Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Hazardous chemicals are prevalent in various industries and activities, posing significant risks to the environment. This research aims to explore the sources of hazardous chemicals and their effects on the environment. The study utilizes a comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies, and data analysis to achieve its objectives. The sources of hazardous chemicals are diverse and include industrial processes, agricultural activities, transportation, and consumer products. Industrial activities such as manufacturing, mining, and chemical production are major contributors to hazardous chemical emissions. Agricultural practices involving pesticide and fertilizer use also introduce harmful chemicals into the environment. Transportation of hazardous materials, whether by road, rail, air, or water, presents risks of spills and accidents that can lead to environmental contamination. Additionally, consumer products like cleaning agents, paints, and electronics contain hazardous chemicals that can impact the environment throughout their life cycle. The effects of hazardous chemicals on the environment are far-reaching and can manifest in various ways. Soil contamination from industrial runoff or agricultural chemicals can degrade soil quality and affect plant growth. Water sources may become polluted with hazardous chemicals, posing risks to aquatic life and human health. Air pollution from industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust can lead to respiratory issues and contribute to global environmental problems like climate change. Furthermore, the accumulation of hazardous chemicals in the food chain can result in bioaccumulation and biomagnification, increasing the concentration of toxins in organisms at higher trophic levels. Mitigating the impact of hazardous chemicals on the environment requires a multi-faceted approach involving regulation, technological advancements, public awareness, and sustainable practices. Governments play a crucial role in implementing and enforcing regulations that limit the release of hazardous chemicals into the environment. Technological innovations, such as cleaner production processes and waste treatment technologies, can help reduce the generation and impact of hazardous chemicals. Educating the public about the risks associated with hazardous chemicals can promote responsible consumption and disposal practices. Embracing sustainability principles, such as circular economy models and green chemistry, can minimize the environmental footprint of hazardous chemicals throughout their life cycle. Overall, this research highlights the importance of understanding hazardous chemical sources and their effects on the environment to develop effective strategies for environmental protection and sustainable development.

Thesis Overview

1.0   INTRODUCTION



Chemicals are present in every workplace, from the cleaning chemicals being used to the industrial manufacturing processes, and welding fumes. Generally, a hazardous substance is one which may pose a risk to the health of anyone coming into contract with it in the workplace. The contract maybe in the production, hand line, storage, transport or disposal of the substance.

All chemical pose a risk to the health and safety of persons in the workplace to some extent and for this reason there are some basic requirements in the work health and safety legislation.

Hazardous substances have the potential to harm the health and safety of people at the workplace. Control of hazardous substance is of various ways due to the nature. (Hazardous Health Manuel, University of Uyo, 2000).

Many chemicals have both health and physiochemical hazards. Manufacturers and suppliers of chemicals are required to determine whether or not a substance is hazardous. They do this by referring to the global harmonized system (GHS) of classifying and labelling chemicals. If a chemical or chemical mixture is classified as hazardous it will have relevant hazard statements, precautions and pictograms on the label and safety data sheet (Goldman et al., 1988).

Some years ago the national health and safety commission (more recently known as the Australian safety and compensation commission – ASCC) estimated that about 2,300 workers die each year as a result of exposure to hazardous substances. Hazardous substances are found in almost all work places.

Hazardous substances should be eliminated from the workplace if possible. This will eliminate the risk. If it is not possible, then the preferred order of hazardous control must be followed, as prescribed in the various parts of chapter 4 (hazardous substances and materials) of the 2007 OHS regulation, and described in the plan.

Knowledge of the physical properties of a chemical can give an indication of the nature or extent of potential health effects given certain environmental conditions, and enables decisions to be made in respect of correct use and storage producers.