It is important to understand that there are a variety of hazards in most workplaces that can affect the health and safety of you and your co-workers. Equally important is to learn what hazardous agents and work processes are used in your workplace. Hazardous agents can get into your body by various routes of entry, and can cause local, systemic, acute and chronic health effects. You and your union can take a variety of actions toward eliminating and controlling hazards and creating a safe and healthy workplace.