Yearly Archives: 2009

General Safety Issues

SHORTCUTS AREN’T SAFE!

Can you name one shortcut in work that is safe?  The only safe shortcuts that I know about are the ones on your computer!  Don’t we all take shortcuts at one time or another?  Have you used your chair instead of a stepladder to change a light bulb?  How about jumping or climbing over a fence, rather than use the gate?  Do you ever jaywalk?  How hard would it be to wait for the next elevator, instead of rushing and almost getting crushed by the doors?

With the economy in a slump, some companies are taking the low road when it comes to safety training and monitoring.  Workers are taking on the responsibility of doubling their workloads, due to downsizing.  When both new and existing personnel are not properly schooled in safety procedures and policies, the result can be devastating.  In addition to injury or fatalities, they must contend with OSHA fines, workers compensation claims, and lawsuits.  Therefore, the best investment companies can make is to keep their employees safe.  Safety meetings and rewards for safety performances of employees are helpful, but a company’s consistent promotion and monitoring of safe work ethics is imperative.

It is each person’s job to take responsibility for his/her own safety, as well.  We have some suggestions that individuals should follow:

  • Never be complacent while doing your job.  Look out for yourself, and your co-workers.
  • If you run equipment, keep it in good working condition.
  • Have a positive attitude.
  • Use sound judgment.
  • Don’t do something foolish because you are in a hurry.
  • Don’t climb over something or use a rope to get somewhere rather than using steps.
  • Don’t expect others to keep you safe; you must be responsible.
  • Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment for the job.
  • Always take the safe route, not necessarily the shorter one, but the safe one!
  • Warn others if you see they are in a dangerous situation.
  • Be sure you understand your exact job description.
  • Be reliable and have a positive attitude about safety.

A lack of knowledge about your job, poor attitude, and the failure to use good judgment can result in serious injury or death.  Remember: shortcuts can shorten your life.  A slogan from the Mine Safety Health Administration is “Safety depends on what you do or don’t do!”

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

SMALL TOYS – BIG HAZARDS!

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For those who are shopping for toddlers this Christmas, there are many safety factors to keep in mind.  The national news last week issued warnings to keep child safety foremost when considering what toys to purchase.  Choking is the #1 cause of toy-related deaths and injuries, according to a report made by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group in its 24th annual “Trouble in Toyland”.

Their organization focuses on four types of hazards:

  • Loud toys that can cause hearing damage; toys that are close to the ears shouldn’t be more than 65 decibels.
  • Lead-tainted toys;
  • Plastic toys that contain chemicals call phthalates;
  • Small parts that can choke youngsters under age 3.  If a toy can fit in a toilet paper tube, it is too small for children under age 3.

In 2009, 5.3 million toys were pulled from store shelves due to choking hazards. In the past two years, 13 children nationally died due to choking.  Toys with magnets are also unsafe.

Chairwoman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Inez Tenenbaum, stated that parents should be more confident that toys are safer this year than in the past, because the government is enforcing the new Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, passed earlier this year.  The Toy Industry Association reports that they are pleased to be working with these two groups and agrees that toys should be safer this year than ever.

When it comes to all children, we can’t be too cautious.  From toys to cribs, (some drop-side types that have been recalled due to suffocation), it pays for parents and grandparents to go to the CPSC website (cpsc.gov) or other sites that list toys and children’s products that have been recalled.  It is truly amazing how many items that children wear or play with can be so dangerous, and have been recalled.

One example is children’s sweatshirts with drawstrings.  A small child was strangled when the drawstring got hung on playground equipment.  For tots under age 3, it is recommended that the strings be removed.

For all of Santa’s helpers, please keep safety in mind!

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing, Weather Protection

HOW TO STAY TOASTY IN FROSTY WEATHER

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As winter is creeping up on us, and probably already has in some sections of the country, it’s important that we know all the tricks of staying warm.  For those who work in the outdoors, it is very important to be protected from the elements.  Employers are responsible to see that working conditions do not put their employees’ health at risk, so they should inform workers on what to expect and how to protect themselves.

In earlier articles, Cold Stress Equation Parts I and II, we have gone into detail about this very subject; Part II especially describes how to recognize and prevent frostbite and hypothermia, and what to do to if a person experiences either of these.  As stated earlier, it is important that layering the right types of clothing with a waterproof top layer is a good plan.

Eating small, hot, and even spicy foods give the nervous system a warmth signal that encourages blood flow to the extremities.  Drinks with caffeine constrict blood vessels, making the extremities colder.  Alcohol is dehydrating and suppresses shivering, the involuntary muscle contractions that help the body warm itself.  Tobacco also constricts blood vessels and cools the body by reducing circulation.  (It goes without saying that alcohol shouldn’t be consumed while working, anyway, but if you are outdoors for hunting or sports,  keep this in mind – it won’t warm you up!)

There are products made especially to help keep you warm.  Keep these in mind when looking for just the right thing:

  • Slush boots, rainwear
  • Winter liners
  • Gloves
  • Earmuffs
  • Coveralls

Outdoor exposure should be limited if possible, but for those who face working outdoors on a daily basis, stretching the muscles before work helps warm up the muscles and prevent muscle pulls.  Remember to drink lots of water, as well.  A change of dry clothes can come in handy when having to endure windy, humid days.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

IS IT ALREADY DECEMBER?

Where in the world has 2009 gone?  We have 31 days left of this year, and we need to do all we can to make this hectic time a safe and healthy one!  With the upcoming celebrations, keep driving safety in mind, watching for the other drivers, as well.  Getting ready for the holidays is great fun, with all the extra goodies at work and parties!  Then reality hits (with a few extra pounds), and New Year’s Resolutions are made!  Maybe it would be a good idea if we don’t indulge quite as much during December; then we won’t have that many extra pounds to worry about.

Notable days in December are:

  • World AIDS Day is December 1 (Tuesday)
  • Pearl Harbor Day is December 7  (Monday)
  • Hanukkah begins December 12 (Saturday)
  • 1st Day of Winter – December 21 (Monday)
  • Christmas Eve – December 24 (Thursday)
  • Christmas – December 25 (Friday)
  • Kwanzaa begins December 26 (Saturday)
  • New Year’s Eve – December 31 (Thursday)

December 6 – 12 is Hand Washing Awareness Week, something we have all preached about with the H1N1 virus hanging around!

December is also National Month of:

  • Human Rights
  • Read A New Book
  • Safe Toys and Gifts
  • Love Your Neighbor
  • Universal Human Rights
  • Colorectal Cancer Awareness
  • Stress-Free Family Holiday Month (love this one!)

There are too many to list, but here are a few Days Of that are recognized:

  • Disabled Persons Awareness
  • Extraordinary Work Team Recognition Day (Dec. 4th) (Good one!)
  • Teacher Appreciation Day
  • Don’t Be a Scrooge

Enjoy this busy time of the year, and as always, keep safety in mind, both at work or play.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH HOSPITAL ASSOCIATED INFECTIONS?

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The World Health Organization reports that at any given time, approximately 1.4 million people worldwide are suffering from infections they received at a healthcare facility.  I personally know of one of those persons.  Following his second hip surgery, a family member got an infection, which required several days in the hospital, surgery to take care of the infection, and six weeks of home health care providers who administered large doses of penicillin through a portable IV.  The process was successful; however, it caused a lot of pain and discomfort, as well as mental anxiety, as to whether the treatment would work, or if another surgery would be needed.

Three types of infections that can be received in hospitals or healthcare settings are:

1.    Ventilator Associated Pneumonia.  VAP has the highest morbidity and mortality of Hospital Associated Infections.  This type of infection will increase patient time in the ICU by 4-6 days.  Estimated costs for each incident ranges from $20,000 to $40,000.

2.    Surgical Site Infections.  Costs from these types of infection from invasive procedures amounted to $10 billion in the United States alone annually.

3.    Cross Contamination.  Patients and healthcare workers are better protected from cross contamination by consistent hand hygiene.  Clean hands are the most important factor in preventing the spread of dangerous germs in healthcare settings.  Hand contamination is reduced by 70-80% when wearing gloves.  The importance of personal protective equipment, such as masks, gloves, surgical gowns, and other medical clothing cannot be overstated.

Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, dentist offices, and other healthcare industries work hard to provide excellent infection control.  However, due to growing public anxiety, more pressure is being put on state and local legislators in regard to hospitals’ responsibility of controlling, combating, and reporting hospital associated infections.  There are numerous types of infections that can occur, but patients deserve to have the peace of mind that their return home will be a healthy one.

Source: haiwatch.com

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

THINK SAFETY WHEN TOY SHOPPING

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We all know how busy Santa must be right now!  He’s probably checking that list for the last time!    If you know any of his helpers, these are a few tips they might consider:

  • Buy age-appropriate toys.  Even though some children are exceptionally bright, most toys’ designs are suited for their age.
  • Be aware of toys that may contain lead paint.  Federal limits for lead in paint dropped to 90 parts per million, the lowest in the world, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
  • Check labels and do not assume that all toys are safe.  They must be properly labeled.
  • If you purchase toys online, be careful, as hazard warnings are not always given.
  • Avoid toys with cords or long strings, as they could cause strangulation in small children.
  • Toys for tots should not have sharp edges or points.
  • Be sure soft, plush animals are washable and have secure eyes and noses that won’t come off.
  • You can be assured that little ones are going to put anything they can in their mouths, so be careful in choosing the size of squeeze toys, rattles, etc.
  • Paints and crayons should have ASTM D4236 on the package (American Society for Testing and Materials).For grade school children, helmets should be given along with bikes, scooters, skateboards, or inline skates.
  • Purchase arrows or darts with soft tips.
  • BB or pellet guns should not be purchased for children under age 16.
  • Avoid balloons, magnets and toys with small parts when selecting gifts for children under age 6.
  • If you choose electric toys, be sure they have the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) seal, to ensure the parts have been tested for safety.
  • Grandparents and other relatives should confer with parents when selecting certain toys, especially if they require supervision.

In 2008, the Commission reported 19 toy-related deaths and approximately 172,700 hospital emergency room toy-related treatments to children under 15.  Nearly half of these injuries (82,300) involved children under 5 years of age.    In order to make this holiday a joyous one, take time to consider the safety factors in selecting just the right playthings for your youngsters.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

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There are various opinions about the origin of this holiday, which is celebrated by the United States and Canada.   Some facts we have found are that the first Thanksgiving was celebrated in Texas, by the Spanish explorer, Francisco Vasquez de Coronado in 1541.  Pilgrims gathered in 1621 to celebrate a successful harvest.  In the United States, in 1939, the fourth Thursday in November was named as the official holiday.  The second Monday in October is Canada’s national Thanksgiving holiday.  There are probably many other theories about when and how the holiday began, but the main theme of today’s article is to have a Happy and Safe one!

This is the time of year when folks become rushed, getting ready for the big day!  The most dangerous and deadly time of the year is from now through the end of the year, according to traffic statistics.  Drunk drivers, drivers and passengers who are not wearing seatbelts, and those simply in a big hurry, account for accidents that can cause not-so-happy memories for all involved.  Even if you are going to save lots of money getting to that “Black Friday” sale the day after Thanksgiving, consider the consequences and slow down!

Here’s a few basic, common sense hints to make your holiday feast successful:

  • In planning your meal, keep in mind those who might have food allergies.
  • Childproof your home.
  • Prepare the meal safely; use protective gloves when handling hot dishes.
  • If you choose a fresh turkey, do not purchase it until 1-2 days before you plan to cook it.
  • Thaw your frozen bird in the refrigerator 24 hrs per each 5 lbs.
  • Lest you forget to thaw the turkey, you may thaw it in the microwave if it isn’t too big; be sure to use the power level for thawing, and cook immediately once it is thawed.
  • Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking.
  • Use the refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days.
  • Keep Fido or Tabby safe this Thanksgiving; a little turkey meat won’t hurt, but don’t give them bones from the bird, as they can splinter and be dangerous.  Foods that are spiced with garlic, etc., are not meant for animals.  Your beloved pets will be just as happy with their regular diet.

We hope that each and every one will travel safely, not eat too much, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

DON’T BE A TURKEY THIS THANKSGIVING BUCKLE UP AMERICA. EVERY TRIP. EVERY TIME.

This is the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s theme for Thanksgiving season, beginning November 16th and going through November 29th.   Law enforcement agencies will be cracking down, coast to coast, day or night, to enforce one of their main objectives: seat belt use.  During the 2008 Thanksgiving holiday period, (November 26 to December 1st) of the 231 passenger vehicle occupant deaths that occurred in crashes at night, two-thirds, or 67% did not have their seat belts fastened (where seat belt use was known).  Forty per cent of the 156 daytime fatalities during that period were not wearing their seat belts.  The NHTSA says that regular seat belt use is the single most effective way to protect people and reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes.

Several states have passed laws requiring passengers in back seats to also buckle up.  Drivers and passengers should be aware when they head out for the holiday (or any other time), that “Click It or Ticket” is a certainty if they are caught unbuckled.  Statistics show that nighttime is the most dangerous time on the road because seat belt use is lower.  Chances of death to front-seat passenger car occupants is reduced by 45% and the risk of moderate to serious injury is lowered 50% when lap and shoulder belt are used correctly, so why take the chance?

Along with the NHTSA, we want to share our hopes that you always use caution and follow the law when driving, especially during the holiday season, which begins November 16 and concludes January 3rd.  Don’t drive impaired, don’t speed, use cell phones with care, and please don’t text while driving.  Keep those youngsters buckled up properly and see that you all arrive at your celebrations safely.

We especially liked a couple of many posters the NHTSA has as part of their campaign:
“Forty-five million turkeys will die for Thanksgiving Day – Don’t be one of them!”
and  “Make sure the only belt left unbuckled this Thanksgiving is the one at the dinner table, not the one in your vehicle.”

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

NOVEMBER IS AMERICAN DIABETES MONTH

Before we let the month of November slip away, we want to remind you that for those who have some type of diabetes, every month is American Diabetes Month!  The American Diabetes Association works diligently to provide resources throughout the country to spread the word to help Stop Diabetes!  There are 24 million children in the United States that have diabetes; 57 million Americans are at risk for Type 2 diabetes.  If current trends continue, one out of every three children born today will face a future with diabetes.

Here are three types of diabetes:

  • Type 1 – Body does not produce insulin, which helps the body use glucose from food for energy.  This type is mainly developed during childhood or adolescence, but adults can also develop Type 1 and require insulin replacement therapy.
  • Type 2 – Body does not make or is resistant to insulin.  Often preventable, this type of diabetes can be handled with exercise, healthy diet, and overall lifestyle change.  Blood sugar levels must be checked regularly, with use of medicines if needed.  This type of diabetes is preventable in many cases.
  • Gestational Diabetes – Occurs in pregnant women who otherwise do not have diabetes.  This type usually goes away after pregnancy.  Mothers-to-be are monitored closely to be sure their blood glucose levels stay at a safe level.  Those who have experienced this type of diabetes usually need to watch their weight, exercise, and make healthy food choices before and after delivery.  They do have a higher chance of developing Type 2 diabetes later, so it is wise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Diabetes can be a devastating illness.  Persons with diabetes are at greater risk of heart attack, stroke, amputation, and kidney failure.  Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults. Those with diabetes should not smoke.  Persons with diabetes need to keep blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol under control.  They should also wear a medical ID necklace or bracelet so medical personnel will know they have diabetes, in case of an emergency.  The average medical expenditure to those with diabetes is 2.3 times higher than those without it, with $1 out of every $5 they spend going toward healthcare.

We urge everyone to get the word out that we need to give money, share stories, and do whatever we can do to help stop this serious disease, and find ways to prevent it for future generations.  Check out the American Diabetes Association’s site to gather more good information on this serious disease.  Most of us either have family members or friends who have diabetes, and we need to be more involved in the challenge of stopping this disease.

Source: American Diabetes Association
National Diabetes Education Program

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

WATCH FOR COPPERHEAD SNAKES!

Because there are many hunters and other adventurers out in the forests at this time of year, we’d like to warn you about a certain little critter that just may not have hibernated yet – the copperhead snake.  Copperheads heavily occupy the eastern United States, but are in several southern states, as well. They also live in parts of Mexico, such as Coahuila and Chihuahua.   North Carolina has the distinction of the most venomous snakebites in the United States.

“Copperhead bites are typically not fatal,” says Dr. Peter Bromley, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Specialist in Zoology.  Most bites from copperheads are not as serious as from other venomous snakes, such as rattlesnakes and cottonmouth water moccasins because they do not inject as much venom in their bites.  However, bites from copperhead snakes are extremely painful and may cause extensive scarring and loss of use of limb where bitten.  Don’t take chances; avoid these snakes.  Seek prompt medical attention.  Bites may be fatal to small animals, so if you suspect that your pet has been bitten, get him/her to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Copperheads are distinctively marked with hourglass shaped bands on their bodies, and so-named because of the copper color of their heads.  Young copperheads have bright yellow tail tips.  These snakes normally hibernate in October, but in warmer climates, be sure to watch for them, as they are easily camouflaged by their markings, and may still be rustling around.  Take care when you are strolling through the leaves or forests!

If you live in one of the states where copperhead snakes (or any venomous snakes) reside, keep these tips in mind:

  • Keep your lawn cut low;
  • Remove rocks, limbs and other debris from the yard;
  • Wear shoes when you go outside;
  • Use extra care when you are around rocks, logs, creek banks, etc;
  • Watch for snakes to visit your garden, porches, and decks.  (They enjoy sunning, too!)
  • Keep a First Aid Kit handy  – you never know when you may need it!

Experts say that most times copperhead snakes will avoid humans; they usually freeze when they feel threatened.  Persons who try to catch or handle them risk being bitten.

It isn’t uncommon for those who live around copperheads to be bitten while doing some simple outside task.  I had a friend that got bitten when she reached into a bucket in her yard.  It took a long time for her hand to heal.

When in your yard, watch for uninvited guests; when it’s in the snake’s yard (forest, etc.), watch even closer!