2. INTRODUCTION TO OCCUPATIONAL AND WORK
RELATED DISEASES
Definition
Occupational diseases are health conditions that result from exposure to hazards and
risks present in the workplace.
2
Musculoskeletal
Disorders (40%)
Mental Health
Disorders (7%)
Tumours (3%) Circulatory
(16%)
3. OCCUPATIONAL WORK RELATED DISEASES
3
Occupational diseases are directly linked to the type and level of exposure workers
experience in their job settings.
Physical agents
Chemical substances
Biological agents
Ergonomic factors
Psychosocial factors
5. HEAT - BURNS
Description: Injuries to skin or
body tissues from contact
with heated objects like
boiling water, steam, fire, or
hot surfaces.
Severity: Range from mild
(first-degree) to severe (third-
degree) burns.
Associated Jobs: Cooks,
industrial workers, firefighters,
chemical plant workers,
dealing with hot substances
or machinery.
Preventive Measures:
Training, proper PPE (heat-
resistant gloves), safety
procedures.
5
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY
6. HEAT -HEAT EXHAUSTION
High temperatures cause
body overheating.
Symptoms: Heavy
sweating, rapid pulse,
weakness, dizziness,
nausea, headache,
fainting.
At-risk workers: Those in
hot environments, like
outdoor laborers during
summer.
6
7. HEAT -HEAT STROKE
Caused by prolonged
exposure to high
temperatures or physical
exertion in extreme heat
(40°C).
Symptoms: High body
temperature, confusion,
loss of consciousness,
seizures, hot, dry skin.
At-risk workers: Those
exposed to extreme heat
without adequate cooling or
rest.
7
8. HEAT -HEAT CRAMPS
Painful muscle cramps due to
excessive sweating in hot
environments.
At-risk workers: Those working or
exercising in hot and humid
conditions.
Preventive Measures
Encourage hydration and provide
access to cool areas during breaks.
Train workers on stretching and
warm-up exercises.
Ensure access to medical
assistance if needed.
8
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC
9. GENERAL HEAT HAZARD PREVENTION
Stay Hydrated:
Encourage regular fluid intake, even before feeling thirsty.
Adequate Rest Breaks:
Implement frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas.
Schedule strenuous tasks during cooler parts of the day.
Proper Clothing:
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing.
Use wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen to protect from direct sunlight.
9
10. GENERAL HEAT HAZARD PREVENTION
Heat-Acclimatization:
Gradually increase exposure to hot conditions to build tolerance.
Buddy System:
Workers should monitor each other for signs of heat stress.
Training and Education:
Train workers to recognize heat-related symptoms.
Provide education on prevention and response.
10
11. WORKPLACE SPECIFIC HEAT HAZARD
MEASURES
Outdoor Work:
Provide shaded rest areas.
Use reflective materials on surfaces to reduce heat absorption.
Indoor Work:
Maintain effective air conditioning and ventilation.
Use fans to improve air circulation.
Industrial Environments:
Use engineering controls such as cooling fans or misting systems.
Install insulation to reduce radiant heat.
High-Risk Activities:
Limit exposure during extreme heat conditions.
Increase the frequency of breaks and hydration.
11
12. COLD - CHILBLAINS
Description: painful and itchy red
or purple swellings that occur in
response to repeated exposure to
cold but not freezing air.
They mainly affect the extremities,
such as fingers, toes, ears, and
nose.
Example: Outdoor workers, such as
construction workers, agricultural
workers, or postal workers, who are
exposed to cold temperatures
during their daily tasks.
12
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY
13. COLD -IMMERSION FOOT (TRENCH FOOT)
Description: Immersion foot, also
known as trench foot, is a condition
caused by prolonged exposure to
wet and cold conditions, leading to
water absorption in the outer
layer of the skin.
It can result in tissue damage and
infection.
Example: Military personnel,
fishermen, and workers in
waterlogged environments, such as
those involved in flood response or
maritime industries.
13
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC
14. COLD -FROSTBITE
Description: Frostbite is an injury
caused by freezing of the skin and
underlying tissues due to
exposure to extreme cold.
It can lead to tissue damage and
necrosis.
Example: Workers in extremely cold
environments, such as those in
Arctic regions, freezer warehouses,
or industries dealing with cryogenic
substances.
14
15. COLD - HYPOTHERMIA
Description: occurs when the body
loses heat faster than it can
produce heat, resulting in a
dangerously low body temperature.
It can lead to confusion, lethargy,
and, in severe cases,
unconsciousness and death.
Example: Workers in outdoor
occupations exposed to extreme
cold without adequate protective
clothing, such as mountaineers,
snow removal crews, or Arctic
researchers.
15
16. PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR COLD HAZARDS
Layered Clothing:
Encourage workers to wear multiple layers to trap body heat.
Use moisture-wicking and insulating materials for clothing.
Cold-Weather Gear:
Provide insulated gloves, hats, and footwear.
Use thermal underwear and windproof outerwear.
Adequate Nutrition and Hydration:
Ensure workers consume warm, nutritious meals and stay hydrated.
Frequent Breaks:
Schedule regular breaks in heated areas to allow workers to warm up.
Physical Activity:
Plan tasks that involve physical exertion during warmer parts of the day.
16
17. PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR COLD HAZARDS -
WORKPLACE SPECIFIC MEASURES
1. Indoor Work:
1. Maintain comfortable indoor temperatures through proper heating systems.
2. Use space heaters in localized areas if needed.
2. Outdoor Work:
1. Provide heated shelters or rest areas.
2. Use windbreaks to reduce wind chill effects.
3. Wet Environments:
1. Ensure workers have waterproof clothing and footwear.
2. Establish procedures for changing into dry clothes if needed.
4. Equipment Handling:
1. Use gloves with good grip to prevent accidentally dropping tools due to numb fingers.
17
18. LIGHT (ILLUMINATION)
Illumination refers to the presence of light in a particular space. It encompasses natural
light, such as sunlight, and artificial light sources, like electric lighting.
Importance
In workplaces – essential for employees to perform tasks efficiently, avoid eyestrain, and reduce
the risk of accidents.
In homes - enhances the aesthetics of living spaces, supports daily activities, and contributes to a
welcoming environment.
In educational institutions - aids in student concentration, reading, and learning.
In healthcare facilities - accurate medical examinations and patient well-being.
18
19. ADVERSE EFFECTS OF INSUFFICIENT
ILLUMINATION
1. Eyestrain and Discomfort: Reading in dim light can strain the eyes, leading to
discomfort and headaches.
2. Reduced Visibility: Poor workshop lighting hampers workers' ability to see intricate
details.
3. Increased Accidents: Inadequate lighting in stairwells raises the risk of trips and falls.
4. Impact on Productivity: Low office lighting reduces employee focus and efficiency.
19
20. ADVERSE EFFECTS OF EXCESSIVE
ILLUMINATION
1. Glare and Discomfort: Overly bright lighting can cause glare, leading to visual
discomfort and strain.
2. Disrupted Circadian Rhythm: Excessive artificial light at night can disrupt sleep
patterns and affect the body's internal clock.
3. Higher Energy Consumption: Unnecessarily intense lighting increases energy bills and
environmental impact.
4. Mood and Well-being Impact: Harsh lighting can negatively affect mood and well-
being indoors.
20
21. LIGHT - PHOTOKERATITIS (ULTRAVIOLET
KERATITIS)
Description: eye condition caused
by excessive exposure to ultraviolet
(UV) rays, often from welding arcs,
tanning beds, or intense sunlight.
Example Occupations: Welders,
construction workers, lifeguards.
Preventive Measures: Wear UV-
filtered eye protection, use welding
curtains, schedule outdoor work
during less intense sunlight.
21
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC
22. LIGHT -COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME (DIGITAL
EYE STRAIN)
Description: occurs due to
prolonged use of digital devices like
computers, tablets, and
smartphones, leading to eye strain
and discomfort.
Example Occupations: Office
workers, computer programmers,
graphic designers.
Preventive Measures: Take regular
screen breaks, follow the 20-20-20
rule, adjust screen settings, ensure
ergonomic workstations.
22
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
23. LIGHT -OCCUPATIONAL CATARACTS
Occupational Cataracts:
Description: Occupational cataracts
are lens opacities that develop due
to prolonged exposure to infrared
radiation, visible light, and UV rays.
Example Occupations: Glass
blowers, foundry workers, welders.
Preventive Measures: Use eye
protection with UV and IR filters,
install barriers or curtains, undergo
regular eye check-ups.
23
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
24. LIGHT -PHOTOSENSITIVE EPILEPTIC SEIZURES
Photosensitive Epileptic Seizures
Description: This condition involves
epileptic seizures triggered by
exposure to certain light sources or
patterns, such as flashing lights or
strobe lights.
Example Occupations: Workers in
clubs, entertainment venues
Preventive Measures: Avoid flashing
lights, use warning signs, provide a
safe environment, and medical
assistance.
24
25. LIGHT - SKIN PHOTOALLERGIC
Skin Photoallergic and Phototoxic
Reactions:
Description: These are skin
reactions caused by exposure to
certain chemicals or substances
that become toxic or allergenic
when exposed to sunlight.
Example Occupations: Agricultural
workers, healthcare workers.
Preventive Measures: Educate
workers, provide protective clothing,
avoid sunlight exposure when
handling photosensitive materials.
25
26. NOISE
Auditory effects
Temporary or
permanent
hearing loss
Non auditory
effects
Nervousness Fatigue
Interference with
communication
by speech
Decreased
efficiency
Annoyance
26
Temporary or permanent hearing loss may also occur, depending on the loudness or intensity of the noise, its pitch or
frequency, the length and pattern of exposure, and the vulnerability of the individual. Prolonged exposure to sound energy of
intensity above 80 to 90 decibels is likely to result in noise-induced hearing loss, developing first for high frequencies and
progressing downward.
27. OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES RELATED TO NOISE
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL):
Cause: Prolonged exposure to high
noise levels damaging inner ear hair
cells.
Examples: Construction workers,
factory workers, musicians.
Preventive Measures: Quieter
machinery, limited exposure,
hearing protection, hearing
conservation program.
27
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
28. OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES RELATED TO NOISE
Tinnitus:
Cause: Exposure to loud noise
causing ringing in the ears.
Examples: Construction workers,
military personnel, musicians.
Preventive Measures: Avoid loud
noise, use hearing protection,
regular hearing check-ups.
28
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
29. OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES RELATED TO NOISE
Acoustic Trauma:
Cause: Exposure to sudden intense
noise, like explosions.
Examples: Military personnel,
mining workers.
Preventive Measures: Reduce noise
at the source, maintain safe
distance, hearing protection.
29
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
30. OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES RELATED TO NOISE
Noise-Induced Sleep Disturbance:
Cause: Prolonged exposure to
nighttime noise disrupting sleep.
Examples: Workers in urban areas
with nighttime noise.
Preventive Measures:
Soundproofing, shift planning,
promote healthy sleep habits.
30
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
31. OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES RELATED TO NOISE
Hyperacusis:
Cause: Exposure to sudden loud
noises or trauma, increasing sound
sensitivity.
Examples: Military personnel,
emergency responders.
Preventive Measures: Minimize
sudden loud noises, provide
psychological support.
31
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
32. VIBRATION
CAUSES
Exposure to Vibrating Tools
Cold Temperatures
Examples
Hand held rotary tools (Grinding,
Sanding, Polishing)
Hand-held chain saws (Trimmers)
Hand-held percussive drills (Mining,
demolition and road construction)
32
34. VIBRATIONS
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome
(HAVS):
Cause: Prolonged use of vibrating hand-
held tools.
Examples: Construction workers using
jackhammers, miners using handheld
drills.
Preventive Measures: Choose low-
vibration tools, provide regular breaks,
use anti-vibration gloves.
34
35. VIBRATIONS
Vibration White Finger (Raynaud's
Phenomenon):
Cause: Prolonged exposure to
vibrations in cold environments.
Examples: Workers using vibrating
hand tools in cold conditions.
Preventive Measures: Provide warm
and insulated gloves, limit cold
exposure.
35
36. VIBRATIONS
Whole-Body Vibration (WBV)
Syndrome:
Cause: Prolonged exposure to
vibrations from vehicles or heavy
machinery.
Examples: Truck drivers, heavy
equipment operators.
Preventive Measures: Ensure seat
suspension, maintain vehicles, limit
exposure time.
36
37. VIBRATIONS
Low Back Pain and Musculoskeletal
Disorders (MSDs):
Cause: Long-term exposure to
whole-body vibrations.
Examples: Drivers operating
vehicles on rough terrains, heavy
machinery operators.
Preventive Measures: Use
ergonomic designs, provide training,
implement task rotation.
37
38. VIBRATIONS
Vertigo and Balance Disorders:
Cause: Exposure to high-frequency
vibrations.
Examples: Workers using vibrating
tools at high frequencies.
Preventive Measures: Limit
exposure time, use anti-vibration
gloves.
38
39. CHEMICAL HAZARDS
Local Action
• Dermatitis
• Eczema
Inhalation
• Dusts
• Gases
• Metals and their compounds
Ingestion
• Occupational diseases may
also result from ingestion of
chemical substances
• E.g. such as lead, mercury,
arsenic, zinc, chromium,
cadmium, phosphorus etc.
39
40. LOCAL ACTION
Dermatitis and Eczema:
Cause: Contact with irritants or
allergens in the workplace, leading
to skin inflammation and irritation.
Examples: Hairdressers exposed to
hair dyes, healthcare workers using
latex gloves.
Preventive Measures:
Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE): Use gloves and protective
clothing.
Substitution: Replace harmful
substances with safer alternatives.
Hygiene Practices: Encourage
regular handwashing and proper skin
care. 40
41. INHALATION – DUST & GASES
Dusts:
Cause: Inhalation of airborne particles or dust in the
workplace, leading to respiratory issues and lung
diseases.
Examples: Construction workers exposed to silica dust,
miners exposed to coal dust.
Preventive Measures:
Engineering Controls: Use dust collection systems and
exhaust ventilation.
Respiratory Protection: Provide workers with appropriate
masks or respirators.
Training: Educate workers on the proper use of PPE and dust
control measures.
41
42. INHALATION – DUST & GASES
Gases:
Cause: Inhalation of harmful gases
or fumes, leading to respiratory
problems and other health issues.
Examples: Welders exposed to
welding fumes, chemical plant
workers exposed to toxic gases.
Preventive Measures:
Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation
in enclosed spaces.
Respiratory Protection: Use
respirators suitable for gas exposure.
Gas Monitoring: Install gas detectors
to monitor air quality.
42
43. INHALATION – DUST & GASES
Metals and Their Compounds:
Cause: Inhalation of metal dust or
fumes, leading to lung damage or
systemic effects.
Examples: Foundry workers
exposed to metal fumes, miners
exposed to metal dust.
Preventive Measures:
Engineering Controls: Use local
exhaust ventilation to capture fumes.
Respiratory Protection: Provide
workers with suitable respirators.
Hygiene Practices: Encourage
regular handwashing and avoiding
ingestion of contaminants. 43
44. INGESTION
Occupational diseases may also result from
ingestion of chemical substances, such as
lead, mercury, arsenic, zinc, chromium,
cadmium, phosphorus, etc.
Preventive Measures:
• Labeling: Properly label hazardous
substances and containers.
• Hygiene Practices: Encourage workers to
avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in work
areas.
• Personal Protective Equipment: Provide
appropriate gloves and protective clothing
for handling chemicals.
44
45. THERMAL RADIATION
Thermal radiation refers to the emission of electromagnetic waves from an object due to
its temperature.
45
46. EXAMPLES
Metallurgy and Heat Treatment:
Annealing: Heat treatment process to soften metals using controlled thermal radiation.
Food Processing:
Baking and Roasting: Thermal radiation is used in ovens to cook and brown food items like bread,
cookies, and meat.
Drying and Curing:
Paint Curing: Infrared lamps emit thermal radiation to accelerate the curing of paint and coatings
on automotive parts.
Printing: Inks are dried or cured on paper using infrared heaters that emit thermal radiation.
46
47. EXAMPLES
Textile Industry:
Dye Fixation: Infrared radiation is used to fix dyes onto fabric, enhancing color fastness.
Semiconductor Manufacturing:
Wafer Processing: Infrared lamps are used for heating and annealing semiconductor wafers during
fabrication.
Pharmaceuticals:
Drying Medicinal Herbs: Infrared heaters can be used to gently dry herbs for medicinal purposes.
Paper Manufacturing:
Drying Paper: Infrared systems are employed to dry paper during the production process.
47
48. HAZARDS DUE TO EXPOSURE TO THERMAL
RADIATION
1. Burns and Skin Damage: Direct contact with hot surfaces or materials emitting thermal
radiation can cause burns and skin damage.
2. Fire and Combustion: Intense thermal radiation can ignite flammable materials,
potentially leading to fires or explosions.
3. Heat Stress: Working in environments with high levels of thermal radiation can
contribute to heat stress, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses.
4. Equipment and Material Damage: Excessive thermal radiation can damage
equipment, machinery, or materials.
5. Radiant Heat: Intense radiant heat can increase the risk of heat-related discomfort,
dehydration, and heat stroke.
48
49. PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR THERMAL
RADIATION
Engineering Controls:
Implement barriers, shields, or enclosures to reduce direct exposure to thermal radiation sources.
Use reflective materials to redirect or diffuse thermal radiation.
Administrative Controls:
Limit the time workers spend in high-thermal radiation areas.
Rotate workers through tasks to reduce prolonged exposure.
Schedule work during cooler periods of the day.
49
50. PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR THERMAL
RADIATION
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Provide heat-resistant clothing, gloves, and face shields.
Equip workers with reflective clothing to minimize radiant heat absorption.
Training and Education:
Train workers to recognize thermal radiation hazards and the importance of using proper
protective measures.
Educate workers on the risks associated with high temperatures and thermal radiation.
50
52. PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS
Occupational Stress:
Causes: Excessive workload, long hours,
job insecurity, lack of control, and work-
life imbalance.
Examples: High-pressure professions
like healthcare, emergency services, and
finance.
Preventive Measures:
Workload Management: Ensure realistic
work expectations and workload distribution.
Supportive Environment: Promote open
communication and support systems for
employees.
Work-Life Balance: Encourage flexible work
arrangements and time off.
52
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
53. PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS
Burnout:
Causes: Chronic work-related stress,
emotional exhaustion, and a sense of
reduced accomplishment.
Examples: Healthcare professionals,
teachers, social workers.
Preventive Measures:
Recognition: Acknowledge and
appreciate employees' efforts and
contributions.
Workload Redistribution: Avoid
overburdening specific individuals.
Stress Management: Offer stress-
reduction workshops and resources.
53
54. PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS
Depression and Anxiety:
Causes: High job demands, lack of
support, and adverse working
conditions.
Examples: Any profession exposed to
chronic stress and emotional strain.
Preventive Measures:
Mental Health Support: Provide access
to counseling and mental health
resources.
Stress Reduction: Promote relaxation
techniques and mindfulness practices.
Peer Support: Encourage a supportive
work culture where employees can
seek help. 54
55. PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
Causes: Exposure to traumatic events
in the workplace, such as accidents,
violence, or disasters.
Examples: First responders, military
personnel, and emergency workers.
Preventive Measures:
Trauma Training: Provide training on
coping with traumatic events.
Psychological Support: Offer debriefing
sessions after traumatic incidents.
Peer Support: Encourage peer support
and camaraderie.
55
56. PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS
Workplace Bullying and Harassment:
Causes: Hostile work environment,
abusive behavior, and interpersonal
conflicts.
Examples: Any workplace with a
culture of bullying or harassment.
Preventive Measures:
Clear Policies: Implement anti-bullying
and harassment policies.
Training: Provide training on respectful
communication and conflict resolution.
Reporting Mechanisms: Establish
confidential channels for reporting
incidents.
56
57. PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS
Sleep Disorders:
Causes: Irregular work hours, shift
work, and high job demands affecting
sleep patterns.
Examples: Night shift workers,
healthcare professionals.
Preventive Measures:
Sleep Hygiene: Educate employees on
good sleep practices.
Shift Scheduling: Minimize rotating
shifts and provide adequate rest
periods.
Workload Management: Avoid
excessive overtime and irregular work
hours.
57
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND