Origami to Improve COSHH Awareness
The Japanese paper folding art of origami could succeed where penalties and reprimands have failed in making employees aware of safe handling practices in businesses where hazardous chemicals are used. Origami was earlier used by scientists at
A HSE survey in 2008 revealed that exposure to and incorrect handling of dangerous chemicals lead to a huge number of workplace accidents. In a bid to reduce such accidents, PhD research scientist Laura Newton has come up with a surprising application of the ancient paper folding art of origami in improving awareness about the guidelines in the ‘Control of Substances Hazardous to Health’ (COSHH).
The rules and regulations of COSHH when followed can help control the incidence of accidents related to chemicals. Research indicates that lack of awareness and disregard for the provisions contained herein are major impediments to any progress in this area. Dr Newton has stated that with her specially designed origami kits, employees who are required to handle such chemicals can be taught the importance of safe handling and the risks they face if they do not follow proper procedures.
Tests that were conducted with these kits required participants to form origami cubes from six units. When put together correctly to form a cube, each side of the shape displays a hazard warning. Initial trials with these kits have been successful. Findings of the trials have been published in the Journal of Chemical Health and Safety.
Companies need to be sure that they are giving the correct instructions to employees with regard to health and safety issues; accredited courses by he Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) operated by Workplace Law, can assist companies in training staff to be aware of the proper health and safety procedures for all kinds of workplace situations.
