850 Health Hazards in Construction

Glossary

A

Absorption. A route of entry by which hazardous substances pass through the skin or mucous membranes into the body.
Acid. A substance with a pH less than 7 that can cause chemical burns upon contact. Acids are commonly used in construction materials and cleaning agents.
Acute Effect. A health effect that appears soon after a single exposure or short-term exposure to a hazardous substance, often severe in nature.
Administrative Controls. Ergonomic strategies that involve changing work procedures or practices to reduce injury risks. These can include job rotation, scheduling more breaks, or implementing training programs to promote proper ergonomic techniques. Administrative controls are part of the hierarchy of controls and aim to reduce exposure to ergonomic hazards without altering the physical environment.
Airborne Pathogens. Microorganisms such as bacteria or viruses that are transmitted through the air and can cause disease when inhaled. Common in healthcare and general industry environments.
Anthropometry. The study of human body measurements, used in ergonomics to design tools, equipment, and workspaces that fit various body sizes and shapes.
Anthropometric Data. Measurements of human body dimensions used in ergonomic design to ensure tools, workspaces, and equipment fit a variety of body sizes and shapes.
Asbestos. A mineral fiber once used in building materials, now known to cause lung disease, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma when inhaled.
Aspergillus. A genus of mold that produces spores capable of causing respiratory infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Frequently found in construction dust and HVAC systems.
Awkward Posture. A body position that deviates from the natural, neutral posture, placing excessive stress on muscles, joints, and the spine. Awkward postures, such as bending, twisting, or reaching, increase the risk of workplace musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Ergonomic interventions aim to minimize awkward postures by optimizing workstations and tools.

B

Base. A substance with a pH greater than 7, often caustic, that can cause burns or tissue damage upon contact. Bases are used in construction cleaning and preparation processes.
Behavioral Ergonomics. The study of how human behaviors affect the interaction with tools, tasks, and environments, often focusing on improving safety and reducing errors.
Bioaerosols. Suspended particles in the air that contain or are biological in origin, including fungi, bacteria, and viruses, posing inhalation risks, especially in confined spaces like ships or oil platforms.
Biological Agents. Microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, or biological toxins, that can cause disease in humans, animals, or plants. Found across all industries, especially in healthcare and wastewater operations.
Biological Contamination. The presence of harmful biological substances such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi in work environments, water systems, or surfaces, potentially causing infection or disease.
Biological Indicator. A test organism used to validate the effectiveness of sterilization or disinfection processes in healthcare, labs, and marine facilities.
Biological Monitoring. The measurement of exposure to biological agents or the body�s response to such exposure, commonly conducted in healthcare and industrial hygiene programs.
Biomechanical Load. The forces exerted on the body during physical tasks, which can influence fatigue, injury risk, and efficiency.

Biomechanics.

Bloodborne Pathogens. Disease-causing microorganisms present in human blood, such as HIV and hepatitis B/C, commonly encountered by healthcare workers and emergency responders.
Blue Light. A type of light emitted by digital screens and some lighting that can cause eye strain, disrupt sleep patterns, and affect concentration. Prolonged exposure to blue light in the workplace, particularly in office settings, may require ergonomic adjustments such as screen filters and proper lighting.
Bursitis. Inflammation of the bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Bursitis is often caused by repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on a joint and can be exacerbated by poor ergonomic practices in the workplace.

C

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. A condition caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist's carpal tunnel, resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness in the hand and fingers. Repetitive motions and prolonged use of keyboards or hand tools are common contributors, and ergonomic solutions often involve tool redesign and posture improvements.
Cement Dermatitis. A skin condition caused by repeated or prolonged contact with wet cement, leading to irritation, allergic reactions, or chemical burns.
Center of Gravity. The point where the body's mass is evenly distributed, crucial for balance and stability. In ergonomics, tasks and tools are designed to help maintain a neutral center of gravity, reducing the risk of strain and injury.
Cervical Radiculopathy. A condition caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the cervical spine, leading to pain, weakness, or numbness in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands. Poor posture and repetitive strain are common contributors, and ergonomic interventions aim to reduce neck strain.
Chronic Effect. A long-term health effect that results from prolonged or repeated exposure to hazardous substances, such as cancer or organ damage.
Cognitive Load. The mental effort required to perform tasks, which can be reduced through ergonomic design to prevent cognitive overload and errors.
Cold Stress. Adverse health effects from exposure to cold environments, including frostbite, hypothermia, and trench foot.
Compartment Syndrome. A painful condition caused by increased pressure within the muscles, which can impair blood flow and nerve function. This syndrome is often linked to repetitive activities or excessive force, and ergonomic adjustments can help reduce the risk.
Competent Person. An individual who possesses the required knowledge, experience, and authority to identify existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions and has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them. This designation is often used in workplace safety regulations.
Computer Vision Syndrome. Eye strain and discomfort resulting from prolonged use of computers or digital screens, often alleviated by ergonomic adjustments to lighting, screen distance, and breaks.
Confined Space. An area with limited entry and exit that is not designed for continuous occupancy and may present hazardous atmospheres or entrapment risks.
Contact Stress. Pressure applied to specific areas of the body due to hard or sharp objects, such as tools or workstation edges, which can cause discomfort or injury over time. Ergonomic solutions include padding and redesigning tools to reduce direct pressure on the skin or soft tissues.
Containment Level. A classification system for laboratory biosafety based on the risk posed by biological agents, ranging from Biosafety Level 1 (low risk) to Level 4 (high risk).
Contaminated Sharps. Any object that can puncture or cut skin and is contaminated with potentially infectious material, such as needles or scalpels in healthcare, or used blades in industrial settings.
Crush Injuries. Severe injuries caused by forceful compression of a body part, common in excavation or machinery operations.
Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD). A condition that arises from repetitive strain or overuse of a particular body part, often resulting from poor ergonomic design. CTDs can lead to symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and reduced function, typically affecting the hands, wrists, shoulders, and back.

D

de Quervain's Tenosynovitis. A condition where the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist become inflamed, causing pain and difficulty in thumb movement. This is often related to repetitive motions and forceful exertion, and ergonomic interventions focus on reducing these risk factors through task modification and tool adjustments.
Decibel. A unit used to measure the intensity of sound. OSHA defines noise exposure limits based on decibel levels over an 8-hour period.
Decontamination. The process of cleaning to remove biological agents or hazardous substances from surfaces, tools, or PPE to prevent the spread of infection or contamination.
Dexterity. The skillful and coordinated use of hands and fingers to perform tasks. Ergonomic design often focuses on improving dexterity by creating tools and environments that reduce strain and allow for more precise movements.
Disinfection. A process used to eliminate most pathogenic microorganisms (excluding bacterial spores) from inanimate objects or surfaces, commonly used in healthcare and marine environments.
Dust. Fine particles that can be inhaled, causing respiratory irritation or diseases such as silicosis or asthma, depending on the dust type.
Dynamic Muscular Endurance. The ability of muscles to sustain repetitive movement or contractions over time. Tasks requiring high dynamic muscular endurance can lead to fatigue and injury, and ergonomic interventions aim to reduce repetitive motion and promote recovery.

E

Elimination. The most effective strategy in the hierarchy of controls, elimination involves completely removing the ergonomic hazard from the workplace. In ergonomics, this could mean redesigning tasks or workstations to remove the need for repetitive motions or awkward postures altogether.
Engineering Controls. Ergonomic interventions that involve designing or modifying equipment, tools, or work environments to reduce or eliminate hazards. These controls change the physical aspects of the workplace, such as introducing height-adjustable desks or ergonomic hand tools, to fit the worker and minimize physical strain.
Environmental Ergonomics. The study of how environmental factors, such as temperature, lighting, and noise, affect worker performance and well-being.
Epicondylitis. Also known as tennis elbow, this condition is the inflammation of the tendons surrounding the elbow, often caused by repetitive motions or forceful exertions. Ergonomic solutions may include altering tool handles, reducing repetitive tasks, and promoting recovery time.
Ergonomic Chair. A chair designed to support good posture, reduce strain on the back, neck, and shoulders, and promote comfort during prolonged sitting.
Ergonomic Design. The process of creating tools, workstations, and environments that fit the user's physical needs, improving comfort, efficiency, and safety. Good ergonomic design reduces the risk of injuries such as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) by minimizing repetitive motions, awkward postures, and excessive forces.
Ergonomic Hazard. Workplace conditions that pose a risk of musculoskeletal injury, including forceful exertions, awkward postures, and repetitive tasks.
Ergonomic Program. A structured approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating ergonomic hazards in the workplace, often involving training, assessments, and interventions.
Ergonomic Risk Assessment. A systematic process used to identify, evaluate, and prioritize ergonomic hazards in the workplace. This assessment considers factors such as repetitive motions, awkward postures, and forceful exertions, and it helps guide decisions on applying ergonomic interventions.
Ergonomic Workstation Assessment. An evaluation of a worker's physical setup, including desk, chair, monitor, and tools, to identify potential ergonomic risks. Recommendations are made to improve posture, reduce strain, and enhance comfort, often through adjustments in equipment or work habits.
Ergonomics. The science of designing the workplace, equipment, and tasks to fit the worker, aiming to improve comfort, efficiency, and safety.
Exposure. Contact with a chemical, physical, or biological agent by inhalation, ingestion, absorption, or injection. Exposure can be acute or chronic.
Exposure Control Plan (ECP). A documented strategy that outlines procedures to eliminate or minimize occupational exposure to biological hazards, especially in healthcare, laboratory, and emergency response operations.

F

Fatigue Accumulation. The gradual build-up of physical or mental exhaustion due to sustained or repetitive tasks, often addressed through ergonomic interventions like task rotation and rest breaks.
Fatigue Management. Strategies to reduce physical and mental exhaustion, such as optimizing task schedules, improving ergonomics, and encouraging rest breaks.
Fibers. Thin, elongated particles like asbestos or synthetic fibers that may become airborne and pose inhalation hazards.
Forceful Exertion. The application of high levels of physical effort, which can lead to musculoskeletal injuries if sustained over time without proper ergonomic design.
Frostnip. A mild form of frostbite characterized by red, numb skin, usually affecting fingers, ears, or nose during exposure to cold environments.
Fumes. Tiny solid particles created by condensation of vaporized metal, such as during welding or cutting, that pose serious inhalation risks.
Fungal Spores. Reproductive units of fungi that can be airborne and cause respiratory infections or allergic reactions, particularly in damp construction sites or marine environments.

G

Gases. Substances that exist in the gaseous state at room temperature and can pose inhalation risks or displace oxygen in confined spaces.
Gender. Ergonomic considerations often take gender differences into account, such as body size, muscle strength, and anthropometry, to ensure that workstations and tools accommodate the needs of all workers. Gender-specific ergonomic designs can enhance comfort and reduce the risk of injury.
General Industry. The sector of industry that includes all industries not categorized under construction, agriculture, or maritime. This includes manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and other service industries.
Glove Protocol. Procedures for selecting, donning, doffing, and disposing of gloves used to prevent contact with biological hazards.
Grip Force. The amount of force exerted by the hand to hold or manipulate objects. Ergonomic tools aim to reduce the need for excessive grip force, which can lead to strain.

H

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). A condition caused by prolonged exposure to vibrating tools, leading to damage in the nerves and blood vessels of the hands and arms.
Hand-Eye Coordination. The ability to coordinate visual input with hand movements to perform tasks. Ergonomics aims to improve hand-eye coordination through proper equipment placement, tool design, and lighting, reducing strain and improving accuracy in tasks.
Hand Hygiene. The practice of properly cleaning hands using soap and water or hand sanitizer to prevent the transmission of biological hazards, essential in healthcare and food service aboard ships and rigs.
Hazardous Biological Waste. Waste materials that contain infectious substances, including tissues, blood, or contaminated PPE, generated in healthcare, laboratories, and offshore medical facilities.
Hazard Identification. The process of recognizing potential sources of harm, including ergonomic risks like repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, and awkward postures. Identifying these hazards is the first step in the hierarchy of controls to mitigate ergonomic-related injuries.
Hazardous Atmosphere. An environment that contains harmful substances or lacks sufficient oxygen, posing a serious risk in confined spaces.
Heat Cramps. Painful muscle spasms that occur during heavy physical labor in hot environments due to loss of electrolytes.
Heat Exhaustion. A heat-related illness marked by heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and fainting; if untreated, it can progress to heat stroke.
Heat Rash. Skin irritation from excessive sweating in hot, humid conditions, common among construction workers in warm climates.
Heat Stroke. The most severe heat illness, characterized by confusion, loss of consciousness, and a lack of sweating. It is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical attention.
Heat Stress. A collective term for conditions caused by overexposure to heat, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Heavy Metals. Toxic metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium commonly found in construction materials and dusts, known for causing neurological and organ damage.
Herniated Disc. A condition in which the cushioning disc between the vertebrae in the spine ruptures or bulges, pressing on nearby nerves. Poor ergonomic conditions, such as prolonged sitting in awkward postures or heavy lifting, can contribute to the development of herniated discs.
Human Factors Engineering. The discipline focused on optimizing the relationship between people and systems, often overlapping with ergonomics to improve safety, comfort, and efficiency.
Hyperthermia. A dangerously high body temperature caused by prolonged exposure to heat.
Hypothermia. A potentially fatal condition in which the body temperature drops below 95ºF (35ºC), impairing brain and muscle function.

I

Illness. A condition resulting from exposure to hazardous substances or environments that adversely affects health, either temporarily or permanently.
Illumination. The lighting conditions in a workspace, which can affect visibility, comfort, and performance. Proper ergonomic lighting reduces eye strain, enhances visibility, and minimizes glare, with special attention to balancing natural and artificial light sources.
Immune Response. The body�s defense mechanism against biological agents, which can vary among individuals and affect susceptibility to workplace infections.
Infection Control. Practices aimed at preventing the spread of infectious diseases, such as isolation procedures, proper PPE use, and sterilization protocols in all industries.
Ingestion. A route of entry into the body through swallowing, often due to contamination of hands or food in unsanitary conditions.
Injection. A route of entry where harmful substances enter the body through punctures or cuts in the skin, such as with high-pressure fluid leaks.
Ionizing Radiation. High-energy radiation capable of removing electrons from atoms, which can cause cell damage and increase cancer risk. Examples include X-rays and gamma rays.

J

Job Design. The process of organizing tasks and responsibilities to improve productivity and reduce ergonomic risks, often involving adjustments to workloads, task variation, and equipment.
Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). A process of identifying and evaluating risks�including biological hazards�associated with specific job tasks, often used in construction and oil and gas operations.
Job Rotation. An administrative control in ergonomics where workers rotate through different tasks or positions to reduce the strain on specific muscles or joints. By varying the physical demands of a job, job rotation helps prevent repetitive strain injuries and distributes the workload more evenly across the body.
Joint Disorder. A musculoskeletal condition affecting the joints, often caused by repetitive motion, awkward posture, or overexertion in construction work, leading to pain or reduced mobility.

K

Keratoconjunctivitis. An eye condition often caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from welding without proper eye protection, resulting in inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva.
Klebsiella. A genus of bacteria that can cause serious infections, particularly in healthcare environments. Known for its antibiotic resistance and potential to spread through contact.

L

Laceration. A deep cut or tear in the skin or flesh, commonly occurring in construction due to contact with sharp tools or materials. Lacerations can lead to infection or tissue damage if untreated.
Lateral Epicondylitis. Also known as tennis elbow, this is an inflammation of the tendons that join the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow. It is caused by repetitive wrist and arm motions, and ergonomically designed tools and task adjustments can help reduce strain.
Lead. A toxic metal used in construction materials, especially old paints and pipes. Lead exposure can affect the nervous system and cause developmental issues.
Lead Poisoning. A serious health condition resulting from exposure to lead dust or fumes, often in demolition or renovation work. Symptoms include neurological damage, abdominal pain, and developmental delays in children.
Legionella. A type of bacteria found in water systems that can cause Legionnaires� disease, posing risks in industrial cooling towers, offshore platforms, and marine HVAC systems.
Load Carrying. The physical act of lifting and transporting items, which can lead to musculoskeletal injuries if not performed with proper ergonomic techniques.

M

Manual Dexterity. The ability to skillfully perform tasks with the hands, often considered in ergonomic design to reduce strain and improve task performance.
Manual Handling. The act of lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling objects, which can lead to injury if not performed with proper ergonomic techniques. Ergonomic principles recommend using tools like hoists or lifts, or altering tasks to reduce the need for manual handling.
Medial Epicondylitis. Commonly known as golfer's elbow, this condition involves inflammation of the tendons on the inside of the elbow due to repetitive movements. Ergonomic solutions, such as adjusting tool grips and reducing repetitive strain, are often used to manage this condition.
Microbial Growth. The proliferation of bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms on surfaces or within water systems, often due to poor sanitation or moisture control, especially in marine and oil/gas environments.
Mists. Suspended droplets in the air, typically formed during spraying or cleaning operations, that can be inhaled and cause respiratory issues.
Mold. A type of fungus that grows in damp environments and releases spores that may cause respiratory issues, commonly found in building construction and marine operations.
Motor Skills. The abilities required to perform physical tasks, involving muscle coordination, strength, and precision. Ergonomic designs aim to enhance motor skills by providing tools and environments that support natural movement and reduce strain.
Muscular Strength. The amount of force a muscle can produce during a single effort. Ergonomics considers muscular strength in the design of tools and tasks, ensuring that the physical demands do not exceed the worker's capacity, which can prevent overexertion injuries.
Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). Injuries or disorders affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, or nerves, often caused by repetitive motions, awkward postures, or forceful exertions. Ergonomic interventions such as proper workstation setup, tool design, and task adjustments can help prevent MSDs.
Musculoskeletal Impairment. A condition that affects the muscles, bones, or joints, often leading to pain, reduced function, or disability. Ergonomics seeks to minimize the risk of musculoskeletal impairments through proper workstation setup and task design.
Musculoskeletal System. The system of muscles, bones, and joints that supports movement and maintains posture. Ergonomics focuses on designing tasks and environments that protect the musculoskeletal system from overuse, strain, and injury.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome. A chronic pain disorder caused by sensitivity and tightness in the muscles, often triggered by repetitive motions or sustained muscle tension. Poor ergonomic setups, especially in office environments, can contribute to this condition, and proper posture and workstation adjustments are key to prevention.

N

Needlestick Injury. An accidental puncture wound caused by a needle, potentially exposing workers to bloodborne pathogens. Common in healthcare and first aid situations across industries.
Neutral Posture. A body position where the joints are naturally aligned, minimizing stress on the body, and reducing the risk of injury, often encouraged by ergonomic design.
Noise. Unwanted sound that can lead to hearing loss with prolonged exposure. Construction sites often exceed safe noise limits without proper ear protection.

O

Occupational Disease. An illness directly caused by exposures or conditions encountered in the workplace, such as silicosis, asbestosis, or noise-induced hearing loss in construction.
Occupational Exposure. Contact with potentially infectious biological agents during the course of performing job duties, particularly in healthcare, oil spill cleanup, and waste management tasks.
Occupational Stress. Physical and mental strain experienced in the workplace, often exacerbated by poor ergonomic conditions like excessive workloads or uncomfortable work environments.
Overexertion. A physical hazard involving excessive physical effort such as lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy loads, often resulting in strains or sprains. It is a leading cause of workplace injuries.

P

Paint Additives. Chemicals added to paint to improve performance, such as anti-mildew or color stabilization agents, which may include hazardous substances.
Pathogen. Any microorganism�such as a virus, bacterium, or fungus�that can cause disease. Pathogens are a primary focus of biological hazard controls across all industries.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The least effective control in the hierarchy of controls, PPE includes items like gloves, wrist supports, or anti-fatigue mats used to reduce exposure to ergonomic hazards. While PPE can provide some level of protection, it does not eliminate the root causes of ergonomic issues and is used as a last resort.
Physiological Differences. Variations in physical characteristics, such as muscle strength, endurance, and body size, that influence how individuals interact with their work environment. Ergonomics accounts for these differences to ensure that tools and workspaces are suited for all workers.
Physical Exposure. The amount of physical strain or effort required by a task, often measured in terms of posture, force, and repetition. Ergonomic assessments aim to minimize physical exposure to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
Plaster Dust. Fine particulate matter created during sanding or mixing plaster, which can cause respiratory irritation or long-term lung damage if inhaled.
Postural Analysis. The process of evaluating body positions during tasks to identify awkward postures that may increase the risk of injury.

Q

Qualified Person. An individual who has the necessary education, training, and experience to perform a specific task safely and competently, as recognized by an employer or authority having jurisdiction. This person is often authorized to identify hazards and take corrective measures.
Qualitative Fit Test. A pass/fail method to test the seal of a respirator on a worker's face, using substances like saccharin or Bitrex to detect leakage and ensure proper respiratory protection.
Quantitative Fit Test. A more precise method for measuring the effectiveness of a respirator's seal by using instrumentation to detect leakage levels. Often required for tight-fitting respirators in hazardous environments.
Quarantine. The restriction of movement for individuals who may have been exposed to a contagious biological agent, used as a preventive measure in healthcare and emergency response.

R

Radiation. Energy emitted from a source that travels through space; can be ionizing (like X-rays) or non-ionizing (like UV radiation from welding), both posing health hazards depending on exposure.
Raynaud's Syndrome. A condition in which small blood vessels in the extremities, such as the fingers or toes, overreact to cold or stress, causing them to spasm and limit blood flow. Repetitive vibration exposure from tools, often associated with poor ergonomics, is a known risk factor for Raynaud's Syndrome. Ergonomic interventions can help reduce vibration exposure to prevent this condition.
Reaching Strain. Discomfort or injury caused by repeated or prolonged reaching, often addressed by adjusting workstation layouts to keep frequently used items within easy reach.
Repetitive Motion. The repeated use of the same muscles or joints to perform a task, often leading to fatigue or injury. Ergonomic solutions include modifying tasks to reduce the frequency of repetitive motions, as well as redesigning tools to minimize strain.
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). A type of injury caused by repeated motions or sustained awkward positions, commonly addressed through ergonomic solutions such as tool redesign and task modification.
Respiratory Protection. Devices such as N95 respirators or powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) designed to prevent inhalation of airborne biological agents in confined spaces or contaminated areas.
Risk. The likelihood of an injury or illness occurring as a result of exposure to a hazard, including ergonomic risks such as awkward postures, repetitive motions, and forceful exertions. Ergonomic risk assessments help prioritize actions to mitigate these risks.
Risk Factor. Any characteristic or behavior that increases the likelihood of injury or illness, particularly in an ergonomic context. Common ergonomic risk factors include repetitive motions, awkward postures, excessive force, and prolonged static positions.
Roofing Tar. A sticky, petroleum-based substance used in roof construction, known to release fumes that may irritate skin, eyes, or respiratory system.
Rotator Cuff Injury. Damage to the muscles or tendons surrounding the shoulder joint, often caused by repetitive overhead motions or forceful exertion. Ergonomic solutions include adjusting tasks to reduce shoulder strain and promoting recovery time.
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis. Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder's rotator cuff, often caused by repetitive overhead motions or prolonged strain. Proper ergonomic design, such as adjusting task heights and promoting neutral shoulder positions, helps prevent this condition.
Route of Entry. The path by which a substance enters the body, including inhalation, ingestion, absorption, and injection.

S

Sanitization. The process of reducing biological contaminants on surfaces to safe levels, frequently practiced in healthcare and food-related operations in oil rigs and marine vessels.
Segmental Vibration. Vibration affecting specific body parts such as the hands or arms, typically from tools like grinders or jackhammers, potentially leading to HAVS or nerve damage.
Sewage Exposure. Contact with untreated or partially treated human waste, which can harbor multiple biological hazards including viruses, bacteria, and parasites; common in marine, oil/gas, and construction industries.
Sharps Container. A puncture-resistant, leak-proof container used to safely dispose of contaminated sharp objects like needles and scalpels in medical and field environments.
Silica. A mineral found in concrete, brick, and stone. When cut or ground, it creates respirable crystalline silica dust that can cause silicosis, lung cancer, or other respiratory diseases.
Silica Dust. Fine particles of crystalline silica released during construction activities such as sawing, cutting, or grinding concrete and masonry, posing severe inhalation hazards.
Sit-Stand Desk. An adjustable desk that allows users to alternate between sitting and standing positions, promoting movement and reducing prolonged static postures.
Solvent. A substance used to dissolve other materials, often found in paints and adhesives. Many solvents are volatile and toxic, causing respiratory, neurological, or skin problems.
Solvent Vapors. Gaseous emissions from volatile solvents used in construction materials, capable of causing dizziness, headaches, or long-term organ damage with chronic exposure.
Spinal Stenosis. A narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition is often linked to poor posture and prolonged strain, and ergonomic interventions, such as improving seating posture and adjusting workstations, can help alleviate symptoms.
Static Muscular Endurance. The ability of a muscle or group of muscles to sustain a contraction over time without movement. Prolonged static postures can lead to fatigue and injury, and ergonomic solutions emphasize dynamic movement and posture changes.
Static Posture. Holding a position for a prolonged period, which can lead to discomfort and injury, often mitigated by ergonomic interventions like adjustable equipment.
Stress. The physical, mental, or emotional strain experienced by an individual, often exacerbated by poor ergonomic conditions such as awkward postures or excessive workloads. Ergonomic interventions aim to reduce workplace stress by improving comfort, posture, and workflow efficiency.
Substances. Any material or chemical that may present physical or health hazards on a construction site, including solids, liquids, gases, dusts, and fumes.
Substitution. Replacing a hazardous process, material, or equipment with something safer in the hierarchy of controls. In ergonomics, substitution might involve switching to a less physically demanding tool or adopting a new method that reduces strain or repetitive motion.
Surface Decontamination. The process of applying chemical disinfectants to equipment, tools, and work surfaces to kill or neutralize biological hazards, essential in all high-risk industries.
Synthetic Fibers. Man-made fibers like fiberglass used in insulation and construction, which can irritate the skin, eyes, or lungs if inhaled or touched.

T

Task Analysis. The process of breaking down a job or task into its component parts to identify potential ergonomic risks and opportunities for improvement. By analyzing tasks, ergonomists can recommend adjustments to reduce strain, improve safety, and enhance productivity.
Task Modification. Adjusting or altering a job task to reduce ergonomic risks. This can include changes to how a task is performed, the tools used, or the time spent on a specific task, aiming to minimize repetitive motions, awkward postures, or excessive force.
Tendinitis. Inflammation or irritation of a tendon, often resulting from repetitive motions or overuse. Tendinitis is a common workplace injury, particularly in tasks that require forceful exertions, and ergonomic designs focus on reducing strain on affected tendons.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. A condition caused by compression of nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and the first rib, leading to pain and numbness in the neck, shoulder, and arms. Repetitive overhead work or poor posture can contribute to this syndrome, and ergonomic adjustments aim to reduce strain on the affected areas.
Toxicity. The degree to which a chemical or substance can cause harm to health, either through acute or chronic exposure.
Toxic Metals. Metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium that are harmful to health when inhaled or ingested, often found in construction materials or coatings.
Training. The process of providing employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their jobs safely and effectively. Training programs often include instruction on hazard recognition, emergency procedures, and the proper use of PPE.
Trigger Finger. A condition where a finger becomes stuck in a bent position due to inflammation of the tendons, often caused by repetitive gripping or forceful exertion. Ergonomic interventions can help prevent trigger finger by promoting task variation and the use of ergonomically designed tools.
Trigger Thumb. A form of tendinitis where the thumb becomes locked in a bent position due to inflammation of the flexor tendons. It is often associated with repetitive gripping or forceful thumb movements, and ergonomic solutions include task modification and ergonomic tool design.
Tuberculosis (TB). A contagious airborne bacterial disease that poses serious occupational health risks, especially in healthcare and correctional facility settings.

U

Ulnar Nerve Entrapment. A condition where the ulnar nerve is compressed, often at the elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome), leading to pain and numbness in the forearm and hand. Poor ergonomic positioning, such as resting the elbows on hard surfaces for prolonged periods, can increase the risk. Ergonomic solutions include padding and reducing pressure on the elbows.
Ultraviolet Radiation (UV). A form of non-ionizing radiation emitted from the sun and certain tools like welding torches, capable of causing skin burns and eye injuries such as photokeratitis if not properly protected against.
Underground Utilities. Hidden physical hazards including electrical lines, gas pipes, and water mains that pose electrocution, explosion, or flood risks during excavation activities.
Universal Precautions. A safety approach where all human blood and certain body fluids are treated as if they are infectious, a standard in healthcare and first response sectors.

V

Vapor. The gaseous form of a liquid substance, often originating from solvents, paints, or fuels. Vapors can be inhaled and may cause dizziness, nausea, or long-term organ damage.
Ventilation. A control method used to reduce exposure to airborne contaminants by exchanging indoor and outdoor air, often critical in confined spaces or during tasks involving dusts, fumes, or vapors.
Vector-Borne Disease. Illnesses transmitted through insects or animals, such as malaria or Lyme disease, which can affect outdoor workers in construction and oil exploration areas.
Ventilation Controls. Engineering controls that involve proper airflow and filtration to reduce the concentration of airborne biological agents in enclosed workspaces like hospitals, labs, ships, and drilling platforms.
Vibration-Induced White Finger (VWF). A condition caused by prolonged use of vibrating tools, leading to reduced blood flow in the fingers and eventual damage to the blood vessels. This condition, a form of Raynaud's Syndrome, is preventable with ergonomic interventions, such as reducing vibration exposure and using vibration-dampening gloves.
Vibration Syndrome. A disorder caused by extended exposure to hand-arm or whole-body vibration, leading to poor blood circulation, numbness, or nerve damage – also known as HAVS or Raynaud's phenomenon.

W

Wastewater Treatment Exposure. The risk of contact with biological hazards during handling or maintenance of sewage and greywater systems, especially in marine and oil/gas industries.
White Finger Syndrome. A symptom of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), in which fingers turn white and numb due to poor circulation. Often linked to prolonged use of vibrating tools.
Whole-Body Vibration. Exposure to vibration through the entire body, often from operating heavy machinery, which can lead to back pain, circulatory issues, and fatigue.
Workplace Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs). Injuries or conditions affecting the muscles, nerves, tendons, or joints that are caused or aggravated by work conditions, particularly repetitive motion, awkward postures, or overexertion. Ergonomic interventions aim to prevent WMSDs by designing tasks and environments that accommodate the worker's physical capabilities.
Work Practice Controls. Methods and techniques used to reduce ergonomic risks through training and behavior changes, such as teaching workers proper lifting techniques or encouraging frequent breaks to rest muscles. Work practice controls are part of the administrative controls and focus on improving how tasks are performed rather than altering the physical environment.
Workstation Ergonomics. The practice of arranging and designing a workstation (e.g., desk, chair, computer) to fit the user, reducing strain and enhancing productivity.

X

Xenobiotic Organism. A genetically modified or non-native organism introduced into an environment, which may carry unforeseen biological risks in research or bioremediation tasks.
Xylene. A flammable liquid hydrocarbon commonly used as a solvent in the printing, rubber, and leather industries, as well as in laboratories and construction for thinning paints and cleaning equipment. Prolonged exposure can cause health hazards, including respiratory issues and central nervous system effects.

Y

Yellowcake. A type of uranium concentrate powder used in nuclear processing. While rare in construction, awareness of such radiological materials is important for specialized sites and DOE contractors.
Yellow Fever. A vector-borne viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, posing a risk to workers in tropical regions during oil exploration or marine operations.

Z

Zinc Fume Fever. A metal fume fever caused by inhaling zinc oxide fumes produced during welding or cutting galvanized steel. Symptoms include flu-like illness, metallic taste, and fever several hours after exposure.
Zoonotic Disease. Diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, such as leptospirosis or avian flu, relevant in industries involving animal contact or offshore provisioning.