire alarm etc.

4. Ensure that emergency exits are not obstructed and keys to such exists are easily
accessible.

Evacuation

Each organization has its own evacuation procedures. Each employee should be
aware of these procedures and follow them properly during an emergency
evacuation. In addition to organization’s policies, here are some general evacuation
steps useful in such situations.

1. Leave the premises immediately.

2. If possible, assist the person with disability to move towards the emergency
exit.

3. Do not use the escalators or elevators (lifts) to avoid overcrowding and

getting trapped.

4. Do not use the escalators or elevators (lifts) to avoid overcrowding and

getting trapped.

Fire Hazards in the Workplace

Workplace fires are also commonly caused by improper storage of flammable

material or combustible
dust. Both are dangerous and should be properly handled and stored. Dust
explosions can be another
cause of fire hazard. Steps to follow during fire are given below:

1. All employees must know where the fire extinguishers are located, and how
to properly use them.

2. Never block access to Exits, fire extinguishers, electric switches and panels.

3. Do not use flammable material near electrical panels, switches.

4. Fire extinguishers must be inspected regularly.

Identification of Material and Ignition Sources

Materials are classified by risk, and are sorted according to these fire classifications:
Class A Material: Materials such as wood, cloth, and paper, which won’t ignite on
their own but will continue to burn once exposed to a heat source.

Class B Material: All liquid, grease, and gas materials that burn when exposed to
ignition sources.

Class C Material: Electrical materials and equipment. These materials cause fires
very quickly and present a serious risk of arc flash.

Class D Material: Any materials that are volatile and able to quickly ignite, such as
magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Examples of ignition sources include:

Open flames such as gas ovens, lighters in smoking areas, and welding torches.

Sparks from wood or metal saws.

Heat sources such as combustion engines, ovens, and machines that produce heat
during operation.

Chemical ignition from chemicals that combust under normal working

temperatures.

Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is a protection device used to extinguish fires. It is a cylindrical

pressure vessel containing an agent which can be discharged to extinguish a fire.
Steps to operate Fire extinguishers

1. Break the seal and pull the safety pin from the handle.

2. Use the fire extinguisher by squeezing the lever.

3. Sweep it from side to side.

First Aid for Electrical Emergencies

Electrical accidents cause countless injuries. Injury could be minimised and many
lives can be saved if proper rescue techniques and treatment are used.

Timely response and treatment of victims is a major concern.

Electrical Rescue Techniques

Approaching the accident

1. Never rush into an accident situation.

2. Call 108 as soon as possible

Examining the scene

1. Visually examine victims to determine if they are in contact with energised

conductors.
2. Metal surfaces, objects near the victim itself may be energised.
3. Do not touch the victim or conductive surfaces while they are energised.
4. Switch off the electrical circuits if possible.
Hazards and solutions
1. In case you cannot switch off the power source, take extreme care.
2. Ensure that your hands and feet are dry.
3. Wear protective equipment, such as gloves and shoes. Stand on a clean dry
surface.
4. Use non-conductive material to remove a victim from the conductor.
High voltage rescue
1. Special training is required for rescues if high voltage is present.
2. Protective equipment, such as gloves and shoes must be worn.
First Aid
 A victim may require Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
 If the victim is breathing and has a heartbeat, give first aid for injuries and
treat for shock.

 Ensure the victim gets medical care as soon as possible.

 Chapter 15
Prevent Accidents and Emergencies

Introduction
In an organisation, any small accident or unforeseen situation may turn into
emergencies if not given due attention. The emergencies can be natural, such as floods,
hurricanes, earthquakes or man-made emergencies such as fire, toxic gas releases,
chemical spills etc.
No one expects such emergencies and disasters that can strike anyone, anytime,
anywhere.

Accidents and Emergencies

An accident is an unplanned, uncontrolled, or unforeseen event resulting in injury or
harm to people and damages to goods. For example, a person falling down and getting
injured.
Emergency is a serious or crisis situation that needs immediate attention and action.
For example, a customer having a heart attack or sudden outbreak of fire in your
organisation.
Each organisation has procedures and practices to handle and report accidents and to
take care of emergencies. The following are some of the guidelines for identifying and
reporting an accident or emergency:
1. Notice and Correctly Identify Accidents and Emergencies
2. Get help promptly and in the most suitable way.
3. Follow Company Policies and Procedures for preventing further injury while
waiting for help to arrive.
4. Act within the Limits of your Responsibility and Authority when Accidents and
Emergencies arise.
5. Promptly Follow Instructions given by Senior Staff and the Emergency Services.

Types of Accidents
The following are some of commonly occurring accidents in organisations:
1. Trip and Fall
Customers or employees can trip on carelessly left loose material, such as tripping
on loose wires, goods left on aisles. This type of accident may result in simple
bruises to serious fractures.
2. Slip and Fall
Slips are mainly due to wet floors, spilling of liquids on floors. Slip and fall is
generally caused by negligence or due to broken or uneven walking surface. A “wet
floor” sign should be kept on freshly mopped floors to avoid accident.
3. Injuries caused due to Escalators or Elevators (or lifts)
People may be injured in elevators by falling down due to sudden, jerking
movement of elevators. They may also get stuck in elevators resulting in panic and
trauma. Escalators and elevators should be checked regularly for proper and safe
functioning.
4. Accidents due to Falling of Goods
Goods can fall on people from shelves or wall hangings and injure them. This
typically happens if pieces of goods have been piled improperly.
5. Accidents due to Moving Objects
Moving objects, such as trolleys, can also injure people in the organisation. In
addition, improperly kept props
can result in accidents. For example, nails coming out from props can cause cuts.
Handling Accidents
In case of an injury to a colleague in an organisation due to an accident, do the
following.
1. Attend to the Injured Person Immediately.
2. Inform your Supervisor.
3. Assist your Supervisor.
Procedures to handle Emergencies
We should be aware of at least the basic procedures to handle emergencies. Here are
some general emergency handling procedures that we can follow:
First Aid
It should contain all the important items for first aid required to deal with common
problems such as cuts, burns, headaches and muscle cramps.
Electrical Safety
1. Employees must be provided instructions about electrical safety such as keeping
water and food items away from electrical equipment.
2. Electrical staff and engineers should carry out routine inspections of all wiring to
make sure there are no damaged or broken wires.
3. Regularly check that all emergency handling equipment such as the fire
extinguisher and fire alarm etc.
4. Ensure that emergency exits are not obstructed and keys to such exists are easily
accessible.
Evacuation
Each organization has its own evacuation procedures. Each employee should be
aware of these procedures and follow them properly during an emergency
evacuation. In addition to organization’s policies, here are some general evacuation
steps useful in such situations.
1. Leave the premises immediately.
2. If possible, assist the person with disability to move towards the emergency
exit.
3. Do not use the escalators or elevators (lifts) to avoid overcrowding and
getting trapped.
4. Do not use the escalators or elevators (lifts) to avoid overcrowding and
getting trapped.
Fire Hazards in the Workplace
Workplace fires are also commonly caused by improper storage of flammable
material or combustible
dust. Both are dangerous and should be properly handled and stored. Dust
explosions can be another
cause of fire hazard. Steps to follow during fire are given below:
 1. All employees must know where the fire extinguishers are located, and how
to properly use them.
2. Never block access to Exits, fire extinguishers, electric switches and panels.
3. Do not use flammable material near electrical panels, switches.
4. Fire extinguishers must be inspected regularly.
Identification of Material and Ignition Sources
Materials are classified by risk, and are sorted according to these fire classifications:
Class A Material: Materials such as wood, cloth, and paper, which won’t ignite on
their own but will continue to burn once exposed to a heat source.
Class B Material: All liquid, grease, and gas materials that burn when exposed to
ignition sources.
Class C Material: Electrical materials and equipment. These materials cause fires
very quickly and present a serious risk of arc flash.
Class D Material: Any materials that are volatile and able to quickly ignite, such as
magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Fire Hazards in the Workplace

Workplace fires are also commonly caused by improper storage of flammable
material or combustible
dust. Both are dangerous and should be properly handled and stored. Dust
explosions can be another
cause of fire hazard. Steps to follow during fire are given below:
1. All employees must know where the fire extinguishers are located, and how
to properly use them.
2. Never block access to Exits, fire extinguishers, electric switches and panels.
3. Do not use flammable material near electrical panels, switches.
4. Fire extinguishers must be inspected regularly.
Identification of Material and Ignition Sources
Materials are classified by risk, and are sorted according to these fire classifications:
Class A Material: Materials such as wood, cloth, and paper, which won’t ignite on
their own but will continue to burn once exposed to a heat source.
Class B Material: All liquid, grease, and gas materials that burn when exposed to
ignition sources.
Class C Material: Electrical materials and equipment. These materials cause fires
very quickly and present a serious risk of arc flash.
Class D Material: Any materials that are volatile and able to quickly ignite, such as
magnesium, potassium, and sodium.
Examples of ignition sources include:
Open flames such as gas ovens, lighters in smoking areas, and welding torches.
Sparks from wood or metal saws.
Heat sources such as combustion engines, ovens, and machines that produce heat
during operation.
Chemical ignition from chemicals that combust under normal working
temperatures.
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is a protection device used to extinguish fires. It is a cylindrical
pressure vessel containing an
agent which can be discharged to extinguish a fire.

Steps to operate Fire extinguishers

1. Break the seal and pull the safety pin from the handle.
2. Use the fire extinguisher by squeezing the lever.
3. Sweep it from side to side.
First Aid for Electrical Emergencies
Electrical accidents cause countless injuries. Injury could be minimised and many
lives can be saved if proper rescue techniques and treatment are used.
Timely response and treatment of victims is a major concern.
Electrical Rescue Techniques
Approaching the accident
1. Never rush into an accident situation.
2. Call 108 as soon as possible
Examining the scene
1. Visually examine victims to determine if they are in contact with energised
conductors.
2. Metal surfaces, objects near the victim itself may be energised.
3. Do not touch the victim or conductive surfaces while they are energised.
4. Switch off the electrical circuits if possible.
Hazards and solutions
1. In case you cannot switch off the power source, take extreme care.
2. Ensure that your hands and feet are dry.
 3. Wear protective equipment, such as gloves and shoes. Stand on a clean dry
surface.
4. Use non-conductive material to remove a victim from the conductor.
High voltage rescue
1. Special training is required for rescues if high voltage is present.
2. Protective equipment, such as gloves and shoes must be worn.
First Aid
 A victim may require Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
 If the victim is breathing and has a heartbeat, give first aid for injuries and
treat for shock.
 Ensure the victim gets medical care as soon as possible.