OSH Answers Fact Sheets

Is it important to wash your hands? Simply put, yes. Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. You can spread certain "germs" (a general term for pathogens like viruses and bacteria) casually by touching another person. You can also catch germs when you touch contaminated objects or surfaces and then you touch your face (mouth, eyes, and nose). "Good" hand washing techniques includes using an adequate amount of soap, rubbing the...

What are opioids? Opioids are drugs that were developed to control pain. Opioids include: codeine fentanyl morphine oxycodone hydromorphone medical heroin Are opioids a concern? Health Canada states that opioids have the potential for problematic use because they can produce euphoria (feeling high). Problematic opioid use can occur when someone takes a drug that is not prescribed to them, takes too much or takes the drug at the wrong times, or takes an illegally produced...

What is a working at heights rescue plan? A working at heights rescue plan refers to written emergency response procedures for quickly retrieving and providing help to a worker who has fallen while working at heights. A rescue may be needed when a worker falls or needs rescue for other reasons (including medical emergencies or mechanical failures) and is located at an elevated position, such as being suspended by a fall arrest harness. Recuse may also be required while the...

What is a carcinogen? A carcinogen is a substance, mixture or agent that can cause cancer or increases the risk of developing cancer. Known carcinogens include viruses (e.g., Hepatitis B, Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpes virus, etc.), hormones (e.g., estrogens), chemicals (e.g., benzene, alcohol), naturally occurring minerals (e.g., asbestos),  bacteria (e.g., Helicobacter pylori), ionizing radiation (e.g., X-rays) and solar radiation (e.g., ultraviolet radiation).  Carcinogens may...