Monthly Archives: April 2013

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

PRIVATE SCREENING TESTS FOR YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH (GUEST POST)

Whether you are too embarrassed to ask your primary care physician to run a test for something specific such as a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or you simply do not have time during office hours to fit in an appointment, you can now find out if you have a long list of different health issues by ordering the screening tests privately at home. If a lab visit is required, the tests will be performed by a qualified healthcare facility that is not affiliated with your doctor’s office, and they can even keep the results out of your medical records.

Which Screening Tests Should My Family Get?

Regardless of whether you use a private service or go directly to your doctor for assistance, you should definitely focus on getting health screenings on a regular basis. For example, if you have your heart and cholesterol checked at least once a year, you can avoid dealing with the serious ramifications of a related health issue that spirals out of control.

It is also a good idea to utilize disease detection testing to ensure that you have not developed a serious health condition such as cancer. Keep in mind that most debilitating diseases do not present noticeable symptoms until after damage has already been done to your body. By signing up for regular disease detection screenings, you will have an important medical head start if you develop an issue.

The Importance of STD Screenings

Anyone who has ever been sexually active without using protection is at risk for contracting an STD and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has indicated that STDs are a rampant problem in the U.S. that is currently very under-diagnosed. Unfortunately, a large percentage of individuals who have a STD are not even aware of their condition because many of these diseases do not cause symptoms, especially in the early stages. Therefore, if you do not get tested, it is definitely possible that you could be unwittingly passing on an STD to anyone who you have sex with.

Thankfully, you can now get a screening for STDs confidentially without having to deal with the embarrassment that is associated with asking your regular physician to run these important tests. Most people agree that STD testing should be private.  However, if you choose to go to a local doctor or clinic they are required to put your test results on your permanent medical record. Luckily, there are labs like those at www.healthtestingcenters.com that do not have to do this and will send you the results directly.  

Other Screenings

Men understandably detest going through the process of a prostate exam, but now they have the option to order a screening test online and go directly through the lab. Other options include allergy screenings, fertility tests and even drug screenings for teenagers and at-risk family members. Although you cannot get a screening at home for every possible medical condition, the technology is continuously expanding to include additional tests.

With the combination of discreet home screenings and your primary care physician, there is no reason to neglect your health. After all, an early diagnosis is the best way to prevent a minor condition from turning into something that will threaten your life. By taking advantage of the available confidential screening tests, you can have peace of mind and the privacy that most people desire.

Researcher Shelby Warden posts this article for those who like the idea of easy and confidential health screening.  

General Safety Issues

WHY DOES ALL THE NEWS HAVE TO BE BAD?

It is as though we shouldn’t expect to hear good news; most of the time it is bad.  Maybe the last five minutes on the nightly news, a story will be shared that will bring a smile to our face.  Two news stories that have happened this week are the bombings in Boston, and the deadly explosion in the small town of West, Texas, near Waco.

People train for years to run in marathons; other persons serve in various ways to make this a successful annual event; but there are some sick persons who want to create havoc time after time, especially where innocent people are involved.  Thanks to the many ways that officials have to find the people responsible, hopefully soon we will know the culprit or culprits.  One of the things that keeps popping up in my mind, is an older man who was running in the marathon who fell at the time of the explosion; it seemed everyone around him was running in different directions to help others, that I wondered how long it was before he was helped, and if he is alright now. 

Whether it is in a city or small town, one thing remains: people rush to help people.  There are story after story of heroics that occurred in Boston; one of a veteran of Afghanistan who comforted a badly wounded woman by showing her his own shrapnel scars, assuring her that she would survive.

In the small town of West, Texas, population around 2,500 persons, last night (Wednesday) was a tragic evening.  A fire started at West Fertilizer Plant shortly before 8 p.m.  Volunteer firefighters responded, when suddenly, there was a violent explosion.  Firefighters lost their lives, and others are missing.  Because many chemical components are used in making fertilizer, used by farmers, there was also concern about toxic gas fumes.

Again, people rushed in from area towns to help – emergency vehicles, fire departments, Texas Department of Public Safety, along with area hospitals opening their emergency rooms doors, waiting to take care of the injured.  Townspeople of West offered help to their neighbors and friends, and those they didn’t know – a place to stay, or other necessities. 

Regardless of the place you live, big or small, when tragedy strikes, people pull together.  Hopefully, manmade disasters will be few and far between, but we must all do what we can to stay safe.  Be more aware of what is going on around you, and more vigilant – if something just doesn’t look right, tell someone in authority.

We at Blog4Safety and Texas America Safety Company offer our prayers for the injured and condolences to those families who lost loved ones.

Source: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

 

 

Back Safety, Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR MOVERS (GUEST POST)

Movers help people relocate from point A to point B. They are called on to carry large and heavy furniture and appliances safely. Movers oversee the process and make sure all items are hauled to the new location in the fastest and safest way possible, using packaging tools and trucks for prep and transport. 

The Life of a Mover

The responsibilities of movers are more on strength of body instead of mind. In each project they manage, movers carry heavy boxes and push and pull cargo multiple times. With this nature of work, movers are exposed to health and safety hazards that should be identified and prevented. If one fails to do so, he/she may end up injured and out of the job for good. 

Peruse the Workplace

For starters, make your work environment safe by checking for anything unsafe or unhealthy within the area. A box full of sharp nails may be ready to collapse at any moment while a furniture piece may have some splinters waiting for the precise time to strike. Determine what is the highest risk and priority and how to deal with it. Prior planning and preparation for every project should be adopted into the workplace. 

Repair the Identified Problems

Take action to repair any issues that you’ve identified within the workplace. Pick up loose nuts and bolts that you could trip on or wrap exposed cables and wires with tape to avoid getting electrocuted or starting a fire. Check the issues you just addressed and make sure it won’t happen again. 

A professional mover must also plan and prepare individual health and safety measures for every project they undertake. Completing some training courses are also imperative to work safely. This not only helps you work proficiently and safely but also adds to your credentials as a professional mover. 

Familiarize Yourself With the Law

Know the laws relevant to moving and update yourself. There are laws for the transport of potentially dangerous goods, mass and dimension restrictions, load limit requirements, fatigue management, etc. Involve and inform your coworkers so that they too can exercise these health and safety protocols. 

Keep Your Vehicle in Perfect Condition

The other half of the moving process is transport. This means you should also be sure your vehicle is functioning properly. A flat tire can delay the move and even jeopardize the items carried by the vehicle. Your moving vehicle should be fit for the job. Have it checked and maintained regularly. This includes tire alignment, oil change, and engine diagnosis. Call a mechanic or learn the safety procedures of changing tires and other vehicle maintenance procedures if you are going to do it yourself. 

When in the driver’s seat, avoid multitasking like texting on your phone. Avoid distractions while loading and unloading as well. Bring a valid driver’s license along just in case you get in trouble with authorities. To avoid any problems, abide by all road regulations and laws. Be prepared for unprecedented circumstances like vehicle inspections and heavy traffic incidents. Install alert warning systems to avoid speeding and getting pulled over.

Handling Electrical Systems

Movers may also be required to perform some electrical work. If you are untrained and inexperienced in electrical work, call licensed electricians to do it for you. Do not attempt anything on the system if you are unsure as this may lead to injuries. Use exclusion zones when closely working with overhead power lines. Take note that the requirements for exclusion zones differ with voltage. The higher the voltage, the larger the exclusion zone. 

Avoid Stress

Avoid stressful situations and defuse them immediately before it worsens. A clear and focused mind is necessary to perform your responsibilities as a mover. Stress can cloud your judgment and disable you from thinking straight. This could lead to workplace accidents. Physical and mental fatigue should also be avoided by getting adequate rest and eating a well-balanced diet. Never leave for work on an empty stomach. Eat nutritious meals like cereals and whole grain breads that give you carbohydrates for energy. Get at least 6 hours of sleep per day to allow your mind to replenish. 

Protect Yourself From Extreme Temperatures

When at work, avoid extreme temperatures. Avoid the scorching summer heat by staying in the shade. Wear multiple layers of clothing during the cold winter season. Exposing your body to physical work plus the harsh climates can take its toll on both mind and body.  

This guest post was written by Victor Daily, passionate blogger with extensive experience from Brisbane, Australia. Important information for this article have been provided by http://www.yourlocalmovers.com.au.

We appreciate the great advice from Victor and hope he sends more!  Persons who do much lifting might want to consider wearing a lifting belt, and using the correct lifting methods to avoid back injury.  pb

General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Weather Protection

ESSENTIAL PROTECTIVE ITEMS FOR CONSTRUCTION SITES (GUEST POST)

Essential Protective Items for Construction Sites

In the construction industry, loud noises, extreme heights and unpredictable hazards are part of the job. You may also have to fight against rain, high winds and other extreme weather to get the job done. In this risky industry, having the right equipment and protective wear can protect you from common jobsite injuries. Following are some of the most important items for construction workers to have. 

Protective clothing

The weather conditions will have a big influence on the clothing you need to wear when working at a construction site. When it’s raining, you want appropriate rainwear, such as waterproof boots, pants and a raincoat with a hood. (When you’re handling tools, you don’t want to be slippery). If you’re working on highway or overnight construction projects, you can find rainwear with reflective strips, so people can see you in the darkness.

When the weather turns cold you will need warm hats, gloves and heavy socks to keep your extremities warm. Other protective clothing includes steel-toe boots, which protect your feet from falling objects, and polarized sunglasses that reduce glare.

Gear

Jackhammers, drills and other machinery can damage hearing permanently, so ear protection on the job is extremely important. In fact, the average 25-year-old carpenter has the hearing ability similar to a 50-year-old worker who doesn’t work in construction. Wear ear plugs or other ear protection devices to reduce the risk of hearing loss. And remind your coworkers to do the same.

Safety Hardhats are important when working in areas where construction activity is occurring above your head. The hard hat minimizes the risk of head injury, if an item falls from above. To prevent falling, rope ties, belts or harnesses are required by law when you’re working above a particular height. And you can protect your eyes from flying debris by wearing goggles or other protective face gear.

Quality tools

A construction worker depends on having reliable, quality tools. If your tools aren’t properly maintained or are in disrepair, that could increase your risk of accident or injury. Regularly inspect your tools to make sure they’re in good working order.

Radio

A two-way radio is important to have on the job, so you can communicate with others on the site and quickly get answers to questions. The two-way radio is also a great communication tool when there is an emergency and you need assistance immediately.

Having the right tools before heading out for the job site will help you do the job. It can be nearly impossible to successfully and productively do your job when you do not have the right equipment. Make a list of tools you need for each upcoming job and spend some time packing the items and ensuring each one works properly. While your employer is legally required to provide certain equipment, you should always double check to make sure it fits you well, is in good repair – and most importantly, you must remember to use it. That hard hat won’t do you any good if you forget to wear it.

Sent by Cassandra Lynne

General Safety Issues

APRIL IS NATIONAL DISTRACTED DRIVING MONTH

Think about this: according to the new Safety in Numbers newsletter from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, at any given daylight moment across the United States, about 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices behind the wheel.  With that many persons texting or talking while driving, 3,300 people were killed in distraction-related crashes in 2011, and another 387,000 were injured.  Our nation’s roadways are the center of a deadly epidemic – distracted driving. 

Is there any message or conversation worth taking the chance of having a serious accident, or causing injury to others?  Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times more likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves.  Text messaging creates a crash risk 23 times worse than driving while not distracted.  Sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes away from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds – the equivalent of driving 55 mph the length of an entire football field, blind. 

Here are other risks of using mobile communication devices while driving.

  • Driving while using a mobile phone reduces the amount of brain activity associated with driving by 37 per cent.
  • Headset mobile phone or hands-free use is actually no safer than hand-held use. (Your mind is on the conversation, rather than driving.)
  • Of American teens surveyed, 40 per cent say they have been in a car when the driver put others in danger by using a cell phone.
  • Using a cell phone while driving, hand-held or hands-free delays a driver’s reactions as much as having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit of 0.08 per cent.
  • Teen drivers are more likely than other age groups to be involved in a fatal crash where distraction is reported. 

Other distractions happen, as well.  One could be so absorbed in conversation with their passenger(s), they forget to pay attention to the road.  New cars that have all the bells and whistles, computer screens, also cause distractions.  Our minds are running 24/7, and when we are behind the wheel, they need to be totally focused on the rules of the road.  

Just this week, while driving through town, a young lady crossed the street in front of me, unaware that I had the green light.  I stopped and waited, but she was so engrossed in her cell phone, probably texting, that she never saw me.  She continued her walk, and never noticed that she could have been run over.  Had I been distracted by something, I might not have seen her at all until it was too late! 

Please make up your mind every time you get behind the wheel that you plan to drive safely and will wait to retrieve your phone messages when you reach your destination.  Try it, just turn off your phone while driving.

Statistics source: NHTSA

 

General Safety Issues

FOUR MOST FLAMMABLE FABRICS IN YOUR HOME (GUEST POST)

 Sent by Chelsea Terris

It’s important for every homeowner to know that certain fabrics used to decorate the home are more flammable than others. Awareness of which fabrics are the most flammable can help when selecting fabric for home  items like drapery, upholstery and slipcovers.

The four most flammable fabrics in your home are created from using cellulosic material. These include linen, cotton, lyocel and rayon, all light fabrics which allow oxygen to circulate more freely through their fibers. Because flame is fueled by oxygen, this oxygen flow encourages more rapid burning in the event they are exposed to fire.

Meet the Fabrics

Linen and cotton are two of the easiest fabrics to ignite because their texture is lightweight. Because these types of fabrics do not melt or shrink away from open flame, they have a rapid rate of combustion. When materials that include linen or cotton fabric catch fire in a home, smoke results.

Two manufactured cellulose fabrics, lyocel and rayon, rank beneath linen and cotton as the most flammable fabrics in the home. A distinct characteristic of these fabrics, which burn with a yellow flame, is that they shrink once they catch fire and can adhere to human skin, causing life-threatening burns. Heavy and tightly-knitted linen, cotton, lyocel and rayon fabrics, while flammable, tend to be more flame-resistant than fabrics that are lightweight and more loosely knit.

Increased Flammability and Treatment

Untreated natural fabrics such as wool and silk pose less of a threat since they are much more difficult to ignite and often are self-extinguishing once a fire begins. But chemical dyes used in the processing of these fabrics can greatly increase their flammability. Fabrics with nap, such as velvet and velour, also have a higher quotient for catching fire because they ignite much more quickly than fabrics whose surface is smooth.

Many flammable fabrics can be made safer for use in the home by treating with a chemical known as a fire-retardant. If they do catch fire, the chemical treatment helps to greatly slow the progress of the fire and often results in the fabric self-extinguishing before major damage is done.


Polyester fabrics that are constructed using flame-resistant fibers are considered permanently flame resistant. Whether fire-retardancy is built into the construction of the fabric or applied later, a flame-retardant designation is designed to last for the lifespan of the fabric. Smart homeowners should inquire whether or not their fabric choice is flame resistant.


If you wish to use any of these highly flammable fabrics, be certain that these materials have received a flame-retardant treatment before including them in your home decorating scheme. If you have already suffered a home fire, do not hesitate to contact a restoration specialist to assist with the remodeling of your personal sanctuary.

General Safety Issues

MISTAKES OF CYCLING: TIPS TO STAY SAFE ON THE ROAD (GUEST POST)

Cycling on the road can be tricky at the best of times. You need to be constantly aware of your surroundings. By reading these safety tips you can prepare yourself for dangerous situations you’re likely to come across.

Red lights

Just like cars, when the red light appears you need to stop too. You may be scoffing at this suggestion but people still do it, just as cars do – don’t take the risk. Unlike when a car jumps a red light, as a cyclist you will definitely end up worse than the other party. It could cost you more than a £30 fine. (That’s $45 in the U.S.)

Parked cars

When moving around an obstacle such as a parked car, always check over your shoulder that the coast is clear. Although you may be ahead of a car, don’t assume the driver will slow down and allow you into their lane. If the parked cars are spaced out, you should ride in a straight line rather than dodge in and out – motorists will just have to wait to overtake you.

Left corners

When approaching corners where cars can turn left, make sure you position yourself in between cars. Riding next to a car when approaching a left turn could cause an accident, particularly if you are in the driver’s blind spot.

Buses

Large vehicles like buses can make passing on the curb dangerous, but you need to be wary of travelling between them too. Resist the urge to shoot through at the mere sight of a gap as it can close just as quickly as it appears. The large structure of a bus can make it difficult to read the road ahead which may cause a gap to get narrower – be patient.

Drains and gutters

It can be tempting to ride as close to the curb as possible to make it easier for drivers to pass you by, but drains and gutters pose their own problems. Not only is it uncomfortable to ride over these, they could cause your bike to suddenly stop at any moment which could lead to you flipping over your handlebars. These hazards can also be extra slippy when wet.

Signalling

It’s annoying when cars turn without signalling isn’t it? Well, it’s the same vice versa too. No one can read minds so signalling can help motorists act in advance to accommodate you.

Fingers on brakes

After a period of cycling on the road without any accidents you’ll start to feel safe. But letting your guard down is when accidents are most likely to happen. One of the first signs of over confidence is taking your fingers away from the brakes. This however prevents you from making an emergency brake out of the blue.

Jasey Rae is a passionate cycling blogger and writes on behalf of Access Legal.

For more information visit Cyclist Safety,
http://www.cemex.co.uk/cyclist-safety,-a-key-part-of-the-logistics-agenda.aspx

An added note: wearing a high-visibility vest is another safety suggestion for cycling.

 

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

SAFETY FIRST: WHEN FALL PROTECTION IS NEEDED (GUEST POST)

Sent to us by Maire Hunter:

Many workplaces—including factories, warehouses and construction sites—have work areas and conditions that expose employees to certain dangers. To minimize these risks and keep employees out of harm, safety measures must be in place. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration establishes workplace safety regulations and enforces them at various work sites.

In general, fall protection is needed whenever workers are exposed to a potential drop of more than a few feet. A variety of safety measures may be required in these situations, and workers and/or employers may also choose to take additional precautions in addition to those mandated by regulators. Read on to learn more about the various protective equipment that may be used in a work setting.

Protective Barrier

Any area where a drop to another level is present should be outfitted with a protective barrier, such as a guardrail. Depending on your local regulations and your work setting, a guardrail should at least be comprised of a toprail near waist height, as well as a midrail and toeboard to prevent slips and falls underneath the toprail. This applies to even temporary structures, such as supported scaffolding.

Harnesses and Other Supports


When working at heights, harnesses are the most common form of protection. Beam straps are common protective equipment at steel beam construction sites; the straps are anchored around overhead beams and can move along the beam as you walk up and down performing various tasks. These can also be used in combination with safety nets, which are set up around the perimeter of a structure to catch individuals and equipment that fall from a great height.

In other cases, harnesses will be worn to catch you in the event of a fall. In some cases, such as when painting and washing windows, you may be suspended from a height wearing a harness. By making sure the harness is designed for regular use in protecting falls, you can give yourself the greatest degree of safety possible.

Fall Protection Gear

Personal fall protection gear can provide a number of protections in any fall situation. Preventing a fall is always the primary goal, and there are a variety of items and tools that will help improve the safety and function of harnesses and other fall protection products. Body belts, carabiners, lanyards, rope grabs and other specialty anchors should be on hand at work sites so they can be brought in as replacements when other equipment wears down or breaks.

Insisting on Safety in the Workplace

While OSHA makes an effort to inspect various work sites to ensure regulations are being followed at all times, this doesn’t guarantee 100 percent compliance. Whether intentional or accidental, some work settings may fail to provide adequately safe working conditions. Employees may be hesitant to refuse to work in these unsafe conditions because they don’t want to ruffle feathers, but that’s a dangerous move for anyone. By demanding safe working conditions, you’re only asking that the law be followed. Don’t be afraid to speak up and request the necessary precautions.

The presence of protective gear can greatly reduce the risk of a fall or the damage resulting from such an incident. Employees should familiarize themselves with regulations so that they know what to expect and demand. There’s nothing to be gained by taking these risks, so don’t allow yourself to be put in a potentially dangerous situation.

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Head Protection

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN USING A MOBILE ELEVATED WORKING PLATFORM (GUEST POST)

When it comes to working at height, people can be forgiven in thinking that there is a bigger risk to their personal safety due to the additional circumstances, which could cause severe injury or even death such as high winds and falling debris.  Fortunately, modern technology and innovation have allowed us to create what is known in the construction industry as ‘Mobile Elevated Working Platforms’ or ‘MEWP’s’ for short. 

MEWP’s are specialised machines, which have been designed solely to reduce risk of injury and death for operators and engineers who have to work at large heights.  MEWP’s are the only proven and safest method for working at height as they allow operators to reach a task efficiently – with specific security measures in place such as restraint belts, guard rails, anti-crush devices and toe boards to prevent any kind of injury. 

Although we now know that MEWP’s help prevent operators from sustaining severe injury or death whilst they are in operation, what a lot of people fail to realise is that the key to reducing the potential for injury or death starts long before the MEWP is in operation with what’s knows as a ‘MEWP Risk Assessment’. 

A MEWP Risk Assessment in general terms is like a checklist of things to do before an MEWP is declared safe to use. 

Different countries and different construction companies have different guidelines and health & safety processes they follow, however, in this article, we will be identifying the key points to a MEWP Risk Assessment so that safety is always paramount.

Height

How high is the task which needs to be completed from the ground? It is essential that you know the exact height (or within an accurate degree of estimation) so that you can hire the ideal MEWP for the job.

Machine Type

Do you have the correct MEWP for the job? It is essential that you know what type of MEWP is suitable for the task. Will you be working on un-even ground that will require a MEWP with stabilisers or will you be working in very high winds, which will require a MEWP with additional strength in the ‘arm’.

Conditions

What are the conditions like? Again, like above, it is essential to know the conditions you will be working in. Do you require a MEWP that needs to be remotely controlled due to a tight working space or do you need a MEWP that can operate in a variety of different working conditions.

Operators

Are the people who will be using the MEWP adequately trained? Although a variety of MEWP’s do not require specific licences, it is essential that the operator(s) using the MEWP be adequately trained with sufficient experience and qualifications. Also, are the operators in good enough health to operate the machine?

Obstructions

Are there any potential obstructions to be wary of? When working on specific types of structures such as electricity pylons and bridges, there can be additional hazards such as low-hanging wires and supports which the MEWP could be caught in. In addition, are the any potential issues for the public such as roads or footpaths, which need to be cordoned off?

Restraint

Are there any additional support features that need to be acquired such as operator restraints? One of the key things for MEWP safety is the correct level of support facilities for the operator such as restraining belts, anti-entrapment devices and fall arrest systems. Also, will the operator be required to exit the MEWP at height? If so, it is recommended to assess what additional safety measures will be needed for the operator when they exit the MEWP.

Maintenance

Has the MEWP been well maintained? It is always a good idea to do some safety checks when the MEWP arrives to make sure it is well maintained and to identify any other potential safety hazards. 

So there you have it, if you need to complete a task which requires you to work at height, it is always best to utilise the services of a MEWP with a thorough MEWP Risk Assessment and although the above list covers only the very basics of a MEWP Risk Assessment, it does give a great platform from which to build a more bespoke risk assessment depending on the task at hand and any other unique hazards which could become a problem. 

Author Bio: 

Carl Smith is a copywriter for Kimberly Access Group who is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of Cherry Picker Hire and other types of MEWP hire.