ARCHANA INSTITUTE & PRADEEP GOEL CLASSES
D-14/24, 1st floor, sector – 3, Rohini, Delhi - 110085
Chapter 13 Health, Safety and Security at Workplace
Introduction to Health, Safety and Security at Workplace
Every workplace accident, illness, or dispute creates costs for both the organization and injured
individuals and their families. Employees must take responsibility for their own health and
safety rather than relying solely on safety officers or management.
Health
Health is the state of physical, mental, and social well-being. Organizations must provide the
following facilities to employees:
Cleanliness at the workplace
Proper air conditioning with clean and cool air
Properly filtered water facility
A food cafeteria providing fresh, good quality food
Clean washroom facilities
Safety
The work environment must be safe and free from hazards and risks. A hazard is something
that can cause harm to people, while a risk is the probability of harm occurring.
Security
Security is freedom from potential harm. It ensures the safety of people working in the
organization. Every organization should have a dedicated security department responsible for:
Personal safety
Computer system safety
Electrical safety
Transport safety
Equipment safety
Policies and Procedures for Health, Safety and Security
A health, safety and security policy is a written statement by an employer committing the
company to protecting employee health, safety, and security, as well as public safety.
Reasons for Health, Safety and Security Programs:
Indicates the company's commitment to employee health and safety
Shows that business performance and safety performance are compatible
Demonstrates the company values stakeholders beyond profit
Prevents employee injuries and illnesses
Workplace Safety Hazards
Workplace hazards pose potential harm to workers. Occupational hazards are illnesses
acquired due to one's occupation. Types include:
1. Physical Hazards
Physical hazards arise from the physical work environment (floors, facilities, walls, ceilings) and
working with machinery and electricity.
Falling, Slipping, and Tripping:
Safety rules include:
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ARCHANA INSTITUTE & PRADEEP GOEL CLASSES
D-14/24, 1st floor, sector – 3, Rohini, Delhi - 110085
Keep moving areas clean and clutter-free
Ensure proper ventilation and lighting
Wear non-slippery footwear
Keep floors clean and dry
Immediately clean oil spills and dust
2. Electrical Hazards
Workers suffer from electric shock due to direct contact with live wires or indirect contact
through conductors.
Electrical Safety Rules:
Use equipment approved by recognized organizations
Train workers to handle equipment safely
Immediately replace damaged or hazardous equipment
Keep heat-generating equipment away from electrical equipment
3. Fire Hazards
Fire Safety Rules:
Install fire escape plans at proper levels
Conduct regular drills
Place smoke alarms at proper intervals
Maintain a no-smoking zone in the workplace
Regularly maintain safety equipment
Health Hazards
Health refers to the physical well-being of workers, including the condition of skin, eyes, ears,
and internal systems like respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. For example, noisy
machines can damage workers' hearing.
Potential Sources of Hazards
A. Bright Light Sources
Use blinds or drapes to eliminate bright light
Reorient workstations so bright lights are at right angles to computer screens
Adjust furniture placement to allow light without glare
B. Computer-Related Hazards
Poor sitting postures, excessive sitting duration, and screen glare can cause pain, strain, and
eye damage. Mitigation includes stretching at regular intervals or performing simple yoga
exercises.
C. Office Equipment Handling
Improper handling of office equipment can cause injuries such as cuts. Staff should be trained
in proper equipment handling and lifting techniques for heavy items.
D. Stress at Work
Long working hours cause stress. Employees should develop relaxing hobbies to counteract
workplace stress.
E. Working Environment
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ARCHANA INSTITUTE & PRADEEP GOEL CLASSES
D-14/24, 1st floor, sector – 3, Rohini, Delhi - 110085
Potential hazards include poor ventilation, inappropriate furniture heights, poor lighting, staff
unaware of emergency procedures, poor housekeeping, and physical or emotional intimidation
such as bullying.
Hazard Control
Hazard control measures prevent workplace accidents and injuries by eliminating or reducing
risks. The hierarchy of control measures is:
1. Eliminate the hazard through substitution or process modification
2. If elimination is impractical, isolate the hazard
3. If elimination or isolation is impossible, minimize the likelihood of injury
Safety Guidelines Checklist
Store all cleaning chemicals in tightly closed containers in separate cupboards
Dispose of garbage daily
Ensure all areas have proper lighting
Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry when working with machines
Never distract people working near fire or machinery
Wear protective items (goggles, safety glasses, masks, gloves, hair nets) when required
Shut down all machines before leaving the workplace
Do not tamper with electrical controls or switches
Do not smoke in "No Smoking" areas