The Occupational Health Hazard Identification and Control Whiteboard has uses for identifying, evaluating, and controlling occupational health hazards within the premises. This carries out by risk assessments that involve evaluating the likelihood and severity of harm that could result from exposure to the identified hazards. This helps prioritize hazards based on their level of risk. The employees are encouraged to develop and recommend control measures to prevent or minimize the identified hazards. This is considerably important as it promotes awareness and understanding of the occupational health hazards in their environment.
For easy reading, color coded areas make this a very user friendly Occupational Health Hazard Identification and Control Whiteboard.
- Set up the Whiteboard in a prominent location where it is visible to all employees.
- Make yourself familiar with the pertinent sections of this detailed board. The most prominent one is the “Identified Occupational Health Hazard”
- Fill in this blank area with identified problem areas that needs addressing.
- Fill in where this problem area occurs.
- Fill in what Activity performs in this area.
- Familiarize yourself with the color coded areas and the easy to follow legend. Fill in your ratings for each problem area. Fill in your rating (1-4) for the blue area for Chance.
- Fill in your assessment rating (1-4) for the red area for Severity.
- Multiply the Chance # to the Severity # and put the Total Score in the green column.
- Evaluate the Total Score with the legend to the Total Score on the bottom.
- Fill in the purple section with the Risk Level that evaluates from the Total Score. You will be writing in Minimal, Acceptable, High or Not acceptable.
- Evaluate each identified hazard area and put forth and fill in a Required action. Assign and fill in the Owner, Due date and Status on that level. This will assign specific individuals responsible for implementing each control measure.
- Use the Status section to track the progress regularly. Add relevant comments. Signify the completion of task with Completed in the status section when this hazard has been alleviated.
Examples of Hazard Identification and Require Action:
- Hazard: Slippery floor | Required Action: Installing non-slip mats.
- Hazard: Chemical exposure | Required Action: Provide PPE and install ventilation systems.
- Hazard: Extreme heat | Required Action: Install ventilation system to cool area.
- Hazard: Noise | Required Action: Supply Bullet ear plugs.
Common Types of Workplace Hazards:
- Chemical hazards: Compressed gas, asbestos, flammable & corrosive liquids
- Ergonomic hazards: Manual labor, long shifts & tool use.
- Health hazards: Virus & mold
- Physical hazards: Temperature, air quality & noise
- Psychosocial hazards: Stress & bullying
- Workplace hazards: Vehicles & machinery
Benefits of the Health Hazard Whiteboard:
- Improved Communication: Enhances awareness and communication about health hazards among employees.
- Proactive Management: Encourages proactive identification and mitigation of risks.
- Engagement: Involves employees in maintaining a safe working environment.
- Transparency: Provides a clear and transparent method for tracking and managing occupational health hazards.
By following these steps and maintaining the whiteboard regularly, you can effectively manage occupational health hazards and ensure a safer workplace for everyone.