Understanding Hazards Flashcards

What is 'mesothelioma'?

Answer: A cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen, almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer of the mesothelium (the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart), almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos fibres. It typically develops 20-50 years after first exposure and is currently incurable. It kills around 2,500 people per year in the UK.

What are the workplace exposure limits (WELs) for noise under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005?

Answer: Lower exposure action value 80 dB(A), upper action value 85 dB(A), exposure limit 87 dB(A)

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 set three values: lower exposure action value of 80 dB(A) (provide information, make hearing protection available), upper exposure action value of 85 dB(A) (mandatory hearing protection, noise control measures), and exposure limit of 87 dB(A) (must not be exceeded, taking account of hearing protection).

What is 'ionising radiation' and where might workers be exposed?

Answer: High-energy radiation (X-rays, gamma rays, alpha/beta particles) found in medical imaging, nuclear industry, and some industrial processes

Ionising radiation has enough energy to remove electrons from atoms, causing cellular damage. Workers may be exposed in medical settings (X-rays, radiotherapy), nuclear facilities, industrial radiography, some research facilities, and natural sources (radon). The Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 control exposure.

What is 'thermal stress' as a workplace hazard?

Answer: Physical strain on the body from working in excessively hot or cold environments, potentially causing heat stroke or hypothermia

Thermal stress occurs when the body cannot maintain its normal temperature. Heat stress can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and death. Cold stress can cause hypothermia, frostbite, and reduced dexterity. Both indoor and outdoor workers can be affected depending on the conditions and work demands.

What is 'Sick Building Syndrome' (SBS)?

Answer: A range of symptoms experienced by building occupants linked to time spent in the building, without a specific identified illness

Sick Building Syndrome refers to a range of non-specific symptoms (headaches, fatigue, eye irritation, dry throat, nasal congestion) experienced by occupants of certain buildings. Symptoms improve when they leave the building. Causes may include poor ventilation, low humidity, chemicals from furnishings, and poor lighting.

What is 'occupational cancer'?

Answer: Cancer caused by exposure to carcinogenic substances or agents at work, such as asbestos, silica, benzene or solar radiation

Occupational cancer is cancer caused by exposure to carcinogenic (cancer-causing) substances or agents in the workplace. Common occupational carcinogens include asbestos, silica dust, benzene, wood dust, diesel engine exhaust, and solar UV radiation. It is estimated that occupational exposure causes around 8,000 cancer deaths per year in the UK.