Yearly Archives: 2011

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

MORE ABOUT SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS!

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Because slips, trips, and falls are a major source of both home and industrial injuries, there are a few more things we need to present to you today.  Whose fault is it when someone falls?  There is certainly no room anywhere – at home, school, or work – where an intentional prank causes someone to fall.  You know, the old “pull the chair out from behind someone,” trick, where the one sitting winds up on the floor.  As we get older, we realize that a fall can have lasting health effects on people. 

Do you think that people get hurt because they just don’t respect safety regulations and procedures?  Normally this isn’t the case, according to studies.  It is usually a brief moment of inattention that ends in disaster, not a person’s indifference to safety procedures.  If you think about it, inattention can be identified as the root cause of injury in most every category of accident analysis (traffic mishaps, power tool injuries, aggression incidents, etc.).  In regard to slips, trips, and falls, inattention can lead to regrettable events ranging from a simple bruised shin to extremely serious consequences such as concussions, or even death.  Have you heard someone say, “I guess I just wasn’t thinking,” during an accident investigation?  Sometimes we are too wrapped up in a conversation, or thinking about the next job, or a personal problem or activity, that we forget to pay attention to the hazards around us.  From the State Office of Risk Management, Texas, here is an “Inattention Test” that might help:  Do you:

  1. Get bored easily?
  2. Lose track of conversations (having to ask, “What were you saying?” (Yes, I do!)
  3. Suddenly return to reality (after driving past your exit on the freeway)?
  4. Know your job so well you could   “…..do it with your eyes closed?”
  5. Daydream?

These examples and others show potential for inattention.  A person’s state of mind is his/her own personal property, and, of course, cannot be controlled by a boss or the workplace.  As a result, the supervisor must frequently emphasize to the workforce the consequences a loss of focus could cause.  Stay alert and don’t lose sight of what you are doing.  If you get in a hurry because you lost your train of thought, you might start walking too fast, or running, and lose your balance.  Distraction, not watching where you are going, carrying materials that obstruct vision and speed are common elements in many on-the-job injuries.  So, plan, stay alert, and pay attention!  Employees should report any slips, trips, or fall hazards that they identify at work.  Posters displaying fall warnings also should be placed in areas that are frequented.  Training is one of the most important keys to preventing falls at work.  No horseplay should be allowed.  It’s o.k. to have a little fun, but not at the expense of a personal injury and lost time at work. 

Last, but not least, at work or home, the lighting should be good.  Be sure you are aware of the location of light switches, and have a flashlight handy, too.  Proper lighting ensures that employees using stairways or elevators can be safe.  In homes with staircases, you certainly want adequate lighting.  Another tip for home or work: never use a chair as a ladder!  That’s an accident just waiting to happen.  If you go outside, be sure you have shoes that are safe to walk on wet sidewalks or slippery areas.  Older citizens usually pay a higher price after experiencing a fall, such as a broken hip, so any time you see someone who seems to be a little unsteady, offer them your strong arm.  As we said yesterday, do your best to stay upright, and avoid those messy slips, trips, and falls!

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

THEME FOR NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH – JUNE 19 – 25: PREVENTING SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS

Slips, trips, and falls represent the most common cause of workplace injuries, behind  motor vehicle accidents.  Slips, trips, and falls can result in head, back, and neck injuries, as well as broken bones, cuts and bruises.  According to the National Safety Councils’ 2008 injury facts, the average workers’ comp costs for slips, trips, and falls, was $21,500.  So we’re not talking about minor incidents. 

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety reports that 60% of falls happen at the same floor level.  The other 40% are falls from heights.  Even the slightest change in elevation surface (1/4” to ½”) can cause a trip or fall.  Caution signs should be placed in obvious areas to avert falls.  Those who work at heights should wear some form of personal fall arrest system – harness, lanyards, tie-off slings, etc. – one that fits the particular job best.  Falls from ladders, roofs, stairs, or jumping to a lower level causes many injuries.  Each of these risks demand different considerations in a fall arrest program.   Many homes have areas with lower-level family rooms, which are hazardous for visitors.  Homeowners should warn them to “watch their step” while visiting.  

Good housekeeping in a business is vital.  If these practices are not enforced, other administrative control measures implemented will never be fully effective.  Safety and housekeeping go hand in hand.  This is extremely true, especially when addressing the serious issue of slips, trips and falls.  If the facility’s housekeeping habits are poor, the result may well be employee injuries, rising insurance costs, and regulatory citations.  If the facilities are noticeably clean and well organized, it is a good sign that its overall safety program is effective as well.  Disorderly work environments can negatively impact the morale of employees who must function in a job site that is dirty, hazardous, and poorly managed.  Because slips, trips, and falls occur more than any other occupational injury, it makes good sense for the company to ensure that employees comply with a good housekeeping program.  This is a plan that should be part of each worker’s daily performance.  If each individual does his/her part to keep work areas clean, the housekeeping program will be a success.  The same rule applies to our homes.  If we don’t place things in their right place, someone is going to come along and trip over something that shouldn’t have been there.  Nightlights are good for preventing falls (or running into a wall) for overnight visitors who could get lost in the darkness in your home. 

Most falls can be prevented.  All we should do is follow this simple rule: watch where we are going!  We take walking for granted, so we pay little attention to potential hazards.  Here are some common fall hazards cited by the National Safety Council that we should watch for:

  • Hidden steps;
  • Wet spots;
  • Smooth surfaces;
  • Loose, irregular surfaces;
  • Oil and grease.
  • Obstacles in walkways;
  • Electrical cords in walkways;
  • Aisles that have boxes stacked and left in the way;
  • File cabinet drawers left open;
  • Tools left out. 

Many workers are required to wear protective footwear on the job.  Shoes that have slip-resistant soles help prevent  injuries.  Safety footwear is designed to protect feet against the most common types of injuries, impact, compression and puncture.  It is important to choose footwear according to the hazards present, but also be sure it is comfortable enough to wear for several hours.  

Tomorrow we will delve into this serious subject a little bit more.  Until then, stay safe, and remain upright!

 

SOURCES: CCOHS, SORM (Sstate Office of Risk Management, Texas), OSHA

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Health Issues, Weather Protection

TOO MUCH SUN, TOO LITTLE SUNSCREEN?

It seems that the U.S. is behind Canada and Europe when it comes to labeling sunscreen products.  In the past, manufacturers were not required to disclose how well their products protect against cancer-causing ultraviolet A, (UVA) rays.  Only the amount of protection against ultraviolet B was required to be on the label.  Both types of UV rays cause skin damage, including premature skin aging and skin cancer.  UVB primarily causes sunburn while UVA light is more damaging because it penetrates the skin farther, causing wrinkles and other problems. 

A beautiful tan is very attractive, but if the one who is working on that tan could only realize the results that might be caused later in life, they might forgo the tan and protect their skin.  A Sun Protection Factor (SPF) doesn’t offer insights into UVA protection.  

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States.  Each year, 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed and treated.  According to the American Academy of Dermatology, almost 20% of Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.  While most skin cancers are curable, squamous cell carcenomas kill 2,500 Americans each year, and melanoma kills 8,700 Americans annually, according to the American Cancer Society. 

It is important that we protect our youngsters now, because these cancers are developing while they are young.  My best friend has had all three types of skin cancers, and she must consistently go for biopsies and treatment.  She is very fair, and has blue eyes;  her dermatologist told her that this all began when she was a child.  

The labeling of sunscreen as sun block implies inaccurate information that makes claims the protection will offer more than 2 hours of protection, or is water-proof or sweat-proof -without indicating the length of time of full protection.  Experts recommend using a sunscreen of at least 50 SPF.  Studies show that some of the sunscreens that are most protective are not necessarily the most expensive ones.  

Until the new labeling is available, it is recommended that you slather on a glob of sunscreen the size of a golf ball and do so very often.  (You’ll go through a tube quickly, but it’s worth it!) Having to deal with skin cancer is not something you want to face, or for your children to have to go through.  If you have to be outside, wear a hat, protective clothing, and even take along an umbrella.  When swimming, apply that protective lotion religiously.

Safety sunglasses are manufactured that offer 99.9% protection from UVA/UVB/UVC rays.  Our eyes must also be protected from the sun at all times; even small children need that protection.  Thankfully, glasses have been designed to take care of the risks of exposure to UV rays.  Maybe next year we will have full disclosure of the protection we can expect from sunscreens. 

Source:ABC News

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection

FIRE IT UP SAFELY!

Someone hasn’t told Mother Nature that it’s not summer yet!   The first official day of summer is June 21st!  With the blazing hot days we have already experienced, there’s no telling how hot this summer is going to be.  One of the things that millions of Americans enjoy doing during warm (hot) weather is firing up the barbecue grill.  The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urges consumers to check their grills and “fire it up safely” to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.  Before lighting a grill, do a safety check. 

  • First of all, check SaferProducts.gov to be sure that your grill has not been recalled.  If it has been, contact the manufacturer and don’t use it until you get it repaired or replaced.
  • Inspect the hoses on a gas grill for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks.  Make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose or tubing and that all connections are secure.  Replace them if necessary.
  • Check for propane gas leaks.  Open the gas supply valve fully and apply a soapy solution with a brush at the connection point.  If bubbles appear, there is a leak.  Try tightening the tank connection.  If that doesn’t stop the leak, close the gas valve and ask a qualified professional to repair it.
  • Be sure the grill is clean.  By regularly cleaning the grill and grease trap, the risk of flare-ups and grease fires will be reduced. 

Now that you have checked the grill, be sure to operate it as safely as possible.  Here are some tips:

  • Place the grill on a level surface away from yard games and other foot traffic.
  • Cook outside only. 
  • Never leave a grill unattended. 
  • Keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
  • The outside surface of a grill can get hot and burn when touched.
  • Check the grill legs for stability.
  • Keep a garden hose nearby for use in the yard, in case of fire.
  • If a flare-up happens, adjust the controls on the gas grill or spread out the coals on a charcoal grill to lower the temperature.  If a grease fire occurs, turn off the gas grill and use baking soda or a kitchen fire extinguisher to put out the fire.
  • Don’t wear loose clothing.
  • Use long utensils.
  • Use gloves or mitts to protect hands.
  • Be sure the grill is completely cool before anyone gets near it after you have finished cooking. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association, June and July are peak months for grill fires.   Fire departments responded to fires started in hibachis, grills, or barbecues,  resulting in an annual average of 3,200 structure fires and 4,500 outside fires. These 7,700 fires caused an annual average of 13 civilian deaths (to the nearest ten), 120 civilian injuries and $70 million in direct property damage.   More than one-quarter (29%) of the home structure fires involving grills started on a courtyard, terrace or patio, 28% started on an exterior balcony or open porch, and 7% started in the kitchen.  Flammable or combustible gas or liquid was the item first ignited in half of home outdoor grill fires. In 49% of the home outdoor fires in which grills were involved, 56% of the outside gas grills, and 39% of gas grill structure fires, the fire started when a flammable or combustible gas or liquid caught fire. 

Anytime you are dealing with fire, there may be a risk.  Take precautions during grilling season.  Have a plan; be organized.  Get out those ribs, burgers, veggies, and other tasty treats and enjoy!  Just be careful.

General Safety Issues, Health Issues, Weather Protection

HEAT STRESS SAFETY – PART II

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Even though OSHA does not have a specific standard for heat stress, employees are protected under the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act because heat-related illnesses are a serious hazard.  The General Duty Clause states that employers are required to “provide a place of employment free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to its employees.”  Persons who work either outdoors, or indoors in hot buildings, seem to have accidents more often than in moderate temperatures.    If a person becomes overheated, the effect may be mental confusion, tiredness, and irritability.  These conditions can result in poor judgment and unsafe practices. 

Yesterdays’ installment discussed the causes of heat-related illness and symptoms to watch for.  These are ways that employers can protect their employees:

  • Train all employees to know the signs and symptoms and how to respond;
  • Schedule the hardest work during the coolest part of the day;
  • Encourage the buddy system; (working in pairs)
  • Furnish cool water and ask employees to drink one cup every 15 to 20 minutes; also encourage them to wear light-colored, loosing fitting clothing;
  • Reduce radiant heat by placing shields around hot machines or furnaces;
  • Discourage employees from eating large meals or consuming caffeine before and during work in hot environments;
  • Increase the amount of insulation on furnace walls;
  • Open windows and doors;
  • Use exhaust ventilators or air blowers;
  • Lower humidity levels by installing exhaust hoods over areas that release moisture; and
  • Provide tools and equipment that reduce physical demands on employees. 

Here are several ways to treat victims of heat exhaustion:

  • Provide cool water to drink;
  • Move them to a cool, shaded area;
  • Fan the person;
  • Cool the skin with a wet cloth;
  • Loosen and remove heavy clothing;
  • If he/she is dizzy, lay victim on his/her back and raise their legs 6” to 8”.
  • If she/he is nauseated, lay victim on his/her side.
  • Stay with the victim.
  • Call for emergency help if the victim doesn’t feel better in a short time.  If heat exhaustion is not treated, the illness may advance to heat stroke, the most serious heat-related illness.  Signs of a heat stroke are:
  • Dry pale skin (no sweating);
  • Hot red skin;
  • Mood change, (confused, irritable)
  • Collapse/unconsciousness;
  • Seizures, fits. 

Prompt first aid for someone suffering the symptoms of heat stroke should include the same first aid for heat exhaustion, plus:  Call for emergency help; lay victim on his/her back unless he/she is unconscious; remove any objects close by if victim has a seizure; provide cool water to drink if conscious; and place ice packs under armpits and in the groin area. 

Employees are at increased risk for heat-related illness when they:

  • Are dehydrated or fatigued.
  • Use improper work methods;
  • Have infrequent exposure to hot temperatures and high humidity;
  • Are over the age of 40;
  • Use certain medications (antihistamines, diuretics, and some tranquilizers)
  • Are in poor physical condition or overweight;
  • Have used drugs/alcohol within the past 24 hours prior to working in the heat;
  • Have heat rash or sunburn;
  • Have had prior heat-related illnesses;
  • Wear too much or restrictive clothing. 

If you happen to have a heat-related incident or if a co-worker experiences any of the symptoms we have described, this knowledge is invaluable.  For those supervisors who are fortunate to work in an air-conditioned atmosphere, do all you can to keep your employees as safe and comfortable as possible.  In a building, large fans will at least circulate the air. 

Source: OSHA, Texas Department of Insurance

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Health Issues, Weather Protection

HEAT STRESS SAFETY INFORMATION – PART I

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 Thousands of workers every year become sick from exposure to heat – some even die.  The thing we should understand is that these illnesses and deaths are preventable!  Each year, we strive to bring helpful information about how to survive seasonal weather, and the elements that workers and all of us are exposed to.  This spring has already brought extremely hot conditions to parts of the country, and several persons have  lost their lives. 

Today we are focusing on raising awareness of the risks of working in hot environments to both employers and employees, with the intent of reducing those risks.  Everyone should be able to recognize safety and health hazards of working in extreme heat, things that increase the risk of heat-related illness, signs and symptoms of illness, first aid, and preventive measures that decrease the risk of heat-related illness. 

When workers are exposed to air temperatures that are warm or warmer than our skin, sweating becomes the primary means of maintaining a constant body temperature.  If conditions of high humidity exist, however, the sweat is decreased and it makes it harder for the body temperature to adjust.   If employers will allow  workers a gradual time to adjust to this hot environment progressively, (about 5-7 days), there should be fewer heat-related illnesses.  Those who are not given time to adjust may be more likely to feel the effects of these illnesses.  In reality, most of the time, workers are exposed to the heat from Day One.   One of the most important things to remember when working in hot conditions is to stay hydrated by drinking water often.  Resting in a shady place and working earlier in the day will also improve work conditions.  Remember, drinking water on a regular basis puts less strain on the cardiovascular system. 

Excessive exposure to a hot environment can bring about a variety of heat-related health problems and illnesses, such as heat cramps, fainting, heat rash and heat exhaustion.  An employee that suffers from heat exhaustion may still sweat, but these other signs and symptoms may appear, such as:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Feeling sick to stomach, vomiting
  • Mood changes (confused or irritable)
  • Decreased and dark-colored urine
  • Light-headedness or fainting
  • Pale, clammy skin 

Employers must outline the proper personal protective equipment required for their employees to be able to handle the heat.  Polarized safety glasses are needed to protect the eyes from UV rays, and if hardhats are part of the PPE, there are cloth neck shields and sunshields  that attach to them.  Plenty of sunscreen should be used, an abundance of water should be available.  Some companies choose Gatorade to help their workers stay hydrated, also. 

Tomorrow, we will talk about other ways of preventing heat stress and how to treat a victim of heat exhaustion.  In the meantime, stay cool!

Source: Texas Department of Insurance, OSHA

General Safety Issues

TEEN DRIVER SAFETY – NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH (JUNE 12-18)

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From the time they were little kids, we have preached to our children about being careful – watch when you cross the street, don’t talk to strangers, don’t jaywalk, don’t ride your bicycle in an unsafe place, don’t be a bully, listen to your teachers, obey your parents, the list goes on and on.  Everything we have told our children from the time they were toddlers was for their own safety.  It is a big responsibility to teach children right from wrong, and to guide them to grow up to be responsible teens and adults.

Because science explains that the brain doesn’t fully mature until we are in our twenties, it means that some of the decisions young persons make until that time will be very important ones that will determine their safety and well-being.  Teen Driver Safety Week, which is sponsored by the National Safety Council, is held each June to educate and encourage safe behaviors around the leading causes of preventable injuries and deaths.  Motor vehicle crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens in the U.S.  More teens lose their lives in motor vehicle crashes than the next three causes combined – homicide, suicide and unintentional drug overdose.  They need to understand this, and also that the risk of being in a car crash is at a lifetime high in the first six to 12 months and 1,000 miles of driving.  This risk can be reduced by a combination of gradual exposure to higher-risk situations and practice under parental supervision.  

Parents are the key to basic safety driving skills for teens.  Here are some great suggestions from State Farm Insurance to begin a good driving instruction program:

  • Review the controls and features of the car.  Make sure your teen knows how each one works:
  • Dashboard controls;
  • Steering wheel and seat adjustment;
  • Mirror adjustment;
  • Turn signals;
  • Headlights;
  • Wipers;
  • Air bags and seat belts;
  • Emergency lights;
  • Parking brake/release;
  • Starting/turning off the engine;
  • Gas, brakes (especially ABS)
  • Warning indicator lights on dashboard.
  • The location of the  registration, insurance card and manual. 

I must admit I did not go over all that with our three teens.  I briefly explained things to them, and then we drove on some low-traffic unpaved roads.  Take your teen to an empty parking lot, and have them practice applying gas and brakes, driving straight, turning, and backing up.

This is the time to remind your teen driver to pay attention to the surroundings by (a)  looking ahead and to the sides; (b) checking mirrors; (c) scanning continuously for hazards, and (d) teaching your teen to keep a clear “safety space” around the car, so there’s room to react to any hazards.  The farther he or she hangs back from the vehicle in front, the better your teen will be able to see what’s ahead.  Seeing better and farther provides extra time to react to changing traffic conditions. 

Graduated Driver Licensing is a proven road to improving teen safety.  GDL is a novice driver licensing system that is proven effective at reducing teen drivers’ high crash risk by 20-40%.  States with more comprehensive GDL systems see a higher reduction in teen crashes.  GDL reduces teen driver exposure to high crash risk situations, such as nighttime driving and teen passengers.  This allows new drivers to build experience and skills in lower-risk situations.  The three stages of GDL licensure are: 1. A learner’s permit that allows driving only while supervised by a fully licensed driver. 2. An intermediate (sometimes provisional) license that allows unsupervised driving under certain restrictions including nighttime and passenger limits. 3. A full license. 

We all learn to be better drivers with experience in different situations.  Today’s drivers have too many distractions; teens need to learn to put those distractions aside and focus on the main goal: getting from point A to point B in one piece.  Any of us can make a wrong decision behind the wheel.  Teens are at jeopardy the most.  They have a unique mix of inexperience, distraction, peer pressure, and the tendency to underestimate risk. 

It’s up the parents and peers to encourage safety to their teens every time they get behind the wheel.  These young people have the right to take their place on the roads, we just have to help them understand the importance of keeping both themselves and other drivers safe at all times.

General Safety Issues

WILDFIRES CONTINUE………..

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We talked about the tremendous amount of wildfires that firefighters were battling in Texas, back in April, in an article called “Wildfires Are Taking a Huge Toll on Texas.”  It is sad to know that wildfires are continuing throughout the United States, from Arizona to the eastern Atlantic coast, and north to Delaware.  So many states are suffering from extreme droughts, and excessive heat.  Northern states have already registered unusually high temperatures, with several persons already losing their lives from the heat.  This year’s weather is really hard to predict, so far. 

In Colorado, over 400 firefighters are battling the Bear and Purgatorie Fires, which scorched 13,000 acres near  the Colorado-New Mexico border on Thursday.  As of Thursday, June 9th, the Bear Fire has destroyed roughly 6,900 acres and is almost 40 per cent contained.  The Purgatorie Fire, which has destroyed 6,100 acres is 60 per cent contained, according to a report from the Denver Post. 

In Eastern Arizona, the state’s second largest wildfire is raging on.  Although it quieted down last night (June 9), small fires are igniting from burning embers, causing new concerns about the prospects of extinguishing the 13-day old Wallow Fire.  So far, 337,000 acres of land have been destroyed, and main electric lines that supply power as far as West Texas are threatened.  Thousands have been evacuated from their homes. 

Since fire season started on November 15, 2010, Texas Forest Service and area fire departments have responded to 11,695 fires, which have burned 2,876,303 acres.  Yesterday, Texas Forest Service responded to 24 new fires for 7,651 acres, including new large fires in Coke and Hardin counties.  The Hollow Rock Mountain in Shelby County was contained at 425 acres.  In the past seven days, the Texas Forest Service has responded to 138 fires for 30,263 acres.  I want to thank Dwight Dold, who is a local fire department chief, for this information.  He has also given us these resources that will be helpful to everyone: 

Prevention Messages:

  • Firewise (firewise.org) is a resource for residents to protect their home and property from wildfire.
  • Remove flammable materials from around your home.
  • Develop an evacuation plan for your family.  Resources are available on the Firewise website and at texasfirestorm.org.
  • Obey outdoor burning bans. Don’t burn trash or debris when conditions are dry or windy.  Unsafe burning of leaves, brush, household trash and other debris is the No. 1 cause of wildfires in Texas.
  • Keep lawn mowers and agricultural equipment in proper working condition and avoid rocks and other materials that might cause a spark.
  • To report suspicious activities, call the Arson Hotline at (888) 501-3850.  If possible, safely obtain an accurate description of the person and/or vehicle (including the license number) before calling the hotline.
  • Humans cause more than 90 per cent of all wildfires.  Do not weld or cut without a spotter, a water source and a shovel. 

There are many things that persons who live in areas prone to wildfires can do to help protect their property, such as not having any shrubs or trees too close to the house, and replace roofs that catch fire easily with ones that don’t.  Pavement and brick walkways may help, as well. 

Thanks to Mr. Dold, who is very involved in fighting fires throughout Texas.  I know he and all volunteer and professional firefighters will appreciate everyone who does their best to prevent fires and observe burning bans.  Once a fire starts, it takes a long time to put it out, and in the meantime, there is a terrible price to pay, with the loss of property, livestock, wildlife, and the health and well-being of those who serve.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

LET’S TALK ABOUT SAFETY AND SWIMMING!

New research shows that swimmers may live longer than runners and walkers! Researchers thought that swimmers and runners would have a lower risk of dying, but they were surprised that the swimmers had a statistically significant lower death rate than runners.  This serves as an inspiration to hop right into that pool where you can get year-round, low-impact aerobic therapy, or just take a few laps,  and hope to live longer!  Low-impact exercise in pools doesn’t strain your lower joints as intensely as running and walking.  This certainly doesn’t mean to give up your running or walking, but it gives you another reason to jump on into a new method of exercise.  Some persons can’t walk or run because of arthritis, so this would be a way for them to get some healthy and fun exercise.

Swimming is such an important activity for young people, and it is very important that children learn to swim.  Parents can teach them at a very young age to not be afraid of water, by accompanying them in the pool, and using floaties, tubes, etc. to keep them afloat.  Swim lessons are vital to everyone to be able to enjoy boating, and other water activities.  Swimming and other water-related activities are excellent ways to get the physical activity needed for a healthy life, and millions of people enjoy oceans, lakes, rivers, pools, and spas each year.  Listed is information from the Centers for Disease Control regarding information about swimming and the risks involved, such as drowning, water-related diseases, and sunburn:

  • There are 8.8 million residential and public-use swimming pools in the United States.
  • Drowning is the 2nd leading cause of all unintentional injury deaths in children aged 1-14 years and the 7th leading cause of unintentional injury death for all ages.
  • Among 0-4 year olds, 69% of drownings for which the location was known occurred in swimming pools. (Many home pools.)
  • There are over 6.6 million hot tubs in operation in the United States.
  • Sunburn is a risk factor for both basal cell carcinoma and melanoma (types of skin cancer). In 2003, a total of 45,625 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed in the United States, and 7,818 persons died from the disease . (Please use sunscreen!)
  • Over 12 percent (13,532 of 111,487) of pool inspections conducted during 2008 resulted in an immediate closure, pending the correction of the violations.
  • A total of 78 recreational water-associated outbreaks affecting 4,412 persons were reported to CDC for 2005-2006, the largest number of outbreaks ever reported in a 2-year period.
  • Of 48 recreational-water associated outbreaks of gastroenteritis during 2005-2006, 64.6% were caused by one chlorine-resistant parasite: Cryptosporidium..
  • Of 35 gastroenteritis outbreaks associated with treated (for example, chlorinated) recreational water venues, 82.8% were caused by Cryptosporidium .
  • Because of its resistance to chlorine, Cryptosporidium (Crypto) has become the leading cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks associated with swimming pool venues. Reporting of cryptosporidiosis cases increased 208 percent from 2004 (3,411) to 2008 (10,500).
  • In the United States in 2007, almost 32 million individuals participated in motor or power boat activities .
  • In 2006, 3,474 persons were injured and 710 died while boating .
  • The U.S. Coast Guard’s 2006 statistics stated that approximately 87 percent of boaters who drowned were not wearing life jackets.

Never leave a child unattended at a swimming pool.  Always check  that the swimming pool water has been tested for Crypto.  Water activities are a lot of fun, but can be dangerous if not taken seriously.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

YOUR QUIET NEIGHBOR – PIPELINES!

You have probably seen this sign in your town or neighborhood: “Know what’s below, Call 811 before you dig.”  Did you know that there are more than 200,000 miles of liquid petroleum pipelines and 300,000 miles of natural gas pipelines in the United States?  The National Transportation Safety Board says that pipelines are the safest method for transporting these products.  Pipelines have a safety record unparalleled by any other means of transporting energy products.  When these products are transported by other methods, there is a greater risk to the environment and the general public.  About 24 per cent of all the energy used in the U.S. is natural gas, and gas utilities serve more than 60 million customers.  Because Americans consume more than 700 million gallons of petroleum products per day, pipelines are an essential component of our nation’s infrastructure. 

Most pipelines are made of steel, often covered with protective coating, and buried underground.  They are tested and maintained using cleaning devices, diagnostic tools, and other methods to control corrosion.  Interstate pipelines have an integrity management plan; you may contact them directly for more information.  In addition to liquid petroleum and natural gas, pipelines transport a variety of products for our everyday lives, such as oxygen for hospitals.  They may contain other types of gases, chemicals, hazardous liquids, refined products or crude oil, as well as nonflammable products.  Some of these materials could cause environmental damage, if a leak occurred.  Other products may be highly flammable or harmful if inhaled, cause eye or skin irritation and possible difficulty breathing.  Because of these hazards, it is important that you know how to recognize a pipeline leak. 

Using your sense of smell, sight, and sound will help you to be aware of a suspected leak.  If you see a dense fog, mist, or white cloud over a pipeline, bubbling in water and creeks, or blowing dust and discolored vegetation around the pipeline, there may be a leak.   Frozen ground at the pipeline in warm weather is another indicator.  Natural Gas is naturally odorless, so a distinct gaseous odor may be added unless a hydrocarbon smell exists, but usually you will smell a very unpleasant odor.  A whistling, hissing or roaring noise coming from the pipeline is also a sign of a leak. 

Here’s what to do if a leak occurs:

  •          Leave the area immediately.
  •          From a safe location, call 911 and the pipeline company, if possible.
  •          Move upwind from the suspected leak.
  •          Warn others to stay away.
  •          Assist with traffic, medical help, evacuation, or shelter.
  •         Keep curious onlookers away.

Here’s what NOT to do if a leak occurs:

  •          Do not touch, breathe, or make contact with leaking liquids or gas.  Stay upwind if possible.
  •          Do not light a match, start an engine, use a cell phone, turn on or off any type of electrical switch such as a  garage door opener, or do anything that may create static or a spark.
  •          Do not attempt to extinguish any pipeline fire that may start.
  •          Do not drive into a leak or vapor cloud area.  Automobile engines may ignite the vapors.
  •          Do not attempt to operate valves. 

Most pipelines are monitored 24 /7 per week to ensure the integrity and security of these lines.  Sophisticated computers, alarms, meters, and satellite technology may be used to control and monitor pipeline systems.  They are designed to detect changes in pressure and flow and will be activated if a leak is detected.  Some lines contain automatic shut-off valves that will isolate a leak.   Pipeline markers are placed for your safety, to show the approximate location of the lines and name the companies that operate them. They indicate the material transported in the line, the name of the operator, and a phone number where the company can be reached in the event of an emergency.  It is a federal crime for any person to willfully deface, damage, remove or destroy any pipeline sign or right-of-way marker. 

Call 811 before you dig.  Whether you are starting a project, landscaping, building fences or other projects, pipelines have a right of way that must be kept free from structures and other obstructions to provide access to the pipeline for maintenance, as well as in the event of an emergency.  First, call the pipeline company in order for their personnel to mark the pipeline or stake the rights-of-way and explain the company’s construction and easement requirements to you. 

One last thing: the Nation’s Infrastructures, including pipelines, are a matter of National Security.  If you witness a suspicious activity on pipeline rights-of-way, please report it to the pipeline company.  Threat advisories may be found at the Department of Homeland Security’s website, Source:  Texas Excavation Safety System