Yearly Archives: 2010

General Safety Issues, Health Issues, Respiratory Safety

OCTOBER IS “HEALTHY LUNG MONTH!”

The American Lung Association has declared October – “Healthy Lung Month.”  Because our lungs are a very important part of our respiratory system, we need to do all we can to keep them healthy.  Bacteria, viruses, tobacco smoke, air pollution, chemicals – any of those things that we breathe can damage the airways and threaten to cause the lungs to not work properly. 

The air we breathe affects us at home, school, work, or outdoors.  Because the environment is full of pollutants, the media even gives us warning of pollen counts and other breathing hazards on a daily basis.  The United States Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.), Occupational Safety and Health Administration, (dictates standards to protect workers’ lungs), and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, (researches and generates knowledge of work-related illness), all are working to educate and enforce the importance of safety issues such as air quality for America’s workforce. 

In the workplace, respirators are an important tool of personal protective equipment to aide workers who must breathe in pollutants such as dust, chemicals, gases, fumes, oil-based aerosols, asbestos, and other air-borne particulates.  Respirators are also used in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, and by EMS/EMT, fire and rescue, school healthcare, industrial and manufacturing industries. 

Dust masks are loose-fitting filters that fit over the nose and mouth, capturing dust on the outside while the wearer breathes in air.  Respirators will have NIOSH marked on the outside, meaning they have been tested and certified.  There are many types of designs and uses of respirators.  The type of respirator to be selected depends on the hazards of each particular setting.  There are an estimated five million workers in the U.S. that are required to wear respirators in 1.3 million workplaces in the United States. 

 There are more than 159,000 deaths in the U.S. per year from lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control.  Although smoking is thought to be the leading cause of lung cancer, those workers who wear respirators are better protected from airborne hazards – many of which have been known to cause cancer, lung impairment, asthma, and other diseases, or death.   Last year, because of the H1N1 virus, respirators were in high demand.  I know several persons who wear a respirator when they travel, to avoid catching a “bug.”

It is important that employers take the time to check the air quality of the environment their workers are in every day.  Respirators should be selected and tested on each worker for proper fit.  The choice must be based on the workplace contaminants, concentrations, and all other specific conditions.  All selections should be compliant with State, Federal, and Local regulations on workers safety including but not limited to OSHA regulations on respiratory protection (29CFR 1910.134.)  Some respirators are suited for environments free from oil-based contaminants.  Others are used for types of gases, fumes, oil-based aerosols, and asbestos. 

We need to start our children out with healthy lungs, by keeping our homes properly ventilated and smoke-free.  It’s harmful for children to have to ride in a car that is full of smoke.  Outdoor activities are important for kids and adults, too, so report any locations that may cause pollution in your neighborhood.  Next, we need to be sure that their schools have healthy atmospheres.  They should be built with adequate ventilation and be cleaned regularly.  School buses may contribute to air pollution. 

Focus on good health for you and your family.  Keeping your lungs nice and pink is a smart thing to do.  Too many times we need to stop and take a deep breath, and if your lungs aren’t in good shape, it’s hard to do.

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

‘THINK PINK’ AGAIN THIS YEAR!

Because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you will probably see a lot more people wearing pink.  For the past twenty-six years, this project has promoted awareness and education regarding breast cancer, which is the most common cancer in women, with the exception of skin cancers.  Breast cancer is the country’s second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. 

National public service associations such as the America Cancer Society, medical associations, and government agencies have all joined together in promoting breast cancer issues.  Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also observed internationally during October, with many charities raising funds for research.  It was great watching NFL teams wearing pink this past Sunday-either pink gloves, pink wristbands, or pink shoes.  Check out your community’s plans for promoting this worthy cause, and see how you can participate.   

According to the National Cancer Institute, age is the single most important risk factor.  Other things to consider are:

  • Family history; About 30% of women with breast cancer have a family history of it.
  • Body weight; being overweight increases the risk, especially in post-menopausal women.
  • Lack of physical activity; exercise tends to reduce the risk of breast cancer and recurrence of it.
  • Alcohol consumption; drinking alcohol slightly increases the risk.
  • Gender; breast cancer is 100 times more common in women than men.
  •  Age; Studies show that older women are more at risk, with about 80% of all cases in women over 50.
  •  HRT: long-term (several years) of hormone replacement therapy slightly increases the risk. 

Early detection is very important.  Physicians or mammography centers can show women how to do self-exams, and annual mammograms can save lives.  Surprisingly, one-half of breast cancer cases show up in women over age 65; therefore, they should continue getting mammograms through their 70’s. 

You will see all types of benefits and activities in October, promoting this very important issue that affects thousands.  If you see a man wearing pink, tell him “thanks”.  Chances are he has a mom, grandmother, wife, or daughter that he hopes won’t have to face breast cancer, or that he knows someone who is fighting the battle.  There are over 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in our country, thanks to the hard work that cancer research and medical technology have provided.  These survivors are to be commended for their courage.  Support this worthy cause, either by walking in one of their planned walks, or giving money and any assistance that you are able to do.  Hopefully, cancer research will find a cure for this devastating disease.

There is no one that doesn’t look “pretty in pink!”

 

 

 

 

General Safety Issues

A COMMENT REGARDING “DRIVE SAFELY WORK WEEK”

3 Comments

October 4 – 8 is Drive Safely Work Week.  This years’ campaign is about the dangers of distracted of driving, and is sponsored by the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety.  How many persons on our nation’s roads drive trucks or buses for a living?  They have the responsibility to focus on driving safely every day.  The rest of us should do the same. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 40,000 Americans die on our highways every year.  Every twelve minutes someone dies in a vehicular accident on U.S. Roads.  Every 10 seconds someone is injured and has to be taken to an Emergency Room.  It is also estimated that in addition to the 40,000 Americans who die annually, another 270,000 are hospitalized, resulting in costs  exceeding ninety-nine billion dollars to states and our nation.  Even though the NHTSA (National Highway Transportation Safety Administration) says vehicle fatalities have declined in recent years due to newer vehicles having better safety features, and seat belt use has improved, the number of traffic deaths caused by distracted driving has increased. 

The agency reports that distracted drivers cause 4 out of 5 motor vehicle crashes in the U.S.  The main distractions are cell phones and gadgets. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration reports that more than 500,000 persons are injured and nearly 6,000 die in accidents annually caused by distracted drivers.  

If you think you have already read the above article, you have!   The following comment was sent to me from Teresa Breen, and it is an important message that I want to share with all our readers.  Please give her comment extra special attention: 

 “We lost our son March 15, 2009 because he was texting while driving. He had everything going for him, he was just 23, a United States Marine and father and he let something as silly as texting take his life. I have made it a point in my life to speak and teach any and everyone I can on these dangers so maybe just one family will not have to go thru the pain and suffering we go thru everyday. Please look at your last text and tell me, is it really worth dying over or possibly killing someone else?? Thank you,”

After reading her comment, I asked permission to share this message with our readers, and this was her response:

“PLEASE share, my husband and myself have made it our mission now to get our sons story out there and pray that it saves just one life. I am not sure I mentioned but we have done a PSA/Documentary for AT&T and also for a company named Motion Masters a learning video that is for schools and businesses. Your life is changed forever and there is not a waking second that you do not think of your child, a parent is not supposed to bury their child… Keep the articles going.. God Bless..”

So, again: put down the cell phone, or turn it off.  Those messages will be there when you are able to stop.  The cost of human life is worth more than some conversation on the phone.  Things can happen too quickly, especially when we are behind the wheel.  If you have to make a call, by all means, pull over and stop.  You will be much safer, and so will the others that are sharing the road with you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General Safety Issues

COMING ATTRACTIONS FOR OCTOBER SAFETY!

Can’t believe this is the last day of September!  I hope the days are getting a little cooler where you are, and that you are enjoying crisp, cool mornings!

There are so many safety topics that we will cover in October.  Because October is Fire Safety Month, and Fire Prevention Month, we will be talking about many of the ways that we can make our homes and workplaces “fire-proof.”

October is Animal Safety and Protection Month.  As an animal lover, it is particularly important to me that we all keep our pets as healthy and safe as possible.

National Cyber Safety Awareness Month is observed in October.  We all have heard of the horrible things that can occur because of persons that abuse the use of computers to do things that are unspeakable.  Whether it is personal identity theft, or harrassment, using a computer as a tool to harm others is unacceptable.

Another observance for October is Helmet Safety Month.  We talk a lot about the dangers of sports activities and work duties that are involved when helmet or hardhat is not worn.  Please be sure your kids wear those helmets when riding their bikes to school!

I think there’s even a Drive Safely Work Week in October, so looks like I have plenty of work ahead of me! 

A very important occasion for families is Halloween, especially if there’s little spooks involved.  Start making your plans now for a safe one for all concerned.  Map out the route you plan to take the kids, and go with them on that busy night.

Until tomorrow, enjoy your last day of September, 2010.

Eye Protection, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection

HAZARDS OF HOT WORK

Welding, cutting, soldering, and brazing in construction, maintenance, and fabricating activities are considered “hot work” when there is a potential fire hazard present.  Many lives have been lost due to explosions caused by vapors contained in tanks or storage vessels that were ignited by a spark or welders’ torch.  The U.S. Chemical Safety Board has investigated numerous accidents that had been caused when doing this type of work, and found that many companies had not filed for a permit to do the work, or conducted any safety planning beforehand for contract welders and other workers.  Risks involved in performing hot work are asphyxiation, electric shock, air contamination, fire, and explosions. 

When hot work is being performed in confined spaces, such as silos, ship compartments, furnaces, pipelines, vessels, pits, vats, tanks, degreasers, these procedures are essential to ensure the safety of all involved in the work: 

  • Have written permit identifying hot work to be done;
  • In-depth hazards evaluation of location;
  • Safety training in the hazards of hot work;
  • Empty and purge tanks beforehand;
  • Check tanks, vessels, and pipe for corrosion;
  • Test atmosphere for suitable oxygen content;
  • Perform gas monitoring;
  • Gas detectors should always be used prior to and during hot work;
  • Vapors rise as outside temperature warms up, so continuous monitoring is important;
  • Keep vents open;
  • Be sure valves are leak-free;
  • Be sure all power sources are turned off;
  • Have NIOSH/MSHA approved breathing devices when required;
  • Equipment should never block exits;
  • Have constant communication with rescue personnel close-by. 

If there is any doubt regarding the hot work to be performed, a professional environmental specialist should check the air quality and make specific recommendations for the welding/cutting situation.  Special precautions should be taken.  Welders perform all sorts of work on a daily basis.  They know the risks involved and are specialists in their field.  They also understand that there are several types of PPE that they must utilize:

  •         Fire retardant welder’s cap;
  •         Welding helmet that contains the correct filter shade lens;
  •        Gloves that are tough, long-lasting, comfortable, and meet the   needs and hazards of the particular job;
  •         Earplugs or muffs in case of loud noise while performing the job, as well as protect the ears from debris;
  •        Goggles to protect the eyes. 

Welding is a job that requires much training and skill.  It is up to each company that hires either its own welders or contract welders to ensure their safety at all costs.

Source: CSB

                 AWS.org

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

COULD YOU DO SOMEONE ELSE’S JOB?

Have you ever wondered if you could fill in for another employee at your workplace if they got hurt and were unable to work for a while?  Statistics show that many personnel absences are caused by accidents in the workplace.  If management has neglected safety measures and failed to do cross training for such occasions, everyone will suffer the consequences.  

Cross training procedures for absences in workplace management must meet with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s safety and procedural standards.  When companies do not follow those guidelines, they risk disaster for their employees and businesses.  Employees should be prepared for all types of emergencies.  With our present telecommunication systems, companies can conduct cross training for absences in the workplace for all employees in all work-shifts.  In the absence of a key employee, anyone would be qualified and able to perform safety standards and emergency measures for accidents and/or disasters.  More intensive training can be given in addition to computer-based plans. 

Do you know what to do in case of a bomb threat?  Fire? Emergency evacuation?  Does your management team conduct drills very often?  Do you have first aid training, and would you know how to respond to emergency needs of your coworkers?  Do you know where the first aid kit and first aid supply is?

Safety coordinators should be responsible for designating others to take their place in the event that they are not present at the time of an emergency.  There should be several persons that can conduct an orderly evacuation of employees, those who will stay in the premises for last-minute decisions, and someone to follow up and account for all employees.  It is very important that safety cross training is done.  Teamwork is a necessity!

If you work for a large company, and have noticed a job that you might be interested in, ask your supervisor.  People do best in the jobs that are suited for them.  Persons that follow the rules and are cautious in going about their duties, are ones that management recognizes.  Those that express a desire to learn different aspects of a variety of jobs are able to replace someone who may be absent due to illness or injury.  Being familiar with more than one job responsibility is beneficial to both the employee and company.  And companies may find they can do more with less, when they have employees that are able to “multitask.” 

Sometimes it may not be as easy to fill someone else’s shoes as it looks.  Everyone can stuff the “suggestion box” with great ideas,  but until you actually do someone’s job, you can’t know.  It certainly is admirable if you want to try!

General Safety Issues

AN INTERESTING JOB – BODYGUARD!

Most of the time we see bodyguards in movies, or television shows, and it looks like a very glamorous job.  Actually, we have no clue as to the actual responsibilities their job entails.  Of course, the United States Secret Service is one of the first occupations  that comes to mind.  They are highly trained officers, many of whom have combat experience.  These agents are willing to lay their lives on the line, if necessary, to protect their President, his family, other Executive Officers, former Presidents and Vice-Presidents. 

Weaponry that bodyguards may use depends on the jurisdiction where they work.  Some may legally carry concealed handguns, batons, pepper spray, or taser guns.  Others with more high-risk vocations may carry sub-machine guns or assault rifles.  Specialized weapons such as sniper rifle and shotguns, may also be used to protect clients.  Secret Service Counter Assault Teams are armed with a large variety of guns and rifles.  Those in high-risk assignments also wear body-armor vests, and carry folded bullet-proof shields that look like briefcases.  The United States Department Bureau of Diplomatic Security protects U.S. missions overseas.  Officers that were agents of the U.S. Treasury Department are now assigned to the Department of Homeland Security. 

Being a bodyguard involves all types of detailed work, such as pre-planning every trip or event their client has scheduled.  They have to check out buildings, hotel rooms, backgrounds  of people their client will be in contact with, and inspect the vehicles to be sure there are no bombs or other traps.  Some bodyguards serve as drivers, but there are usually other bodyguards along, as well.  There are close-protection officer ancillary units that check for IED’s and electronic “bugs.”  Most politicians and dignitaries around the world require bodyguards. 

Other types of bodyguards include those who protect their celebrity clients from paparazzi and stalkers.  Lance Armstrong has had the same two bodyguards since 2000, Erwin Ballarta, and his partner, Serge Borlee.  They are both well trained in defensive tactics.  Ballarta is a defensive tactics instructor for the Texas Department of Public Safety, and has 22 years of law enforcement experience.   Ballarta and Borlee have accompanied Armstrong on every Tour de France competition.  They meet with local law enforcement ahead of time to map out the entire ride, locate medical stations and trauma doctors, and even run along beside him across the finish line for each stage of the race to protect him from overzealous fans, boisterous crowds, and/or some even wanting to do him harm. 

Many private companies offer security for individuals on a continued  basis or for special occasions.  Their personnel may offer special cars, transportation, and take many other safety measures to protect their clients.  It is amazing how many people worldwide require bodyguards and special security systems.  The job requires being physically fit, having good hearing and vision, and available to work long hours.  They are very dedicated to the duty of shielding their client, whether a dignitary, celebrity, or any other person in need of protection. 

We should appreciate those people who have the expertise and are willing to keep others safe in a world that makes this such a necessity.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Respiratory Safety

INFORMATION ABOUT COMBUSTIBLE DUST EXPLOSIONS

1 Comment

Most industrial settings have hazards of all types.  One kind of hazard that is particularly acute during winter months is combustible dust.   We feel  it is important that we share some information on this dangerous situation that may be present in many businesses. 

The National Fire Protection Association indicates that 1/32” of  an accumulation of this kind of dust can rise to an explosion.  This is an amount equal to the thickness of a dime.  Any combustible material (and some materials normally considered noncombustible) can burn rapidly when in a finely divided form. Powdered products that are stored and transported in bulk bags can form combustible dust when the bags are filled or discharged. If such a dust cloud is hovering in air in the right strength, it can become explosive. Any source of ignition; a flame, heating elements, frictional spark, or electrostatic discharge can cause a detonation. Such an explosion can cause employee deaths, injuries, and destruction of entire buildings. These events have killed many employees and injured hundreds over the past decades.  Materials that may form combustible dust include metals (such as aluminum, iron, zinc, and magnesium), wood, coal, plastics,  paper, soap, and certain textiles. In many accidents, employers and employees were unaware that a hazard even existed.  Other industries at risk of combustible dust explosions are:  food, (e.g., candy, sugar, spice, starch, flour, feed), grain, tobacco, pulp, rubber, furniture, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and fossil fuel power generation. 

Dust Explosions are preventable.  The National Fire Protection Association has comprehensive information that can help manufacturers avoid these catastrophes.  They can assist company safety personnel, management, and others who are responsible for recognizing dust fire and explosion hazards byadvising  them in establishing control measures. Good housekeeping is of the utmost importance. Many manufacturers use industrial dust and fume collection systems in their facilities. 

One of the most important engineering controls available for improving or maintaining the quality of air in the work environment is ventilation. Ventilation is a way of controlling the environment with airflow. Facilities failing to furnish adequate maintenance of ventilation equipment, those workplaces operated to maximize energy conservation, windowless areas, and areas with high occupancies or confined spaces may have poor ventilation.

Personal protective equipment for employees in these industries includes respirators, hardhats, gloves, and eye protection, such as safety goggles.  Protecting the employees by furnishing the right PPE, and controlling risk factors in the facility should be the main goal of any business.  Those in charge should be aware of any previous fires their company has experienced.

Some of the above information was obtained from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board, an independent federal agency that investigates chemical accidents.  These board members are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.  They are comprised of chemical and mechanical engineers, safety experts, and others with vast experience in public and private sectors.  Following their investigations, they make recommendations to OSHA, EPA, individual organizations and labor groups. 

In 2003, the CSB launched investigations of three major industrial explosions involving combustible powders. These explosions – in North Carolina, Kentucky, and Indiana – cost 14 lives and caused numerous injuries and substantial property losses. The Board responded by launching a nationwide study to determine the scope of the problem and recommend new safety measures for facilities that handle combustible powders. The CSB issued its final report at a public meeting in Washington, DC, on November 9, 2006, calling for a new OSHA regulatory standard designed to prevent combustible dust fires and explosions.

Back Safety, Fall Safety, First Aid Safety, High Visibility Safety

FALL IS HERE!

In some parts of the country, it comes earlier than others, but September 23rd  is the first day of fall!   The northern states are already feeling cooler temperatures and seeing the changing of  colors.  It takes a little longer for those of us in the southern states; however, the early mornings are beginning to feel somewhat cooler.  For most of us, it’s a favorite time of the year.  Kids are back in school, football is in full swing, baseball playoffs are around the corner, and in general, it’s a great time.  

Fall brings a reminder of tasks that must be done to get ready for winter.  As the leaves begin to fall and cover the yard, the pleasure of raking them up is ahead.  Be sure to wear some good work gloves to avoid rubbing blisters.  Pruning trees is another chore, and should be done with extreme care.  Standing on a stepladder to prune trees isn’t a safe idea.  When you are lifting boxes full of trash and debris from the yard, remember to lift with your legs and don’t strain your back.  

Taking a drive on a beautiful fall day is a great idea.  There’s nothing better than seeing the array of colors.  Use extra caution, though, as there may be more animals crossing the roads during cooler days and evenings.  Deer, raccoons, skunks, and many other little critters are out and about, and not watching for you, so you must watch for them.  Those pretty leaves that fall from the trees can build up on the roads and create a driving hazard, if they are wet.  When wet, they become the same hazard as puddles or standing water.  They also may be covering potholes or other holes in the road.  Early cool mornings can also be foggy.  Fog is the single most dangerous condition a driver can encounter, so slow down. 

If you choose to take one last fall hike or outing, please consider using the same precautions that we have passed on to you before:

  • Take your cell phone.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
  • Watch for snakes, as they prepare for hibernation, they may be more restless.
  • Take along plenty of water, food, a first aid kit and supplies and flashlight.
  • Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot while you are camping.
  • Don’t attempt to get close to wild animals.
  • Wear high visibility vests and caps.
  • Stay alert to weather changes. 

Seasonal allergies also plague some of us in the fall.  Be sure you have some over-the-counter medication to take before they get the best of you; if necessary, ask your doctor to prescribe allergy medicine so you can enjoy the season. 

As you are driving to work, be sure to watch for children on their way to school.  Allow driving time to reach your destination without rushing.  As you go home, remember the days will be becoming shorter, meaning darkness will come earlier.  Enjoy every day of the season, and stay safe and well.  Be sure to get your flu shot if you haven’t done so already. 

One last reminder: your pets will notice the changes in the weather, too.  Be sure that those who live outside have good shelter, water, and extra food when the days get cold.  They are family members, too, and deserve to be well cared for.

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

IT’S ALMOST TIME FOR COLD AND FLU SEASON, AGAIN!

The first global pandemic that had occurred in 40 years hit worldwide last year!  A nasty virus called “H1N1 Influenza” spread throughout the globe.  Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.  It can be mild or severe, and can cause death in older persons, youngsters, and those who have certain underlying health conditions.  The H1N1 virus did not seem to affect older citizens as much as young adults, some of them in good health. 

Signs of influenza are body aches, chills, dry cough, fever, headache, and stuffy nose.  “Stomach flu” is not influenza.  There are certain antiviral medications that your healthcare provider may wish to prescribe for you.  Prevention is the key: annual flu vaccine.  Scientists make up a different vaccine each year because strains of influenza vary from year to year.  Experts are predicting we will see more of the H1N1 bug, as well as other viruses.  The 2010-2011 flu vaccine will protect against the 2009 H1N1 strain and two other influenza viruses.  If you take the shot, and still get the flu, the severity of it should be reduced. 

Symptoms of the common cold, which strikes more than one billion victims per year in the United States, are scratchy throat, runny nose, and sneezing.  Bed rest, fluids, gargling with warm salt water, using lozenges and throat sprays are common treatments for colds.  Colds are usually milder than flu and most often do not result in serious health problems.  Some over-the- counter medications might help.  Antibiotics will not kill viruses or prevent bacterial infections.  The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children not be given aspirin when they have a viral illness such as a cold.  Contact your pediatrician for best advice. 

When it comes to the common cold or influenza, here are some ways to help you  prevent and/or cope with either one of them: 

  • Avoid touching shared telephones, computers, stairway rails, doorknobs, money, and after doing so, wash hands properly!
  • Use alcohol-based disinfecting products for your hands.
  • Wash hands frequently, and teach your children to do so as well.
  • Try not to get too close to someone who is sneezing, coughing.
  • Stay away from others if you are sneezing or coughing.
  • If you have to sneeze or cough, sneeze or cough into your elbow, not hands.
  • While you are ill, stay home, DO NOT PASS GO, and get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids.  Don’t take your germs to work or school, get well first!

Other respiratory viruses that curculate during flu season are non-flu viruses that include rhinovirus – one source of the common cold, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) which is the most common cause of severe respiratory illness in young children and persons age sixty-five and older.

If you haven’t had your flu vaccine yet, think seriously about getting one.  Let’s try to stay ahead of the “bugs” this year!

Sources: Centers for Disease Control

Nat’l Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases