OPAM Workshop: Basic Course in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Part II-245387

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Heather Williamson, an expert in family and disaster medicine, discussed various physical hazards in workplaces. She highlighted that near 5,000 fatal workplace injuries occurred in 2020, excluding COVID-related deaths. Common causes of these fatalities include transportation incidents, falls, violence, and exposure to harmful substances. She focused on thermal hazards, explaining risks from high temperatures and strenuous activities, which can lead to heat-related illnesses. These can be mitigated by cooling practices, acclimatization, and monitoring the heat index.<br /><br />She discussed various skin disorders such as miliaria (heat rash), heat cramps, and different heat exhaustion levels, emphasizing their treatment and prevention. Cold-related injuries like frostbite, immersion foot, and chilblains were covered, along with their symptoms and management.<br /><br />Noise exposure leading to hearing loss and stress-related conditions were briefly mentioned, as were the impacts of vibration on the body. She concluded with information on altitude and barometric hazards, underlining the importance of acclimatization and the potential risks at high altitudes. Lastly, she noted the significance of adequate personal protective equipment to prevent injuries related to these occupational hazards.

Keywords

workplace hazards

fatal injuries

thermal hazards

heat-related illnesses

cold-related injuries

noise exposure

vibration impacts

altitude risks

personal protective equipment