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Technically, identifying hazards at work is the first step to prevent occupational diseases. The International Labor Organization (ILO) defines occupational diseases as those having a specific and strong relationship with exposure to physical, chemical, biological or psychosocial factors at work. In recent years, silicosis, occupational deafness, tenosynovitis of the hand and forearm are the common occupational diseases in Asian countries, especially in Hong Kong. Thus, the common hazards causing occupational diseases can generally be grouped into the following categories:

1. Physical Hazards

– They are commonly found in the work environment include temperature, humidity, air pressure, noise, vibration, lightning, radiation, etc.

2. Chemical Hazards

– Different chemicals have their own properties. They can exist in the work environment in different forms including liquid, gas, vapor, solid and air particles (e.g. dust, fumes). Such chemicals that are commonly used in the workplace include solvents, cleansing agents, acids, alkalis, and so forth.

3. Biological Hazards

– Biological hazards commonly found in the work environment are micro-organisms including pathogenic bacteria, virus, fungi, etc. These hazards enter the human body through different mediums such as by air, skin, or contact with mucous membrane therefore causing different occupational diseases. The common ones under this category include tuberculosis, streptococcus infection and leptospirosis.

4. Ergonomic Hazards

– The term “Ergonomics” practically refers to the interaction between human, work environment and tools. Such an improper interaction, in fact, can result in poor posture at work; resulting in musculoskeletal disorders and reduce work efficiency. Common ergonomic hazards at the workplace include incompatibility between the height of chairs and tables, or the size of tools with the body-built of employees.

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Overall, by using the grouping method described above for categorizing hazards, the hazards can be systematically controlled. After all, reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of control measures already in place, formulating and adopting further appropriate measures, and stepping up monitoring are all essential for the prevention of occupational diseases.