Workplace Hazards

Workplace hazards are the possible causes of physical or mental problems for people working in any particular place. They range from exposure to hazardous chemicals, excessively loud noise, psychological stress, and workplace violence or discrimination. Workplace hazards cause large numbers of deaths and injuries every year. It is estimated that some two million people die from workplacecaused hazards annually, and another 160 million become subject to a disease stemming from their work. Since prevention of accidents and risk generally comes at the initial expense of lowered productivity, employers have a strong disincentive to provide safety systems. Consequently, workers with less power or representation are generally more at risk from workplace hazards. Women, migrants, and temporary workers are some of the groups most likely to be ...