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Employees Health and Safety Measures INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION Every business has official responsibilities, in order to guarantee the health and safety of its recruits and other people involved; protection of the work environment should be a priority. It is not appropriate to bring about only the minimal of changes which barely meet the legal requirements. Constructive changes will benefit and promote your business. Underprivileged health and safety acts as a safeguard against illnesses and accidents. It may increase your business costs considerably. However, keep in mind that disproportionate energy consumption not only harm yours employees health, but it also damages your profits as a direct result of his/her sick leave. Fine health, safety and environmental performances pay for themselves. They also develop a good repute of your business in the eyes of your clientele, the local area and community, and the hired staff. Your reputation can be an essential benefit to your business. A good standing in the community will facilitate you by making it easy to draw and maintain a hold on customers. It will make hiring new employees more convenient. It encourages traders to trust you; therefore, they will be more inclined towards forging an alliance with you. 1 | Page Anna Leela College of Commerce And Economics

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Page 1: HRM hgjhfu

Employees Health and Safety Measures

INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION

Every business has official responsibilities, in order to guarantee the health and safety of

its recruits and other people involved; protection of the work environment should be a

priority. It is not appropriate to bring about only the minimal of changes which barely

meet the legal requirements. Constructive changes will benefit and promote your

business.

Underprivileged health and safety acts as a safeguard against illnesses and accidents. It

may increase your business costs considerably. However, keep in mind that

disproportionate energy consumption not only harm yours employees health, but it also

damages your profits as a direct result of his/her sick leave.

Fine health, safety and environmental performances pay for themselves. They also

develop a good repute of your business in the eyes of your clientele, the local area and

community, and the hired staff.

Your reputation can be an essential benefit to your business. A good standing in the

community will facilitate you by making it easy to draw and maintain a hold on

customers. It will make hiring new employees more convenient. It encourages traders to

trust you; therefore, they will be more inclined towards forging an alliance with you.

Your approach towards health and safety plays a very important role in building up a

strong reputation. Many companies have acquired phenomenal success due to their good

will in the market. Others have suffered a loss of clients and in some cases; employees

turned against them because they were not well served. It is always beneficial for

businesses to adhere to the environmental etiquettes. Not only does it help in making

customers and improving employee motivation, but it also proves your commitment to

being a good citizen.

The best way to manage health and safety measures is by placing down all the steps that

need to be monitored and then supervising the daily activity of all the prescribed

procedures. It becomes a moral responsibility on your part to constantly assess the

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healthy and safe environment, which guards your reputation along with your employees -

who work hard to maintain your repute in the business market.

Once you have managed an assessment, you would be able to review all other probable

environmental threats. You should always update your evaluation on every occasion and

whenever something is modified - for example, if you purchase new equipment, hire new

employees, change your running performances and professional procedures. You should

look for potential health and safety or environmental problems. You should carry out

mini health assessments from time to time, so that there is no threat of any danger around

your workplace. Involve employees and encourage them to give you feedback for

improvements - options include a safety committee or a suggestion scheme. '

Keep up-to-date with what the most recent technology has to offer for new ideas and

ways to improve your health and safety parameters, whereby, diminishing any risk of

environmental clashes. Thus, it is very important to maintain health and safety in your

workplace; as it has a significant impact on the reputation of your business.

Getting hurt at work or becoming ill through work is not a pleasant subject to think about.

The reality is that 250 people a year lose their lives at work in Britain. In addition, around

156,000 non-fatal injuries are reported each year, and an estimated 2.3 million suffer

from ill health caused or made worse by work.

The mistake is to believe that these things happen in highly unusual or exceptional

circumstances that never occur in your workplace. This is not the case. Some basic

thinking and acting beforehand could usually have prevented these things from

happening.

Implementing health and safety measures doesn't have to be expensive, time consuming

or complicated, in fact, safer and more efficient working practices can often save money

but, more importantly, they can help to save lives.

This guide shows you the kind of things which cause the more common accidents and

harm to people's health. It lets you see what applies to your work activities, and tells you

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how you can get more help and information. This is especially important if you are in

charge of work activities, e.g. you are an employer, because you have legal

responsibilities.

The key to employee productivity is to keep them motivated. Employees can remain

motivated if they feel safe and healthy at their workplace. This says a lot about the

importance of workplace safety. Workplace safety is immensely important for the very

reason of improved productivity. It’s only when the employees feel safe at work that they

can invest the fullest of their capacities and exploit the best of their potentials to work.

Workplace safety is the management responsibility. It involves the formation and

implementation of safety and health programs. Employee insurance schemes and

employee safety policies help cover the risk an employee might suffer at work. Jobs,

which put the safety of their employees on stake, should also provide the employees with

the safety costs. Workplace safety and health involves training programs that are meant to

teach the employees to handle risks. The employees need to be trained to react to

impending dangers, if any; they should be trained to face risks and deal with accidents at

work. It’s important for the management of a company to heed the safety needs of its

employees through risk covers as well as training programs intended to minimize the cost

of risks. The management should ensure the health and safety of the employees by the

means of safety education programs. The importance of office safety can be promoted

through the formation of a safety committee that is assigned the responsibility to

employee safety. Safety committee’s are helpful in increasing employee involvement.

Violence at workplace gives rise to serious issues pertaining to office safety. Acts of

violence eclipse the atmosphere in the organization and can leave a permanent scar on the

company’s image. Violence at the workplace is sure to lead to frustrated employees in

turn leading to a decline in their productivity. The management should implement strict

measures to prevent acts of violence at work. It should implement policies that safeguard

the employees against harassment, torture or ill-treatment from other employees. Safety

and health is important at a workplace also because human resource is the most important

resource of an organization. Safety at a workplace, also known as office safety refers to

the safety of this valuable resource of an organization. Satisfied employees can earn for a

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company what money can’t buy. I am sure; you will agree with me, that human life is

priceless. It cannot be replaced by monetary compensations. An employer might be able

to replace an employee by another. But, what about the employee’s dedication towards

work? What about the expertise he/she has invested towards his/her work? Can they be

replaced? Definitely not! This makes it extremely important for an employer to cater to

workplace safety, and moreover, to the lives of the employees. Don’t you think so?

Due to rapid industrialization, industrial workers are exposed to several types of hazards

and accidents. Every year lakhs of workers are injured due to mechanical,

chemical, electrical and r ad i a t i on haza rds and i t l e ads t o pa r t i a l o r

t o t a l d i s ab l emen t . So i n r e cen t yea r s , g r ea t e r   attention is given to

health and safety due to pressure from government, trade unions, labor  laws

and awareness of employers. The efficiency of workers depends to a great

extends on the environment in which the work. Work environment consists of all

the factors, which act and react on the body and mind of an employee. The primary

aim is to create an environment, which ensures the greatest ease of  work and

removes all causes of worries. Occupational health and safety is a discipline with a broad

scope involving many specialized fields. In its broadest sense, it should aim at:

a) The p romot ion and ma in t enance o f t he h ighes t deg ree o f phys i ca l ,

men t a l and soc i a l well-being of workers in all occupations.

 b) The p r even t i on among worke r s o f adve r se e f f ec t s on hea l t h c aused

by t he i r work ing conditions.

c) The protection of workers in their employment from risks resulting from factors

adverse to health.

d) The p l ac ing and ma in t enance o f worke r s i n an occupa t i ona l

env i ronmen t adap t ed t o  physical and mental needs.

e) The adaptation of work to humans. S u c c e s s f u l o c c u p a t i o n a l h e a l t h a n d

s a f e t y p r a c t i c e r e q u i r e s t h e c o l l a b o r a t i o n a n d  participation of

both employers and workers in health and safety programmes, and involves

the cons ide ra t i on o f i s sue s r e l a t i ng t o occupa t i ona l med i c ine ,

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indus t r i a l hyg i ene , t ox i co logy , education, engineering safety, ergonomics,

psychology, etc.

Occupational health issues are often given less attention than occupational

safety issues because the former are generally more difficult to confront. However,

when health is addressed, so is safety, because a healthy workplace is by

definition also a safe workplace? The converse, though, may not be true - a so-

called safe workplace is not necessarily also a healthy workplace. T h e i m p o r t a n t

p o i n t i s t h a t i s s u e s o f b o t h h e a l t h a n d s a f e t y m u s t b e

a d d r e s s e d i n e v e r y workplace.Work plays a central role in people's lives, since

most workers spend at least eight hoursa day in the workplace, whether it is on a

plantation, in an office, factory, etc. Therefore, work  e n v i r o n m e n t s

s h o u l d b e s a f e a n d h e a l t h y . U n f o r t u n a t e l y s o m e e m p l o y e r s

a s s u m e l i t t l e responsibility for the protection of workers' health and

safety. In fact, some employers do not even know that they have the moral and

often legal responsibility to protect workers.

HEALTH OF THE WORKERS:

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not

merely the absence of diseases. It’s a positive and dynamic concept which

means something more than the absence of illness.

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IMPORTANCE OF WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETYIMPORTANCE OF WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY

Workplace health and safety procedures are necessary for the well-being of both

employers and employees. Violence in the workplace is an ever-growing concern in

today’s business community. According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health

Administration (OSHA), “homicide is the fourth leading cause of fatal occupational

injury in the United States.” Diseases and other health concerns also affect a worker's

ability to effectively perform his job duties. It is important for employers to take the

necessary steps to protect employees from the health and safety concerns of today’s

corporate community.

Health and Safety Hazards

Hazards are considered to be potentially dangerous substances or behaviors that can

cause harm or injury to an employee. There are several hazards employees can be

exposed to in the workplace. Health hazards can range from infectious diseases spread

from one worker to another to poisonous chemicals that are not properly stored and

maintained. For example, some industries are exposed to dangerous gases such as carbon

monoxide. These industries must follow specific safety procedures in the event of an

emergency situation involving the substance.

Health and Safety Enforcement

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is responsible for enforcing

laws regarding safety in the workplace. OSHA is charged with ensuring employers

provide a healthy and safe work environment for their employers by establishing

guidelines and safety standards. They investigate complaints regarding safety violations

and ensure that any hazards or dangerous work environments are corrected.

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Health Guidelines

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has created guidelines to help

employers and office workers understand how certain hazards can negatively impact the

workplace as well as how emergency situations should be handled. These guidelines

assist companies that conduct potentially dangerous job duties or work with dangerous

chemicals with following the proper workplace procedures to prevent illness or injury.

Health and Safety Programs

Health and safety programs are an important part of preventing injury and illness in the

workplace. Health programs help employers and employees understand the potential

hazards they are exposed to on a daily basis. Effective health and safety programs

educate workers on the benefits of practicing proper workplace behaviors. For example,

the “Safety Pays” program helps employers determine the cost workplace injuries and

illness have on a company’s profit margin. When companies understand the impact

injuries have on their bottom line, they are more inclined to implement programs to keep

their workers healthy and safe.

Employee Awareness

Workplace health and safety practices are important because they help prevent inter-

office violence and raise employee awareness of the potential dangers they face. Violent

acts and behaviors of employees and other individuals within the workplace are cause for

concern because they threaten a company’s overall well-being. Companies must take an

active approach in educating workers on the importance of practicing safe habits in order

to maintain a healthy and safe working environment.

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IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYEES SAFETY

Employee safety should hold tremendous importance for every company. First and

foremost, every employee has the right to work in a safe and healthy environment. No

employees -- or their families -- should have to suffer because of avoidable dangers in the

workplace. By creating a safe and healthy workplace, companies also protect themselves.

Employee Retention

An unsafe environment will probably make workers feel unappreciated. For instance, if

the company provides inadequate training about operating machinery, allows minors to

use heavy machinery or doesn't enforce a safety code, workers will probably feel the

company doesn't care about their well being. This may lead workers to feel less loyal to

the company and find work with companies that take better care of their employees.

Fewer workers will probably apply to work with the company, too, and the most skilled

workers will probably search for jobs elsewhere. Proper training will help employees feel

good about working for the company.

Company Finances

A company could run into serious financial trouble if an employee sues because of

workplace hazards or a resulting injury. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Act

(OSHA) require all employers to follow specific guidelines in creating safe workplaces.

Not following OSHA's rules could lead to serious legal and financial trouble. Keeping the

workplace safe involves a financial investment, but the investment will pay off by

ensuring the company avoids lawsuits and settlement payments. A newer company, or

one dealing with a hefty lawsuit, may not have the funds to continue operations if it falls

into such financial trouble. Additionally, keeping healthy employees healthy pays off by

avoiding higher insurance premiums that the employer might be subsidizing.

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Company Productivity

Healthy employees who feel safe and comfortable in their work environment will work

more productively than employees who become injured or sick in the workplace. Fixing

workplace hazards will help to keep employees working at their best through each

workday, instead of taking time off to heal from an injury or illness. This holds true for

office workers as well as those working in jobs traditionally considered more dangerous,

because sitting for long periods of time each day can cause dangerous health disorders.

Office workers who are encouraged to take short breaks throughout the day to move

around may feel better, enjoy far better long-term health benefits and accomplish more

than workers who remain at their desks.

Company Reputation

A company will quickly develop a reputation as negligent if it allows employees to work

among avoidable hazards. The company's customers, competitors and the general public

will probably perceive the company as unprofessional if they learn of the company's

safety oversights. Fewer people may purchase goods or services from the company as a

result, and the company may have a more difficult time securing any loans it might need.

IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYEES HEALTH

Human resource is the most important asset that a company has. This is why the

employees' health should be an important concern for all employers. This does not need

to be argued because several studies have proven time and again that healthy employees

are productive employees. Hence, if your company is slacking in this part, better include

workers' wellness now in your strategic action plan for next month or next year.

If you are clueless on how to go about this plan, consider hiring the help of business

consultants. These professionals can assist you in designing an employee health plan and

how to implement it. They can also help you find the right healthcare providers that meet

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your needs and budget. Meanwhile, as to what kind of services and benefits should you

include in your company's wellness program to improve and maintain employee health,

there is a wide spectrum of actions or services you can choose from. However, you must

not forget to include in your plan the most important ones.

The most essential wellness benefits that must be included are health screening services,

such as annual physical check-ups, flu shots, blood tests, etc. These are basic services,

which can provide great financial relief to your employees.

Other valuable employee health benefits that can significantly boost productivity and job

satisfaction among your human assets are smoking and alcoholism cessation programs. If

one or a dozen of your employees are suffering from addiction to tobacco or alcohol,

your productivity can be affected significantly. So make it a point to offer your

employees the opportunity to break free from these health issues.

There are many other health and wellness programs that can make a lot of difference to

your employees and your business as well. Healthy cafeteria dishes, diet counseling and

subsidized membership in gyms are just examples of those simple programs that will help

you ensure a healthy workforce at a fraction of a price you pay when an employee gets

seriously sick.

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STATUTORY PROVISIONSSTATUTORY PROVISIONS

According to factories Act, 1948, the statutory provisions regarding the

health of the workers are stated in the sections 11 to 20. They are

Cleanliness (sec 11):

Every factory shall be kept clean by daily sweeping or washing the floors and workrooms

and by using disinfectants where every necessary. Walls, doors and windows

shall be repainted or varnished at least once in every 5 years.

Disposal of wastes and effluents (sec 12):

The was t e ma t e r i a l s p roduced f rom the manufac tu r i ng p roce s s mus t

be e f f ec t i ve ly disposed of wastes.

Ventilation and temperature (sec 13):

There must be provision for adequate ventilation for the circulation of fresh

air. The temperature must be kept at a comfortable level. Hot parts of

machines must be separated and insulated. The State Government may make

rules for the keeping of thermometers in specified  places and the adoption of

methods which will keep the temperature low.

Removal of Dust and fumes (sec 14):

If the manufacturing process used gives off injurious or offensive dust and steps must be

taken so that they are not inhaled or accumulated. The exhaust fumes of

internal combustion engines must be conducted outside the factory.

Artificial humidification (sec 15):

The water used for this purpose must be pure. The State Government can

frame rules regarding the process of humidification etc. The water used for

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humidification shall be taken from a public supply or other source of drinking

water and must be effectively purified before use.

Overcrowding (sec 16):

T h e r e m u s t b e n o o v e r c r o w d i n g i n a f a c t o r y . I n

f a c t o r i e s e x i s t i n g b e f o r e t h e commencemen t o f t he Ac t t he r e

mus t be a t l e a s t 9 . 9 cub i c me t e r s o f space pe r worke r . Fo r   factories

built afterwards, there must be at least 4.2 cubic meters of space. The chief inspector

of factories can also prescribe the maximum number of workers who can work in each

work room.

Lighting (sec 17):

Factories must be well lighted. Effective measures must be adopted to

prevent glare or formation of shadows which might cause eye strain.

Drinking water (sec 18):

Arrangements must be made to provide a sufficient supply of wholesome drinking water.

All supply points of such water must be marked “drinking water”. No such points

shall be within 20 ft. (or 7.5 meters) of any latrine, washing place

etc.Factories employing more than 250 workers must cool the water during the hot

weather.

Toilet facilities (sec 19):

Eve ry f ac to ry mus t p rov ide su f f i c i en t numbe r o f l a t r i ne s and u r i na l s .

The re mus t be separate provisions for male and female workers. L a t r i n e s a n d

u r i n a l s m u s t b e k e p t i n a c l e a n a n d s a n i t a r y c o n d i t i o n . I n

f a c t o r i e s employing more than 250 workers, they shall be of prescribed sanitary

types.

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Spittoons (sec 20):

A sufficient number of spittoons must be provided at convenient places, in a

clean and hygienic condition. The State Government may take rules regarding

their number, location and maintenance.

SAFETY OF THE WORKERS:

Safety is a measures or techniques implemented to reduce the risk of injury,

loss and d a n g e r t o p e r s o n s , p r o p e r t y o r t h e e n v i r o n m e n t i n a n y

f a c i l i t y o r p l a c e i n v o l v i n g t h e manufacturing, producing and processing of

goods or merchandise

.

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According to factories Act, 1948, the statutory provisions regarding the

safety of the workers are stated in the sections 21 to 41. They are

Fencing of machinery (Sec 21):

In every factory, every dangerous part of any machinery, every moving part

of a prime mover and every flywheel connected to prime mover the head-race

and tail-race of every water  wheel and water turbine, and every part of an electric

generator, motor or rotary converter, every  p a r t o f t r a n s m i s s i o n m a c h i n e r y ,

m u s t b e s e c u r e l y f e n c e d b y s a f e g u a r d s o f s u b s t a n t i a l

construction.

Work on or near machinery in motion (Sec 22):

It is necessary to examine any part of the machinery while it is motion. The examination

and lubrication of the machinery, while in motion, should be carried out only

by a specially-trained adult worker wearing tight-fitting clothing.

Employment of young person’s on Dangerous machines (Sec 23):

A young person should not be allowed to work at dangerous machines unless,

has been sufficiently instructed and received sufficient training.

Striking gear and devices for cutting off power (Sec 24):

In every factory, suitable striking gear or other efficient mechanical

appliance has to be provided, maintained and used to move driving belts.

Self-acting machines (Sec 25):

 No travelling part of a self-acting machine in any factory and no material carried thereon

shall be allowed to run on its outward or inward traverse within a distance of 18 inches

from any fixed structure which is not a part of the machine, if a person is liable to pass

over the space over which it runs.

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Casing of new machinery (Sec 26):

Al l mach ine ry d r i ven by power , eve ry s e t - s c r ew , bo l t o r key o r any

r evo lv ing sha f t , spindle, wheel or pinion, spur, worm and other toothed or

friction-gearing has to be properly encased or guarded in order to prevent danger to

the workmen.

Prohibition of employment of women and children near cotton openers (Sec 27):

Women and ch i l d worke r s a r e p roh ib i t ed t o be emp loyed i n any pa r t

o f a f a c to ry fo r   pressing cotton in which a cotton opener is at work.

Hoists, lifts, lifting machines (Sec 28&29):

L i f t i n g m a c h i n e s , c h a i n s , r o p e s a n d l i f t i n g t a c k l e s m u s t b e o f

g o o d m e c h a n i c a l construction, sound material and adequate strength and free from

defects. They are to be properly maintained and thoroughly examined by a competent

person at least once in every 6 months.

Revolving machinery (Sec 30):

The maximum safe working peripheral speed of every grindstone or abrasive wheel

shall be permanently affixed. Safe working peripheral speed of every

revolving vessel, cage, basket, flywheel, pulley or disc has also to be ensured.

Pressure plant (Sec 31):

In any f ac to ry ope ra t i on i s c a r r i ed on a t a p r e s su re above t he

a tmosphe r i c p r e s su re , effective arrangements shall be taken to ensure that the safe

working pressure is not exceeded.

Floors, stairs and means of access (Sec 32):

In eve ry f ac to ry a l l f l oo r s , s t ep s , s t a i r s , pa s sages and gangways

sha l l be o f sound construction and properly kept and maintained.

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Pits, sumps, openings in floors (Sec 33):

Every fixed vessel, sump, tank, pit or opening in the ground or in a floor, which may be a

source of danger shall be either securely covered or securely fenced.

Excessive weights (Sec 34):

 No person is to be employed in any factory to lift, carry or move any load so heavy as is

likely to cause him injury.

Protection of eyes (Sec 35):

The state government may require the provision of effective screens or suitable goggles

if t h e r i s k o f i n j u r y t o t h e e y e s i s c a u s e d f r o m p a r t i c l e s

o r f r a g m e n t s t h r o w n o f f i n t h e manufacturing process or from

exposure to excessive light.

Precautions against dangerous fumes (Sec 36):

In any factory, no person shall be allowed to enter any chamber, tank, vat,

pipe, flue or other confined space in which dangerous fumes are likely to be

present to an extent involving risks to persons.

Explosive or inflammable dust, gas (Sec 37):

All practicable measures have to be taken to prevent explosion by, effective enclosure

of  plant and machinery, removal or prevention of the accumulation of dust, gas etc and

exclusion or effective enclosure of all possible sources of ignition.

Precaution in case of fire (Sec 38):

Every factory has to be provided with adequate means of escape in case of fire. Effective

and c l ea r l y aud ib l e means o f g iv ing wa rn ing i n t he c a se o f f i r e have

t o be p rov ided . A f r ee  passage-way giving access to each means of escape in case

of fire has to be maintained.

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Power to require specifications of defective parts or tests of stability (Sec 39):

The factory inspector to serve on the manager of a factory to furnish

specifications of defective parts or he may order the manager to carry out

tests as he may specify and to inform him of the results.

Safety of buildings and machinery (Sec 40):

Eve ry f ac to ry shou ld adop t t he measu re s t o ensu re t he s a f e ty o f t he

bu i l d ings and machinery. The factory must employ the required safety

officers according to the number of workers working in the factory.

Power to make rules (Sec 41):

The state government has the power to make rules to supplement the

provisions relating to safety contained in the act.

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EMPLOYEE HEALTH SCREENING TOOLS: USES ANDEMPLOYEE HEALTH SCREENING TOOLS: USES AND

IMPORTANCEIMPORTANCE

When an employee health screening test is administered, it covers standard

measurements of vital function.  Most often, employees are aware that they have health

issues, but have not been tested to determine the level of severity or the risk to their

health that these problems represent.

The extent to which their health has deteriorated is often an ignored variable. Chronically

ill employees have come to accept their present level of illness as normal. The

documentation of health risks is necessary in order to be processed for treatment and

accessible for admission in employee health care initiatives.

Most employee health screening tests, employee Health Risk Appraisals and employee

Health Risk Assessments take into account the following measurements:

Blood Glucose Level – Blood tests review for the presence of Diabetes.

Blood Pressure – Both readings are taken using the sphygmomanometer (yes that

is what it is called). Background medical information and previous blood pressure

history is noted.

Cerebrovascular/Stroke Condition – Blood is taken to determine if there are

blood vessel abnormalities

Cholesterol – Healthy cholesterol and unhealthy cholesterol readings are

screened using a blood sample. Diet choices and use of medication is recorded.

Coronary Disease – Routine questioning detects heart health or previous heart

failure.

Demographic Information – Gender, age, weight, height, shift, department, race,

marital status, and geographical location should all be part of the data collection

process. This kind of information makes further study of and improvements to

wellness programs more accurate.

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Family History – Thorough investigation of past health issues, previous surgeries

and patterns in the family tree help to detect the probability of future health

issues.

Feedback – In order to promote an awareness of self-help options, the employee

health screener elaborates on the significance of any discovered health risks and

the solutions to reduce their impact.

Forms – All participants have the option to enroll in wellness programs and must

agree in writing to submit blood work and medical information for the purpose of

pursuing health promotion.

Physical Activity – The amount and duration of exercise has a direct impact on

health risks

Referrals – If participants have health issues, a referral form should be filled out

and signed by the employee. A requisition to ascertain the referral visit occurred

accompanies this form.

Stress – Workplace stress has a huge impact on health and wellness. Determining

where the stress is generated can begin a solution-based plan to deal with and

reduce the incidence of work-related stress.

Surveys – Data collection and its application is the foundation of every successful

workplace wellness plan. Internal promotion of surveys and recruiting employees

to participate in them can be pursued during the employee health screening.

Tobacco Use – Nicotine addiction is a major focus in the wellness industry.

Employees will be assisted, at their prerogative, to get help to stop tobacco use.

Weight – Body weight, height and fat ratios should be recorded for tracking

purposes and demographic referencing.

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The Purpose of Blood Tests

There are government standards to adhere to for extracting and testing blood samples for

physical fitness and employee health screening. Extracting should only be done by a

qualified professional. A blood pressure reading exposes two categories: systolic and

diastolic.

Systolic pressure is the higher/top number in the result. It is a measurement of the rate at

which the blood circulates through the arteries.

Diastolic pressure is the lower/bottom number and is a value for the rate at which the

blood circulates through the arteries between heartbeats.

Normal blood pressure is approximately 120 (systolic) over 80 (diastolic). Normal blood

pressure fluctuates a bit over the course of a day and should be lower during resting

times. High blood pressure does not follow this sort of pattern; it remains high during

resting phases. This is called hypertension.

The Purpose of Cholesterol Testing

Blood testing to determine cholesterol levels is a task for a skilled medical professional.

It requires a specialized program and applied field knowledge to interpret the results.

Similar to blood pressure testing, there are national guidelines to follow for testing and

evaluation.

Some cholesterol in the diet is considered healthy. These levels show up as HDL

cholesterol readings. Other cholesterol in the diet is unhealthy and is observable as LDL

cholesterol readings. Both blood pressure and cholesterol testing are key indicators of

cardiovascular disease. If there is a family history of heart disease and if the employee

uses tobacco, alcohol, has a high cholesterol reading and/or high blood pressure, this

places the employee in a high risk category as well as indicates a need for health

promotion efforts, nutrition counseling, exercise options and education.

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OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENTS/DISEASEOCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENTS/DISEASE

What is an occupational disease?

Occupational disease, any illness associated with a particular occupation or industry.

Such diseases result from a variety of biological, chemical, physical, and psychological

factors that are present in the work environment or are otherwise encountered in the

course of employment. Occupational medicine is concerned with the effect of all kinds of

work on health and the effect of health on a worker’s ability and efficiency.

Occupational diseases are essentially preventable and can be ascribed to faulty working

conditions. The control of occupational health hazards decreases the incidence of work-

related diseases and accidents and improves the health and morale of the work force,

leading to decreased absenteeism and increased worker efficiency. In most cases the

moral and economic benefits far outweigh the costs of eliminating occupational hazards.

This article discusses general occupational health hazards and the disorders they cause, as

well as the role of occupational health services. More detailed information about specific

disorders can be found in the articles dealing with human diseases and the structures of

the human body, such as cancer; infection; and respiratory disease.

These workplace health hazards can cause an occupational disease:

dust, gases, or fumes

noise

toxic substances (poisons)

vibration

radiation

infectious germs or viruses

extreme hot or cold temperatures

extremely high or low air pressure

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Workplace health hazards can cause three kinds of reactions in the

body:

Immediate or acute reactions, like shortness of breath or nausea, can be caused

by a one-time event, (e.g., a chemical spill). These reactions are not usually

permanent.

Gradual reactions, like asthma or dermatitis (skin rashes), can get worse and

persist when you are exposed over days, weeks or months. These reactions tend to

last for a longer time.

Delayed reactions or diseases that take a long time to develop, like lung cancer

or loss of hearing, can be caused by long-term exposure to a substance or work

activity. These reactions can be noticed long after the job is over.

Work-related accidents or diseases are very costly and can have many serious

direct and i nd i r ec t e f f ec t s on t he l i ve s o f worke r s and t he i r f ami l i e s .

Fo r worke r s some o f t he

Direct costs

Of an injury or illness are:

a) The pain and suffering of the injury or illness;

 b) The loss of income;

c) The possible loss of a job;

d) Health-care costs. It has been estimated that the

Indirect costs

Of an accident or illness can be four to ten times greater than the direct costs, or even

more. An occupational illness or accident can have so many i nd i r ec t co s t s t o

worke r s t ha t i t i s o f t en d i f f i cu l t t o measu re t hem. One o f t he mos t

obv ious indirect costs is the human suffering caused to workers' families,

which cannot be compensated with money.

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Identifying hazards in the workplace:

Some occupa t i ona l d i s ea se s have been r ecogn i zed fo r many yea r s ,

and a f f ec t worke r s i n different ways depending on the nature of the hazard,

the route of exposure, the dose, etc. Some well-known occupational diseases

include:

a) Asbestosis (caused by asbestos, which is common in insulation, automobile brake

linings, etc.)

 b) Silicosis (caused by silica, which is common in mining, sandblasting, etc.)

c) Lead poisoning (caused by lead, which is common in battery plants, paint factories,

etc.)

d) Noise-induced hearing loss (caused by noise, which is common in many

workplaces, including airports, and workplaces where noisy machines, such as presses

or drills, etc.)

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IMPORTANCE OF MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT ONIMPORTANCE OF MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT ON

HEALTH AND SAFETYHEALTH AND SAFETY

In order to develop a successful health and safety programme, it is essential that there be

s t rong managemen t commi tmen t and s t rong worke r pa r t i c i pa t i on i n

t he e f fo r t t o c r ea t e and maintain a safe and healthy workplace. An

effective management addresses all work-related hazards, not only those covered

by government standards. A l l l e v e l s o f m a n a g e m e n t m u s t m a k e

h e a l t h a n d s a f e t y a p r i o r i t y . T h e y m u s t communicate this by

going out into the worksite to talk with workers about their concerns and to observe work

procedures and equipment. In each workplace, the lines of responsibility from top to

bottom need to be clear, and workers should know who is responsible for different health

and safety issues.

Importance of training:

Workers often experience work-related health problems and do not realize that the

problems are related to their work, particularly when an occupational disease,

for example, is in the early stages. Besides the other more obvious benefits of

training, such as skills development, hazard recognition, etc., a comprehensive

training programme in each workplace will help workers to:

a) Recogn i ze ea r l y s i gns / symptoms o f any po t en t i a l occupa t i ona l

d i s ea se s be fo re t hey  become permanent conditions.

 b) Assess their work environment.

c) Insist that management makes changes before hazardous conditions can develop.

Health and safety programmes:

Effective workplace health and safety programmes can help to save the lives

of workers by r educ ing haza rds and t he i r consequences . Hea l t h and

s a f e ty p rog rammes a l so have pos i t i ve effects on both worker morale and

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productivity, which are important benefits. At the same time, effective programmes

can save employers a great deal of money. For all of the reasons given  below,

it is crucial that employers, workers and unions are committed to health and safety.

a) Workplace hazards are controlled - at the source whenever possible.

 b) Records of any exposure are maintained for many years.

Both workers and employers are informed about health and safety risks in the workplace.

c) There is an active and effective health and safety committee that includes

both workers and management.

d) Worker health and safety efforts are ongoing.

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PRINCIPLES OF A SAFE WORKPLACEPRINCIPLES OF A SAFE WORKPLACE

In another article, we discussed using one of the tools available to assist in building a

Safety Culture…the ATTAM Approach: Assess Train, Teach, Assign, and Monitor. This

article will discuss the principles of a safe workplace.

An effective Safety Culture is built on a foundation of a common safety philosophy.

These 8 Principles below can provide direction to managers working on building a

safety culture in their group.

1. Safety is an Ethical Responsibility

Ethics demonstrate our positive vision of what is right and what is good. It defines what

is "worth" pursuing as guidance for our decisions and actions. Workplace injuries and

deaths are too often seen merely as statistics. But when it happens to someone we love,

we suddenly see the reality of the horrible pain and suffering and its widespread effect. It

is our ethical responsibility to do what is necessary to protect employees from death,

injury, and illness in the workplace. This is the only foundation upon which a true safety

culture can be established in any workplace.

2. Safety is a Culture Not a Program

The combined commitment and participation of the entire organization is necessary to

create and maintain an effective safety culture. Every person in the organization, from

the top management to the newest employee, is responsible and accountable for

preventing injuries.

3. Management is Responsible

Management's responsibility is to lead the safety effort in a sustained and consistent way

by:

Establishing safety goals,

Demanding accountability for safety performance, and

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Providing the resources necessary for a safe workplace.

Managing safety is the responsibility of everyone in management, from the first line

supervisor to the president.

4. Employees Must Be Trained to Work Safely

Awareness of safety does not come naturally; we all need to be trained to work safely.

Effective training programs both teach and motivate employees to be a productive part of

the safety culture.

5. Safety is a Condition of Employment

The employer must exhaust every reasonable means to lead, motivate, train, and

provision employees to maintain a safe workplace. But, in the event the employee refuses

to take the actions required to work safely, the employer must utilize a system of

progressive discipline to enforce safety requirements and ensure the cooperation of the

employee or the removal of the employee from the workplace in order to protect the

employee and their coworkers.

6. All Injuries Are Preventable

Sometimes accidents occur without the apparent indication of fault or cause. But there is

always some chain of events that occurred leading up to the accident that, had we realized

the eventual outcome, someone could have interceded. The fundamental belief that

injuries are, by their nature, preventable is a catalyst that encourages us to prevent

injuries.

7. Safety Programs Must Be Site Specific and Reflect Audit Results

The purpose of the workplace audit is to discover and remedy the actual hazards of the

site before they can injure workers. Recurring hazard analyses, comprehensive

inspections, and aggressive investigation of accidents or near misses, will help to

discover potential workplace hazards and identify weaknesses in safety plans, programs,

policies, and procedures. Safety regulations and generic safety programs are not

sufficient means to discover hazards because they are not specific to the individual

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workplace. A safety audit program is site specific. Whenever a safety deficiency is found,

prompt action is required both to overcome the hazard and to reinforce the message that

safety is more than a priority…it is a core value shared by all employees.

8. Safety is Good Business

Reducing workplace injuries and illnesses reduces the costs of workers' compensation,

medical expenses, potential fines, and the expenses of litigation. Effective workplace

safety is not an expense, it’s an asset.

A properly managed safety culture based on these 8 Principles of Workplace Safety will

produce employees who:

Participate actively in training,

Identify and alert each other and management to potential hazards, and

Feel a responsibility for their safety and the safety of others.

Accepting safety as an ethical responsibility demonstrates a sincere concern for each

employee, which establishes the foundation for an effective safety culture.

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WORKPLACE CULTUREWORKPLACE CULTURE - 7 STEPS TO A SAFER WORKPLACE

1. Write a company policy statement:

If you are committed to a safe workplace, you must say so. By writing and

sharing the policy, you let your employees know that safety is a priority. It doesn't

have to be long, but it must clearly state your company's stance.

2. Involve your employees:

Involve your employees in identifying and resolving safety problems. Their

ownership will build safety across your company and make it more sustainable.

3. Create a hazard prevention plan:

First, decide what your potential safety hazards are. Look at what injuries have

happened. Second, it's time to make a plan to control each one:

o Name the hazard

o Describe a change to be implemented 

o Determine who is responsible for correcting the risk

o Set a deadline for completion 

o Provide funds (if necessary) 

o Evaluate 

4. Provide safety training:

Train your employees about hazards associated with their job. Provide safety

training for all new employees and for any employee who switches jobs or takes

on new tasks. MEMIC can help you design your own programs.

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5. Review your workplace:

As with any plan, you must continuously review it to make certain that it is being

carried out and that it is working.

6. Keep records:

In order to help you maintain your safety program, it is important to keep records

of your actions. You should: 

o Take notes at safety meetings 

o Keep notes of weekly safety talks 

o Record all inspections and audits 

o Document regular maintenance 

o Maintain OSHA 300 form, which will also help track any accident trends

o Note all safety training activities 

o Document all aspects of on-the-job accidents 

7. Choose a medical provider:

MEMIC has developed a network of hundreds of medical providers who focus on

occupational injuries. It's important to begin a relationship with one before an

injury occurs. This helps the provider understand the nature of your

work, and speeds recovery and return-to-work.

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TOP 10 CAUSES OF WORKPLACE INJURIESTOP 10 CAUSES OF WORKPLACE INJURIES

Fatigue

If someone is pushed -- or pushes herself -- beyond reasonable limits to stay on top of

workload, the results often are physical and mental exhaustion. This translates to

impaired judgment, slower reflexes in operating machinery or motor vehicles, a delayed

response to emergency situations and inattention to details and instructions.

Stress

Job security, finances, health issues and anxiety about personal relationships all factor

into the stress equation. When an employee's mind is too distracted by real or perceived

threats, he is not only more likely to make mistakes that could cause injury but also

invites an increased risk of a heart attack, stroke or hypertension.

Slips

Office kitchens and break rooms are common places for slips to occur because of the

number of liquids that get splashed there and are subsequently not cleaned up. Linoleum,

hardwood and tile flooring surfaces are particularly hazardous after they have been

mopped or waxed. Another consideration is the type of footwear worn by employees.

Trips

Items left sitting out in a high-traffic corridor, extension cords that are not properly taped

down and carpeting that has come loose all are contributors to tripping employees and

sometimes causing more than just stubbed toes. Poorly lit hallways and stairs are danger

spots, too, because they obscure the ability to see what is underfoot.

Toppling Objects

If tall pieces of furniture such as bookcases and filing components are not securely

anchored, an earthquake could cause them to pitch forward and dislodge their contents,

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putting nearby workers in peril. Workplace injuries also can be caused by heavy objects

such as supplies and file boxes that are stacked on high shelves and are shifted

precariously to the edge each time they are put back or the structure gets bumped.

Hazardous Materials

Protective clothing, eye wear and gloves are mandatory for employees whose jobs require

them to be around hazardous materials, chemicals and toxic waste. Slip-ups in these rules

can result in burns, explosions, respiratory diseases, blindness and skin infections.

Repetitive Motion

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common occurrence for workers engaged in repetitive

motion activities that put pressure on the median nerve, causing numbness and pain in the

fingers, wrists and hands. Typists, key data operators and beauty salon employees are at

particular risk for developing this excruciating condition.

Lifting

Many back injuries and pulled muscles that occur in the workplace are the result of

picking up something that is too heavy, not bending the legs, not asking a partner to assist

or trying to lift or hold a heavy object above the shoulders.

Workplace Violence

Despite increased security measures and limiting office access to individuals who have a

legitimate reason to be on the premises, innocent victims are often involved when

estranged spouses, disgruntled former employees or even total strangers with a vendetta

show up with an intent to commit harm. Managers and workers must likewise stay

sensitive to suspicious mail or packages, phone threats and evidence of any security

violations.

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Collisions

Opening a door too quickly or turning a corner too fast are the frequent setups for

unintended collisions with co-workers. While it may not be with enough force to knock

one or the other unconscious, the potential for injury escalates if there are hot liquids,

sharp implements or heavy objects involved. Leaving file drawers pulled all the way out

is as dangerous at shin level as chin level, especially if a co-worker won't see it until the

point of impact.

SUGGESTIONSSUGGESTIONS

1) The company has to create the awareness for the workers regarding health and

safety.

2) They have to provide effective arrangements to the workers for communicating

their health and safety matters.

3) It is better to provide frequent health and safety training, at least once in a year.

The company has to provide enough drinking water facility available at all the time.

4) The management has to take necessary steps to reduce the stress level of the workers.

5) Orientation programmes can be conducted to make the workers to feel that their

work environment is safe to work.

6) The maintenance department has to maintain the machines properly to reduce lead-

time.

7) Proper training has to be given to the workers to avoid frequent accidents.

8) Meditation practices can be given to avoid electric shocks, finger injuries etc. due to

lack of concentration.

9) Safety committee has to be formed to monitor the health and safety issues.

10) The company has to conduct the regular inspections to ensure higher level

of safety in the workplace.

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CONCLUSIONCONCLUSION

The Health & Safety program has been elaborated in order to prevent the risk of work-

related incidents and to facilitate the intervention of those concerned during the

construction job site. Health & Safety law requires employers to look after the health,

safety and welfare of their employees. They also must consider who could be affected by

their work, for example clients, contractors and visitors to their premises. Employers also

have a duty to identify, assess and control safety risks and must write down the

significant findings of their risk assessment if they have five or more employees.

Providing a safe working environment need not be a difficult or time-consuming

exercise, particularly if in a low-risk environment. The most important thing is to make

safety part of our business culture driven by a commitment from the top of the

organization. Benefits of working safely include fewer accidents, reduced insurance

premiums, a better-motivated workforce and peace of mind. The affects was indicate that

are three things are for human, money and law. That is not only protecting the physically

but its benefits for the companies, do not spent extra money to recover the unwelcome

accidents happened.

Employees whoever involved in construction works they have to know their right, safety

and health and what the company care and responsible on them. All those regulations and

conditions at site are important to everybody who was been at site, because they were

always in risk. The Company has to ensure that works under its control and carried out in

such a way to minimize the risk to the health & safety for employees and any other

person who could be affected.

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