Monthly Archives: June 2009

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

FORECLOSED HOMES – “GREEN POOLS”

Once, it was thought that someone who lived in a $500,000 or $1,000,000 home had the world on a string.  But for many, that dream has become a nightmare.  Because of the declining economy of the past several years, foreclosed homes are dotting the streets all over the country…. modest homes or million dollar ones.  Persons who are facing foreclosure on their homes are not as concerned with the upkeep of the house when they know they won’t be there much longer.

One of the horrible realities of the more exclusive homes is the condition of the swimming pools, where families once played.  They have turned from turquoise blue to emerald green, or “green pools”, which are actually not so emerald, but a dark, murky green.  These pools are breeding grounds for millions of mosquitoes, which carry the West Nile virus, posing a health hazard for neighbors.

According to an ABC News report, Chris Miller, a biologist with Contra Costa Mosquito Vector and Control District in California, is in control of breeding tiny, cannibalistic fish – Gambuzia Affinis.  No larger than 2 ½”, they eat mosquitoes.  He says an adult female can eat up to 500 mosquitoes a day.  Bags of 150 fish are sent out with each pool crew dispatched to inspect green pools in his district.

These popular little fish are being used across the country to help with the problem of green pools.  After chemical solutions are used to suffocate mosquito larvae, the fish are then released into the water to eat the remaining larvae, gnats, algae and other vegetation. Abandoned pools should not be drained, as the pool walls can crack and cause damage to surrounding ground.  Also, a drained pool can partially fill up with rainwater, thereby creating a hazard to children who might wander into the yard.  The best option is to keep these pools filled and kept clean.

This responsibility should fall on the real estate agent who has taken over the property.  When a home is foreclosed, most times the electricity and water are turned off.  Someone has to see that that doesn’t happen, in order for the property to be maintained.  A well-kept property is much easier to sell than one that has become run down, and a hazard to the entire neighborhood.  There are many other health hazards that abandoned houses present.  As warm weather is here, the issue with the swimming pools has again surfaced, making those who live next to them victims of circumstance.

Back Safety, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Weather Protection

NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH WEEK 3: OVEREXERTION

What better time to focus on overexertion than at the beginning of warm (hot) weather?  Those who haven’t been exercising during the winter season may have decided to start working out to get back into shape.

Usually the first thing we think of is “no pain, no gain”.  But this is not the correct way to reach our goals.  Going beyond what our bodies can do usually brings about harmful results.  If you are working out at home or a fitness center, get some good advice from a trainer and pace yourself.  When exercising, if you are breathing heavily for a lengthy time, stop, and try something else.  Know your limits.  Swimming is an excellent aerobic activity.

Health problems can also be brought about because of overexertion.  Heat stroke can occur when a persons’ body cannot control its temperature.  If you are exerting yourself physically, there is a danger of heat stroke at a temperature as low as 75°, if the humidity is high.  Although not as serious as heat stroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion also can pose threats when a person perspires heavily and becomes dehydrated.  One needs to get in the shade, drink non-caffeine or non-alcoholic drinks, and if possible, take a cool shower or sponge bath.  Because the body loses salt through perspiration, cramps happen.

Other forms of overexertion, such as back strain, are a leading cause of workplace injuries, resulting in almost 3.5 million injuries per year.  Overexertion is sometimes linked to overachievement.  Doing a physically exhausting job too long harms our bodies.  Employers should consider the temperature extremes their employees are exposed to.

The following ideas are usually included in safety training of employees, but let’s review them:

  • Proper lifting techniques.
  • Have carts, wheelbarrows, or other equipment available.
  • Use of gloves for better grip.
  • Push, don’t pull load.
  • Good footing.
  • Don’t reach too far for something.
  • Don’t try to jump.

There are many other suggestions to help avoid overexertion.  The main thing is to use common sense.  Your body has a great warning system, and will let you know when you are overdoing it.  Pay attention!

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

HOT TIPS ON HEAT STRESS

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During the summer months, workers who are exposed to extreme heat should recognize symptoms of heat stress, and how it can be prevented.  Things that can lead to heat stress are: inadequate water intake, physical exertion, direct sun, high temperature or humidity, and some medicines.  Workers should stay hydrated and maintain a safe core body temperature, which should never exceed 100°F.  Ingesting fluids on a regular basis also puts less strain on the cardiovascular system.

Signs of heat disorders are:

  • Heat Stroke – This is the most serious heat related disorder.  Confusion, irrational behavior, loss of consciousness, lack of sweating (usually), an abnormally high temperature are primary signs of heat stroke, resulting in a medical emergency.  The worker should be doused with cool water and given fluids.  Drinks that contain alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar can cause workers to lose body fluid, and very cold drinks can cause stomach cramps.  Cool fluids are easier to drink and more easily absorbed into the body.
  • Heat Exhaustion – This is the result of a combination of dehydration and excessive heat.  Headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, giddiness, and thirst are symptoms.  Workers with heat exhaustion should be given fluids, and encouraged to rest.  Workers can stay hydrated by keeping containers of fluids handy at all times.
  • Heat Cramps – Caused by an electrolyte imbalance caused by sweating and lack of water replenishment.  Workers in hot environments should drink water every 15 to 20 minutes and drink carbohydrate-electrolyte replacement liquids (e.g., sports drinks).
  • Heat Rashes – Most common problem where skin is persistently wetted by sweat.  Creams or ointments should not be used as they keep the skin warm and moist, and may worsen the condition.  Powders may be applied.

A reminder to workers: be sure to drink fluids before becoming thirsty; if you wait, your body is already dehydrated.  Wear a wide brimmed hat if your work doesn’t require a hardhat, use sunscreen, and wear OSHA approved safety glasses that have the proper UV protection.  There are many other products on the market to help you “keep your cool”.

Source: OSHA
CDC
Airgas

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety, Uncategorized

HIGHEST PANDEMIC WARNING LEVEL DECLARED TODAY

It has been our goal to keep you informed of the progress of the H1N1 virus, formerly known as swine flu.  The World Health Organization raised the pandemic warning level from phase 5 to 6, which is its highest stage, which confirms that this new flu virus is circling the globe.

The mystery behind the H1N1 virus remains unsolved; it is an illness that is affecting young and healthy persons that are usually not susceptible to flu.  Also, it is continuing through warm weather, when flu usually subsides.  Although thousands become ill from flu annually, this strain is different, and scientists worldwide are continuing to develop a vaccine to prevent persons from becoming ill from it.

This is the first global flu epidemic in forty-one years.  Mexico, the United States, Australia, Europe, Asia and South America all are experiencing confirmed cases.  Most cases are mild, but because it is spreading, countries need to continue being prepared in order for health care providers not to be overwhelmed.

The United States has been increasing availability of flu medications, and the government has authorized $1 billion for developing a new vaccine.  Michael Osterholm, a flu expert at the University of Minnesota and adviser to the U.S. government on pandemic preparations, stated that this declaration of a pandemic is a wake-up call for the world.  He stated that “we don’t know what the next six to twelve months will bring.”

Source: AP

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection, Home Safety Products, Uncategorized

IS YOUR HOME “AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN”?

How closely have you checked your house for hazards?  Since June is “Home Safety Month”, this is an excellent time to remind you of the many chances for you or a loved one to be injured in your very own home.  According to the Home Safety Council, making a checklist is a good way to start.

Going room by room, you will be surprised at what’s lurking….. even your computer!  Yes, we said your computer.

New research has shown that more people are showing up in emergency rooms with computer-related injuries, according to Jennifer Thomas, reporter for HealthDay.

From 1994 to 2006, there was an increase in injuries of 732 per cent nationwide from 1,300 per year to 9,300 per year of persons tripping over computer wires or getting hit by falling equipment. Ms. Thomas reports that a study published in the online issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, stated that more and more people are using computers, and over a 13-year period, around 78,000 people had computer-related injuries.  The report suggests that computers should be kept on a wide work surface to ensure they won’t tip over, and cords need to be away from walking areas.  The study revealed that children under the age of 5 had the highest injury rate, with the leading cause of injury tripping or falling over computer equipment.

Here are some other areas you need to add to your checklist:

  • Bathroom:  For chemicals or poisons.  Also, are there mats on the floor so there’s no slipping?  Don’t leave medicines in drawers that are within reach of children.
  • Kitchen:  Also check for poisons, chemicals, cleaning solutions that are accessible to children.  Fire extinguisher.  Do you have one and know how to use it?
  • Stairways: Be sure rails are in good shape.  Is the area well lighted?  Check for loose carpet.  Also have safety gates installed at foot and top of stairs if there are toddlers in the home.
  • Living Room/Den/Dining Room: Be sure furniture is tip-proof.  Adults, as well as children, have been hurt by furniture that tips over.
  • Hallways: How often do you check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors?  (A good rule of thumb is every spring and fall when the time changes.)
  • Windows:  In warm weather, be sure you have strong window screens.  Also, remember that cords from mini-blinds have been known to cause injury and death to small children.  Adjust them so there are no loops that might get into the wrong hands.
  • Outside:  Again, don’t leave chemicals or pesticides where pets or children will find them.

Keep your home clutter-free.  Chances are better that no one will get hurt if there’s no danger of tripping.  Take the time to look around to see just how many ways there are for you to keep your “Home Sweet Home” safer!

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

HOW SAFE ARE YOUR WINDOWS?

This may sound odd, but when it comes to child safety, the type of window coverings you select may play an important part in keeping your little ones safe.

One of the many tasks we have when we buy a new home or move into an apartment is choosing window treatments.  Whether we have children, grandchildren, or an occasional toddler visit our home, we must be aware of certain hazards that are present.  If you select blinds to cover your windows, be sure they are the new type of cordless ones.
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that on the average, once every two weeks, a toddler or infant dies from strangulation from window blind cords.  Blinds made prior to 2001 do not meet child safety regulations.
Little ones love to climb up to look out of the window, and if they slip and fall, they could become entangled in the cords.  Infants in cribs that are placed too near a window may grab a cord, place it in their mouth, and get it wrapped around their neck.
Here are some actions you may take to ensure safety regarding this hazard:

  • Never have furniture near dangling cords in windows.
  • Buy new cordless window blinds.
  • Consider other window treatments, such as shutters or curtains.
  • If you have older blinds, get retrofit kits to make them safe.
  • Never place cribs near windows.
  • Keep the child away from blind cords.

If you want to adjust the existing blind cords that you now own, the USCPSC recommends eliminating loops on 2-corded horizontal blinds by cutting the cord above the end tassel (looks like a small wood or plastic thimble).  Remove equalizer buckle and add new tassels for each cord, or replace it with a safety break-away tassel.  Do not retie the cords in a knot, as that only recreates a new loop.  Or, you can lower the blind all the way, cut cords as close to top of blind as possible and then re-install tassels.  Parents can reach, but the tots cannot!  Otherwise, use old-fashioned cord cleats, which are available at most window covering stores.

Recently, we learned of a tragic accident involving some type of cord hanging from a treadmill.  A little four-year old girl died after becoming strangled by this cord.  So, parents, you can’t be too careful when it comes to toddlers’ safety.

The Window Covering Safety Council provides free retrofit kits: cord stops, tassels, and tie-down devices.

Their toll-free number is 800-506-4636.  You can contact them at their website or give them a call for more information.

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

National Safety Month Week 2 – Fall Prevention

Falls happen as a result of tripping, slipping, or falling from elevated places such as ladders, stepladders, roofs, trees, or many other hazardous places.  Both at home and the workplace, good housekeeping is a necessity to prevent such occurrences.  Carpets or floors should be in good condition, and the environment should be clutter-free.

When going to a shopping mall or hospital, many times we see the floors being mopped.  There are signs warning us of a wet floor; however, it’s so easy to just walk on through, disregarding the chance of taking a fall.  We need to be aware at all times just how simple it is to take a fall by merely not paying attention to our surroundings.

Falls are the most common cause of fatal injuries to construction workers.  All workers should take the time to ensure that their working conditions are as safe as possible.

Please take heed to these fall-prevention ideas:

  • Never stand on a chair on furniture to reach high places; use a stepladder or ladder.
  • When you are going up or down stairs, hold on to the rail.
  • If it is required for your job, wear personal fall protection.
  • Do not carry a load you can’t see over.
  • Walk, don’t run, and watch where you are going.
  • Wear non-skid, waterproof shoes if you work in an area where there are spills.
  • Be sure the work area has adequate lighting.
  • Ensure that your work area has enough working space to avoid collisions.
  • Avoid blind corners in workspaces.

Here is some information on ladders:

  • The ladder you choose for use should be in good condition.
  • Hold on while climbing the ladder.
  • While working, keep one hand on the ladder.
  • Be sure it is set up on a firm and level surface.
  • Construction ladders have duty ratings:

Type I supports up to 250 lbs.
Type IA supports up to 300 lbs.
Type IAA supports up to 375 lbs.

Be aware that the consequences of a fall can be very serious.  At home, work, or play, take the time to avoid injury.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

FIRE ANTS!

There are several proper names for these tiny ants, but the stings of these critters burn like fire, hence the name.  The FDA estimates that in the United States more than $5 billion dollars is spent annually on medical treatment, damage and control in infected areas and more than $750 million in damage annually to agricultural assets, including veterinarian bills and livestock loss, as well as crop loss.  There are over 280 species of these pesky ants worldwide, and it’s amazing that something so small can cause so much misery!

These ants will attack anything that disturbs their nest (mound).  The sting of a fire ant develops into a blister-like sore very quickly.  These can become sites of secondary infection.  Severe reaction in hypersensitive individuals can occur, and they need to seek medical attention quickly.  Individuals need to use insect repellents and spray it on their clothing and footwear when outdoors in Fire Ant Territory.

One last interesting fact:  (especially to female readers).  Roles played by fire ants:

  • There’s the famous Queen.  She may live 6 to 7 years, producing up to 1,500 eggs per day.
  • Males – Mate with Queen and defend her when mound is attacked.
  • WORKERS –     Sterile female ants whose responsibilities include: build/repair nests, care for young, defend nest and feed both young and adult ants.

There are many chemicals used to kill fire ants.  Other experts recommend using non-toxic methods.  If you choose the chemical route, be sure to understand the side effects on other wildlife, i.e., birds.  Some persons believe in using natural methods such as boiling water, dry ice, or lye, but if you try that process, you must understand exactly how to properly use them without injuring or burning yourself.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

PET SAFETY FLEA & TICK MEDICATIONS

After seeing a disturbing report on the nightly news, and being an animal lover, if this information saves one animal and its owner from a bad reaction to flea and tick treatment, it will be worth writing.

The report was about spot on treatment for ticks and fleas used on dogs.  Dr. Steven Hansen, Veterinary Toxicologist and Director of Animal Poison Control Center at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says that in general,  most of these treatments have good safety records.  If used appropriately, in healthy animals, there are very few bad reactions.  The cases they see are where treatment is misused.

Topical pet treatments are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency.  The number of incidents stemming from spot on flea treatments (drops applied directly to pets’ skin) has increased 53% from the previous year to 44,263 cases in 2008.  The EPA is doing an intensified evaluation of these products.  There are many consumers that have avowed to never use these products again.

One of the common misuses of these products is that they are used on cats rather than dogs.  Dr. Mark Stickney, Director of General Surgery Services at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Science says the chemical permethria, contained in spot on drops, causes cats’ nervous systems to go into overdrive.  This chemical may be found in flea powder, as well, so cat owners should be cautious.  A list of specific uses, as well as age and weight requirements are on the product labels; therefore, owners should read them carefully before using.

If you use one of these products and there are side effects:

  • Don’t double up on powders and sprays plus spot on treatment.
  • Immediately contact your vet.
  • Contact the product manufacturer and give product number.
  • Save the box, so the manufacturer can have information of the exact product used.

Greenpaws.org advocates ways to take care of fleas without chemical treatment.  They also furnish complete information on various chemicals and their side effects.

Suggestions to prevent fleas on your dogs include:

  • Give pet bath regularly.
  • Wash pets bed with hot water the same day you bathe them.
  • Vacuum carpets often, which helps eliminate flea eggs.
  • Consider using pills, as they are the safest options containing the least toxic chemicals.

This information is meant to help you decide what type of treatment you may choose for your animal.  The condition of the animal’s health has a lot to do with whether or not they will have a reaction to treatment that contains certain chemicals.  Our pets are part of our family, and we want them to have a safe summer, too!

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

JUNE, 2009

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So far, this year has had its fill of ups and downs.  From bankruptcies, a bad economy, to Swine Flu (H1N1), we’ve pretty much seen it all in the first five months.  We’ve witnessed miracles, from the U.S. Airways’ safe landing on the Hudson River, to the landing back on earth of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, following their 13-day mission to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope.  Sports fans have had their annual thrill of watching the Super Bowl, March Madness, the Masters Golf Tournament, and the Indianapolis 500.

The National Safety Council announced that June is National Safety Month, and they are encouraging companies to get their employees involved in preventing injuries.  Good information and free materials are on their website.  Safety is always on our minds, and especially as the weather gets hotter, we must remember to use the proper precautions at work to stay as hydrated as possible, and wear hats, sunscreen, safety glasses with U.V. protection, and take all other measures to stay cool.  At work or play, keep safety in mind.

June 14th is Flag Day in the U.S.  June 21st marks Father’s Day, as well as the beginning of summer!

In thirty more days, we will be half-way through the year.  Make the most of every minute of every day.  Look forward to the good times and be thankful for what we have.  Let’s all do our part to make the rest of 2009 a year we can look back on with pride.  In closing, we’d like to share some ideas written by a 90-year old woman:

1.    If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back!
2.    No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.
3.    Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift.
4.    Don’t compare your life to others.  You have no idea what their journey is all about.