| This study documented potential occupational hazards found in the workplace of the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Unit and Marine Safety Unit in Galveston, Texas. Hazards were categorized into the following physical health effects: (a) hearing loss, (b) ergonomic hazards, and (c) chemical hazards. Other workplace factors were evaluated to determine potential occupational exposure effects, including ventilation, sound protection, lighting, safety issues, and health problems. This study also assessed whether crew members used proper personal protective equipment such as hearing protection, gloves, boots, shoes, overalls, and cap or hairnet to prevent occupational health hazards.;Data collection methods for this study included on-site observation and a gap analysis. A gap analysis was used to help identify potential hazards. A representative sample of 10 Air Station Unit crew members and 10 Marine Safety Unit crew members was interviewed. Study results will aid in recognition of and reduction in unwanted occupational hazardous exposures. The study identified potential workplace hazards such as waste material, spills, pollutants, and high decibel noise that crew members may be exposed to at work. In addition, the study characterized waste material and hazardous noise exposure into the following categories: (a) inhalation, (b) dermal, and (c) ingestion. These findings may assist staff to take appropriate and timely steps to reduce and control unwanted exposures. |
