Medical industry hazards: What you should know

The medical industry is full of concerning risks for the safety of those who work in it. With an important job to do on a daily basis, it is important that individuals take into account the various kinds of risk factors that could result in serious illness or injury. Wayne believes that protection should always be a priority in high-risk situations, but here is what you need to pay careful attention to should you work in the medical industry: •	Harsh chemicals. These are a given in the medical industry and are a daily encounter for many people in the field. Ranging from harsh acids, to solvents and even hazardous chemicals, exposure to these can be detrimental. Allergies, respiratory disorders and even burns are a common side effect of handling such substances. Wearing safety gloves, overalls or scrubs and a pair of high quality chemical resistant boots can prevent the effects of exposure to these. •	Human waste. Blood, faeces and contaminated medical waste carry a host of possible risks. Expose to these can cause a number of conditions some of which being HIV/aids, hepatitis B and C, and pathogens that cause bacterial infections. You can prevent many of these by wearing surgical gloves, chemical resistant boots and a facemask when you are working with any of the above hazardous materials. Should you come into contact with any of the above in a way that could compromise your health, please consult a medical professional immediately. •	Physical hazards. These could include dangerous working conditions or injuries resulting in slips and falls. Being aware of physical hazards such as wet floors and uneven ground can lessen the threat of these in your place of work. •	Ergonomic hazards. These involve repetitive movements carried out on a daily basis. Injuries like strains and sprains are common in medical staff as they do the same tasks each and every day. Working in poor lighting that affects eyesight is also recognised as an ergonomic hazard. Ensure that you are not overexerting yourself by taking regular breaks, sitting down, eating enough food and drinking enough water. This will lessen the fatigue you may experience from spending long hours on your feet. Comfortable protective footwear will also detract from levels of fatigue. •	Psychological hazards. These are often overlooked, although the mental health of those in the medical industry is always at risk. Having to deal with potentially traumatic and disturbing cases often leaves those who work in the field with posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety and even insomnia. Being aware of your mental state is key to identifying potential psychological hazards. Should you notice any changes in the behaviour of yourself or your colleagues that may be cause for concern, do alert a superior who will be able to help. At Wayne we aim to safeguard your protection, regardless of the industrial environment that you may find yourself in. For more information on our tailored ranges, please visit our website, [http://www.wayne-safety.com/. www.wayne-safety.com].