Physical hazards
Physical hazards
Physical hazards (/ˈfɪzɪkəl ˈhæzərdz/) are factors within the environment that can harm the body without necessarily touching it. They include radiation, vibration, lighting conditions, noise, temperature, and ergonomic issues.
Etymology
The term "physical hazard" is derived from the Greek word physikos meaning "natural" and the Old French hasard meaning "chance or accident".
Radiation
Radiation (/reɪdiˈeɪʃən/) is the emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles, especially high-energy particles that cause ionization. It can be a physical hazard when it is in the form of ionizing radiation, which can cause damage to living tissue and DNA in cells.
Vibration
Vibration (/vaɪˈbreɪʃən/) is an oscillation of the parts of a fluid or an elastic solid whose equilibrium has been disturbed. In the context of physical hazards, vibration can cause damage to the human body, particularly to the hands and arms, when using vibrating tools or machinery.
Lighting conditions
Lighting conditions (/ˈlaɪtɪŋ kənˈdɪʃənz/) refer to the amount and quality of light in a particular area. Poor lighting conditions can be a physical hazard as they can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and accidents due to poor visibility.
Noise
Noise (/nɔɪz/) is unwanted or disturbing sound. Excessive noise is a physical hazard as it can lead to hearing loss and other health problems.
Temperature
Temperature (/ˈtɛmprɪtʃər/) is a measure of the warmth or coldness of an object or substance with reference to a standard value. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can be physical hazards as they can lead to heat stress, hypothermia, and other health issues.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics (/ɜːrɡəˈnɒmɪks/) is the study of people's efficiency in their working environment. Poor ergonomic conditions can be a physical hazard as they can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and other health problems.
Related terms
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