Yearly Archives: 2009

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

TEXAS RANGERS ARE FIGHTING THE “BUG”

Not in law enforcement, but in Major League Baseball, an article in the Fort Worth Star Telegram Saturday, July 25, stated that Vicente Padilla, pitcher for the Rangers has been confirmed as having the H1N1 virus. (According to television news, he is the first professional player in any sport that has contacted the virus.) For the past several days, announcers for the Rangers have been mentioning during broadcasts of Rangers games that various players have been ill with flu-like symptoms.

Thad Levine, Assistant General Manager of the Rangers, reported that cultures have been submitted to the health department, but at the present time Padilla is the only team member with the virus, and that he is feeling better and expected to possibly play next Tuesday in Arlington.  Other players have been experiencing flu-like symptoms.  The team is taking all the standard precautions, and after receiving advice from team doctors and MLB officials, will not treat this any differently than common flu.  Tamiflu, a widely-used medicine to fight influenza, has been prescribed to all team members who have had signs of the illness.

Many more of these stories affecting sports teams will probably surface, as it is predicted by health officials that we will be facing the H1N1 virus head-on until a new vaccine can be developed.  Five different U S vaccine makers are working vigorously to produce a vaccine that will help prevent this virus that is spreading throughout the world.

Until then, the best ways to prevent contacting H1N1 are to keep yourself in good condition, wash your hands with warm soap and water, or use hand sanitizer.  Many times germs from viruses remain on doorknobs, cell phones, countertops, stair rails, and other things that are used by more than one person, so pay attention to things you must touch, and again, wash your hands often.

Source: Ft. Worth Star Telegram

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT MACULAR DEGENERATION

1 Comment

More than eight million Americans have a problem that isn’t easily corrected:  macular degeneration.  There is a small area at the back of the eye called the macula that allows us to see fine detail.  When the macula becomes damaged, vision toward the center of the area we are focusing on becomes dimmer and hard to distinguish.  Two types of macular degeneration exist: wet and dry.  The dry type is more common and reduces central vision more slowly.

Wet macular degeneration happens less frequently, when abnormal blood vessels develop in the back of the eye and break and leak fluid underneath the macula.

Most cases of macular degeneration are associated with aging.  The American Academy of Opthalmology recommends that persons between the ages of 40 – 54 years have a comprehensive eye examination every two to four years.  Between the ages of 55 – 64, they should have these exams every one to three years, and after age 65, have one every one to two years.

Experts have made the following suggestions that we all can apply, regardless of age, in order to try to prevent the onset of macular degeneration:

  • Eat fish.
  • Limit fats in the diet.
  • Exercise.
  • Have a healthy lifestyle, and maintain a normal weight.
  • Eat plenty of fruits, nuts, and dark green leafy vegetables.
  • As your physician about taking antioxidant vitamins containing zinc.
  • Be extra vigilant if there’s a member of your family that has had it.
  • Don’t smoke; it increases the risk five times more than for non-smokers.

If you begin to notice changes in your vision, or see blurry lines on reading materials, consult your physician.  He/she may recommend that you see an optometrist or ophthalmologist.  Treatments that can possibly slow vision loss include:

  • Photodynamic surgery;
  • Injections of medicine into eye;
  • Laser surgery.

These procedures are done only by opthalmologists.  Other aids that may help those whose vision is getting poor are magnifying glasses, better lighting, and large print books and newspapers.  A study done last fall showed that people who live in sunny locations are more susceptible to macular degeneration, as the rays from sun can damage the cells of the retina, so wearing sunglasses with UV protection can help.

So, do as Popeye does: eat your spinach, and keep those eyes healthy!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

DO YOU REALLY NEED THE EMERGENCY ROOM?

Americans make almost 120 million visits to emergency departments each year.  Most of these are for injury or poisoning.  Not every ER visit is needed.  There are lots of folks who would prefer to go to the ER than wait in a clinic during normal hours.  However, it is frustrating for physicians to get waked up in the middle of the night to attend to a patient with a sore throat or some other minor illness that could be taken care of in the clinic, rather than a costly visit to the hospital ER.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that about one in eight ER visits was for a non-urgent reason.

You need to have a plan: Before an emergency strikes:

  • Know the location to the closest emergency room.
  • Lower your risk for this need by caring for chronic conditions you might have, by taking your medications regularly.
  • Have all your drug, allergy and medical information together so you can bring it in case you must go to the ER.

The American College of Emergency Physicians report that any of these warning signs suggest medical emergencies:

  • Shortness of breath, trouble breathing
  • Uncontrollable bleeding
  • Fainting, dizziness, or weakness
  • Sudden, severe pain or unusual belly pain
  • Pressure or pain in the chest or upper belly
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea
  • Coughing or throwing up blood
  • Changes in vision or mental status
  • Trouble speaking
  • Feeling suicidal

If you think someone has had a stroke, remember this helpful information:  Think about the first three letters S-T-R.
S  Smile – Ask the individual to smile.
T  Talk – Tell the person to speak a simple sentence.
R  Raise – Ask person to raise both arms.

If there is a problem doing any one of these things, call 911 immediately.

By all means, if you have emergency needs, go to an ER.  Hospital personnel strive hard to furnish quality healthcare.  But remember, that emergency department is just what it says: Emergency!

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HAND AND ARM PROTECTION

Employers must take care by conducting extensive hazard assessments to ensure that potential injury to arm and hands of workers is avoided.  The employer should determine which type of protection is needed for the utmost security, by selecting the proper glove, finger guards, arm coverings, or elbow-length glove that is appropriate for the task at hand.

There are many numerous selections of cotton work gloves, leather gloves and hand protection.  We encourage you to consider what hazards exist in your work surroundings and then make your choice. (There’s even gloves with a light on them for working under the hood of a car!)  Whether you are an employer, employee, or performing jobs at home, it’s important to make the right choices.

Factors that should influence your Personal Protective Equipment decision in choosing gloves:

  • Types of chemicals you are exposed to.  Also the nature of contact (splash, total immersion.)
  • Duration of contact.  Area of body that requires protection.
  • Grip.  (Dry, Wet, or Oily).
  • Thermal Protection.
  • Size and Comfort.
  • Abrasion/Resistance Required.

Gloves generally fall into four groups:

Different styles of gloves available
Different styles of gloves available

  • Leather, Canvas or Metal Mesh
  • Fabric and Coated Fabric
  • Chemical and Liquid-resistant
  • Insulated Rubber Gloves

We hope by handing you this information, you will be able to choose the most fitting gloves.

Source: OSHA

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues

SPOTTING EYE HAZARDS ON THE JOBSITE

Work-related eye injuries alone cost over $300 million dollars per year, in lost production time, worker compensation, and medical expenses.

OSHA says there are two main reasons:

(1) Workers weren’t wearing any eye protection. By some estimates, as many as three out of five injured workers weren’t wearing eye protection at the time of their accident.

(2) Workers were wearing the wrong kind of protection-the eyewear did not effectively protect against the specific hazard they faced.

Employers should know the risk factors facing their employees and properly train the workers to wear the appropriate eye protection prior to beginning their duties.  If employees determine there are chances of eye injuries occurring that have not been addressed, they need to immediately notify their supervisor.  Companies should strictly enforce their personal protective equipment policies.

Workers who are exposed to hazards such as molten metal, dust, dirt, wood chips, liquid chemical splashes, flying particles, gases or vapors, caustic liquids, infection-related materials, and light radiation must wear the appropriate eye and face protection.  Improper or poor-fitting eyewear will not ensure safety from eye injury.  If workers wear prescription lens, there are safety glasses that comfortably fit over the prescription glasses, or some safety eyewear can be made with the prescription in them.  Contact lens wearers must wear eye/face protection when working in hazardous settings.

Types of EyeProtection:Types of Eye Protection

  • Safety Spectacles – Impact resistant lenses; safety frames are usually made from metal or plastic. Side shields may be added for further protection.
  • Welding Shields – Vulcanized fiber/fiberglass with filtered lens, protect from infrared burns, radiant light sparks, slag chips, and metal.  Shades on the shields are numbered, and the welder must use the correct shade number according to tasks being done to secure eyes from harmful light radiation.
  • Laser Safety Goggles –Protect from intense concentrations of laser light. These are special goggles.
  • Face Shields – Sheets of transparent plastic, (sometimes polarized), which goes from eyebrows to below chin and across width of head.  They do not absorb impacts; however, they work well with goggles or safety spectacles against impact hazards.  Protect face from splashes, dust, sprays, etc.

One could lose their eyesight in a matter of seconds; therefore, it makes sense to take a little time to put on protective eyewear before entering the jobsite.

Source: OSHA

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

PLAY IT SAFE IN THEME PARKS

This is the time of year when theme and amusements parks are packed with kids and their parents or grandparents.  While they are anticipating going to magical and fun activities, it’s a good idea to plan how you can make it a safe experience for the whole group.

Here are some tips that should help:

  • If you are going to a large theme park, check a map for the locations of first aid stations.  It’s a big help if you know where to go for assistance, should there be an accident.
  • Carry Benadryl or some type of allergy medication in case of food or other allergies.
  • Accompany small children to the restroom.  They get to a certain age that they think they can go alone, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
  • Be sure you are well-hydrated two to three days before your trip.  Continue drinking more water and less sugary drinks during the park visits.
  • It helps to take short breaks. Don’t push all day long to be sure you see everything.  A rest in the shade, or even a return to your hotel for a while will make the whole group less stressed.
  • Take plenty of sunscreen, hand sanitizer, or wipes.  Wear sunglasses, hats/visors and comfortable shoes.  It is also a good idea to wear socks and running/walking shoes rather than sandals.
  • Dress your kids in brightly colored clothing, so you can easily spot them, should you become separated.  Having just returned from a four-day theme park trip, I noticed several groups were wearing identical T-shirts, which made it easier for them to find each other.
  • Cell phones are a great way for families to communicate with their teenagers who want to do their thing, while moms and dads take the little ones to ride or see shows.
  • If the rides have restrictions, such as height limits, don’t try to put your child on something they are too small for.  If you have health problems such as high blood pressure, pay attention to the warnings posted at the high-speed rides.

Most park attendants are there to ensure their visitors have a safe and fun experience.  If you have questions or need assistance, they will be happy to help you.  These parks have safety policies and procedures; however, if you have had any unsafe experiences, be sure to let them know.

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

DECONTAMINATION SOLUTIONS

Waters after hurricane/flood/tornadoes can be contaminated with sewage, industrial waste, microorganisms, chemicals, and other substances that can cause illness or death.  In these environments, it becomes necessary for volunteer and rescue workers to begin the tasks of decontaminating the properties that are still standing.  An important step in preventing disease is to disinfect clothing, tools/equipment, and work area surfaces.

Good old household bleach solutions can be used for decontamination purposes when working in these environments.  It is important to workers and volunteers that good hand hygiene is established.  Hands should be washed with clean soap and water if at all possible.  If only contaminated water is available, use ¼ cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water.  When cleaning hand tools, immerse them in the solution.  Severe surface decontamination needs to be disinfected using a solution of 1½ cups of bleach to 1 gallon of water.  Allow this to stand 3 minutes.

It is important to mix bleach solutions fresh daily, just before use.  The solution needs to stand for 30 minutes before using.  Wipe electric or battery-operated tools with bleach solution.  It is also imperative that you wear gloves, and eye protection when cleaning clothes, tools, and surfaces.  When mold is present, use respirators (N-95 recommended).  Never mix ammonia products with bleach.

Because there is such a threat of disease, all precautionary measures should be taken by workers, volunteers and homeowners.  Wearing proper personal protective equipment is of the utmost importance.

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

DOWN ON THE FARM – PESTICIDES

As we drive down the highway, going through beautiful farmland, most of us don’t have a clue as to what goes on behind the scenes to create such a picture, and produce a successful crop.  Pests are a huge concern to farmers, and we want to share some information on the subject of pest control.

Pesticides help our agriculture industry through the EPA’s (Environmental Protection Agency) Integrated Pest Management system.  In agricultural settings, their approach is that less risky pest controls are used first (biopesticides).  The second stage is determining the level at which the pest is an economic threat to the crop.  Next, to monitor and identify when and what type of pesticide is needed.  Rotating different crops, pest-resistant varieties, or pest-free rootstock can be a more economical way to deter damage from pests and provide little or no risk to humans and the environment.  Broadcast spraying of a non-specific pesticide is a last resort.

New EPA safety requirements are meant to protect agricultural workers against pesticides used in crop fields.  Soil fumigants are pesticides that go into the soil and create a gas that kills several types of soil-borne pests in the fields.  This type of pesticide can cause health problems ranging from eye or respiratory irritation to more severe and irreversible effects.
Since these are restricted-use pesticides, only specially trained personnel can apply and oversee these types of operations.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, responsible use of soil, air and water resources for the production of food, feed and fiber must be balanced with the need to minimize impacts on human health, and preserve natural ecosystems.  As agrochemicals remain a cornerstone of pest management in U.S. agriculture, there is a continuing need to evaluate environmental transport processes and factors in assessing risk and in the development of mitigation strategies. Research is needed for an understanding of fate and effects. Such efforts will permit better science-based decisions as a basis for policy regarding the use of agrochemicals in U. S. agriculture.  Farmers need a variety of sustainable production options since no production system will be appropriate for every set of circumstances.  The use of agrochemicals must be evaluated due to the ecological risks associated with them.

Pest control is just one of the many problems that our agriculture industry copes with as they produce the nation’s food.  Keeping farm workers safe from the effects of pesticides is foremost.

USDA
EPA

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Hearing Protection

GIVE YOURSELF A HAND!

Tools are such a common part of our lives that it is east to forget that they pose serious hazards.  Hand tools range from axes to wrenches, and we need to keep them in top working condition in order to keep ourselves in good working condition, as well!  We need to protect ourselves with goggles, safety glasses, gloves; in other words, choose the right personal protection when using hand tools.

  • Wooden handles on hammers or other tools that are split or splintered should not be used, as the head of the tool could fly off, possibly resulting in pain for someone!
  • If wrench jaws are sprung, the wrench could slip.
  • Saw blades, knives, should always be turned away from employees working close by.
  • Mushroomed heads on impact tools, such as hammers, may cause shattering on impact.
  • Dull knives and scissors are more unsafe than sharp ones.
  • Pliers should not be substituted for wrenches.
  • Use the correct size of tool.
  • Store tools in safe places.
  • Iron/steel hand tools may produce sparks that could possibly be an ignition source close to flammable substances.
  • Employees and individual do-it-yourselfers should be properly trained in using hand tools.
  • Be aware that working with certain hand tools pose risks to fingers, hands and eyes.

These four basic rules can prevent hazards:
1.    Keep all tools regularly maintained and in good condition.

2.    Use the right tool for the job.

3.    Check each tool for damage before use, and don’t use tools that you find are damaged.

4.    Use the right personal protective equipment.

So, when you are do-it-yourself-ing: remember these tips!  If so, you will deserve to give yourself a hand, and a pat on the back!

OSHA

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, Weather Protection

“SUMMERTIME, AND THE LIVIN’ IS EASY”

Employers know that their personnel face year-round hazards, but summer brings extra ones, such as heat stress, exposure to pesticides, and venomous insects and snakes, just to name a few.  Workers in parks, recreation, highway departments, forestry, construction, paving, painting, and agriculture must deal with all the hazards that hot weather brings while performing their job duties.

Employers should train their workers well; they should be given the chance to acclimate to the heat gradually.  An estimated 46% of reported heat illness cases occurred the first day on the job; 80% reported cases of heat illness within 4 days of beginning a job.  Persons that are physically fit become acclimatized 50% faster than those who are not in good shape. However, during a heat wave, even previously acclimatized employees are at risk.  The body must have time to adjust to sudden, abnormally high temperatures or other extreme conditions.

There are many ways companies can help make the workers better able to do their job comfortably.  Furnishing shade in rest/break areas is very important.  Portable canopies or umbrellas can be set up, and use misting machines, or spray them with water.  Employers should be sure they wear hats, safety glasses (sunglasses), and proper protective clothing.  During heat waves, it would be best to work early morning or evening shifts, and avoid overtime and double shifts.

Other important ways that employers can ensure the health and safety of their workers are:

  • Educate them on ways to prevent heat stress.
  • Be sure they know what to do if a co-worker seems to be experiencing heat-related illness.
  • Provide plenty of water.
  • Adjust work schedule to provide workers rest from the heat.
  • Rearrange nonessential duties.
  • Supervisors should monitor workers and be sure they are staying hydrated.

Employers are required by OSHA to provide that workplaces are free from recognizable hazards, both indoors and outdoors.  It is up to the companies to know in advance what their employees will confront and guarantee that their environment is a safe one.

Source:
NIOSH
CAL/OSHA