Maintain Healthy Safe and Secure Working

Environment Class 10 Notes

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Chapter 13 – Health, Safety and Security at Workplace

All incidents like illnesses, accidents, or disputes at work place come at a cost to the
company and to the injured persons’ families. Every Organization and company workers
are responsible for creating a safe environment, which helps to improve productivity of
the company.

Health

Health of an employee is most important in the workplace and every organization must
provide a healthy and safe working environment for their employees. Safe environment
provides employees physical, mental and social well being.

Organization should maintain following healthy rules in workplace –

Cleanliness at the workplace

A proper air conditioning system
A proper filtered water facility must be available for the employees
A fresh food cafeteria and good quality food for the employees
Clean washroom facility should be given to employee

Safety

The work environment of the organization must be safe and it must be free from hazards
and risk.

Organization should maintain following Safety rules in workplace –

A proper safety guidelines be prepared by the organization

Regular drills should be conducted
Smoke alarms must be placed
Safety equipment maintenance must be taken care regularly
Fire escape plans must be installed

Security

Every employee should feel that they are secured in the company campus. Security helps
to ensure the safety of the people in the workplace.

Organization should maintain following Security checkup in workplace –

Employee safety
Computer system safety

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 Electrical safety
Transport safety
Equipment safety

Policies and Procedures for Health, Safety and Security

The Department of Information Technology (DoIT) has provided some policy regarding
employees’ healthy and safe work environment in the workplace.

Definition
An employer’s written declaration of the company’s commitment to protecting the public
and employees health, safety and security is known as a health, safety and security
policy. It represents a management-endorsed pledge to protect the security, safety, and
well-being of its staff.

The reasons for Workplace Health, Safety, and Security programs and policies

There are several reasons to specific safety policy in workplace –

It indicates that the company is committed to the health and safety of its employees.
It indicate that company is not only making the profits but it take care of the
employee also
It shows the performance of the business
Company following national policy on Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S)
Injuries and illness of the employee is prevented

Workplace Safety Hazards

The most common definition of hazard is a danger or risk. Workplace Hazards are the
things that could potentially hurt or damage someone or something in a workplace.

There are different types of hazards present in the workplace –

Physical Hazards – It is the dangers associated with the physical workspace,
including the walls, ceilings, floors, and facilities. Physical risks may also arise from
using machinery and devices that run on electricity.
Falling Off Heights, Slipping and Tripping – Everything needs to be placed
correctly to prevent slips and falls. To prevent accidents, dropped food, drink or
other materials like paints need to be cleaned up right away. Ensure that sufficient
lighting is provided and that any broken stairs, light fixtures, or equipment is fixed
immediately.
Electrical Hazards – In the workplace there are many life threatening, severe and
injuries that could result due to Electrical Hazards. Every company has to provide
basic knowledge to the employees, how to use electrical equipment in the
workplace.

Some of the common causes of electrical accidents are –

1. Ungrounded or faulty equipment
2. Unsafe use of electrical equipment
3. Worn-out wiring

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 4. Overloading of electrical outlets

Every employee must know how to use electrical equipment and how to make the
workplace safe. Some of the common instruction which company and employee have to
follow in workplace are –

1. Food and water should not be near electrical equipment.

2. Electrical technician should carry out routine inspections
3. Technician have to check overrated or overloaded outlets
4. Never use damage equipment
5. Electrical safety devices

Fire Hazards
To maintain fire safety, every organization needs to adhere to the housekeeping
regulations. Those who violate these regulations may cause accidents which damage the
vital workplace equipment, building, stock and other items.

Some of the fire safety precautions in workplace are –

1. Emergency mitigation system in workplace
2. Employees should be aware above emergency exits
3. Fire escape routes should be pasted
4. Fire extinguishers and alarms should be placed in the workplace.

Health Hazards
Health refers to the physical well-being of the workers, Hazards are present in most
workplaces that could impact any body parts of employees. For example, machine noise
can damage the sense of hearing of the worker, bright lights and toxic fumes and vapor
could damage the eyes and nose.

Potential sources of risks within a company –

Bright light sources behind the display screen can cause contrast issues, which can make
it challenging to see your work effectively. Use the following potential fixes to stay away
from this.

1. Use drapes on windows to reduce bright light.

2. Use indirect of shielded light
3. Turn the workstation so that the computer screen and the bright lighting coming
from the open windows are at a right angle.
4. Reduce the sharp contrast between the computer screen’s dark and light areas.

Hazards using Computers

The computer is an important tool in many organizations, long periods of using a
computer in the workplace can develop an injury. Poor sitting posture or sitting in one
position for a long duration can result in pain and strain. If the computer screens you are

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using for a long time can harm your eyes. Regular stretches, short breaks every 30
minutes, every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, or basic yoga
positions can help to reduce these types of risks.

Handling Office Equipment

Improper handling of office equipment can result in injuries. Employee should be trained
to handle equipment properly. Every organization should provide a manual to every
employee, how to handle equipment.

Handling Objects

Moving or lifting large objects without following the right protocols could be
dangerous.
Always lift or move objects with the right posture and according to proper technique.

Stress at Work
There are a number of stress-inducing situations that can arise in organizations.
Extensive work hours and unpleasant disputes or disagreements with coworkers may be
stressful. Always search for solutions to resolve disputes among coworkers. Take up
some relaxing activities to reduce tension after difficult workdays.

Hazard Control
Appropriate precautions must be implemented for hazards that have been identified and
considered priorities.

1. Take all feasible measures to eliminate the hazard

2. If removing the risk is not possible or cannot be completed, isolate it as much as
possible.
3. If a hazard cannot be eliminated or isolated, then at least its potential to cause harm
should be reduced.

Safety Guidelines Checklist

1. Store all cleaning chemicals in separate cupboards.
2. Throw garbage daily
3. Do not wear any loose cloth or jewelry when working with machine
4. Do’t disturbed the people who are working near a fire or near machine.
5. Wear protective items such as safety glasses, gloves, masks and hair nets.
6. Shut down all machines before leaving the workplace
7. Do not play with electrical switches
8. Do not operate machines, if you are not trained
9. Before using electrical equipment, repair the broken wires or plugs.
10. Do not use equipment if you feel unsafe.
11. Do not smoke in a “No Smoking” zone.

Chapter 14: Workplace Quality Measures

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A pollution free air and water is an most important requirement of any organization. Most
of the IT companies use centralized air conditioning systems to keep the temperature
pleasant in the workplace. Water pollution is also one of the problems faced by many
organizations. The polluted water may cause the disease. So organizations have to take
care of air pollution and water pollution.

Air and Water Quality Monitoring process

Air and water pollution can be analyzed by using three forms of methods – Physical,
chemical and biological.

Guidelines for Clean Air and Clean Water

A proper guidelines must be followed by organizations to keep the air and water clean.
Some of the guidelines are –

Organizations have to avoid dust production, generation of solid particles and

gasses in the air.
Organizations must use a limited number of vehicles to avoid air pollution.
Organizations have to take care of air pollution, the generation of ozone gas must
be kept at a low level by the organization.
Organizations have to take care of sewage or the wastewater and make sure that
this water is not mixed with the surrounding water.
Extensive use of fertilizers and pesticide must be avoided as it can make the ground
water polluted.

Importance of Cleanliness at Workplace

Clean workplace avoid hazardous. Clean workplace makes your job easier and more
pleasant. Every person have to follow following cleanliness guideline at workplace –

Employees are responsible for the cleanliness of their work area.

Spills and breakage are to be cleaned up immediately.
Spaces around the machine should be kept clean and clear.
Floor should be kept clean to prevent slipping and collision.
Lighting fixtures are to be checked regularly for a clean vision.

Office Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science concerned with designing and arranging things, ergonomics
helps to reduce accidents, injury and helps to improve the performance and productivity
of an organization.

The following office ergonomics emphasize the identification of early warning signs.

Computer Health and Safety Tips

In every organization the use of computers is increasing, there are several health and
safety issues related to vision, musculoskeletal issues, body aches and pains may occur
due to improper use of computers. These problems can be resolved by adopting some

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simple corrective action.

Musculoskeletal Problems
This problem includes different areas of your body such as neck, back, chests, arms,
shoulders and feet because of wrong posture, uncomfortable chair or not following basic
rules while working on the computer.

To avoid this problem follow the following guideline –

Position of the monitor should be at your eye level.
Keep your monitor at least arm length distance or 20 to 30 inches away from you.
Keep your back against the backrest of the chair.
Adjust height of armrests so that your elbows are at a 100-110 degrees open angle.
Place the keyboard at a slight negative tilt if you are sitting upright.
While typing keep your hands slightly lower than elbows.
Minimize any twisting of your wrists from side to side or up and down.
Use a keyboard palm rest as needed only when you are not typing.
Always take small breaks while working on the computer.

Occupational Overuse Syndrome

Occupational overuse syndrome is a type of injury in fingers, shoulder, neck, wrists,
hands or elbows it is also known as repetitive strain injury or RSI. In this syndrome the
pain, swelling and weakness in the affected joints.

The most common reason of affecting Occupational Overuse Syndrome –

1. Stress in the working place
2. Wrong posture when sitting
3. Forceful body movement
4. Psycho social factors

Strain in Legs and Feet

If you are working on a computer for a long period then it may cause strain in your leg.
Always feet should be supported on the floor or by footrest and try to stretch your legs
after 30 minutes.

Eye Strain

Computer bright light, poor light or flickering images can cause eye strain. It is important
to look after your eye health and try to wear anti glare glasses when you are working on
the computer.

To reduce the possibility of vision problem –

Adjust the brightness of computer screen
Keep a proper vision distance from computer screen
Blink your eyes in an every interval
Wear anti glare glasses whenever you are working in computer
Give your eyes periodic breaks from the screen
Keep your monitor between 18 to 24 inches away from your face.

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Headaches
Headache may occur due to muscle tension in neck, muscle pain in neck, Strain on the
eyes or vision problem. Try to maintain a straight neck while working on the computer..

Obesity
Spending a long time on the computer may lead to a lack of physical activity and
exercise. Before returning to work, you need to take a break.

Stress Disorders

Technology can impact our behaviors and emotions, excess use of computers may create
poor health and increase pressure in your workplace. Try to do yoga, medications or
natural remedies to reduce the stress.

Injuries from Laptop Use

The laptop is designed for short term use, nowadays people are using laptops over
desktops more frequently but the laptop designs are very compact. In a laptop the screen
and keyboard close together which makes ergonomic use difficult which makes
discomfort for work, using an ergonomic desktop is advisable.

Sleeping Problems

Artificial lights of computer screens can trick your brain and due to this your sleeping
patterns, to avoid this don’t use a computer before going to bed.

Health and Safety Requirements for Computer Workplace

The minimum health and safety requirements for computer are as follow –

Display Screen (Monitor) – Use LED monitor of legible size with adequate
character and proper line spacing.
Keyboard – There should be proper space in front of the keyboard to support your
hands and arms. The symbols, characters and numbers should be clear and easy
to read.
Work Surface – The work desk should be large, non reflective and allow flexible
placement of the screen and keyboard.
Work Chair – The work chair must be stable and allow the user to move easily and
find a comfortable position.
Space Requirements – The user should have enough desk space for the
equipment they use.
Lighting – There should be proper light and appropriate contrast between the
computer screen and background.
Reflections and Glare – Workplace should avoid direct glare and distracting
reflections from light.
Noise and Heat – Avoid noise related equipment or the equipment producing heat
which could cause discomfort to users.

Cautions while Working on the Computer

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To work safely on a computer –

1. Unplug all power cables before changing or maintaining the computer, it will prevent
hardware damage.
2. User a battery backup to protect against power failure.
3. Remove rings, watches and necklaces to avoid static damage.
4. The static electricity is generated when you are working on a computer, so use a
surge protector when you plug your system in.

Watch Out for Cords and Wires

1. Loose cords and wire can cause hazards and even electrical hazards.
2. Mark cords or wires crossing pathways using hazard tape.
3. Avoid water when working with electricity.
4. Never touch or repair electrical equipment with wet hands.

Chapter 15: Prevent Accidents and Emergencies

Any minor mistake or unexpected event within an organization has the potential to turn
into an emergency if it is not handled properly.

Accidents and Emergencies

An unplanned, uncontrollable, or unexpected event that causes property damage or

human injury is called an accident.

For example –

1. Person falling down and getting injured

An emergency is a dangerous or urgent situation that requires quick response.

For example –

1. Customer having a heart attack

2. Sudden outbreak of fire in organization

Every organization follows policies and procedures for managing, reporting, and handling
emergencies as well as accidents.

Notice and Correctly Identify Accidents and Emergencies

The most valuable source of guidance in this area will be the organization’s policies and
guidelines. These kinds of incidents should be easy to recognize in your company, and
you should know how to handle every kind of emergency and disaster.

Get help Promptly and in the Most Suitable Way

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Make sure that you will provide the kind of help and support that are given in the
organization policies. Even if you have the best of plans, you should still follow the rules
and regulations given from the organization. If the situation requires then professionals
may be authorized to make decisions.

Do not follow your feelings or emotions if someone is hurt. Follow the steps
described in the injury management policy of your company.
Provide help and support within the authorized limit. Only offer the injured person
medical assistance if you are qualified to do so.
Take advice from senior employees who are qualified to deal with certain
circumstances.

Types of Accidents

The following are a few incidents that frequently happen in organizations –

1. Trip and Fall at workplace – Consumers or staff members may trip on items left in
aisles, unsecured cables, or higher thresholds, causing them to fall.
2. Slip and FalI – Slips are mainly due to wet floors, spilling of liquids or throwing of
other slip-causing material on floors.
3. Injuries caused due to Escalators or Elevators – Injuries can be caused by
falling on escalators and getting hurt.
4. Accidents Caused by Falling Goods – People may get injuries when goods fall
from shelves or wall hangings onto them.
5. Accidents due to Moving Objects – Moving objects, such as trolleys, can also
injure people in the organization.

Handling Accidents

Identify all possible dangers in your company and take steps to eliminate them in order to
try to prevent accidents. In the event that an accident results in a colleague’s injury, take
the following action.

1. Attend to the Injured Person Immediately

2. Inform your Supervisor
3. Assist your Supervisor

Types of Emergencies

You should know how to handle emergencies and what are basic procedures. Here are
some general emergency procedures –

1. First Aid – Must have every essential first aid item necessary to handle common
issues.
2. Electrical Safety – Electrical safety, such as keeping food and drink items away
from electrical equipment, routine inspections, fire extinguisher, fire alarm system
etc.

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 3. Evacuation – Employees must be aware of who has the coordination or decision-
making authority in an emergency. The coordinator needs to be responsible for all of
the evacuation procedures.

General Evacuation Procedures

Every organization has its own evacuation procedures and policies every one has to be
aware of these policies. Here are some general evacuation policies –

1. Immediately move towards the nearest emergency exit.

2. Guide others to the emergency exits.
3. Help the disabled person make their way to the emergency exit.
4. You may carry your hand held belongings as you move towards the emergency exit.
5. Avoid escalators or elevators and avoid overcrowding.
6. Immediately go to the emergency assembly area.

Fire Hazards in the Workplace

Unsafe storage of combustible dust or flammable materials is another prevalent cause of

workplace fires. Since both are hazardous, they need to be handled and stored carefully.

1. Each worker needs to be aware of the locations of the fire extinguishers.

2. Fire extinguishers and First Aid stations should be marked with signs.
3. Do not use flammable material near electrical panels, switches or near any
electrical equipment.
4. All equipment is properly grounded where needed.
5. Fire extinguishers must be inspected regularly.
6. No flammable material is to be placed near the exit door.

Identification of Material and Ignition Sources

Materials are arranged in accordance with these fire classes, which are based on risk –

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 provide a
significant risk of arc flash and start fires very quickly.
Class D Material: any materials that are volatile and able to quickly ignite, such as
magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is a tool for protection that shuts off flames. It is a pressure vessel that
is cylindrical in shape and holds an agent that can be released to put out a fire.

First Aid for Electrical Emergencies

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Electrical accidents can happen anywhere, at any time. One of the main concerns is the
quick response and care of victims. A victim of an electrical accident is frequently unable
to move or release the electrical conductor as a result of muscle cramps.

Electrical Rescue Techniques

Approaching the accident

Never rush into an accident situation.

Call 108 as soon as possible.
Approach the accident place cautiously

Examining the scene

Examine the victim visually and check whether they have come into contact with
any electrical wire.
Do not touch the victim or conductive surface.
Switch off the electrical circuits if possible.

Hazards and solutions

Be alert from heated surfaces and fire
Take precaution if you are not able to switch off the power supply.
Make sure the hands and feet are dry.
Wear gloves and shoes and stand of dry surface
User non conductive material to remove a victim from the conductor.

High voltage rescue

Special training is required for how to rescue from high voltage.

Protective equipment like gloves and shoes must be worn

First Aid

Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can be necessary for the victim.

Provide first aid for injuries and treat shock if the victim is conscious and breathing.
Make sure the victim receives medical attention as quickly as you can.
The attending physician needs complete data in order to diagnose and treat the
victim correctly.

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