Types of Hazards - IOSH

Welcome to Manish Safety in this blog post we will know about types of hazards as mentioned in IOSH text book, being a safety officer its a very important to know because this is frequently asked question in safety officer interview, so let explore now about hazard types.

There are six types of hazards:  

1. Mechanical Hazards
2. Physical Hazards
3. Chemical Hazards
4. Biological Hazards
5. Environmental Hazards
6. Organizational Hazards

Image or content source: IOSH – Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. Used for educational and informational purposes only

Lets explore all these six types of hazards with example

1. Mechanical Hazards

Any hazards related to equipment, tools or machinery such as: Moving part, unguarded rotating parts etc..

2. Physical Hazards

Physical hazards are the circumstances or hazardous condition which can harm to any person, such as: noise, heat, radiation etc.

3. Chemical Hazards

A substance or material which can pose any harm or damage to living beings, such as: toxic gases, liquids, dust, fumes etc.

4. Biological Hazards

A biological agent or condition which can cause harm to a person or living beings, such as: Bacteria, virous, fungus etc.

5. Environmental Hazards

A substance, material or event which can damage or harm to environment and living beings, such as: bad weather, pollution etc.

6. Organizational hazards

Any act, condition, social environment which cause physiological stress, tension or strain to worker, such as: long working hours, excessive work load, etc.

Conclusion: Understanding the Types of Hazards – IOSH Guide

In conclusion, having a clear understanding of the six types of hazards outlined in the IOSH textbook—mechanical, physical, chemical, biological, environmental, and organizational—is essential for every safety officer and professional in the health and safety field. These hazards not only affect worker safety but also have a direct impact on operational efficiency and legal compliance. Whether you're preparing for a safety officer interview or aiming to strengthen your workplace safety knowledge, recognizing and mitigating these hazards is a key responsibility. Stay informed, stay prepared, and always prioritize safety in every aspect of your work environment.