Occupational Health, Environment, and Waste Management
What the exam tests
Occupational health, environment, and waste questions test chemical safety, ergonomics, ventilation, effluent handling, and responsible disposal in a block-printing workshop.
Core rules
- Dyes and mordants can be hazardous as powders and pastes; use gloves, masks, eye protection, and aprons, and avoid eating or smoking in the work area.
- Mix powders in a ventilated area or glove box; prevent dust inhalation.
- Ventilation and local exhaust reduce solvent, steam, and dust exposure; good lighting reduces eye strain.
- Ergonomics: table height, anti-fatigue mats, lifting aids, and rotation reduce back and shoulder strain from repeated block strikes.
- Effluent from washing contains dyes, thickeners, salts, and alkalis; do not discharge untreated to drains or fields.
- Segregate waste: dye containers, used paste, sludge, and fabric offcuts; follow local rules.
- Water conservation: batch washing, reuse rinse water, and treatment before discharge.
- Banned or restricted dyes, such as certain azo colourants, must not be used; natural does not automatically mean safe.
Worked example
A worker mixes reactive dye powder without a mask and develops respiratory irritation. Reasoning: the hazard is inhalation of fine powder, not skin contact alone. The control is local exhaust or a well-ventilated mixing area, a suitable mask, and careful decanting; PPE alone is the last line, not the only control.
Traps
Do not assume natural dyes are harmless. Do not pour dye liquor onto soil. Do not treat gloves as a substitute for ventilation.