OSH Answers Fact Sheets

Is it important to wash your hands? Simply put, yes. Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. You can spread certain "germs" (a general term for pathogens like viruses and bacteria) casually by touching another person. You can also catch germs when you touch contaminated objects or surfaces and then you touch your face (mouth, eyes, and nose). "Good" hand washing techniques includes using an adequate amount of soap, rubbing the...

What factors modify our response to cold? A cold environment challenges the worker in three ways: by air temperature, air movement (wind speed), and humidity (wetness). In order to work safely, these challenges have to be counterbalanced by proper insulation (layered protective clothing), by physical activity and by controlled exposure to cold (work/rest schedule). Air Temperature : Air temperature is measured by an ordinary thermometer in degrees Celsius (°C) or degrees Fahrenheit...

What are particulates? Particulate matter is the name given to solids or liquids that are distributed in a gas. In the workplace, most often, the term "particulates" refers to particles, dust, mist or fume that have become suspended in the surrounding air. The hazard with airborne particulates is that a person may breathe in the chemical that may have ill effects on an individual's health. What are the parts of the respiratory system that can be affected? The diagram below shows the parts of...

What is meant by 'flexible work'? Simply put, flexible work arrangements are alternate arrangements or schedules from the traditional working day and week. Employees may choose a different work schedule to meet personal or family needs. Alternatively, employers may initiate various schedules to meet their customer needs. Why should a business consider offering flexible work arrangements? Many benefits have been reported by various studies. Common findings include: Increased ability to...