OSH Answers Fact Sheets

What are examples of hazards when working in high wind conditions? High winds may be the result of a storm, hurricane, tornado or other weather event. Hazards include: Potential for injury when wind moves objects Eye injuries from dust or debris in the air Sprains or strains when the wind forces workers to fall, when workers try to reach for an object that is moving away from them, or when the wind pulls objects/doors from their hands Potential for injury from broken glass as a result of...

What is contaminated personal protective equipment? Personal protective equipment (PPE) protects workers from hazards, including chemical (such as dust, soot, and ash), biological (such as bodily fluids), and physical (such as noise and radiation) hazards. Personal protective equipment can become contaminated when it comes into direct contact with substances or as a result of handling, use, transportation, or storage practices. For example, firefighters ’ bunker gear can become contaminated...

What is an occupational health and safety management system? A management system is a collection of processes, procedures, and other components coordinated to achieve its goals. In this case, the goal is to reduce occupational health and safety risks, prevent work-related injuries and illnesses, and protect workers’ well-being. A management system is typically made up of interconnected documents, such as: Policies: concise statements that set the foundation for the entire management system....

What is lifting? Lifting is a type of manual material handling that involves moving a load to a different position. It can include holding the load in a static position during transportation and placing the load at the destination. A lifting operation typically involves raising, moving, and lowering a load. Lifting can be done entirely manually or with the use of equipment. This fact sheet does not cover lifting exclusively with equipment, such as an overhead crane operation . What kind of...