Common Hazards in the Workplace Flashcards

What are the most common causes of workplace injuries in the UK?

Answer: Slips, trips and falls, manual handling injuries, and being struck by objects

According to HSE statistics, the most common causes of workplace injuries in the UK are: slips, trips and falls (the single biggest cause), manual handling injuries, being struck by moving objects, and falls from height. These account for the majority of reported workplace injuries.

What are the main causes of slips in the workplace?

Answer: Wet or contaminated floors, inappropriate footwear, sudden changes in flooring, poor cleaning methods, and spillages

Slips are caused by: wet floors (cleaning, leaks, weather), contaminated surfaces (oil, grease, dust, food), inappropriate or worn footwear, poor cleaning methods (leaving floors wet), sudden changes in floor surface or level, and poor drainage in wet areas.

What are the main causes of trips in the workplace?

Answer: Trailing cables, uneven floors, poor lighting, clutter, damaged carpet or flooring, and change in floor level without marking

Trips are caused by: trailing cables and hoses, uneven or damaged floor surfaces, clutter and poor housekeeping, items left on walkways, inadequate lighting, changes in floor level (unmarked steps), curled carpet edges, and open drawers. Good housekeeping prevents most trips.

What is the maximum weight a person should lift according to the HSE manual handling guidance?

Answer: There is no maximum weight — it depends on a risk assessment

There is no legal maximum weight limit. The HSE provides guideline figures (25 kg for men, 16 kg for women close to the body at waist height in ideal conditions), but these are guidelines for initial filtering, not absolute limits. The actual safe weight depends on a full assessment of task, individual, load and environment (TILE).

What does the DSE Regulations require employers to do?

Answer: Assess DSE workstations, reduce risks, provide eye tests for DSE users, and ensure workstations meet minimum requirements

The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 require employers to: assess DSE workstations, reduce identified risks, ensure workstations meet minimum requirements (adjustable chair, suitable display, adequate lighting), provide eye tests on request, and provide training and information.

What is the main piece of legislation covering electrical safety in the workplace?

Answer: The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 are the main regulations covering electrical safety in the workplace. They require that all electrical systems are constructed and maintained to prevent danger, and that work on electrical systems is carried out safely.