ANWSER
Question 1:
With appropriate examples, discuss in brief the underlisted concepts:
a. Health and Safety Audit (2 mks)
A systematic examination of workplace health and safety systems and practices to ensure compliance and effectiveness. For example, checking whether fire extinguishers are properly maintained.
b. Health and Safety Training (2 mks)
This involves educating employees on safety procedures and hazard awareness. For instance, training staff on how to use PPE correctly.
c. Safety Monitoring (2 mks)
Continuous observation and recording of workplace conditions to detect and prevent hazards. Example: Installing CCTV in hazardous zones.
d. Muster Point (2 mks)
A designated safe location where employees assemble during emergencies like fire evacuations.
e. First Aid (2 mks)
Immediate medical care given to an injured or ill person before professional help arrives. E.g., using a first aid box to treat minor cuts.
f. Personal Protective Equipment (2 mks)
Gear like gloves, helmets, goggles used to reduce exposure to workplace hazards.
g. Workplace Ergonomics (2 mks)
Designing workstations to fit the physical needs of workers. Example: Adjustable chairs to reduce back pain.
h. Security Unit (2 mks)
Personnel responsible for safeguarding lives and property within the organization. E.g., security guards checking entries.
i. Security Survey (2 mks)
Assessment of workplace security measures to identify vulnerabilities.
j. Restriction and Access Control (2 mks)
Limiting entry to certain areas to authorized personnel only. Example: Using keycards for sensitive areas.
k. Waste Management (2 mks)
The proper disposal, recycling, and handling of waste materials to prevent environmental hazards.
l. Environmental Protection (2 mks)
Practices that reduce industrial impact on the environment, like using eco-friendly production materials.
m. OHS and Workforce Performance (2 mks)
Effective Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) systems enhance productivity by reducing absenteeism due to injuries.
n. Safety Inspection (2 mks)
Routine checks to ensure compliance with safety regulations. E.g., checking fire exits and extinguishers.
o. Workplace Security (2 mks)
Measures to protect employees, data, and assets from threats such as theft or cyber-attacks.
Question 2:
a. Elucidate the concept of occupational hazards as a Human Resource intern (7 mks)
Occupational hazards are potential risks or dangers that employees may encounter in their work environment. As an HR intern, understanding these helps in promoting employee safety, minimizing liabilities, and ensuring a productive workforce.
b. List and explain five sources of hazards at work (7 mks)
- Physical Hazards – Noise, vibration, heat.
- Chemical Hazards – Exposure to toxic substances.
- Biological Hazards – Bacteria, viruses in medical labs.
- Ergonomic Hazards – Poor workstation design.
- Psychosocial Hazards – Stress, harassment.
c. What are the objectives of government involvement and investment in OHS? (6 mks)
- Ensure employee well-being
- Enforce compliance with safety standards
- Promote economic productivity
- Prevent occupational diseases
- Provide social protection
- Raise awareness and training programs
Question 3:
a. Enumerate and discuss four major constitutional provisions for OHS in Nigeria (7 mks)
- Section 17(3c) – Ensures safe and healthy working conditions.
- Labour Act – Governs employee rights and employer duties.
- Factories Act – Mandates safety measures in factories.
- Employee Compensation Act – Provides compensation for occupational injuries.
b. Extensively discuss the major causes of occupational accidents and injuries (7 mks)
- Lack of training
- Equipment failure
- Human error
- Poor safety culture
- Inadequate supervision
- Exposure to hazardous materials
c. What are the major types of accidents in the workplace? (6 mks)
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Machinery accidents
- Electrical shocks
- Fire and explosions
- Chemical spills
- Repetitive strain injuries
Question 4:
a. Discuss in detail the concept of Industrial Hygiene in the workplace (6 mks)
Industrial hygiene is the science of anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace conditions that may cause workers’ injury or illness. It aims to maintain a healthy work environment.
b. Highlight the components of Industrial Hygiene (7 mks)
- Worksite analysis
- Hazard identification
- Risk assessment
- Control measures
- Monitoring and evaluation
- Training and education
- Health surveillance
c. What roles do Industrial Hygienists play in the workplace? (7 mks)
- Conduct risk assessments
- Recommend control measures
- Evaluate work environments
- Monitor chemical exposure
- Provide training
- Implement hygiene programs
- Report and document hazards
Question 5:
a. Using the context of “Stakeholders”, explain the concept of workplace safety (6 mks)
Workplace safety involves all stakeholders—employers, employees, government, unions—working together to create a hazard-free environment. It includes shared responsibilities and collaborative efforts for policy implementation.
b. Enumerate and discuss the guidelines for ensuring workplace safety (7 mks)
- Conduct regular training
- Perform risk assessments
- Use PPE
- Enforce safety policies
- Maintain equipment
- Emergency preparedness plans
- Safety audits
c. Why should an HR manager be bothered about workplace safety? (7 mks)
- Reduce workplace injuries
- Ensure legal compliance
- Boost employee morale
- Minimize absenteeism
- Improve productivity
- Protect company image
- Fulfill ethical responsibilities