Physical Agents other than noise

1. Physical Agents (other than noise) Occupational Health and Safety PUBH 3310October 24, 2011 1

2. Supplemental Resources The Basics of Occupational Safety (course text) Chapter 12, Hazards of Temperature Extremes Selected Internet websites, as noted in this presentation 2

3. Objectives Be aware of health effects of vibration and how to control exposure Understand basics of ionizing radiation Terminology, health effects, controls Be familiar with non-ionizing radiation types, hazards and controls Understand thermal stress hazards, measurement and control Heat stress, including WBGT Cold stress 3

4. Outline Vibration Ionizing Radiation Non-Ionizing Radiation Heat Stress Cold Stress 4

5. Introduction This presentation is intended as a basic overview of physical hazards of the workplace Noise was addressed in a prior session Most people understand thermal stress, vibration and some forms of non-ionizing radiation from ordinary life Hot and cold weather, radiant energy, sunburn Ionizing radiation and low-energy non-ionizing radiation, while ubiquitous in our environment, are not as easily understood 5

6. Vibration Vibration hazards are commonly found in noisy environments, associated with power-driven equipment Vibration causes constriction of blood vessels which causes restricted blood flow to parts of the body. Vibration Injury is thought to be irreversible. Whole Body Vibration Heavy Equipment Operators Truck Drivers Hand-Arm Vibration Jack Hammer Hand Held Equipment (e.g., Trimmers, Saws, Drills, etc.,) 6