WORK IMMERSION: SAFETY AT THE WORKPLACE AND CONFIDENTIALITY

safety at the workplace

a concept that describes a set of regulations and rules that employees introduce to make the work environment safe for all members of the organisation, including employees and clients.

slips, trips, and falls

a frequently occurring accident type, leading to minor injuries (sprains, bruises) as well as major injuries (fractures, head injuries).

fall from heights

one of the leading accident types. Accidents and near-misses often involve the

improper use of ladders.

struck by falling objects

Getting struck by falling objects can lead to head injuries and even death. It commonly occurs in storage facilities with racking / shelving systems.

cut by object

may occur when working with sharp tools and handling broken glass or ceramics.

fires and explosions

improper storage, accumulation of flammable materials, or faulty electrical installations

exposure to electric currents

carries a risk of electrocution, burns and even death.

exposure to harmful chemicals

can be harmful to our health. Inhaling the vapours and regular contact with these chemicals can lead to breathing and skin problems.

workplace aggression

hostile and violent behaviour that ranges from verbal to physical abuse. This is commonly experienced by staff in the service sector and may also occur between

co-workers.

fatigue

physical and mental exhaustion. Once fatigued, you are more likely to be careless and prone to making mistakes.This will increase your chances of getting injured at work.

confidentiality

means keeping sensitive information private and secure, ensuring it is only accessed by authorized personnel. It’s crucial to protect company secrets, employee data, and client information from unauthorized access or disclosure.

• employee information

• management information

• business information

three categories of a confidential workplace

employee information

a. an employee's Social Security number
b. home address or telephone number
c. email address
d. Internet identification name or password

management information

a. disciplinary actions

b. impending layoffs
c. terminations
d. Workplace investigations of employee misconduct

business information

Confidential business information is also referred to as “proprietary information” or “trade secrets”. This refers to information that’s not generally known to the public and would not ordinarily be available to competitors by illegal or improper means.

non disclosure agreement (NDA)

legally binding document may be signed by employees or partners to commit them to confidentiality obligations

personal protective equipment (PPE)

these are items such as gloves or other protective equipment that workers must use when required to reduce exposure to workplace hazards

three points of contact

this safety principle requires maintaining three points of contact when using a ladder

good housekeeping

this safety practice involves maintaining a clean orderly and hazard free work area