Occupational exposure

Occupational exposure refers to an employee's exposure to a physical, chemical, or biological agent as a result of their work. The exposure may occur as a single incident or may be repeated over an extended period of time.

Types of Occupational Exposure

Occupational exposure can be categorized into three main types: physical, chemical, and biological.

• Physical exposure includes exposure to noise, vibration, temperature extremes, radiation, and ergonomic stressors.
• Chemical exposure involves exposure to dust, fumes, gases, vapors, and liquids. This can include substances such as asbestos, lead, and silica.
• Biological exposure includes exposure to bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. This is particularly relevant in healthcare settings.

Health Effects

The health effects of occupational exposure can range from minor irritations to serious illnesses and diseases, including cancer, lung disease, and hearing loss. The severity of the health effects depends on the type of exposure, the duration of exposure, and the individual's susceptibility.

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control of occupational exposure involve a combination of engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment. OSHA provides guidelines and regulations for employers to follow to protect their employees from occupational exposure.

See Also

• Occupational disease
• Occupational hazard
• Occupational hygiene
• OSHA

References

Occupational exposure Resources
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