Let Us Talk About What is Really Happening to Our Bodies at Work!
Did you know that occupational diseases are often overlooked, under-discussed, and misunderstood in the workplace? 🤔
I am delving into the comprehensive list from ILO Recommendation 194, not just to tick a compliance box, but to shed light on the real risks workers face every day. From respiratory issues to skin conditions, and even long-term chronic effects, our jobs can impact our health in ways we often do not see or discuss.
💡 Why does this matter?
Because awareness is the first step towards prevention! If we don’t talk about these risks, how can we protect ourselves and our colleagues?
Over the coming weeks, I will be breaking down the list of occupational diseases recognised by the ILO, sharing what they mean for us, and what employers & employees can do to stay safe.
🔗 Stay tuned, join the conversation, and let’s make workplace health a priority, NOT an afterthought.
I am delving into the comprehensive list from ILO Recommendation 194, not just to tick a compliance box, but to shed light on the real risks workers face every day. From respiratory issues to skin conditions, and even long-term chronic effects, our jobs can impact our health in ways we often do not see or discuss.
💡 Why does this matter?
Because awareness is the first step towards prevention! If we don’t talk about these risks, how can we protect ourselves and our colleagues?
Over the coming weeks, I will be breaking down the list of occupational diseases recognised by the ILO, sharing what they mean for us, and what employers & employees can do to stay safe.
🔗 Stay tuned, join the conversation, and let’s make workplace health a priority, NOT an afterthought.
#OccupationalHealth #WorkplaceWellness
#ILO
#SafetyFirst #EmployeeWellbeing #LetsTalkHealth
#Oshecare
#OHS
Blog
ELECTRICAL SHOCK
An electric shock is defined as the flow of an electric current through the human body. The impact and consequences of an electric shock can differ greatly depending on several factors, including the voltage, the path of the current through the body, the length of time for which the current is passed through the body, and the person's general health. Here are the main effects of electric shock.
Physical Effects
1. Muscle Spasm: This is an involuntary contraction of muscles which may make it impossible for the person to let go of the electrical source.
2. Burns: Electrical burns can be seen at the point of entry and exit of the current and can cause damage to the tissues deep within the body.
3. Cardiac Effects: The heart is a very sensitive organ to electrical currents. This can result in arrhythmia, ventricular fibrillation, or cardiac arrest.
4. Respiratory Problems: Electric shock can affect the respiratory muscles and cause respiratory failure or arrest. 5. Nerve Impairment: High voltage shocks can result in nerve injuries that may cause numbness, tingling, or paralysis of the affected regions.
6. Injuries to the Brain: In extreme cases, electric shocks can cause seizures, unconsciousness, or other neurological problems.
Psychological Effects
1. Post-Traumatic Stress: Individuals affected may develop anxiety, depression, or PTSD after the event.
2. Cognitive Function: There may be changes in cognitive abilities following a major electrical injury, especially if the shock affects the brain.
Long Term Effects
1. Chronic Pain: Some people may have chronic pain and discomfort also referred to as complex regional pain syndrome.
2. Physical Impairment: The level of impairment can vary widely depending on the level of the shock.
3. Vascular Risk: Patients with severe electrical injuries may be at higher risk for cardiovascular events.
Severity Factors
1. Voltage and Amperage: High voltage and current are more likely to cause severe damage.
2. Time of Contact: The length of time that the current is carried gives an idea of the severity of the injury.
3. Conduction Through the Body: Currents passing through the heart or brain are generally worse than those passing through the limbs.
4. Condition of the Environment: A smooth surface especially one that is wet will increase the conductivity of the body under the surface and thus the severity of the shock.
Immediate Response
First aid for electric shock victims should be:
1. Remove the Cause of the Injury: Switch off the power source if it can be done without putting the person’s life in danger.
2. Call for Help: Get medical help as soon as possible.
3. First Aid: If trained, give CPR to the person if he/she is unconscious and not breathing.
Prevention
1. Safe Use of Electrical Appliances: Electrical appliances should be used as recommended by the manufacturer. 2. Use of GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter): These devices are very useful in wet locations to prevent shock. 3. Maintenance Checks: Electrical systems and appliances should be checked regularly.
It is important to know the consequences of electric shock in order to prevent it from happening and to act appropriately in case of an emergency.