Monthly Archives: March 2013

General Safety Issues

TEN THINGS MOMS DO THAT COULD GET IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW (GUEST POST)

Parenting is a tough job under the best of circumstances, but there are things that can get mothers into legal trouble today that wouldn’t have been frowned upon at all in previous generations. While some of the transgressions on this list are far more serious than others, all of them can lead to trouble with the law if you’re discovered behaving in such a manner.
  1. Leaving Kids in the Car Unattended – This may seem like something a good parent would never do, but it’s actually far more common than you might realize. News reports tell of kids who were left in the car and died due to heat stroke or freezing on a regular basis, many of which never make it past the local level of news outlets. You probably think that you would never do such a thing to your child, but then may make exceptions when situations seem to call for them. Even attentive, dedicated parents will leave their kids unattended for “just a second” to run into the store or drop something off, never realizing the danger. Leaving your child in the car unattended for any reason is not acceptable, and can lead to very serious legal trouble if you’re discovered.
  2. Failure to Use Proper Vehicle Restraints – Some police officers get very riled up when they see parents driving with kids unbuckled or not in the proper car seat for their weight and height. Most parents have encountered times when the kid just didn’t want to stay in the car seat, and may even consider letting them briefly take the belt off. It can be very stressful, but it is much better to stop and handle the situation rather than let your child remove the seatbelt.
  3. Spanking – “Spare the rod and spoil the child” is an axiom that older generations grew up with. Now, in many states, spanking is banned. Some parents have had to deal with Child Protective Services as a result of physically hitting their child in public. Whether or not you believe spanking is acceptable, knowing the laws in your state is still a wise move.
  4. Leaving Children Home Alone – Getting the mail or going down the hall of your apartment building to do the laundry may not seem like such a big deal, but in many states leaving young children alone for any length of time is a problem. In reality, it doesn’t take long at all for a tragedy to occur with unsupervised little ones. Even though it may be inconvenient, it’s best to either take the child with you or wait until someone else is in the home and can watch him.
  5. Using an Underage Babysitter – Some states have laws regarding the appropriate age for babysitters. Years ago, preteens could make pocket money by sitting for younger kids. That’s not the case anymore. There are guidelines and rules for sitters that are established on the state level. For example, if you live in Illinois, leaving your 14-year-old alone for an “unreasonable period of time” will put you on the wrong side of the law. A few states away in Maryland, however, 13-year-olds are able to babysit infants. Check your local laws to find out what’s acceptable in your state.
  6. Breastfeeding in Public –There is much being done in support of breastfeeding, but in many areas it is still against the law for a mom to nurse her child in a public place. It does sound ludicrous that a parent can get in trouble for feeding her child in public, but it’s better to know and abide by the rules and work to change them then to get in trouble for bucking the system.
  7. Allowing Kids to Drink – While some families allow their children to have a taste of wine at special meals, it is illegal for minors to drink in every state. There are some parents who believe that they are heading off trouble by allowing their kids to drink at home, but they could actually be courting trouble of the legal variety. Some parents feel that teens are going to drink regardless of permission, and that teenagers under the influence are safer at home than sneaking around. It’s still against the law and parents can get in big trouble by condoning underage drinking.
  8. Inappropriately Defending a Child – Occasionally, the news media will do a story about a Mom being hauled off by the officers for getting out of control. Unfortunately, it’s not so unusual for some parents to get overly involved in the outcome of their child’s sporting event or group outing, causing embarrassment to the child and disrupting event. When this behavior gets out of hand to a worrisome degree, law enforcement often becomes involved. It’s better to keep a level head at the little league game, even when the ump makes a bad call.
  9. Truancy – Whether it’s through fault of the child or the parent, failure to force compliance with school attendance guidelines is a serious legal issue for parents. Some kids will manipulate their parents into letting them stay home, or they may just skip school on their own. There are also over-protective moms who keep their children home at the first sign of any cough or cold. Too much missed school can lead to truancy charges, and that can lead to a visit with legal officials. If a child has valid reasons for missing a lot of school, arrangements need to be made so that authorities are aware of the circumstances.
  10. Domestic Violence – Many women do not realize that when they are being abused by a partner and the child is witness to that abuse, they are actually endangering their child. This is a criminal offense, and unfortunately one that happens far too often. If you are being abused, seek help right away and do not allow your child to be an endangered witness to your abuse.

You may not even be aware of the fact that you are breaking the law in some cases, as you feel that you’re making appropriate choices for your child and household. It’s best to check the laws in your state to make sure you are in compliance, especially in the realm of leaving the kids home alone and using disciplinary tactics.

Sent to us by Lindsey Samuels of NannyBackgroundCheck.com

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

HANDLING WOOD DUST HAZARDS IN THE WORKPLACE (GUEST POST)

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There have been a lot of studies from all around the world looking at the hazards of wood dust in the workplace. The results are pretty conclusive that there are serious potential health risks as well as other problems associated with wood dust. Depending on what area your workplace is located in, there may be different laws covering how to handle wood dust. Let’s look at this problem a little closer right now.  

 General Information

When it comes to wood dust, there are generally two categories that they are broken down into. Dust from soft woods and dust from hard woods can pose different problems for the workplace to handle. On top of this, different parts of manufacturing with wood and wood finishing can produce different kinds of wood dust that also pose different kinds of problems. Soft woods are woods such as cedar and pine. Hard woods are ones such as oak, teak, mahogany, and more.

The different kinds of wood dust depend on a combination of the kind of wood and the process that the wood is undergoing. Sawing of woods produces larger wood dust particles while sanding wood produces finer particles. Soft woods generally produce larger particles. Sanding harder woods can produce the finest of wood particles that can pose some real health hazards.

The wood itself is not the only concern in the workplace. Many woods and wood products have other materials. Particle board has glues and other materials that need to be considered when looking at potential hazards in the workplace. There can be paints and other hazardous materials that need to be considered as well.

Worker Health

The various kinds of wood dusts can pose different health risks to workers and anyone who comes into contact with wood dust. Studies from all around the world have shown health problems from wood dust. These health problems can include nose, sinus, skin, throat, and lung conditions. These problems generally appear after years of exposure.

Allergies are one commonly associated problem related to exposure to wood dust. Asthma can also result from exposure to certain kinds of wood particles. These problems are usually related to certain kinds of woods, or woods from certain parts of the tree. Dermatitis is also linked to exposure to wood dust. Dust can irritate the skin and lead to skin problems.

The most severe health problems associated with wood dust can include cancer which can be fatal. These are commonly associated with finer particles such as from sanding. Some of these fine wood particles have shown to be carcinogens in studies in Europe and North America. Certain trades that work with wood have also shown to have higher than normal incidents of cancer.

Possibility Of Explosion In The Workplace

Another serious problem associated with wood dust in the workplace is explosion. The right amount of fine particles in the air and even a simple source of heat can lead to a catastrophic explosion. These explosions can be powerful enough to completely destroy the building killing everyone inside.

Sources of ignition can be any electric spark or even in some cases just enough heat will set it off.

Solution To Wood Dust Hazard

The best way to handle wood dust in the workplace is by using dust extraction systems designated as local exhaust ventilation (LEV). LEV generally consists of a hood of some kind to capture wood dust, duct work to form an enclosed path for the transfer of wood dust, and a way of removing or filtering the dust. Many machines come with LEV already included, but not all do.

With some machines there can be more than one source of wood dust. In these cases, it is important to make sure that each source of wood dust is covered by a LEV.

Portable wood working tools such as belt sanders often have small attached dust bags. These are often times not enough to properly filter out the finer wood dust particles. Adequate respiratory protection may be necessary in these cases.

Again, depending on your area there may be very specific laws regarding how to handle the hazards of wood dust in the workplace. Long term worker health and safety as well as the possibility of explosion make this a very important topic.

About the author:
Danny has been writing about business and HR for years and has produced many interesting articles. Recently workplace safety and health has caught his attention. He has been researching and writing mostly about dust extraction and abrasive blasting related topics.

 

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

SAFETY TIPS WHEN LEAVING A SENIOR ALONE AT HOME (GUEST POST)

A lot of things can happen which might jeopardize the safety of an elderly person. Even in your own home, safety can be at risk due to certain factors. Living with a senior, either temporarily or permanently, can be a bit challenging in terms of keeping him/her safe all the time.

A mishap can take place any time. That is why it is critical to take extra precautions to avoid untoward incidents. If you need to go somewhere for a while leaving your elderly alone, there are simple safety measures you can do to make sure nothing bad happens to your senior. 

  • Unclutter – Make it a habit to keep every room in your home uncluttered. Cleaning the house is one way of making it safe not just for elderly person, but for everyone as well. Organize things inside the house. Keep things in their proper places. See to it that your floor is free from anything which might trip your senior. Kids love to play on the floor; so be sure to store their toys in a box or in their room after playing. With a tidy and organized home, you do not have to worry about leaving your elderly all alone.
  • Easy accessibility of needs – Take note of every item that your senior needs. Store these items in an easy-to-reach shelves or storage. For instance, keep the commonly used kitchen ware in the drawers so it will be easier for the senior to grab them. Never put anything needed above eye level. This might force your elderly to stand in a stool to reach for it – not a good idea. Before you go, make sure everything your senior need is within reach.
  • Clear hallways/stairways – Check your hallway and stairway. Do you have a rug in there? Even though rug is a practical and a unique decorative item, it is one cause of accident to senior citizen. So, it is better to remove it and place it elsewhere – where your senior do not usually pass by. Clear the stairway from any objects. If needed, you can place non-slip pads on the steps to prevent the risk of falling.
  • Install mat on bathroom – Leaving your senior alone means you cannot look after him/her when going to the bathroom. For added safety measure, put a rubber mat on the bathroom floor to prevent accidental falls. When the floor is wet,  your senior is prone to slipping which could result into broken hips and minor injuries. Additionally, slipping can cause internal hemorrhage leading to death. The rubber mat could save a life.
  • Keep medications close at hands – Before leaving the house, keep all the medications needed in a storage box or container. Some elderly have a maintenance medication, which of course, should be taken at prescribed time. Make a note of the quantity and what time the medicine must be taken. Stick the note on the container so your senior can easily read it. Put the medicine box in the bedside table so your senior will find it quickly.
Keeping your senior safe while you left him/her is pretty simple. For additional safety precaution, purchase an alert device such as medical guardian system to inform you instantaneously when an emergency occurs. Otherwise, you can ask someone to watch over your senior for you.
 
Ashley O’connor loves sharing ideas on how to practice safety at home, on the road, at the office and just about everywhere. Aside from writing, she also enjoys cooking and reading books. Follower her on Twitter at @AshleyOconnor82, Google+ or add her on Facebook.
 
Thanks, Ashley, for the great advice on how to keep our seniors safe. I might add that small pets, such as dogs and cats, are sometimes a hazard to cause someone to fall.  They are innocent bystanders, but many times get underfoot.  Especially when leaving someone alone, it might be a good idea to leave your pet in a kennel or with a friend.  pb
General Safety Issues

CHOOSING THE RIGHT MULTIFUNCTION TESTERS (GUEST POST)

Choosing the Right Multifunction Testers

Chances are that if you’re looking to pick up a new multifunction tester for the very first time, you’ll probably find yourself a bit overwhelmed by the scope of the options on the market. There are literally hundreds of brands offering thousands of different multifunction testers for every purpose under the sun and of course, all will be gunning for your business with the same enthusiasm.

Well, the one piece of immediate good news is that just as long as you stick with a brand you can trust, it’s pretty difficult to go wrong. Examples like Megger PAT Testers and others like the Fluke 1651 multifunction tester have been industry standard for such a long time for a very good reason – they’re as good as it gets. That being said however, there are various other considerations to keep in mind and if you address them all before hitting the stores, chances are you’ll find the job of picking up an installation tester or appliance tester much easier.

Initial Considerations

Right off the bat, you can make life considerably simpler by looking at a few of the basics in terms of what you need and what you can stretch to. For example, begin by outlining the following:

  • How much money you can spend comfortably
  • The environment in which the Tester is to be used
  • How many portable appliance tests are to be carried out per day/week
  • How results and reports are to be made
  • Whether the tester is to be used for a major industrial installation or lighter use

The simple fact of the matter is that if an electrician is only likely to be using a PAT Tester sporadically and far from on a frequent basis, there’s really no point in forking out for an industrial-scale heavy-duty piece of kit when a low-priced Megger PAT Tester aimed at exactly such use would do fine. And likewise, if industrial use is on the cards, then there’s no sense in going for bargain-basement lines that only stand to make life more difficult in the long-run.

Recording of Results

There are two types of testers to choose from – those being the downloadable variety and those to the contrary. Downloadable testers allow their users to record the results of their tests automatically and in some instances produce immediate reports. The alternative is to complete a manual log-book of all tests carried out, which is perfectly simple for light use environments but a complete and utter nightmare for those carrying out hundreds of tests across multiple sites.

As such, the Seaward Primetest 50 for example would not be the better option for heavy-duty use, but would be a perfect choice for lighter demands – the Seaward Supernova Plus being an example to the contrary.

Basic Pass or Fail Testers

Speaking of the Primetest 50, this is also an example of a simple Pass or Fail PAT Tester which delivers exactly what is says on the tin. These are the most basic types of PAT Testers which rather than deliver a thousand and one details for analysis simply let the user know whether the test carried out is a pass or a fail. The bonus is of course that these kinds of testers are extremely easy to use and are largely fool-proof, though on the downside they are extremely limited in terms of their application and are not useful for heavy-industrial environments.

Battery or Mains

Battery powered PAT Testers are actually pretty new to the market and offer their own various benefits and drawbacks. The biggest benefit is of course the fact that they don’t need to be connected to a mains outlet and have a much faster startup time. However, the batteries will not last forever and running out of juice at an inopportune moment can be quite the headache. What’s more, battery-powered units generally aren’t as capable in terms of wide-scale and industrial usage as say the Seaward Supernova Elite. Again, it all depends on how, when, where and how frequently the tester is to be used.

Other Considerations

There are dozens of other considerations that may come to mind, but generally speaking the above points will cover the basics and set you on your way. You might want to think about whether you want to extend your services and competency enormously by using a Thermal Imaging Camera – technology that has become comprehensively affordable and accessible over recent years like never before. And then of course there’s scope for the future – you might only be testing a few domestic appliances today, but are you expecting to branch out over the coming months?

The initial point remains the most valid of all – opt for a brand and model with a long-standing reputation like the Seaward Supernova Plus or the Primetest range and it’s largely impossible to go wrong.

 

By James Walsh

Francesca Holmes is a former electrical engineering lecturer who now runs an online training academy for aspiring electricians. She tutors on the use of various industry-standard devices including the Seaward Supernova Elite range and dozens of leading Megger Testers.

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

ARTHRITIS SAFETY (GUEST POST)

Arthritis is one of the most common disabilities in the United States, affecting about 21 million adults, according to a National Health Interview Survey from 2007-2009. Arthritis is a term used to describe hundreds of rheumatic diseases and conditions, from fibromyalgia to rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions affect the joints, tissue around the joints, and other connective tissue.
 
Since this disability is so widespread in America, it is important that people with arthritis take the necessary precautions to ease their pain and joint stress. While arthritis is incurable, there are steps people can take to ensure their safety, health, and comfort. 
 
 
Be Conscious of Medications
Many anti-inflammatory medications taken by arthritis sufferers have dangerous interactions with over-the-counter medication. It is important to discuss every medication you take with your doctor. 
 
Prescription arthritis medication also has serious side effects. The most commonly used arthritis medications, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), are known to cause stomach problems, heart attacks, and strokes. These side effects can be combated by taking the prescription with food or antacids. 
 
DMARDs (disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) are more invasive than NSAIDs and can cause kidney and liver damage. It is important to take frequent blood tests when taking DMARDs.  
 
Protect Your Joints
The use of splints and braces can aid in joint protection. There are other assistive devices like jar openers, raised toilet seats, and “grabbers” that can be used to accomplish basic tasks. 
 
Good posture can also protect the back and joints, as well. Practicing proper body mechanics will make your body move more efficiently. If you work in an office, use wrist support while typing. When you’re sitting down, be sure to have both back and foot support.  
 
Exercise
Regular exercise can improve joint flexibility and make them stronger. Water exercises reduce the stress on joints. Look to the internet for exercise options http://arthritis.answers.com/management arthritis management. 
It has been proven that weight loss can significantly reduce the stress on weight-bearing joints. Losing weight can improve mobility and decrease the need for joint replacement in the future.  
 
Get Proper Sleep
The pain and difficulty that comes with walking can reduce the energy level of arthritis sufferers. In order for a person with arthritis to function at a higher level (both mentally and physically), they must get a proper amount of sleep. 
 
 
Stay Healthy
According to the http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/ Center for Disease Control  (CDC), people with arthritis are at a higher risk for respiratory infections and the flu. Also, adding Omega-3 fatty acids will greatly decrease stiffness. They naturally reduce inflammation in the body. 
 
Vitamin C is another helpful addition to a diet. It helps the body build collagen and connective tissue. Using olive oil when cooking, instead of butter or other oils. Oleocanthal, the compound found in olive oil, works to prevent inflammation and provides about as much relief as a dose of ibuprofen. 
 
By Liam Garcia
 
Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

WHY ERGONOMICS MATTERS: THE SCIENCE OF SAFETY IN THE OFFICE (GUEST POST)

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Dictionary.com defines ergonomics as “the study of efficiency in working environments.” This one word encompasses just about everything about your workplace, including the size and brightness of your monitor, the space on your desk, and even how you hold your hands when typing an email. An improper ergonomic workspace can leave you feeling unnecessarily tired, grouchy, and sore. Over time, the wrong ergonomic setup can even cause debilitating and painful degenerative problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Here are five common physical problems improper ergonomics can cause, along with ways to combat them!

1)      Bad Posture

Sitting hunched over a keyboard or a steering wheel all day can lead to painful lower back problems such as bulging discs and strained muscles. The human body is designed to be in motion and can only sustain a single position for about twenty minutes without pain. In common seated-job scenarios, people tend to sit toward the front of their seats to focus more intently on the road or the computer. The best way to combat this is simple: sit back so the seat’s lumbar and neck supports can do their job. Place your feet flat on the floor. Finally, shift positions or stand up and move around as often as possible, but no less than five minutes per twenty minutes of sitting time.

2)      Carpal tunnel syndrome

Many professional writers and people who spend a lot of time typing are prone to this extremely painful degenerative disease. Carpal tunnel is so named because when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel into the palm, thumb, index, and middle fingers becomes inflamed, it can affect the range of motion and strength in the hand, as well as causing numbness, tingling, and pain. To combat this, you can use a special ergonomic brace for your keyboard or lower your desk so your wrists don’t raise upward while you’re typing.

3)      Eye Strain

Eye strain is one of the most common problems an ergonomically incorrect workspace can cause. If left uncorrected long enough, this can result in degenerative eye diseases such as astigmatism and nearsightedness. These can frequently result in the need for corrective lenses or eye surgery. Keeping your computer screen dimmed, especially when you are using it for long periods, and making sure your workspace is well lit can help prevent this problem. It’s also a good idea to take frequent breaks, especially when staring at a computer monitor or plan text for long periods. If possible, arrange your computer screen so it’s 18-24 inches from your face and you’re reading it from a downward angle.

4)      Repetitive Strain Injury

Anything you do repetitively day in and day out can cause RSI. This applies equally to typing and pushing wheelbarrows, as well as using a hammer, turning a wrench…just about anything your job requires on a regular basis can bring on RSI. Keeping a good posture and using appropriate safety equipment (see Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, above) can help reduce or eliminate RSI symptoms.

5)      Twisted Posture

This may seem to tie in with bad posture, and in some ways it does. However, in many offices, space is at a premium, forcing employees to sit in awkward positions. If possible, arrange your desk, monitor, and chair so everything sits in a straight line. Keep your desk phone and other things you use frequently close, so you can reach them without straining. If there’s not a way to reorganize your cubicle, ask your employer if it’s possible to move the wall back enough to give you a proper alignment to prevent posture and RSI problems.

Our thanks to Joe Shervall, of  www.officefurnitureexpress.co.uk, UK office furniture specialists.

Please note: Texas America Safety Company has the perfect Ergonomics Poster for your office. 

 

General Safety Issues

TEN OF THE MOST OUTRAGEOUS NERVOUS REACTIONS (GUEST POST)

This article, sent to us by Elisabeth Wright,

High-stress situations affect everyone differently, even causing some to exhibit behavior that’s notaltogether socially acceptable. Some people react to situations that make them anxious by going into high gear and taking care of business, others are incapable of maintaining a calm facade. While there are as many different inappropriate reactions to stress as there are sufferers from anxiety, these are 10 of the most mortifying.

  1. Laughing at a Funeral – Perhaps the most horrifying thing you can do at a funeral is laugh, but it does happen. With the tension of the situation, some people just crack under the pressure. It’s not uncommon for some mourners to find themselves battling back a case of the giggles, despite their grief.
  2. Laughing When a Person Gets Hurt – While there’s certainly a market for entertainment based solely around the idea of finding humor in another’s misfortune, laughing at someone who’s just sustained a serious injury can often be the result of the high-pressure situation and nervous fear.
  3. Getting the Hiccups when Going on an Interview – The hiccups are irritating under normal circumstances, but they can also be triggered by stress in some people. When you’re on a job interview, especially during such tough economic times, it’s downright horrifying. The stress of trying to suppress hiccups can draw the sufferer’s focus away from the interview itself, creating a vicious cycle in which their embarrassment over the hiccups causes even more stress and further exacerbates the situation.
  4. Throwing Up the Morning of Your Wedding – Sometimes a sour stomach on your wedding day can be attributed to the celebrations of the night before, but that’s not always the case. It’s not uncommon for people in stressful situations to find themselves struggling with nausea, especially on one of the biggest days of your life.
  5. Tripping Up the Stairs – Becoming self-conscious during important moments can lead to an inability to use your regular motor functions. At a graduation or an award ceremony, it’s easy to lose your footing and trip up those stairs. The worst part is the burning in your face when you realize hundreds of people just witnessed your embarrassment. Just stand up, shake it off and keep on going. Try not to dwell on it for too long because that may cause it to happen again.
  6. Turning Bright Red When Thinking Impure Thoughts – Blushing at a risqué joke is one thing, but knowing that you’re turning a telltale shade of red when something sparks an impure thought or two is another. On a first date, the nerves in conjunction with your attraction to another person can cause your face to flush, effectively giving you away.
  7. Not Being Able to Talk to the Opposite Sex – Like in the TV show “Big Bang Theory,” one character’s inability to speak around women is a nervous reaction that happens in real life. Selective mutism can affect anyone and is more likely to happen when you’re around someone you’re attracted to. You get nervous thinking that this other person will judge you if you say something “stupid,” so you are struck silent.
  8. Talking Too Much – While some people find themselves struggling to speak when they’re nervous, others have trouble stemming the tide of words falling from their mouths. One of the most common nervous reactions is becoming more talkative than usual, even when you’re actively trying to stay quiet.
  9. Wetting Yourself – Being so nervous that you’re battling a full-on anxiety attack or something close to it can bring on a case of the weak bladder, which is a common reaction to intense fear or stress. The fact that it’s somewhat common doesn’t make it any less mortifying, though.
  10. Giggling Around Your Crush – Nervous laughter doesn’t only happen at funerals. It can also happen when you’re approached by someone you’ve taken a fancy to. Giggling when a pretty girl asks you for the time might not be the smoothest one in the book, but it is one of the most natural.

Nervous reactions are difficult to overcome because they often happen through no control of your own. Without knowing why they happen, it’s hard to accept them and get past them. Just try not to chide yourself for reacting inappropriately in the face of stress, because you’ll only add to your anxiety and possibly bring on more embarrassing reactions.

 
 

 

General Safety Issues

TWENTY THINGS THAT ARE STATISTICALLY SAFER THAN YOU THINK (GUEST POST)

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The world can be a dangerous place, there’s no doubt about it. Some things, however, aren’t quite as dangerous as you may believe. Despite the hype of sensationalist media outlets, these 20 activities are, from a statistical standpoint, not nearly as treacherous as many believe them to be.
  1. Taking the Elevator – Fear of enclosed spaces and a fundamental distrust of the mechanisms causes many people to forgo the elevator in favor of climbing the stairs, but the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimate that only 27 deaths occur each year in elevators. The majority of those deaths happen to the mechanics working on elevators. Meanwhile, an estimated 1,600 people will die each year as a result of falling down stairs.
  2. Swimming in the Ocean – The Jaws franchise certainly instilled a fear of shark attacks in beach bums around the world, but the chances of being a victim of a shark attack is far lower than you may realize. The Ichthyology Department at the Florida Museum of Natural History places estimated annual death toll by shark at one each year. To put that into perspective, cows kill an average of 22 people per year.
  3. Scuba Diving – Just as casual beach time isn’t likely to end in a shark attack, heading into deeper waters on a scuba diving outing is a bit safer than you may have been told. Fatality estimates hover around five per 100,000 divers, a third of which can be attributed to cardiac events while underwater.
  4. Riding a Motorcycle – In 2001, only 74,000 of the 4.9 million motorcycles, or 1.5% of registered bikes in the United States, were involved in an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics show that 5% of the passenger cars on the road were involved in accidents that year, showing that the odds of being involved in a motorcycle accident are significantly lower than a car crash.
  5. Rollercoasters – Amusement park giants Six Flags commissioned a study regarding the safety of rollercoasters, concluding that visitors to their part have a one in 1.5 billion chance of being fatally injured on a rollercoaster. The study also found that injury rates for golf, folding lawn chairs and kids’ wagons were higher than those of amusement park rides.
  6. Flu Shots – Despite the objections of those who prefer a more natural approach, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention insists that flu shots are safe for most people. From 1990 to 1999, the CDC estimates that 36,000 people died from flu-related complications, while the current mortality rate for flu vaccines is 0.2 per 100,000 people.
  7. Rock Climbing – The Southeastern Climbing Coalition that approached officials at Signal Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee regarding a reversal of a rock climbing ban in the area cited that climbing injuries are so rare that the activity is actually, from a statistical standpoint, less dangerous than hiking.
  8. Hiking – Despite what reality television and some news reports would have you believe, your chances of being mauled by a mountain lion or bear or bitten by a snake while hiking are quite low, according to figures quoted by eNature.com.
  9. Whitewater Sports – Hurtling down the rapids in a canoe or kayak certainly induces an adrenaline rush and seems like an extremely high-risk activity. In fact, the American Whitewater Association’s safety figures show that a fatality rate of 2.9 per 100,000 participants is actually lower than the 15.2 fatality rate of driving a passenger vehicle.
  10. Skiing – High-profile skiing accidents can make the sport seem very dangerous, but the National Ski Area Association figures regarding the fatality rate actually quote a .78 per 1 million skier/snowboarder visits.
  11. Skateboarding – Hurtling through half-pipes looks dangerous, which is why so many people feel that skateboarding is a high-risk activity. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission has actually determined that the number of skateboarding injuries hovers around 8.9 per 1,000 participants. Basketball, a sport largely regarded as a safe sport, carries a 21.2 ER-treated injury per 1,000 players’ rate. Statistically, skateboarding is far safer than a game of basketball.
  12. Owning a Pit Bull – Few dog breeds are treated with as much fear and regarded with as much contempt as the American Pit Bull. Dramatic spikes in fighting activity and irresponsible breeding for aggression has contributed to the image of viciousness, but you’re statistically more likely to drown in a five-gallon water bucket, die as a result of a falling coconut or drown in your bathtub than be killed by a Pit Bull, according to DontBullyMyBreed.org.
  13. Skydiving – The United States Parachuting Association’s fatality rate figures show that approximately one in 100,000 jumps results in an accident. According to their research, a person would have to skydive 17 times in one year to bring their statistical risk of dying as a result of their hobby to the same level as their risk of dying in a car accident.
  14. Traveling in Mexico – Border wars, drug cartels and infamous drinking water are all things that come to mind when most Americans consider a visit to Mexico. While the FBI estimates that 15,241 people were murdered in the United States in 2009, only 111 of the estimated 8 million visitors who happen to be American citizens were killed in Mexico that year.
  15. Taking Birth Control Pills – Risk of blood clots, stroke and other health complications as a result of using hormonal birth control are well-publicized, the National Research Center for Women and Families asserts that oral contraceptive use is actually safer than pregnancy and childbirth for most women.
  16. Going on a Cruise – With the tragedy of the Costa Concordia event and the scandal regarding the Carnival Triumph, taking a cruise may not seem like such a relaxing vacation after all. According to ABC News 20/20′s cruise report, however, taking a cruise is eight times safer than crossing the street in New York City.
  17. Giving Birth at Home – A large 2011 study out of the United Kingdom published by the National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit showed that home births and midwife-attended births seemed to be as safe or safer for both mother and child than obstetrician-attended births.
  18. Shopping Online – According to the Better Business Bureau, online shopping can be just as safe as buying from brick-and-mortar stores or mail-order retailers, despite alarming reports about identity theft.
  19. Anesthesia – There’s something scary about going under the knife, especially when you know you’re going to be anesthetized. AnesthesiaWeb.org places the risk of dying as a result of general anesthesia alone at .01% to .0016%, though.
  20. Not Owning a Gun – The Second Amendment protects an American’s right to bear arms, but it doesn’t guarantee his safety. In fact, the Journal of the American Medical Association has concluded that, “based on the evidence currently available, it appears that gun ownership is associated with a net increase in the risk of death for a typical individual.

Our thanks to Kenny Myers ( kenneymyers.com/blog/20-things-that-are-statistically-safer-than-you-think/ ) for giving us something to stop and think about!  (I still don’t think I will be doing any rock climbing or skateboarding, but I guess age has something to with that!)  In case you need any protective gear, Texas America Safety has just about everything, so check us out!

General Safety Issues

CLOSE PROTECTION COURSES AND WHY THEY ARE ESSENTIAL TO YOUR BUSINESS (GUEST POST)

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Close protection courses are available for the protection of the client, to protect as required by the client and for the protection of the security employee themselves. Knowledge and understanding is essential for safety. 

If you are in the security business or your job involves keeping people or things secure; you will be aware of the benefits of professional training. You may require training for yourself or your employees may need to have certain levels of training for the business. Having the right training can ensure that employees are safe and have the knowledge and understanding they need in any eventuality that comes their way.

You will find a lot of companies that offer training and education that those in the security industry will need. Finding the best provider is extremely important to ensure that you get the best training and find the most suited to your company. Business owners will be aware of the training they require for their employees. There are many cheap training courses available now as close protection courses become more widely available and in demand by many companies.

Close protection courses provide adequate knowledge so the person training can ensure a safe environment for the company or client. They also educate on carrying out risk assessments ensuring they can be done quickly and safely. It’s not always the first thing considered, but these courses are becoming more of a necessity today. Businesses require this kind of training and the options are there. Businesses need to ensure that, where protection is required; it is done properly. If the person responsible is given the best training available it will increase their knowledge helping them do the job to the best of their ability.

The close protection courses available allow individuals to familiarise potential hostile environments. This is important as they may come across a hostile situation in their career and with the right training can deal with it to the best of their ability. Finding the right provider is important to ensure you receive the best quality training at the right price. As we are talking about safety; finding the right provider is essential. You want to find a company that will offer the training at an affordable price, but also offers good quality training. Taking the time to research online and check out what’s available can save you money and ensure you get the best using the internet to research the competition.

The right training from close protection courses enables the security employee to be more aware of what is going on and how to deal with the situation they are faced with. The training can be challenging, but they are designed to ensure the safety of individuals and give them the ability to deal with the situation in the best possible way. Whatever the job role the individual is employed to do, close protection training ensures they can carry it out using their knowledge and understanding and to ensure they carry out the job properly. The training enables the employee to deal with situations they are faced with.

They enable the person to analyse the situation so they can take the required actions quickly and deal with the situation effectively. The training enables the security employee to be more aware of what it going on and how to communicate and deal with a situation. Finding the right provider is important, especially when it comes to safety. Research online can be all it takes to find the provider who can offer affordability and quality training. You cannot compromise when it comes to security as safety is very important. 

Author Bio

Rachel is a freelance writer based in Cheshire. Rachel has researched close protection courses with the help of a specialist provider online. In her spare time; Rachel enjoys spending time with her niece and classic computer games.

 

General Safety Issues

BE A SMART CONSUMER AND AVOID ACCIDENTS (GUEST POST)

There has been a lot of product related deaths in the US. In 2008, there are 25 reported toy-related deaths in children below 15 years of age while there were 17 reported deaths in 2010 in the US alone (Source: http://www.cpsc.gov//PageFiles/107868/toymemo10.pdf). There are other categories of consumer safety related issues, such as asbestos poisoning, mercury poisoning, carbon monoxide poisoning, amusement rides related injuries and deaths, as well as electrocution and fires started by different products. The key to avoiding these kinds of incidents is to become a smart consumer.

Check for Product Safety Recalls

So you are buying a second-hand car at a very low price. You are enticed to but this model since it has been barely used and yet you’re getting it at almost a quarter of its original price. But before you buy a specific product, you should always do some research. The product that you will be buying at a very low price might have been recalled by its manufacturer. You should always be wary of a product that is sold at a very low price, since you might be getting more trouble than it is worth.

Research Before You Buy

In this day and age, everything can be found on the Internet. Before you buy a product, do some research about it. Look for similar brands, check market prices and look for some product reviews. This way, you can save yourself from repairs and also avoid accidents. Is this brand better than this brand?  This brand is cheaper, but is it better?  Have there been any recalls or safety issues with this brand?  Does this brand use mercury or asbestos?  These are just some of the questions that you should be able to answer before finally purchasing a specific product.

Check the Store For Authenticity 

This wouldn’t be a problem if you bought your refrigerator from a shopping mall. You’ll just have to go back to the shop if there is any problem with your product. But what if you bought something online, and with your credit card?  Before purchasing a big item from an online store, you should always check the store for authenticity. There is a register of online stores available in most cities, or if not, you can surely find a review about that store somewhere. If you don’t want to be unsure, just make an extra effort to go down to the local shopping mall to buy some furniture or appliances.

Avoid Providing More than Necessary Information

Sure, the store needs your credit card number and your signature. In most cases, the store would verify your identity with your bank, and the bank would ask some questions, but that’s it. If you think that the store clerk, or the “bank personnel” on the other end of the line seems a bit too inquisitive, avoid answering their questions.

Make Sure to Ask for a Receipt

After making a purchase, always ask for a receipt. Make sure that the information on the receipt can be read easily, and that the name of the store is visible. You would need the receipt in claiming your warranty or if you need to return your product. In case that the store refuses to provide you with any service, you can also use the receipt to file a complaint against the store.

These are just some reminders to help you be a smart consumer. Always check before you purchase to avoid injuries and deaths.

Marissa Olson is a writer and an educator. She writes for a law firm in Southern California that specializes in personal injury and wrongful death cases.