Unit 485: Occupational Safety and Health

1. Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health

• Overview of occupational safety and health
• Importance of workplace safety
• Key terminology and definitions
• Historical context and evolution of OSH
• Relevant regulations and standards (e.g., OSHA, local laws)

2. Hazard Recognition and Risk Assessment

• Types of workplace hazards (physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, psychosocial)
• Methods for hazard identification (inspections, checklists, employee reporting)
• Risk assessment techniques (qualitative and quantitative)
• Risk prioritization and control hierarchy
• Importance of proactive hazard recognition

3. Safety Management Systems

• Components of safety management systems (SMS)
  • Safety policy development
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Training and competency
  • Hazard control measures
  • Emergency preparedness and response
  • Incident reporting and investigation
  • Continuous improvement and audits
• Implementation strategies

4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Types of PPE (head, eye, respiratory, hearing, hand, foot protection)
• Criteria for selection of PPE based on hazards
• Proper use and fitting of PPE
• Maintenance, inspection, and storage
• Limitations of PPE and integration with other controls

5. Workplace Ergonomics

• Principles of ergonomics
• Common ergonomic risk factors (repetitive motion, awkward postures, forceful exertions)
• Identification and assessment of ergonomic hazards
• Strategies for prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
• Ergonomic program development

6. Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene

• Overview of occupational health hazards
• Exposure assessment methods (monitoring, sampling, biological indicators)
• Industrial hygiene practices
• Control measures for chemical, physical, and biological agents
• Health surveillance and worker education

7. Incident Investigation and Reporting

• Importance of incident investigation
• Steps in incident investigation process
  • Notification and initial response
  • Data collection and evidence gathering
  • Analysis and root cause identification
  • Reporting and documentation
• Implementing corrective and preventive actions

8. Emergency Response and Preparedness

• Emergency response planning
• Evacuation procedures and drills
• First aid and CPR training essentials
• Communication protocols during emergencies
• Roles and responsibilities in emergency situations

9. Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace

• Impact of psychosocial factors on employee well-being
• Common psychological hazards (stress, harassment, bullying)
• Strategies to promote mental health and resilience
• Employer role in psychological hazard management
• Support programs and resources

10. Regulatory Compliance and Enforcement

• Overview of legal requirements in OSH
• Role of regulatory agencies (inspections, enforcement)
• Employer responsibilities for compliance
• Reporting requirements and penalties
• Keeping up-to-date with changes in legislation