Health and Safety Glossary

Get to know some of the most common terms of the industry with our ABCs of health and safety. Click a letter in the bar below to jump to that section.

Index

ASTM Standards Meaning & Definition

ASTM International designs and publishes standards for a variety of different industries, with the overarching aim of improving performance and safety.

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Asbestos-Containing Materials Meaning & Definition US

Asbestos-containing materials have been historically used in buildings and construction work throughout the best part of the 20th century. Find out more.

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Acute Exposure Meaning & Definition

Acute exposure refers to excessive contact with a substance. Depending on a person’s own weight & health, exposure to different dosages can be harmful.

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Accident Prevention Meaning & Definition

Accident prevention is a term that focuses on the activities, plans, and steps taken by an organization to reduce the risk of accidents. Learn more.

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Business Continuity Management Meaning & Definition US

Business continuity management is the process of developing a plan so your business can continue to operate in the event of a disruption.

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Biological Hazards US

Biological hazards refer to any organism or substance that poses a threat to human health. Typically, they come from living organisms or their activities.

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Behavioral Safety Meaning & Definition US

Behavioral safety is ‘the proactive identification and control of human factors that could lead to unsafe acts or conditions.’ Learn more.

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Corrosive Meaning & Definition

“Corrosive” refers to materials which can destroy other materials they come into contact with. Most corrosives are bases, oxidizers, or acids. Learn more.

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Construction Skills Certification Scheme Definition US

The CSCS is a British company that offers training and qualification verification schemes that are used throughout the construction industry in Britain

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Construction Phase Plan (CPP) Meaning & Definition

All construction projects require a Construction Phase Plan (CPP) before work begins. It’s a vital document for managing the project safely. Learn more.

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Confined Space Meaning & Definition

A confined space is any space that offers limited entry and exit points, and is generally not designed to accommodate humans. Learn more.

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Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) Meaning & Definition

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are generally a mixture of chemicals that are commonly used as a refrigerant. Learn more.

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Chemical Identity Meaning & Definition

Chemical identity is the concept that each chemical or substance has a distinct property that separates it from other chemicals. Learn more.

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Chemical Exposure US

Chemical exposure occurs when a worker comes into contact with any substance that can cause harm to their health. These may include liquids, gases, solids.

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CE marking Meaning & Definition

The CE marking, also known as the Conformitè Europëenne Mark (which translates to European Conformity) is a mandatory conformity marking in the EU

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CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) US

The CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) is an international not-for-profit charity that runs the worlds largest environmental disclosure system. Read more.

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Dynamic Risk Assessment Meaning & Definition US

Dynamic risk assessment (DRA) is a process for assessing risks that takes into account the constantly changing nature of the world around us. Learn more.

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DOT Hazard Classification Meaning & Definition

The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) has specified clear rules for shipping hazardous goods and materials. Learn more.

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ESG Meaning & Definition US

Environmental social governance, or ESG, measures the sustainability and ethical impact of businesses and organisations. Learn more.

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Ergonomics Meaning & Definition

Ergonomics is a holistic term that refers to the process of arranging a workplace in a way that makes it easy for people to use it. Learn more.

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Ergonomic Hazards Meaning & Definition

An ergonomic hazard refers to any physical condition or factor found in the workplace that can cause injury or health concerns. Learn more.

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Environmental Impact Assessment US

Environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a vital process used to determine the possible environmental effects of a proposed project. Learn more.

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Emergency Response Plan US

Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere, and to anyone. Learn more.

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Emergency Evacuation US

Natural disasters, fires, chemical spills, and even terrorist attacks can cause situations where an immediate evacuation becomes necessary.

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Electrical Safety US

Electrical safety is crucial to ensure a secure and healthy working environment for employees who work with electronic equipment. Learn more.

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EHSQ Meaning & Definition US

EHSQ systems help businesses identify risks and take steps to mitigate them before they cause harm. Learn more.

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Ecological Footprint Meaning & Definition

The ecological footprint is a method that determines how dependent humans are on natural resources. Learn more.

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Flammability Meaning & Definition

Flammability is a measure of how quickly a specific material is capable of catching fire and burning. Learn more.

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First Aid Meaning & Definition US

First aid is the term for the immediate medical care provided to someone after an injury occurs, usually at the same location where the event happens.

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Fire Safety Plan

A fire safety plan is a document that outlines all aspects of fire prevention procedures, evacuation procedures, and policies for responding to fires.

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Fire Risk Assessment Meaning & Definition US

A fire risk assessment is the evaluation of a workplace to identify fire hazards, assess the likelihood of a fire occurring, and analyze the consequences

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Fall Protection US

Accidents related to fall protection are one of the most common causes of non-fatal workplace accidents. Learn more.

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Fall Arrest System US

A fall arrest system is a safety system that consists of different components designed to protect workers from falls. Learn more.

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Failure Mode & Effects Analysis (FMEA) Definition US

Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) is a method that involves evaluating various systems and various components to identify how a failure might occur.

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Hydrofluoric Acid Meaning & Definition US

Hydrofluoric acid is different from other acids because of the fluoride ion, which easily penetrates the skin and starts damaging body tissue.

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HSEQ Meaning & Definition US

HSEQ is a system that outlines the best practices for organizations to ensure a safe, healthy, and environmentally friendly working environment

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Hot Work Permit US

A hot work permit is a document that authorizes hot work in a controlled manner. The permit provides a process that identifies and controls the hazards.

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Heat Exhaustion Meaning & Definition

Heat exhaustion is a serious condition or illness that often manifests after an individual is exposed to extremely high temperatures. Learn more.

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Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Meaning

Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) is an approach designed to manage and control various workplace hazards, environmental risks, and employee well-being

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Health Hazard Meaning & Definition

In occupational health and safety, a health hazard refers to any substance that might prove to be dangerous if exposed to individuals. Learn more.

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Health and Safety Audit Meaning & Definition

A health and safety audit is an assessment of a company’s systems, procedures, and policies related to employee health and safety to ensure compliance.

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HAZWOPER Meaning & Definition US

The Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response, also known as HAZPOWER, is a comprehensive series of guidelines that are maintained by OSHA.

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Hazardous Waste Meaning & Definition

Hazardous waste is defined as waste that is hazardous to human health, mainly because it contains toxic chemicals or substances. Learn more.

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Hazardous Waste Management US

Hazardous waste management is an essential but often overlooked aspect of environmental health and safety. Learn more.

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Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials are substances, materials, and products that can pose a risk to human health, safety, and the environment. Learn more.

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Hazardous Event Meaning & Definition US

A hazardous event is described as any situation that leads to the creation of a hazard or exacerbates the impact of existing hazards. Learn more.

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Hazard Meaning & Definition

A hazard is defined as anything that can be a potential source of harm, or could have an adverse health effect on those who come into contact with it.

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Hazard Communication US

Hazard communication is the process of identifying and communicating potential hazards and risks associated with hazardous materials in the workplace.

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Inhalation Meaning & Definition

Inhalation is the process by which gases or air enter your lungs. Inhalation is a vital process in breathing that is critical for sustaining life.

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Incident Investigation Meaning & Definition

An incident is a situation or an occurrence during the course of work that could result in an injury, illness, affliction, or prove to be fatal. Learn more

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Job Hazard Analysis US

As an EHS team member, your primary responsibility is to ensure a safe and healthy workplace for everyone. Learn more.

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Lost Time Injury Meaning & Definition US

Lost time injuries are a vital benchmark for any organization concerned with the health and safety of its employees. Learn more.

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Liquefied Gas Meaning & Definition

Liquefied gasses are gases that are in a liquid state at normal room temperature and stored in cylinders under pressure. Learn more.

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Mutagen Meaning & Definition US

A mutagen is defined as any chemical or physical agent that has the ability to permanently alter a victim’s DNA. Learn more.

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Musculoskeletal Disorders Meaning & Definition US

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a set of conditions that cause pain, mainly in the musculoskeletal system, like nerves, tendons, and muscles.

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Material Safety Data Sheet Meaning & Definition

The material safety data sheet provides handlers and employees with relevant information about the materials and what they can be exposed to. Learn more.

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Manual Handling US

Manual handling is a crucial aspect of many jobs, particularly in industrial workplaces, warehouses, construction sites, and various healthcare facilities

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Management of Change Meaning & Definition US

Change is expected in virtually every business, irrespective of its size. Management of change (MOC) is a method designed to deal with any change.

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Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) Meaning US

Maintenance, repair, and operations, includes all the activities performed by the facility to ensure that all equipment remains in good condition.

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Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Meaning & Definition

A person’s ability to hear is one of 5 major senses. Hearing loss therefore, even minimal, can have a major impact on a person’s quality of life.

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Near Miss Meaning & Definition

A near miss is defined by the HSE as any event that doesn’t lead to harm but does have the potential to cause illness or injury. Learn more.

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Occupational Illness Meaning & Definition

An occupational illness is defined as a chronic illness or disease that is caused primarily due to exposure to a workplace hazard. Learn more.

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Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)

Occupational health and safety (OHS) is an area of public medicine that focuses on the safety, health, and welfare of employees at work.

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Occupational Health (OH) Meaning & Definition

Occupational health (OH) primarily focuses on maintaining the physical, mental, and the social health of employees in different occupations. Learn more.

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Occupational Exposure Limit US

Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) are guidelines developed by regulatory bodies to promote worker safety. Learn more.

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Process Safety Management US

Process safety management is a vital element of employee and environmental protection in industrial processes. Learn more.

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Preventive Maintenance Meaning & Definition

Preventive maintenance (PM) is the routine maintenance of different assets, equipment and machinery to ensure smooth operations and reduce failures.

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Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Meaning & Definition

Portable appliance testing (PAT) is a common term that refers to the inspection and examination of electrical machinery and equipment. Learn more.

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Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB) Meaning & Definition

Polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs for short, are a category of synthetic organic chemicals that contain hydrogen, chlorine, and carbon atoms. Learn more.

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Plan, Do, Check Act (PDCA) US

The Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) cycle is a fundamental framework widely used in the realm of EHS management. Learn more.

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Personal Protective Equipment Meaning & Definition

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a term that defines any piece of clothing or equipment that’s worn by employees to minimize exposure to hazards.

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Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP)

A personal emergency evacuation plan (PEEP) is a dedicated plan for an individual who may require assistance or support to evacuate from a premises.

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Permit to Work Meaning & Definition

Permit to Work systems are commonly used in the Health and Safety industry and are designed to mitigate the risks of safety in high-risk tasks. Learn more.

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Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE) US

Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE) management is a critical aspect of any successful organization. Learn more.

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Quality Management System (QMS) US

The foundation of any successful and thriving business lies in an organization’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality products and services.

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Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) Meaning & Definition US

Risk-based inspection is a business process that’s used to examine equipment, ranging from pressure vessels to pipes used in industrial plants.

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Risk Meaning & Definition

Risk is defined as the possibility of a hazard actually causing harm. Companies use various techniques to identify risks and eliminate them.

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Risk Management Meaning & Definition US

In terms of Health & Safety, risk management refers to identifying workplace hazards and outlining the steps to be taken to eliminate them.

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Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS) US

A Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS) is a comprehensive document that details the procedures and precautions that should be taken to minimize risks.

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Risk Assessment Matrix US

A risk assessment matrix is essentially a table that contains different levels of severity and likelihood of potential hazards. Learn more.

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RIDDOR Meaning & Definition

RIDDOR, or the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013, is health and safety law in the UK. Learn more.

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Repetitive Strain Injuries US

Repetitive strain injuries (RSI), are injuries that occur due to the gradual decline of muscle tissue etc. caused by repeated strain. Learn more.

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REACH Meaning & Definition US

REACH, which is an acronym for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals, is a regulation of the EU from 2007. Learn more.

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Supply Chain Meaning & Definition US

Find out all about supply chain monitoring and why they are crucial to your sustainability performance and achieving your goals. Read more.

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Stress Risk Assessment Meaning & Definition US

A stress risk assessment is a detailed evaluation of different sources of stress in the workplace. Learn more.

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Solvent Meaning & Definition

A solvent is any substance, usually liquid, which is capable of dissolving one or several substances, thus creating a solution. Learn more.

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Severity Meaning & Definition

Severity is the degree of hardness of a specific thing. Severity indicates just how serious or harsh the effects of an incident can be. Learn more.

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Scope 1 Scope 2 & Scope 3 Emissions US

Find out all about scope 1, scope 2, and scope 3 emissions and why they are crucial to GHG accounting and achieving your climate targets. Learn more.

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Scissor Lift Meaning & Definition US

A scissor lift is a piece of equipment often found on construction sites: An aerial platform with a lifting mechanism attached to it. Learn more.

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Safety PLC Meaning & Definition US

Safety PLC, also known as a safety programmable logic controller, is used to control machinery & equipment, and automate industrial processes. Learn more.

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Safety Mitigation Meaning & Definition

Mitigating safety risks in the workplace is the employer’s responsibility. It’s important to take proper actions to mitigate safety risks.

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Safety Management System Meaning & Definition

A safety management system (SMS) is the framework approach taken by an organization to mitigate and control safety risk in the workplace. Learn more.

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Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) Meaning & Definition

A safety instrumented system (SIS) contains control elements, sensors, and logic solvers to monitor parameters and values of processes within a plant.

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Safety Equipment

At its most basic level, safety equipment is any device or tool that is designed to protect workers from injury or illness. Learn more.

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Safety Compliance Meaning & Definition

Safety compliance is defined as an ongoing process of complying with the health & safety standards established by regulatory legislators and bodies.

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Safety Audit Meaning & Definition US

A safety audit is a process through which businesses collect information about the company’s overall safety culture and protocols. Learn more.

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Safety Analysis Risk Assessment (SARA) Definition

Safety Analysis Risk Assessment (SARA) is a powerful tool for reducing risk in the workplace. Learn more.

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Safe Systems of Work (SSOW) US

Safe systems of work are designed to protect employees from risks and hazards associated with their job responsibilities.

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Toxin Meaning & Definition

A toxin is defined as a naturally occurring organic poison that’s produced due to the metabolic activities of an organism or living cells.

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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a regulatory agency of the United States Department of Labor. Learn more.

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The Construction Regulations 2015 Meaning & Definition

The Construction Regulations 2015 focus on the management of health, safety and the general welfare of individuals who work on construction projects.

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The Bradley Curve Meaning & Definition

The Bradley Curve, also known as the DuPont Bradley model, is a powerful tool that can be used to visualize and assess workplace safety performance.

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Workplace Stress Meaning & Definition US

Workplace stress can be defined as the mental and emotional response of the body when employees are under significant pressure due to workplace conditions.

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