In the United States, written signs have traditionally served to guide, protect, and instruct people in structures. In the workplace, written signs are widespread and serve an essential role in worker safety. The use of signs and symbols has now been widely adapted in the U.S.A and in extension to other areas. The signs and symbols are as follows;
Medical Services & First Aid (29 CFR 1926.50)
The employer must ensure that medical staff are available for guidance and consultation on occupational health issues. Prior to the start of the project, provisions must be established for quick medical treatment in the event of significant damage. In the absence of a nearby infirmary, clinic, hospital, or physician who is adequately accessible in terms of time and distance for the treatment of wounded employees, a person with a valid certificate in first-aid training must be present to give first aid at the worksite. All employment locations where a hospital, clinic, or physician is not available due to time or distance must have first aid kits. These supplies must be used by people who have been taught to use them and who are prepared to look after them. The components of the first aid kit should be stored in a watertight case with distinct sealed packets for each type of item, and the contents must be verified by the employer before being sent out on each work, and at least weekly on each job to verify that spent goods are replaced. It is important to have appropriate equipment for prompt transportation of the wounded individual to a physician or hospital, as well as a communication system for contacting necessary ambulance service. Where 911 is not available, the telephone numbers of doctors, hospitals, and ambulances must be prominently displayed. Also, suitable facilities for rapid drenching or flushing of the eyes and body must be provided inside the work area for urgent emergency usage whenever any person’s eyes or body may be exposed to harmful corrosive chemicals. (Reese & Eidson, 2006)
Sanitation of Job-Sites (29 CFR 1926.51)
In all places of employment, a sufficient quantity of potable water (drinking water) must be given. Drinking water must be dispensed from portable containers that may be firmly closed and have a tap. Containers must not be immersed in water. The vessel used to dispense drinking water should be properly labeled with the contents’ nature and must not be utilized for any other purpose. The use of a common drinking cup is forbidden. Also, workers must have access to restrooms, which must be maintained on a regular basis.
Washing Facilities [29 CFR 1926.51(f)]
Good cleanliness is the foundation of good health! Workers who apply paints, coatings, herbicides, or insecticides, or who work in other activities where pollutants might be hazardous to them, must have access to proper washing facilities. Such facilities must be located near the worksite and equipped to allow personnel to remove hazardous chemicals. Cleaning facilities must be kept in good working order. On all job locations, potable water (drinking water) must be supplied. Seal the container with tape to keep it fresh, and make a note of the date and time. (Balaji & Kothai, 2014).
Eating and Drinking Areas [29 CFR 1926.51(g)]
No employee shall be permitted to eat food or beverages in a restroom or in any location where various hazardous materials are present.
Vermin Control [29 CFR 1926.51(h)]
Each enclosed worksite must be designed, fitted, and maintained in such a way as to prevent rats, insects, and other vermin from entering or harboring. Wherever their presence is identified, a long-term and efficient eradication effort must be implemented.
Reference
Balaji, V., & Kothai, P. (2014). Review on work-related health issues among unorganized construction workers. Int. J. Sci. Eng. Res., 2, 1-7.
Reese, C. D., & Eidson, J. V. (2006). Handbook of OSHA construction safety and health. crc press.
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