Sunday, August 22, 2010

Potential OH&S Hazards In the Classroom and SAM.

Some potential OH&S hazards in the classroom are:

* drinks near computers could spill and cause damage to or destroy the computers and there is also the risk of electrocution.

* a cluttered, unclean and/or ill-adjusted workstation could result in accidents, discomfort and pain.

* cord/s sticking out from underneath furniture onto a walkway may cause injury if someone trips over them.

Some behaviors to minimise these risks are:

* make sure any drinks are in a bottle with a secure, tightened lid.

* to keep clutter to a minimum, only have things at your workstation that you need to use for the task at hand. Keep your workspace clean and tidy. Always adjust your workstation to your own personal comfort eg: adjust your chair, desk and computer monitor to the correct height and levels for YOU.

* if there is a cord in your walkway, move it safely out of the way, eg: if a cord is sticking out from under a desk or cupboard, slide it underneath if it is safe to do so.

Some slogans that could be used on a poster to address these problems could be:

* when you have a drink - CAP IT to prevent a spill.

* when you're cramped and uncomfortable - ADJUST IT for your own comfort.

* when a cord is in your way - STASH IT safely out of the way.

The examples that I have given in this blog demonstrate what is known as the SAM Principles. SAM stands for:

* Spot the Hazard
* Assess the Risk
* Make the Changes

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