Social issues in the design and manufacture of products

Aspect	Details
Common Hazards	Sharp tools and machinery Dust, fumes, and noise Tripping hazards from cables or clutter Electric shock risk from damaged equipment
Safety Measures	Use of PPE (e.g. goggles, gloves, ear defenders) Training on correct tool and machine use Machine guards and emergency stop buttons Good lighting and ventilation
Workplace Practices	Regular equipment checks and maintenance Clear walkways and tidy workstations Proper tool and material storage Signage for hazards and safety zones
Legal Requirements	Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) Employers must ensure a safe environment Employees must follow safety rules and report risks

Pollution Type	Causes and Effects
Oceanic Pollution	Agricultural runoff: Pesticides and fertilisers washed into rivers and seas Toxic chemicals: Mercury and lead entering food chains and water supplies Plastic waste: Non-degradable plastics accumulating in ocean gyres Oil spills: From extraction and tanker accidents Oil and sewage: Contaminating ecosystems and marine life Microbeads: Banned in cosmetics but persist in oceans (size <1mm)
Atmospheric Pollution	Acid rain: NOx and SO₂ combining to damage lakes and soil Carbon monoxide: Contributing to greenhouse gases Carbon dioxide: Vehicle emissions lowering air quality Particulates: Causing global dimming by restricting sunlight

Health Impacts:

• Lower air quality affects vulnerable groups (young, elderly, asthma sufferers)
• Increased healthcare costs and mortality rates
• At-risk groups advised to stay indoors during poor air quality days

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