Biological Hazards: A Type of Hazard in the Workplace

Introduction to Biological Hazards00:00:13

Biological hazards are organisms or organic matter harmful to human health. They primarily manifest in three ways: infection, allergy, and poisoning.

Pathways of Transmission00:01:01

Infections can be transmitted through direct contact, contaminated surfaces (fomites), food or water, droplet or aerosol dispersion, and vector-borne mechanisms like insects.

Allergies and Poisonings00:02:53

Biological agents can cause allergic skin reactions or dermatitis. Poisoning occurs through contact with toxic plants, bites from animals, or contact with hazardous marine life.

Occupational Factors and Environment00:03:37

Risk levels depend on specific job roles, such as agriculture or healthcare, as well as the geographical location and environmental conditions of the workplace.

Controlling Biological Hazards00:05:12

Managing risks involves applying the hierarchy of controls: elimination of the source, engineering controls like ventilation, administrative procedures, and the use of appropriate PPE.