Hazard Types

All workplaces have hazards that can cause injury or other adverse effects. Understanding what constitutes a hazard is a critical first step towards hazard management.

Types of hazards

Workplace hazards can be categorized as follows:

• Biological
• Chemical
• Radiation - a hazard posed by:
  • Nuclear substances
  • X-ray devices, and lasers
• Physical
• Ergonomic
• Psychological - aspects of the work environment and job design that can negatively impact an employee's mental health and well-being
• Cultural - aspects of a culture, including behaviors, beliefs, or practices, that can negatively impact the health, safety, or well-being of individuals or groups

While biological, chemical and radiation hazards are more commonly found in research environments, a workplace like an office might have ergonomic hazards (e.g., improper workstation set up), physical hazards (e.g., excessive cords) or psychological hazards (e.g., workplace bullying).