Environmental Risks
There are certain things in the environment that can affect your health. This could include the effects of chemicals, on-the-job hazards, and food handling.
How can I safely work with chemicals?
You may be working with chemicals in your job or in your home.
To lower your risk when working with chemicals:
- follow the directions on the label
- follow all safety guidelines
- wear the right safety or protective clothing (gloves, mask, and goggles)
- use the right equipment
- wash your hands before and after contact with chemicals
- change your clothing and shower after working with chemicals
If you are exposed to chemicals in your workplace, there are some ways to reduce your risk. Follow all the safety guidelines and procedures recommended in your workplace.
All employers must, by law, provide workers with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) for the chemicals they work with. These have information about the possible health risks and how to work safely with the chemical.
Talk with your employer, your occupational health and safety officer or human resource representative to find out more about the chemicals in your workplace. You can also ask for a transfer to another work environment.
Learn more about occupational hazards.
