Foundations in Health

Outline the scope and nature of occupational health and safety ■ Explain the moral, social and economic reasons for maintaining and promoting good standards of health and safety in the workplace ■ Explain the role of national governments and international bodies in formulating a framework for the regulation of health and safety. ■

The defi nitions of hazard and risk … The business case for health and safety (direct, indirect, insured and uninsured costs) … The health and safety responsibilities and duties of employers to their employees and others affected by their undertaking … The health and safety rights and responsibilities of workers … The role of international organisations in setting international standards for health and safety at work … Sources of information on national standards … DEFINITIONS

■ Accident – an unplanned event that results in damage, loss or harm

■ Hazard – the potential of something to cause harm

■ Risk – the likelihood of something to cause harm

■ Residual risk – remaining risks after controls applied

■ Welfare – provision of facilities to maintain health and well-being of people in the workplace (e.g. washing, sanitary facilities and fi rst aid)

■ Near miss – any incident that could have resulted in an accident

■ Dangerous occurrence – a near miss that could have led to serious injury or loss of life.