Job security

Classification

Occupational risks are situations or conditions that can cause damage or harm to the health and safety of workers in the work environment. They are classified into various categories, and some specific types are detailed below:

• physical risks :
  • Falls : They can occur due to slippery surfaces, unevenness or lack of protective barriers. They are prevented with anti-fall systems ;
  • occupational noise – constant exposure to high levels of sound, which can cause hearing damage. It is mandatory to provide employees with hearing protection ;
  • extreme temperatures – exposure to extreme weather conditions, whether heat or cold, which can affect health.
• chemical risks :
  • exposure to toxic substances – Working with dangerous chemicals without proper protection can have serious health consequences. To minimize the risk, safety clothing should be worn;
  • gases : inhalation of toxic gases that can be harmful to respiratory health. The company must have gas detection equipment and masks to protect its workers.
• biological risks :
  • exposure to pathogenic microorganisms : work with biological agents, such as viruses or bacteria, that can cause disease. Safety gloves and protective glasses are essential at this point.
• ergonomic risks :
  • Improper postures : Maintaining uncomfortable or repetitive postures for long periods can cause musculoskeletal injuries. This can be prevented by warning employees of the risks during safety training courses;
  • workstation design : inadequate or poorly designed furniture that can affect the postural health of workers.
• psychosocial risks :
  • stress : excessive pressures, tight deadlines or work overload that can affect mental health. A fundamental objective of psychosocial measures is the reduction of work stress ;
  • Workplace bullying : Intimidating or discriminatory behaviors that affect the emotional well-being of employees.
• accidental risks :
  • machinery related : incorrect use of safe machinery, lack of training or inadequate maintenance that can lead to serious accidents. Frequent machinery repair must be carried out to avoid reaching this point;
  • vehicles and tools : accidents associated with the use of vehicles at work or the handling of tools without due precautions. In both cases, accident records must be kept to improve conditions day by day.

The identification, evaluation and adequate management of these risks are essential to guarantee a safe and healthy work environment, promoting prevention and the implementation of corrective measures when necessary.

Preventive measures

Prevention measures in the context of occupational safety are essential to minimize or eliminate risks that may affect the health and safety of workers in the work environment. These measures cover various areas and are adapted to the different types of risks identified.

Let's look at some common prevention measures:

Continuing training : Provide regular training to employees on the specific risks associated with their job duties. Instruct on the proper use of personal protective equipment and the importance of following safety protocols;
personal protective equipment (PPE) : provide and require proper use of protective equipment, such as a hard hat , gloves, goggles, and safety shoes, as necessary;
Risk assessment : Conduct regular assessments of risks present in the workplace to identify new threats and ensure the continued effectiveness of prevention measures;
ergonomics : adopt ergonomic design in workstations and furniture to prevent musculoskeletal injuries and improve employee well-being;
Hazardous Substance Control – Implement control measures to minimize exposure to toxic chemicals, such as installing appropriate ventilation systems;
safety signs : clear and visible to indicate dangerous areas, emergency exits and safe routes, thus improving the situational awareness of workers;
preventive maintenance : carry out regular maintenance of machinery and equipment to prevent failures that may lead to workplace accidents;
work stress management : implement programs to manage work stress, such as regular breaks, emotional support and resources to balance the workload;
• emergency response plans : establish and clearly communicate emergency protocols for situations such as fires, evacuations or serious accidents;
• participation and communication : encourage the active participation of workers in the identification of risks and the implementation of preventive measures. Establish open communication channels to report security-related incidents, concerns or suggestions.

Effective implementation of these prevention measures not only protects workers, but also contributes to creating a safer, healthier and more productive work environment. The safety culture, where each team member assumes responsibility, is essential for the success of these measures.

Employer and worker: roles

In the context of workplace safety, both the employer and the employee play critical roles in ensuring a safe work environment.

Employer roles:

• provide a safe environment : create and maintain a safe work environment, identifying and eliminating or reducing occupational hazards;
• comply with regulations : they must comply with all occupational safety regulations established by the competent authorities;
• foster a safety culture : within the company, encouraging open communication about safety problems and active participation in prevention programs.

Worker roles:

• follow safe work procedures : established by the company, including the proper use of personal protective equipment;
• report risks : immediately identify them to their supervisors or the security department;
• Collaborate in incident investigations : to identify causes and prevent future occurrences.

Taken together, cooperation between employers and workers is essential to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.