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Tool SafetyAugust 30, 2010:Tools are used every day in every industry. They make small tasks easier and large tasks possible, but they’re often taken for granted. Whether they’re simple hand tools or more complex power tools, all tools can pose a hazard in the workplace. Most of the time, hand and power tools can be used with no problems, but serious injuries can occur when tools are not properly maintained or they are not used correctly. Take steps now to identify and correct potential tool-related hazards in your workplace. First, you may want to communicate to your employees the five basic safety rules for working around tools. These are:
Source: J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc. NIOSH Fast Facts to Being Safe While Working OutdoorsAugust 23, 2010:New NIOSH Fact Sheets that offer information on protecting workers from outdoor safety and health risks are now available in both English and Spanish. Topics include Heat Stress(en espanol), Cold Stress (en espanol), Sun Exposure (en espanol), Stinging Insects (en espanol), Poisonous Plants (en espanol), and Ticks and Mosquitoes (en espanol). Voluntary use of dust masks — Are you in compliance?August 16, 2010:“If my employees are using dust masks voluntarily, how can I not be in compliance?” That is a very good question. According to OSHA, even if employees are voluntarily using dust masks, you could be cited. OSHA refers to disposable paper respirators (or dust masks) as “filtering facepieces.” This type of respirator is defined in OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard as a “negative pressure particulate respirator with a filter that is an integral part of the facepiece or with the entire facepiece composed of the filter medium.” When atmospheric hazards do not warrant the use of a dust mask type respirator but one of your employees wants to wear it anyway, you have certain responsibilities as an employer, according to OSHA. Written program When employees use dust masks on a voluntary basis, you are obligated to determine that the respirator use will not itself create a hazard; that is, to ensure that the dust masks are not dirty or contaminated, and that their use does not interfere with the employee’s ability to work safely. Prior to use, you must provide a copy of the respiratory protection standard’s Appendix D to each voluntary wearer. This appendix provides basic information on the proper use of respirators for employees who are voluntary users of the equipment, and thus are not required to undergo formal training. Appendix D is a mandatory appendix, but you have the option to develop material that is equivalent in content to this appendix. The information may be transmitted either in written form or verbally. When filtering facepiece respirators are necessary because of atmospheric hazards, however, you must establish and implement a written respiratory protection program with procedures that are specific to the work site, including employee medical evaluations. Medical evaluation Employees who use filtering facepiece respirators on a voluntary basis are not required to have medical evaluations. When atmospheric hazards warrant the use of a filtering facepiece respirator, the full respiratory protection standard applies, including the medical evaluation requirements. Fit test Respirators worn when not required by OSHA or the employer do not require a fit test. Voluntary users are not prohibited from wearing a beard, even though good industrial hygiene practice recommends that facial hair that interferes with the face–to–facepiece seal should be avoided. Cost You are not required to incur any costs associated with voluntary dust mask users, other than providing each of them with the information in Appendix D. If you allow the voluntary use of respirators other than filtering facepieces, then costs associated with ensuring the respirator itself does not create a hazard, such as medical evaluations and maintenance, must be provided at no cost to the employee. Conclusion Even when workplace hazards don’t warrant respiratory protection, employees who decide to wear filtering facepieces (dust masks) voluntarily need to understand how to use and care for them properly. Prevention of Traumatic Injury FatalitiesAugust 9, 2010:Most, if not all, occupational fatalities are preventable through hazard recognition and control, effective employee training, and appropriate selection and use of personal protection equipment (PPE). Some general guidance for prevention of traumatic injuries is given below. Guidance for specific hazards and training materials in both English and Spanish can be obtained free of charge at cdc.gov/niosh. Many OSHA and NIOSH documents list recommended practices to reduce injury risks from specific landscape services hazards. General Guidance
Construction EquipmentAugust 2, 2010:Today’s construction equipment is powerful and complex. Safe equipment operation requires complete control. The following are some general precautions that apply to most construction equipment.
Driving Safety Isn’t OptionalJuly 26, 2010:By early 2011, nine states will have laws on their books banning the use of hand-held cell phones while driving. Twenty-seven states have primary enforcement texting bans in place or will begin primary enforcement this year. The value of safe driving programs for U.S. employers is rising just as fast as the cost of potential traffic violations climbs. While red-light cameras have been a gold mine for many jurisdictions, the money to be made from cell phone violations is exponentially higher. As of July 2010, 27 states have primary enforcement texting bans in place or will start primary enforcement later this year. It is illegal to talk on a hand-held cell phone while driving in California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Utah, Washington state, and the District of Columbia. Maryland will join that on crowd October 1, and Delaware will be added in January 2011, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety/Highway Loss Data Institute chart of cell phone laws. Occupational Health & Safety will present a one-hour free webinar about fleet safety on July 28. The presenter is Jack Hanley, executive director of the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety, and the live event will begin at 2 p.m. EDT. Visit this page to register today. Summer HeatJuly 19, 2010:What are the signs and symptoms of dehydration?
Falls From Heights Are KillersJuly 12, 2010:There are two types of fall protection equipment: fall restraint and fall arrest. Fall restraint gear, such as full-body harnesses and guardrails, are used to prevent a fall. Fall arrest gear, such as harnesses connected to secure anchors via lanyards or lifelines, protect you after you have fallen. Whenever you are at risk of falling, you should use a full-body harness fall arrest system. Supervisors should know which type of fall protection equipment suits the situation and should be sure to issue the correct equipment to their workers. A full-body harness has straps that pass over the shoulders, around the legs, and across the chest. At the back is a D-ring used to hook the harness to a lanyard. When a worker’s fall is stopped by the harness, the shock is distributed throughout the upper body, reducing the possibility of serious injury. Lanyards are ropes made of woven synthetic webbing or wire with hooks at each end. The anchor is the key point to the fall arrest system. It must be able to withstand great force if it is going to save your life. Fall arrest equipment for many workers also includes the use of lifelines. These can be vertical, horizontal, or retractable lines used to guide the fall arrest device. You need training to choose, use, and maintain your gear. According to a fall protection study, about one-third of workers who are wearing harnesses do not have the leg straps attached. Also, half of the people who die from falls have their harnesses on but not attached to anchor points! You can be at the height of your game, but, without fall protection, you are risking a lot. Entering and Leaving Work AreasJuly 5, 2010:When you are entering or leaving the work area, you are required to stop and wait until the traffic is clear, and it is safe to enter the roadway. Be patient and allow the vehicles to clear, and do not put yourself in a situation where you could get hit if your vehicle failed to perform as you anticipated. Rely on safety instead of the performance of the vehicle. Entering and leaving the work area can mean many things, depending on the job and situation:
Eye SafetyJune 28, 2010:Safety glasses protect your eyes — if you wear them. They offer no protection in your back pocket, in your truck, or at the house. People who wear glasses quickly become used to them. Unfortunately, people who do not wear glasses have never developed these habits. When it comes to eye protection, people too often forget, and safety glasses and goggles grow dusty lying unused. The most common complaint about eye protection is that it is uncomfortable. That is why such equipment must be carefully fitted. Frames must be light, straight, and properly adjusted. The lens size should be correct for the wearer, as should the fit of the bridge of the nose and at the temple. When your goggles or glasses are dirty, dusty, or grimy, they can interfere with your vision, so take time to clean them. Do not touch the lenses with your fingers. Never lay down goggles or glasses where the lenses could touch something that could scratch or pit them. Store eye protection so the lenses will be protected. During hot weather, use a sweatband to help keep perspiration off your goggles. Lens “fog” problems can be eliminated by using anti-fog preparation. Some people complain that goggles give them a headache. Here again, proper fit is important. The head strap on cup goggles should be adjusted for just enough tension to hold them securely and should be worn low on the back of the head. Eye protection is important off as well as on the job. Here are some tips to use at work and at home:
Checklist for Working Safely Around ElectricityJune 21, 2010:Each year, workers in our industry die on the job because of contact with electrical current. Most of these incidents are preventable by teaching and enforcing safe work practices.
Don’t know the answer to a worker’s safety concern? Respond anyway!June 14, 2010:No one has all the answers. There will be times when you don’t have an immediate answer to a concern a worker brings to your attention, but it’s important that you still respond. Tell them you’ll look into the situation and get back with them, give them a specific timeframe, and hold to it. If workers perceive the safety leader as being unresponsive, they may stop reporting their concerns and problems could fester and develop into more complicated situations. All concerns deserve a response, even the ones you perceive to be minor. If you don’t have an immediate solution, use the resources within your organization to address the problem or contact PLANET. By following up on concerns, you build credibility with your team members. Hazard Communication Standard Compliance ChecklistJune 7, 2010:
Checklist for Employers on Reducing Injuries and DeathsMay 31, 2010:
Defensive Driving — Avoid Backing UpMay 24, 2010:Many fender-benders occur when drivers back up. Since the risk is higher for collisions while backing up, make sure you visually clear the area behind the vehicle first. Every year, children are run over in their own driveways because drivers didn’t look behind their vehicles first. For this reason, many companies require their drivers to place an orange traffic cone behind their vehicles when they park, forcing them to look behind the vehicles as they pick up the cone prior to driving away. Once you’ve cleared the area behind you, turn and look to the rear while you back up. In trucks, you may not be able to see directly to the rear, except in the side view mirrors. It’s always a good idea to have a “spotter” — a second person standing behind your vehicle where you can see him or her — in these circumstances, giving you information about how you’re doing. Keep your speed very low — down to a crawl. There are more ways to protect against parking lot mishaps. If you can, pick a parking spot you can pull straight into and on to the next row so that when you leave, you are pulling forward out of your spot instead of backing up. In lots where this isn’t possible, try backing into the spot instead of backing out when you leave. Many people think it’s illegal to back up on a roadway — this is not always the case. In some states, you can back onto a roadway as long as you do so safely — but that’s the real issue, isn’t it? It’s not easy to be safe when trying to back up on a roadway you’re sharing with vehicles and pedestrians. One situation where you should never back up is when you overrun the line at a stop sign or red light. If you find yourself straddling the crosswalk, it’s usually better to stay where you are, rather than backing up to the proper place. Backing up through a crosswalk can be much more dangerous for obvious reasons. Defensive Driving — Know Your Blind SpotsMay 17, 2010:Avoid driving in other drivers’ blind spots— that area of the road that cannot be seen while looking forward or through either the rear-view or side mirrors! Virtually all vehicles have them — even motorcycles (motorcyclists are sometimes limited in how far they can twist their head to look behind them). Yet, some drivers habitually change lanes without checking their blind areas for other vehicles. It’s a good idea to adjust your position relative to other traffic to stay out of other drivers’ blind spots whenever you can. Where are your blind spots? That depends on the vehicle. A car typically has blind areas at the sides near the rear of the vehicle, meaning you cannot see anything in these areas by looking in your rear-view or side mirrors. Other vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, may be blind to anything that is directly behind them. Vehicles in which the driver sits very high may have forward-quarter blind spots — they may not be able to see anything low to the ground directly in front of them or to the sides near the front. It is important to check your mirrors every 5–8 seconds while driving, but at the same time, it’s not enough just to check the mirrors. If you’re an experienced driver, you already know the blind areas on most vehicles are large enough to hide other vehicles from your view. Mirrors also will not reveal a vehicle that is changing lanes from two lanes away. For example, you’re driving in the right-hand lane of a multilane roadway and signal to change lanes to the left. Another vehicle in the third lane changes lanes to the right. Both of you may be trying to occupy the same place in the second lane. It is also possible that a lane that was clear of other traffic just a second ago may quickly become occupied — traffic is often fast-moving and fluid, and empty spaces tend to fill up. It is very important to turn your head and look before making a lane change. Tractor-trailer rigs have their own particular blind spots. These trucks are “articulate,” that is, they bend in the middle. It is possible to “hide” completely behind the trailer of a large truck. Some drivers do this in order to “draft,” using the suction created behind the semi to save on gas. It is not a good idea to drive so close to the rear of a vehicle you can’t see around or when the driver may not even know you are there. When driving near large trucks, try to make sure you are visible to the driver. If you can see his face in his side-view mirrors, then he can see you also. Finally, remember that even parked vehicles have blind areas. Kids often play around cars. Before you start up and back out, take a quick turn around the vehicle to make sure nothing, living or inanimate, is under or behind your wheels. Avoid DistractionsMay 10, 2010:When we assume our driving “duties,” one of the most important is being responsible for our actions and the results of those actions. In almost every case, a driver involved in a collision had the opportunity to avoid the collision — even when the other driver was responsible for the errors that led to the collision. Officers will tell you that a very common “excuse” heard after a collision is “I never saw him!” Why? Quite often, it’s because neither driver was paying attention to his surroundings and situation — and many times, that inattention was because the drivers were distracted. To be a safe and responsible driver, it’s important to recognize this and make constant efforts to avoid getting distracted. Some of the most common driving distractions are eating, drinking, using cell phones, texting, adjusting the radio or changing CDs, dealing with kids, or even just conversing with passengers. Some drivers focus on single tasks (looking for an address, for example) and neglect all others. One of the most important skills for a driver is the ability to multitask. Think about how much distance your vehicle will cover during the time you’re distracted. At +/-1.47 feet-per-second for each mile-per-hour you’re driving, you can easily see how important it is to keep your mind and eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel! At 60 miles per hour, for every second that elapses, you cover almost 90 feet (60 x 1/47 = 88.2). You can help make the road much safer for everyone if you make driving Job No. 1 and let someone else change the CD! Compressed Air is DangerousMay 3, 2010:Compressed Air is Dangerous You are struggling to loosen over-tightened lug nuts while fixing a flat tire on a hot, dusty highway. At this moment, you would give anything to hear the high-pitched zing of an air wrench doing the job in seconds at the local tire shop; however, like practically anything else, compressed air can be misused, with painful and sometimes fatal results. Examples Compressed air has resulted in fatal injuries when it has been used to blow dust from clothing. Startling coworkers with compressed air in horseplay incidents has proved fatal. Death can easily occur when compressed air enters the bloodstream through broken skin or a body opening, causing an air bubble to block a blood vessel. Workers have also been killed by excessive air pressure that causes pressurized containers to burst. To prevent incidents such as those mentioned here, it is important to check that air lines and equipment are connected properly and are fully operational before starting to use them. Any leaks in air lines or joints should be repaired without delay and all hoses, nozzles, and associated equipment must be kept in good operating condition. Also, ensure the proper hose and connection separation devices are in place when using compressed air systems, for example hose connection pins, safety “whip checks,” and lanyards. No one should be using compressed air and air tools unless they have received appropriate training. Here are four safety tips to remember about compressed air:
Everyone Is a Safety InspectorApril 26, 2010:Safety inspection should be part of your job — no matter what your job is! Regular inspections are an effective way to monitor conditions to ensure company standards and regulatory requirements are being followed. Unless your workplace is perfect, the result of an inspection will be an inventory of problems, potential problems, and corrective measures. All of these should be carefully documented. The inspection program should include managers, supervisors, safety committee members, employees, contractors, and subcontractors. Vehicles and equipment, as well as general site inspections, should be part of the program. All of these people have a stake in the findings that should be shared widely on the work site — typically in your monthly safety meetings. Inspection schedules should be based on potential hazards at the sites and the severity of risks posed by the work. Examples of hazards to look for include the following:
All workers should be aware of the inspection process, how it works, and what to expect. When many pairs of eyes are doing safety inspections, hazards have nowhere to hide … and you are perhaps the “best” safety inspector of all! Unless you — the worker and expert — go looking for safety hazards, they can lurk out of sight and out of mind until something happens. The best way to find these hidden hazards is to assign as many people as possible to look for them. That is why safety inspection should be a part of your job — no matter what your job is! Surveys Link Eye Protection with Better Overall Safety CultureApril 19, 2010:Having a strong eye safety program in place in the workplace is a good -- and easy -- way to initiate a successful culture of safety. So said safety directors who responded to two surveys conducted by a global provider of personal protective equipment. According to the company, of the 300 safety directors surveyed in the first study, 88 percent consider compliance one of their top concerns, yet 35 percent are not satisfied with their current level of eye safety compliance, and 30 percent believe that many brands of protective eyewear do not meet basic compliance standards. In the second study, 82 percent of the 125 safety directors surveyed do not trust compliance standards alone to adequately protect workers. Kicking off a safety initiative with eye protection makes sense for several reasons. First, it's easy to understand how valuable and vulnerable our eyes are, so it's an easy platform for starting a persuasive safety conversation. Second, eye protection is an easy thing for safety managers and peers alike to see in action -- everyone can tell who is being accountable for his or her own safety. And for these reasons, it's a great basis for providing positive feedback to those who are in compliance, helping reinforce safe behavior. Eye injuries are often permanent and a simple $2 pair of ANSI-approved eyewear is more than worth the expense. Copyright 2010 1105 Media Inc. Chocking and Blocking Safety (Part 2)April 12, 2010:Ensure that trailers are firmly placed against the loading dock edges and prevent rollaways by using chocks. Place chocks on the left and right wheels that are closest to the loading dock. This placement allows a forklift to push down on the trailer wheels and seat them more firmly against the chock. If only the front axle is chocked, a forklift could push the trailer forward and loosen the chock or cause the wheel to jump the chock. The driver, dock workers, and forklift drivers share the responsibility to ensure that the truck and trailer wheels are properly chocked. Use extra caution when driving a forklift into a trailer from the dock edge; if the trailer rolls away from the dock edge, the forklift can fall into the gap and cause sever injuries or death. Never drive a forklift into a trailer until you ensure that the wheels are properly chocked. Ensure that the trailer floor is in good condition and that it can support the weight of the forklift and its load. Block or secure trailer cargo to prevent the load from shifting during transit and unloading. Shifting loads can strike, injure, and engulf workers while a sudden shift in center of gravity can overturn a trailer. (e.g. wire reels). Block items separately on all four sides using lumber thick enough to prevent cargo movement. Use nails or spikes long enough to secure the lumber and drive them in at opposing angles. Don’t use other freight or cargo as a block. When performing maintenance on equipment that could pose a pinch hazard, block it to prevent accidental activation. Copyright © 2000-2010 State Compensation Insurance Fund. The use of this information by any party for profit of any kind is strictly prohibited. Chocking and Blocking Safety (Part 1)April 5, 2010:Chocking and blocking prevent accidental or unintended movement of mobile equipment and cargo while workers are loading, unloading, hitching, unhitching, or performing service or maintenance. Chocking the wheels of a truck, trailer, or other piece of mobile equipment provides a physical stopper to the wheels to prevent runaways that can crush and injure workers. Blocking stabilizes cargo loads to prevent shifting and trailer overturns or provides a physical barrier on equipment to prevent accidental activation during maintenance. When chocking, use specially designed truck wheel chocks of the appropriate size and material to securely hold the vehicle. Don’t use lumber, cinder blocks, rocks, or other make-shift items to chock. Make it easy to find and use the correct chocking equipment, store chocks inside trailers, trucks rigs and/or other mobile equipment. Keep chocks available at loading docks; chain the chocks to the dock to prevent them from being misplaced. If you drive a truck, tractor, or other mobile equipment, use special caution when exiting the vehicle. Ensure that the brakes are set, the vehicle is at a complete standstill, and that it will not roll forward or backward before you exit. If you are performing maintenance or parking the vehicle for an extended period of time, chock the wheels. To properly chock a free-standing vehicle, place chocks on the left and right rear axle wheels. It is safest to chock both the front and back wheels on both sides of a vehicle. Some vehicle wheels may also need to be chocked at the front and back of each tire. Copyright © 2000-2010 State Compensation Insurance Fund. The use of this information by any party for profit of any kind is strictly prohibited. Safe Use of LaddersMarch 29, 2010:OSHA has published safe work practices for ladders.
Jewelry HazardsMarch 22, 2010:Ring Degloving Injuries Employees who do manual work are especially prone to finger and hand injuries that may involve traumatic removal of the skin on the hand, especially on the fingers. These incidents are referred to as “degloving” injuries and usually involve extensive surgery to repair damage to the skin, blood vessels, tendons, and nerves in the hand. In many cases, the repairs result in extensive scarring and often required follow-up plastic surgery to return the damaged area to some type of normalcy. Degloving injuries frequently are caused by wearing rings or jewelry while conducting landscape and lawn maintenance work. Large rings can easily become hooked on fencing, pruning material, or other items and cause the removal of a layer of skin. This removal or degloving often results in the stripping of the skin and its components all the way down to the bone. Immediate emergency care by health care providers is needed to reduce the chance of infection and any eventual barriers to restoring the injured finger or hand. In some severe cases, surgical removal or amputation is required. To prevent these injuries, workers should be required to remove large rings, watches, and other jewelry, and place them in a secure location until the manual work has been completed. Crew managers should be diligent and constantly remind their crew members to abide by the No Jewelry rule at the work site. Earlobe Splitting and Lacerations Earrings and other items pierced and attached to workers’ ears and earlobes have become a problem for those involved in landscape activities. Unless the earrings are extremely close-fitting, they can easily become entangled in the worker’s hair and in tree limbs, brush, and other vegetation. Operator’s of large turf equipment on residential and commercial lawn maintenance sites are at high risk of earring entanglements while mowing around tree limbs and shrubs that may snag the earrings and result in traumatic earlobe splitting and severe lacerations. To prevent infections and permanent scarring damage, these types of injuries should be treated immediately by emergency personnel and health care professionals. It is important that landscape and lawn maintenance firms establish concise and firm rules about employees wearing jewelry in the ears and around the neck while on the job. Help your employees understand that the injuries that can occur from doing so can be serious and may result in permanent, easily noticed scarring. Fall Prevention Tips from OSHAMarch 15, 2010:Falls and falling objects can result from unstable working surfaces, ladders that are not safely positioned, and misuse of fall protection. Workers are also subject to falls or to the dangers of falling objects if sides and edges, floor holes, and wall openings are not protected. Any time a worker is at a height of six feet or more (construction industry) or four feet or more (general industry), the worker must be protected. Fall Protection Fall protection must be provided for each employee on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge at the height required by the OSHA standard applicable to their work environment. Management is required to:
Once employers have determined that the surface is safe for employees to work on, the employer must select one of the options listed for the work operation if a fall hazard is present.
Almost all sites have unprotected sides and edges, wall openings, or floor holes at some point during construction. If these sides and openings are not protected at your site, injuries from falls or falling objects may result, ranging from sprains and concussions to death.
You risk falling if portable ladders are not safely positioned each time they are used. While you are on a ladder, it may move and slip from its supports. You can also lose your balance while getting on or off an unsteady ladder. Falls from ladders can cause injuries ranging from sprains to death.
Pesticide use and your personal protective equipment (PPE)March 8, 2010:When using pesticide products, the requirements for PPE on the product label are your main source of information. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has labeling requirements for pesticide products. Pesticide labels must have signal words, which describe the acute (short-term) toxicity of the formulated pesticide product. All products must be handled with care. Manufacturers are required to provide information about what PPE a handler must wear when mixing, loading, handling, and applying pesticides. Some of the information may be confusing. Please download and print http://www.orosha.org/pdf/pubs/1018.pdf and add to your safety training program and you can also use for a safety tailgate training session. While this information is provided by the Oregon OSHA office, it applies to all states. 'QuickTips' for workers on preventing cold-related injuries and illnessesMarch 1, 2010:In light of recent frigid temperatures, OSHA is reminding workers and employers, whose work is concentrated outside, to take the necessary precautions to prevent cold-related injuries and illnesses. OSHA's "Cold Stress Pocket Card" (English/Spanish) provides recommendations on protecting workers in cold environments. For example, take frequent short breaks in warm dry shelters to allow the body to warm up. Electronic copies can be downloaded from the agency's publications page, or printed copies can be ordered online or by calling 202-693-1888. Five 'Musts' of Back SafetyFebruary 22, 2010:Remind workers of these essentials:
Skid Steer LoadersFebruary 15, 2010:Hazards: Rollovers (rearward and sideways), falls, fractures, caught in-between, crushing, struck-by, death. PTO (power take off) stub shaft entanglements. Safe Practices:
Hazard CommunicationFebruary 8, 2010:Purpose: Ensures hazards of chemicals are conveyed to employers and employees Chemicals used on the job: Flammable - Gasoline; diesel fuel; acetylene Accelerator - Oxygen Combustible - Curing compound, motor oil Irritant – Mortar; curing compound; muriatic acid; asphalt; epoxy resin; lime; wood dust; Carcinogens - Welding metals (lead, nickel, chromates, beryllium); Suspected Carcinogens - Epoxy resin; wood dust Lung Fibrosis - Silica Sensitizer - Isocynates Identify Chemical Hazards: Look at product warning label and read MSDSs. Written Program: Employers should have a written program and make it available to employees. The program must include: chemical inventory, MSDSs location, how and where employees will get information on new chemicals, who to ask questions on chemical safety and how to perform non-routine tasks safely. Employee Training:
Walk-Behind Lawn MowersFebruary 1, 2010:Hazards: Lacerations, burns, struck-by injuries, crushing injuries, fractures, amputations, death. Safe Practices:
Machine GuardingJanuary 25, 2010:Hazards: Cuts, lacerations, amputation, death Safe Practices:
Vehicle SafetyJanuary 18, 2010:Hazards: Struck-by and roll-over injuries Inspect vehicles before each shift to assure that all parts and accessories are in safe operating condition. Check brakes, trailer brake connections, parking system, emergency brakes, tires, coupling devices, seat belts, horn, steering mechanism, operating controls, safety devices (e.g. reverse signal alarm, ROPS), lights, reflectors, defrosters, windshield wipers and fire extinguishers. Safe Practices:
Personal Protective EquipmentJanuary 11, 2010: Hazards: Misuse or incorrect use and improper selection for the hazard Hazards should be abated through engineering or administrative controls. If those controls are not available or infeasible, use personal protective equipment to put a barrier between you and the hazards. It can also be worn in the interim while engineering controls are being implemented. When to Use:
Material Handling Safe Practices: Struck-by InjuriesJanuary 4, 2010:
Material Handling Safe Practices: Falling MaterialDecember 28, 2009:
Report all Injuries to Your SupervisorDecember 21, 2009: To make sure you receive proper medical attention for an on-the-job injury, always report any type of injury or illness when it occurs. It is also recommended that you report to your supervisor any potential hazard you notice, so it can be corrected. Small cuts or minor injuries can become major medical problems if first aid treatment is not provided when needed. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask your supervisor. Shop Safety — Protect Your FeetDecember 14, 2009: If you work in an area where major hazards to your feet are present, steel-toed safety shoes should be worn. These safety shoes provide protection for your feet in the event that something should fall on them. Where there is less of a hazard to your feet from falling objects, it is recommended that you wear leather-topped shoes, which afford some protection from oil, grease, solvents, and other chemicals. They also protect your feet from minor cuts and abrasions. Whether working in high or low hazard areas, you should avoid wearing tennis or canvas shoes. Protect Yourself During a PandemicDecember 7, 2009: OSHA has released a new Quick Card titled “How to Protect Yourself in the Workplace During a Pandemic.” Included are precautions that can be used in every workplace, such as avoiding crowded settings and other situations that increase the risk of exposure to someone who may be infected, and some basic hygiene and social distancing precautions. Be sure to share this information with your employees. Snow Plowing Safe Operation TipsNovember 30, 2009: Before the first snow, hold driver meetings to review snow removal strategies and the operation of equipment. Have operators drive their routes, first by daylight and then in the evening to acquaint themselves with properties. Drivers should:
Fueling Safe PracticesNovember 23, 2009:
Ladder SafetyNovember 16, 2009: Hazards: Do not use ladders that are broken or have missing parts, are too short for work height, are not the correct equipment for the job, or that have a weight-limit rating that is too low; and do not use ladders around energized electrical equipment;. Loads: Self-supporting (foldout) and non-self-supporting (leaning) portable ladders should be able to support at least four times the maximum intended load; extra-heavy-duty metal or plastic ladders should be able to sustain 3.3 times the maximum intended load. Angle: Non-self-supporting ladders should be positioned with a horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder that is about 1/4 the working length of the ladder; job-made wooden ladders should be positioned at an angle equal to about 1/8 the working length. Rung: Rungs, cleats, or steps must be parallel, level, and uniformly spaced and must be spaced between 10 and 14 inches apart; on extension trestle ladders, the spacing must be 8-18 inches for the base, and 6-12 inches on the extension section; they should be shaped so that an employee’s foot cannot slide off, and they should be skid resistant. Storage: Store ladders where they cannot be damaged and in such a way as to prevent warping or sagging; secure during transport. Inspection: Check to ensure shoes and ladder are free of oil, grease, wet paint, and other slipping hazards; warning labels are legible; spreader device can be locked in place; and the area around the top and bottom of the ladder is cleared of material. Safe Practices: Face ladder and hold on with both hands when climbing; carry tools on a belt or use a hand line; hold on with one hand when performing work; never reach too far to either side or rear: do not climb higher than the second step from the top on a stepladder or third from the top on a straight ladder; and never attempt to move, shift, or extend ladder while in use. Silica ExposureNovember 9, 2009: Crystalline silica is a basic component of soil, sand, granite, and many other minerals. Quartz is the most common form of crystalline silica. The dust may become respirable size particles when workers chip, cut, drill, or grind objects that contain crystalline silica. Crystalline silica has been classified as a human lung carcinogen. Breathing crystalline silica dust can cause silicosis, which can cause severe shortness of breath, weakness, weight loss, fatigue, chest pain, and, in severe cases, can be disabling or even fatal. Smoking adds to the damage caused by silica dust. Exposure can be controlled by:
Preventing Back InjuriesNovember 2, 2009: Preventing a back injury is much easier than repairing one. Because your back is critically important to your ability to walk, sit, stand, and run, it is important to take care of it. Most back pain arises from using your back improperly, so learning a few basic rules about lifting, posture, and proper exercise can help keep your back in good shape.
Inspecting your fall protection equipmentOctober 26, 2009: You trust you life to your fall protection equipment and that's why it makes a lot of sense to take time and inspect the equipment. But you don't have much choice: OSHA requires that fall protection equipment be inspected before each use for wear, damage, and other deterioration (1926.502(d)(21)). If the equipment is defective, you must remove it from service. What should you look for? Following are some of the common causes of wear, damage, and deterioration of fall protection equipment. (Always read and follow the manufacturer's inspection guidelines for detailed inspection requirements.)
You may need to inspect your gear several times during the course of a shift if working in a hazardous location or with dangerous materials. The consequences of having your fall protection fail should be the driving force behind your equipment inspection process. Do the circumstances warrant DOT post-accident tests?October 19, 2009: Suppose your CDL driver calls in to report that there's been an accident. Everyone's adrenaline is running, and you may have to pry the details out of him or her to determine if DOT post-accident drug and alcohol testing is required. The following checklist will aid in deciding your course of action:
Drug-Free Work WeekOctober 12, 2009: Drug-Free Work Week (October 19–25, 2009) is a dedicated time each year to highlight the benefits that drug-free workplace programs bring to employers, workers, and communities. And, it’s a time to work toward making every week a drug-free workweek! It spreads the word that working drug-free works to:
Drug-Free Work Week is a time to reinforce the importance of working drug free in positive, proactive ways. To get Drug-Free Work Week resources or learn more about how your organization can participate, select one of the following: Proper respirator useOctober 5, 2009: Working around dusts, mists, fumes, aerosols, gases, and vapors can be hazardous to your employees' health. If your company can't control the contaminants by using engineering controls, then wearing a respirator help can protect your employees. You must establish and implement procedures for the proper use of respirators. These requirements include:
Don't allow employees to wear respirators with tight-fitting face pieces if they have:
Stress to employees that they must also perform a user seal check each time they put on the respirator. The check must be done using the procedures in Appendix B-1 of 29 CFR 1910.134 or procedures recommended by the respirator manufacturer that are as effective as those in Appendix B-1. Continuing respirator effectiveness Employers must survey the work area conditions and degree of exposure or stress. When there is a change in either that may affect respirator effectiveness, your employer needs to reevaluate the continued effectiveness of the respirator. In addition, employers must instruct employees to leave the respirator use area when the following occurs:
Employee training Training requirements for respirator use are found in either the standard at 1910.134(k) or in the OSHA-specific contaminant rule. If you are performing construction operations involving an OSHA-specific substance, your training program must be all-inclusive. That is, you must cover all training requirement in 1910.134(k) and also the OSHA-specific rule. Benefit from lockout/tagout refresher trainingSeptember 28, 2009: Your initial lockout/tagout training sessions for authorized employees covered all of the standard's requirements. Your authorized employees learned all about:
Check the written procedures Mechanics may work on dozens of machines in your facility. Have they read the lockout/tagout procedures? Do they follow them? Are the written procedures a help or a hindrance to the people who need to use them? For lockout/tagout refresher training, consult with your authorized employees to go through the details of the lockout/tagout procedures. Focus on what's important Target the refresher training to areas that are important to the authorized employees. Ask them if they are unsure about any part of the procedures. Meet at the machine so the mechanics can show you the part of the procedure that's unclear. Work with them to explain the procedure. Don't hesitate to call in an expert (electrician, engineer, etc.) if the questions are more than the training group can handle. If necessary, revise the written procedure until it's easier to understand. This same kind of thorough machine-specific refresher training also needs to be done when equipment is moved or modified and when new machines are introduced. Be user friendly Emphasize that you want the written procedures to be accurate and easy to use. If your veteran mechanics are having problems with a procedure, you want to correct it before contractors or new employees rely on it. Be open to suggestions for adding illustrations or changing the format. Would labels on the machine help? Trained and informed employees keep your lockout/tagout program alive. Involving them in reviews of lockout/tagout procedures recognizes them as being the authorities that they are. Before you provide PPE for your employees, do you perform OSHA’s required hazard assessment and equipment selection?September 21, 2009: It would be difficult for OSHA to list every possible task an employee could do and then specify the appropriate PPE for each task. As a result, OSHA requires that employers do a hazard assessment, and then select the most appropriate PPE. Many employers don't realize that doing a hazard assessment is an OSHA requirement. Standard 1910.132(d)(1)) says: The employer shall assess the workplace to determine if hazards are present or are likely to be present, which necessitate the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). If such hazards are present or are likely to be present, the employer shall:Employers are also required to record and certify the assessment. Standard 1910.132(d)(2)) says: The employer shall verify that the required workplace hazard assessment has been performed through a written certification that identifies the workplace evaluated; the person certifying that the evaluation has been performed; the date(s) of the hazard assessment; and which identifies the document as a certification of hazard assessment.When a situation involves a hazardous chemical, employers should also refer to the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for that chemical as the MSDS list the appropriate PPE to use with that chemical. Safety storage of flammable liquidsSeptember 14, 2009: Always store safety containers in an approved safety cabinet when the containers are not in use. As a general rule, no more than 10 gallons of flammable liquids should be kept outside safety cabinets, especially if not in approved containers. Store flammable liquids in cool, well-ventilated areas away from corrosives, oxidizers, and ignition sources. Flammable liquids should not be stored in basements, near exit doorways, stairways, in exit corridors, or in a location that would impede egress from the building. Federal guidelines encourage employers to plan now for upcoming influenza seasonSeptember 7, 2009: It is not known whether the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus will cause more illness or more severe illness in the coming months, but the Center for Disease Control recommends that everyone be prepared for influenza. Because both seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza pose serious health threats, employers should work with employees to develop and implement plans that can reduce the spread of flu and to encourage seasonal flu vaccination as well as H1N1 vaccination when that vaccine becomes available. For more information and for suggestions on how you can prepare your employees for the upcoming flu season, please read OSHA's August 19, 2009, National News Release. Three-step floor matting safety systemAugust 31, 2009: Workers injured by slips, trips, and falls spend more days away from work than those injured as a result of other on-the-job accidents — a median of eight versus six days. An effective method for eliminating the threat of slips, trips, and falls involves a three-step floor matting safety system:
Protect Hands and FingersAugust 24, 2009:
Weed Trimmer Safety and Operator TipsAugust 17, 2009:
Use the Correct Body Position When Using ToolsAugust 10, 2009: Your body provides the force to push, rotate, or otherwise move a tool to do its work. This force can cause you to become unbalanced if the tool slips, causing you to fall down or to fall against another object. Be sure to have a firm, balanced stance and good grip on the tool. Think about where your hand or body will go if the tool slips. To prevent severe cuts when using knives or other hand cutting tools, always cut away from your body and keep your other hand away from the direction of the cut. Never place a sharp knife or cutting tool where others may accidentally come into contact with the blade. Place the cutting tool in a sheath or a cover before storing it. Doing so not only prevents damage to the blade, but also prevents accidental cuts when someone reaches for the tool. Edger SafetyAugust 3, 2009:
Use the Right Tool for the JobJuly 27, 2009: A wrench is not a hammer and a screwdriver is not a pry-bar. Most tools have been designed to be used for a single purpose. Using them for any other purpose can cause injuries/accidents. Use the right tool the right way. Wear Proper Eye ProtectionJuly 20, 2009: Most tools have the potential to cause flying debris, either from the material that is being worked on or from the tool itself if it breaks. Your eyes can be easily injured from even the smallest debris particle, so protect them by ALWAYS wearing safety glasses … and, if the activity warrants, also adding the use of goggles or a face shield. Do Not Use Damaged ToolsJuly 13, 2009: Using tools that are chipped, bent, warped, cracked, or worn can lead to serious accidents and injuries to you and others around you, so always use tools that are in perfect working order. Be sure to check for excess wear on tools: the flats of wrenches, the tips of screwdrivers, and the ridges of sockets and nut drivers. If a hand tool is adjustable, check it through the full range of adjustments to make sure the parts function safely. Also, make sure all attachments, such as sockets and bits, fit snugly when attached to the equipment. Using broken electrical tools, adds unnecessary electrical hazards to a task. Defective tools must immediately be removed from service and either repaired or thrown out. Saw SafetyJuly 6, 2009: Never tie back or remove a saw’s guard, or handle or use an unguarded tool. Doing any of these things should be grounds for dismissal. Disconnect the power supply for electrical tools when the equipment is not in use or when changing the blades, bits, or discs, or doing other routine maintenance tasks. Cost-Saving PPE Solutions for Tough Times: Upgrade Your TrainingJune 29, 2009: A personal protective equipment (PPE) assessment often reveals the need for companies to improve their employees’ education and training programs. Companies usually conduct some type of PPE training, but it may be limited to an hour-long session that presents the same information for everyone. Identify training tools that will better educate individual employees about the specific tasks they perform each day. Effective training ensures workers have no question about what solutions they need for their jobs and the associated protection and performance characteristics. Commit to conducting follow-up assessments at regular intervals to determine if the solutions implemented are working. Follow-up assessments also allow you to identify new solutions that can further improve day-do-day operations and facilitate changes that will make your work environment even more efficient. Cost-Saving PPE Solutions for Tough Times: Take Control of PPE DistributionJune 22, 2009: Analyze personal protective equipment (PPE) usage to determine how your company dispenses products to employees. In some cases, employees may have unlimited access, which allows them to acquire PPE any time they choose. This lack of controlled distribution may result in higher PPE costs because workers may discard products prematurely. Employees may also suffer more injuries because they select the wrong protection for the task. Determine what control mechanisms will be most effective. For instance, vending machines that manage PPE distribution by requiring workers to use a key card to gain access. Another option may be to designate a central store where employees must sign out PPE products. This allows management to monitor how often workers obtain PPE and provides an insight into the specific products and costs associated with the program. Cost-Saving PPE Solutions for Tough Times: Reduce WasteJune 15, 2009: A personal protective equipment (PPE) assessment can identify solutions to substantially reduce the amount of waste and associated costs that may be present in your current work environment. Reducing waste in the form of defects of lost time can significantly drive down operating cost. Gloves, for example, may produce lint that mars the surface of a product and results in the product being reworked or discarded. Workers may drop and break products because their gloves do not provide sufficient grip. Employees may remove their gloves and put them on later because they do not provide the dexterity for a specific task, such as recording data on a computer. All of these scenarios are costly and waste time. Even though a process such as donning and removing gloves may require only seconds, when the procedure is repeated several times each day, the amount of wasted time accumulates quickly. Cost-Saving PPE Solutions for Tough Times: Prevent InjuriesJune 8, 2009: Injury prevention represents another opportunity to improve the bottom line. When companies reduce injuries, they decrease medical and indemnity costs and boost productivity because workers have less loss time. Determine if employees are using the optimum protection in their working environment. Analyze critical factors associated with each task to make recommendations to eliminate potential injuries and PPE misapplication. Hand injuries at a metal processor, for example, were costing the company more than $500,000 each year. Based on recommendations from the PPE assessment, the company supplied workers with gloves that virtually eliminated injuries. While the resulting solution was more expensive initially, the company ultimately saved over $150,000 as a result of reduced medical cost and related expenses. Cost-Saving PPE Solutions for Tough Times: Assess the Comfort FactorJune 1, 2009: Determine if workers’ personal protective equipment (PPE) is sufficiently comfortable to allow them to perform their tasks to the highest level. For example, an assessment conducted at a white goods manufacturer revealed workers were wearing their safety gloves for a short period of time and then discarding them because they were uncomfortable and did not provide the dexterity needed. Because the gloves still had serviceable life, this premature disposal was costly for the company. Based on these results, the manufacturer supplied ergonomically designed gloves. Because of the increased comfort, workers preferred to wear them — and continued to wear them to the end of the gloves’ expected life. Even though the new gloves cost more initially, the manufacturer was able to save more than $100,000 in glove replacement costs during the fiscal year. Cost-Saving PPE Solutions for Tough Times: Start With Your EmployeesMay 25, 2009: The current economic downturn is forcing many companies to consider ways to reduce their day-to-day operating costs. A personal protective equipment (PPE) assessment can help identify opportunities that can improve your bottom line. But, how can you be sure your assessment is zeroing in on what you need to know? Begin your assessment with a plant walk-through. Gain input from the workers and supervisors who perform each phase of daily operations. This is how you learn about the critical factors associated with each task and evaluate any concerns that may impede worker productivity. For example, if employees do not have hand protection that provides the necessary level of cut protection, they may perform tasks more slowly because they lack confidence in their ability to safely do the job. If their hand protection does not provide sufficient grip to securely grasp wet or oily objects, performance may be hampered by a concern about dropping and even breaking objects. Many other concerns can affect worker productivity, including apprehension about punctures or abrasions or concerns about whether PPE will provide the necessary heat or thermal protection. Do Your Workers Need a Safety Pep Talk?May 18, 2009: Even with a solid safety program in place, workers need a safety pep talk from time to time. So, what are some of the signs that it may be time to have a safety pep talk? Get a copy of our information fact sheet with details about what signs to look for and what you can say to boost safety awareness. Are your employees concerned about working around fellow employees who may have been exposed to H1N1?May 11, 2009: At this time, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has not recommended any medical evaluations for employees that have traveled to impacted areas, which means that there are no work restrictions for these employees. As is the case with any communicable illnesses, employees should contact their supervisors immediately if they exhibit symptoms. For further guidance on how to respond to issues related to the H1N1 outbreak, check out the American Society of Safety Engineers’ Guidance Sheet, a great resource filled with information compiled from leading health organizations such as the CDC and the World Health Organization. Reducing or Ignoring Workplace Safety During Business Downturns Could Be CostlyMay 4, 2009: A downturn in the economy may force us to do more with less, but it’s never the time to reduce or eliminate workplace safety processes. With reference to recent reports of some companies cutting safety processes in the hopes of reducing cost, American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) President Warren K. Brown, CSP, ARM, CSHMM, of Fairborn, Ohio, is quoted as saying, “Workplace safety processes must be in place at all times. They are even more critical during business downturns. “If companies believe they will save money by reducing or ignoring the safety for their workers, customers, and the communities they do business in, they are mistaken,” Brown said. “The ongoing positive results are in and have been for companies that have a strong safety culture and continually invest in and implement effective safety processes. Not only does their bottom-line benefit positively, but their company reputation stays intact, and employees stay safe and healthy, reducing health care, workers’ comp, training, and turnover costs not to mention keeping customers, the communities they do business in, vendors, and employees happy. Safety is good business.” Click on http://www.asse.org/newsroom/ for the full story. Be Safe When Operating Zero-Turn Mowers April 27, 2009: Zero-turn mowers or Z mowers are an important part of the work we do. They’re speedy, easy to maneuver, and can get into tight spaces that many other mowers can’t. Yet each year, workers in our industry operate Z mowers in an unsafe manner that can result in death. Follow these safety tips:
Make it EASY for your crews to be safeApril 20, 2009: Have in stock all of the personal protective equipment (PPE) your employees may need. Make sure all equipment is in excellent shape. Spend a little money to maintain such items as safety switches, hand grips, operator controls, and tires in “like new” condition. For detailed information, visit OSHA's Safety and Health Topics: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Improve Your Tailgate Safety Training – Tip 4April 13, 2009: Regularly review your company’s injury and incident records for tailgate topic ideas and ask your employees where they think more training is needed. Invite an outside person, such as your insurer or a vendor, to your company to periodically lead tailgate sessions. This may help to increase the level of attention the topic receives from the participants. Improve Your Tailgate Safety Training – Tip 3April 6, 2009: Look for crew leaders and others who have expertise in a certain subject, then ask them to lead a tailgate session on that topic. For example, an experienced forklift operator with a good safety record would be the logical person to lead a session on forklift safety. A crew member who regularly puts his tools and supplies away without being asked to do so would be a great candidate for a session on “good housekeeping.” Improve Your Tailgate Safety Training – Tip 2March 31, 2009: Make sure your crew leaders have been trained in how to present a tailgate session. Then have them conduct brief sessions at job sites before each day’s work begins. Give nonsupervisory employees a chance to lead tailgate sessions. Since these are oral sessions, it is not necessary that workers have high levels of literacy. Choose employees with good safety records who are respected by their coworkers. Improve Your Tailgate Safety Training – Tip 1March 24, 2009: “Tailgate” safety training is an effective way to train green industry workers. Workers with low literacy levels and others who may have short attention spans can greatly benefit from these 5–10 minute oral training sessions. Train on just one topic at a time, but don’t be afraid to repeat critical subjects, such as proper fitting of personal protective equipment (PPE), reducing slip-and-trip injuries, and defensive driving. Rotate supervisors who present your tailgate training sessions. Even the best trainer can burn out. Also, employees may begin tuning out the trainer if week after week the same person delivers the information, no matter how good that person is. Protect Your Eyes From Serious Injury — Part 2March 16, 2009: Eye Protection Tips
Protect Your Eyes From Serious Injury — Part 1March 9, 2009: Eye injuries, which can lead to blindness, partial blindness, or even the loss of an eye, are common in our industry but are nearly always preventable when workers use the appropriate eye protection. Among the ways these injuries occur are as a result of being poked in the eyes by sharp branches, twigs, leaves, needles, or other plant material; flying particles, such as wood chips, dust, sawdust, or other debris, getting into the eyes while using tools or equipment; and chemical splashes or sprays to the eyes during chemical applications. Share with workers about the importance of always wearing safety glasses and other eye protection. Ask them to picture what life would be like if they suddenly could not see. They could no longer drive, operate equipment, or do most of the day-to-day tasks at work that they may now take for granted. Worse yet, if they have children, they would no longer be able to see them as they grow up. It would also suddenly become very difficult to provide for their family. Training Spanish–Speaking WorkersMarch 2, 2009: As the number of Spanish-speaking workers in our industry continues to grow, it is important to ensure that your safety training messages effectively reaches ALL your employees. Here are some tips from the Delmarva Safety Association Executive Director. Understand the motivation of your Hispanic workers. For example, while a Caucasian worker will likely be motivated to use a respirator if you say that otherwise he or she may “get sick and die,” a more effective comment to Spanish-speaking workers would be, “If you fail to use this respirator, you could get sick and be unable to provide for your family.”
How to Be Prepared If OSHA Shows Up at Your Job SiteFebruary 23, 2009: You get a call from a crew leader who tells you that an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspector just showed up at the job site. The site is very visible to the public, and the crew leader doesn’t know what to do. How would you respond? Here are a few tips:
Safe Work Practices in Cold Weather February 16, 2009: Changes in work schedules and practices are necessary to combat the effects of exceedingly cold weather.
The quiet symptoms of potentially deadly cold-related ailments often go undetected until the victim’s health is endangered. Knowing the facts on cold exposure and following a few simple guidelines can ensure that this season is a safe and healthy one. Symptoms and Treatment of FrostbiteFebruary 9, 2009: Frostbite occurs when the skin tissue actually freezes, causing ice crystals to form between cells and draw water from them, which leads to cellular dehydration. Although this typically occurs at temperatures below 30°F (-1°C), windchill effects can cause frostbite at above-freezing temperatures. Initial effects of frostbite include uncomfortable sensations of coldness, such as tingling, stinging, or aching feeling of the exposed area followed by numbness. Ears, fingers, toes, cheeks, and noses are primarily affected. Frostbitten areas appear white and cold to the touch. The appearance of frostbite varies depending on whether rewarming has occurred. Deeper frostbite involves freezing of deeper tissues (muscles, tendons, etc.) causing exposed areas to become numb, painless, hard to the touch. If you suspect frostbite, you should seek medical assistance immediately. Any existing hypothermia should be treated first. Frostbitten parts should be covered with dry, sterile gauze or soft, clean cloth bandages. Do not massage frostbitten tissue because this sometimes causes greater injury. Severe cases may require hospitalization and even amputation of affected tissue. Take measures to prevent further cold injury. If formal medical treatment will be delayed, consult with a licensed health care professional for training on rewarming techniques. Preventing Cold-Related Disorders February 2, 2009: Personal Protective Clothing — Perhaps the most important step in fighting the elements is providing adequate layers of insulation from them. Wear at least three layers of clothing:
Protecting Workers in Cold EnvironmentsJanuary 26, 2009: As the weather becomes “frightful” during the winter months, workers who must brave outdoor conditions face the occupational hazard of exposure to the cold. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can result in health problems as serious as trench foot, frostbite, and hypothermia. Workers in industries such as construction, commercial fishing, and agriculture need to be especially mindful of the weather, its effects on the body, proper prevention techniques, and how to treat cold-related disorders. Major Risk Factors for Cold-Related Stresses
Driving safely in bad weather…January 19, 2009: 1. Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow or ice covered roads. 2. Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake. 3. Don’t power up hills. Use a lower gear to keep traction. 4. Keep your gas tank at least half full. 5. Allow enough time. 6. Make certain your tires are properly inflated and never mix radial tires with other types of tires. 7. Don’t use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand, etc.) 8. If you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle. 9. Don’t pass snow plows and sanding trucks. 10. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Learn how you can prepare in advance for a possible layoff.January 12, 2009: As word of a weakened economy spreads throughout the nation, many companies are looking for ways to become more efficient. One area of efficiency that could make an impact on safety is layoffs. As a safety manager, you may be faced with maintaining safety with fewer workers, which on the surface may seem like an easy task. Fewer workers mean fewer injuries and less training, right? However, in reality, what you may see are fewer workers with low morale trying to do more, which may require more training and more supervision. Learn how you can prepare in advance for a possible layoff. Be good to your tools...January 5, 2009: Simple hand tools frequently cause trips to the emergency room. These incidents are usually the result of defective tools or improper tool use. Adequate training, well-maintained tools, and using tools properly are ways to prevent accidents involving simple hand tools. People who know how to use their tools and take care of them have a better chance of avoiding injuries. So, inspect and repair your tools routinely and keep them in good condition; service, repair, or discard defective tools immediately; and, before using a tool, give it a quick check for any defects and be sure you know how it should be properly used. Watch out for falling debris!December 29, 2008: When working on the ground in tree care, always be aware of the climbers’ activities and consider that a climber may accidentally drop a limb, branch, hanger, or hand tool at any time. Are you subject to road rage?December 22, 2008: Keep your cool in traffic! Be patient and courteous to other drivers. Do not take other drivers’ actions personally. Reduce your stress by planning your route ahead of time (bring maps and directions), allowing plenty of travel time, and avoiding crowded roadways and busy driving times. Timber!December 15, 2008: When removing a tree, be certain all personnel are out of range of the tree and always give a verbal warning before commencing the back cut. Inspect tree limbs for strength before climbing and break dead branches off by hand as you climb. Place your hands and feet on separate limbs. Raise or lower tools by attaching hand lines to end of tools. Do not use dead branches for support or climb during wet or icy weather. How are your drivers trained?December 8, 2008: Develop a formal, hands-on fleet safety-training program that must be completed successfully. Have a designated Fleet Safety Officer who must approve the driver’s completion of the program before he or she is allowed to drive. Shield your employees from injuriesDecember 1, 2008: Keep all equipment safety guards and shields in place and promptly report any missing or defective safety devices. Never allow employees to operate a machine with missing or damaged protective devices. Do not remove protective devices except for authorized maintenance purposes. Holiday Decorating SafetyNovember 24, 2008: For holiday decorating, ensure lights, decorations, and extension cords are rated for correct usage. Lights intended for indoor-use only bear green Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Marks. Light strings intended for indoor and outdoor use bear red UL Marks. Put your holiday decorating safety knowledge to the test at http://www.b4-u-buy.com/11x35341.htm. Do you know the best way to prevent slips, trips, and falls?November 10, 2008: Before you start working, identify all potential tripping and falling hazards, such as unprotected floor openings/edges, shafts, skylights, stairwells, and roof openings/edges. Inspect fall protection equipment for defects before using it, and select, wear, and use fall protection equipment that’s appropriate for the task. Before climbing up on any ladder, make sure it’s secured and stabilized, and never stand on the top rung/step of a ladder. Use handrails when you go up or down stairs. Keep cords, welding leads, and air hoses off walkways or adjacent work areas. How do you maintain three-point contact on a ladder?October 27, 2008: By always having two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand on the ladder. Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface, unless it has been secured (top or bottom) to prevent displacement. Always assess ladder sites for obstacles that could affect the ladder position/security (i.e., lamps, ceiling fixtures, signage, terrain, etc.). Have a spotter hold the ladder while you are moving on it. Ensure you have proper footing on the rung at all times, and always face the ladder while climbing and keep your body near the middle of the step. Working Drug Free Works!October 20, 2008: This is a time to reinforce the importance of working drug free in positive, proactive ways. Drug-free workplace programs help protect employers and employees alike from the potentially devastating consequences of worker alcohol or drug abuse. Establishing policies, educating about the dangers of alcohol and drug use, deterring and detecting use, and urging people to seek help for alcohol and drug problems are smart safety strategies. They're also smart business strategies. To get Drug-Free Work Week resources or learn more about how your organization can participate, click here. Some simple steps to protect against mosquito bites …October 13, 2008 When working outdoors, cover as much skin as possible by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and tall socks, and avoid wearing perfumes and colognes. Use an insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin on skin that is not covered by clothing. The more DEET or Picaridin a repellent contains, the longer the time it can protect you, so choose a repellent that provides protection for the amount of time that you will be outside. Spray insect repellent on the outside of your clothing (mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing), but DO NOT spray it on skin that is covered by clothing. Be careful not to get the repellent in your eyes or mouth. DO NOT spray aerosol or pump products in enclosed areas or directly on your face, and DO NOT use repellents on cuts, wounds, or irritated skin. When you’re finished working, use soap and water to wash skin and clothing that has been treated with insect repellent. Be extra vigilant from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active. What’s the key to a good driving record?October 6, 2008 When you’re driving, give it your full attention. Avoid distractions, such as adjusting the radio or other controls, eating or drinking, and talking on the phone. Be alert to situations requiring quick action. Stop about every two hours for a break and get out of the vehicle to stretch, take a walk, and get refreshed. Where do your emergency exits lead?September 29, 2008: Exits must lead directly outside or to a street, walkway, refuge area, public way, or open space with access to the outside. These exit areas must be large enough to accommodate the building occupants likely to use the exit route. Exits should be clearly marked and you should train your employees on the proper emergency procedure in case of fire or a chemical spill. A map of the exit route should also be posted in a visible area. With regards to chemicals, make sure that your local fire department knows the chemicals you store and their related hazards. What to wear around a chipper machine.September 22, 2008 Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety instructions. Use earplugs, safety glasses, hard hats and gloves. Do not wear loose-fitting clothing around a chipper and never reach into a chipper while it is operating. Workers should be trained on the safe operation of chipper machines, and new workers using a chipper should always be supervised to ensure that they work safely and never endanger themselves or others. Protect yourself from contacting operating chipper components by guarding the in-feed and discharge ports, and preventing the opening of the access covers or doors until the drum or disc completely stops. How far can you go on a good night’s sleep?September 15, 2008 Try not to have driving time or non-driving duties exceed 11 hours or 400 miles in one day, and take regular 15 minute breaks for every two hours of driving. Always be well-rested before driving, whether It’s for a short or long trip, and set a realistic goal for the number of miles that you can drive safely every day. Before climbing a tree to trim it …September 8, 2008: Always perform a hazard assessment of the work area before starting work so that you can eliminate or minimize exposure to hazards at the tree and in the surrounding area. Inspect tree limbs for strength and stability before climbing. Make sure to use appropriate fall protection if you are working aloft. Do not climb with tools in your hands. And, above all, do not trim trees in dangerous weather conditions. What takes only two seconds to do but could save your life?September 1, 2008: While driving, always wear your seat belt. Seat belts save more than 14,000 lives each year, and using seat belts cuts the risk of death by 45 percent for people riding in cars and by as much as 60 percent for those traveling in trucks or SUVs. |
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