Monthly Archives: August 2013

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

TIPS FOR SAFELY WORKING ABROAD

The thought of being sent overseas by your company sounds pretty exciting –  a chance to see a new part of the world, sampling new types of food, and working alongside foreign employees.  

First, some serious planning should be done in order to avoid surprises later on.  Research all that you can ahead of time, so you will be better prepared.  Companies have information that is helpful to their employees and will make arrangements for their lodging, transportation, meals, etc. ahead of time.  

It is important to know the support systems that are there for foreign workers, such as emergency service facilities.  Being informed of what services are available for U.S. citizens or other working foreigners is very important. 

One can find websites on the internet that describe the conditions for travel to just about every country in the world.  There are definite warnings on which countries to avoid, as listed by these alert levels: 

  1. Do not travel;
  2. Exercise normal safety precautions;
  3. Reconsider your need to travel;
  4. High degree of caution. 

Companies could be held responsible as a result of their employees’ causing an accidental injury or death in the course of performing their duties.  The employer is responsible for ensuring that the working conditions of their employees are safe, including the security of the buildings in which they will be working.  They are also responsible for guaranteeing the level of the employee’s experience, the type of work to be done, and risk level for injury.  Also, they must ensure that the physical condition of the worker is good. 

Every company that regularly sends employees on business trips abroad needs to assess its insurance program to assure that these employees are adequately protected if they become sick or injured. Companies with employees living abroad need to be even more attentive about the insurance protection and support services they provide. 

Normally, the employee’s domestic health insurance will not be accepted by a foreign provider.  A travel assistance program can ensure that a sick or injured employee is put in contact with the best available medical care; therefore, specialized insurance is necessary to guarantee that coverage is available anywhere in the world an employee may need medical assistance.

Other reminders:  During your time off:

  • Don’t go to places that look unsafe;
  • Take a buddy or go with a group;
  • Don’t become a victim of crime; leave your valuables at home;
  • Leave your passport in the hotel safe (so you can get home);
  • Make a photocopy of your passport to keep with you at all times;
  • Make a photocopy of the passport to leave with family;
  • Pack medicines in their original containers, take extra glasses, etc;
  • Pack all the gear you need to perform your job.
  • Know where your American embassy is;
  • Leave a family contact person’s name with your employer;
  • Observe local laws and customs – you are subject to local laws in foreign countries.

Your company has entrusted you to represent them well and do a good job.  Stay safe!

 

 

General Safety Issues

WORKPLACE SAFETY: ARE YOUR EMPLOYEES SAFE? (GUEST POST)

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Every employer knows that its employees are its biggest asset; without them the business couldn’t function.  Keeping employees safe falls to every individual in a company but employers have a responsibility to ensure the people that work for them are happy and healthy, and that someone is there specifically to ensure that this happens. 

So how do you know that your employees are safe while they’re at work? 

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) uses the Health and Safety Act 1971 to uphold strict guidelines on what is needed to keep employees healthy and safe in the workplace. 

Guidelines for employers range from lighting, cleanliness, hygiene, moving around the premises and comfortable conditions.  Employers must make sure that: 

●       Buildings are up to scratch – they are lit well, of a good temperature, are clean and open to some fresh air, are not in dangerous disrepair and have good wash facilities. 

●       Anyone with a role that involves any of the following has specific guidelines around them; harmful substances, manual handling, noise, pressured equipment, working at height, working in confined spaces and radiation. 

●       There are full reporting systems in place for any workplace accidents or near misses. 

Employers also have strict guidelines on: 

  •   Fire Safety                             
  •   Electrical Safety                              
  •   Gas Safety 

On the flip side, employees also have an obligation to themselves and their peers when it comes to their health and safety at work.  Employees have a responsibility to: 

  •        Take reasonable care of their own and others health and safety. 
  •        Not to interfere with or change anything that has been put in place for theirs or anyone elses health and safety and to comply with any guidelines that are in place, including attending relevant training. 
  •        Report any incidents that occur or any concerns in keeping with company procedures. 
  •        Communicate any changes in health in keeping with the company procedures. 

Risk Assessments 

Risk assessments are an effective way of making sure that your workers are safe. They look at what could occur and examine it in detail to minimise the risk as much as possible. 

Risk assessments deliver this by sticking to five steps: 

  • ●       Identify the hazard
  • ●       Identify who is at risk and how they might be harmed
  • ●       Evaluate the risk and look at precautionary measures
  • ●       Record and put changes in place
  • ●       Carry out reviews and act accordingly as time goes on. 

If I’m concerned? 

Employers should ensure that there are adequate whistle blowing and reporting procedures in place and that they are prepared to approach the national governing body, the HSE, should any breaches occur. Employee health and safety should always be paramount. If there are any concerns they should be immediately reported by employees to management or to the HSE by managers. 

This is a guest post provided by the team at  Northern Insulation, UK based asbestos removal and thermal insulation experts.

We appreciate our authors and readers from the UK and several other countries.  This informative article was sent to us by Tudor Davies.  Similar safety rules apply in the U.S., under OSHA. pb

General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection

WHAT IS NOISE-INDUCED HEARING LOSS? (GUEST POST)

The occurrence of noise induced hearing loss is on the increase in the Western world, including Australia.  This increase is generally occurring from exposure to long periods of loud noises, and in some instances short loud noises such as an explosion.  While there are treatment options available, prevention is better than cure.  In order to prevent noise induced hearing loss, it must first be understood how it actually occurs.

How the human ear works

Every day we experience a large range of sounds via sound waves through our ears.  The Middle Ear amplifies the sound and hairs in the inner ear convert the sound waves into electrical signals so that our brains can understand what it is that we are hearing.  All pretty amazing when you think about it.

How does noise induced hearing loss occur?

While most noises we hear throughout the day are at safe levels, if we are exposed to an exceptionally loud sound (such as standing next to fireworks when they go off) or we are exposed to a loud sound for a prolonged period of time (for example working in a mechanical shop) then we can damage the hairs that convert sound in our inner ear.  This causes noise induced hearing loss.

Tips to avoid hearing damage in the workplace

First of all, it is necessary to understand what is meant by the term ‘too loud’. Any noise from 85 dB up can cause hearing loss. To put this figure into perspective, a lawn mower is between 85 and 90 dB. The louder the noise is,  the more quickly the hearing loss will occur. So follow these steps to protect your hearing.

  • Take note of how long you have been exposed to loud noise and try and have a break of 15 minutes or so to give your ears a rest.
  • Avoid noisy situations. If you have to  raise your voice to be heard then it is likely you are in a situation that is hazardous for your hearing.
  • If you can’t avoid a noisy situation, protect your hearing with either foam ear plugs or head phones.
  • If you regularly attend concerts, it may be worth investing in some custom fit musician ear plugs. Always avoid standing directly in front of speakers or amplifiers.
  • Have your hearing tested every two years particularly if you have noticed a change in your hearing. Your clinician will be able to give you further advice about protecting your hearing. 

When does noise induced hearing loss occur?

There are several ways that noise induced hearing loss can occur:

  • Prolonged exposure to noise:  If you are exposed to noise about 85 decibels for a prolonged period of time, then you can start damaging your hearing.
  • Short bursts of sounds:  Sounds above 120 decibels in short bursts can also cause hearing damage.

What are the symptoms?

Immediately after exposure to loud noise you may hear a ringing in your ears and have trouble hearing other people talk.  The length of time this lasts depends on how loud the noise you were exposed to was, and the length of period exposed.  Temporary hearing loss can also occur and for between 16 and 48 hours after an exposure to loud noise (eg., a rock concert).   Temporary hearing loss generally doesn’t have any long term effects.

The longer term symptoms of noise induced hearing loss can be difficult to diagnose at first.  The person may not notice slight changes in their hearing until it reaches a level that is unacceptable to them.  It is for this reason that regular hearing checks are needed. 

What are the treatment options?

As a first step you should make an appointment with a hearing centre.  After your assessment your audiologist will be able to discuss possible treatment options such as avoiding prolonged exposure to loud or the use of hearing aids.  Hearing aids can be very effective for noise induced hearing loss.

Noise induced hearing loss is a condition that is increasing in society.  As cities develop there are more and more opportunities for loud noises, and more chances of being exposed to loud noises for a prolonged period of time.  Both of these can cause noise induced hearing loss.

If you are experiencing noise induced hearing loss – or think you are – then it is imperative that you make an appointment to visit an audiologist to test your hearing today.  The sooner you address the problem the more opportunities you will have to limit the damage and improve your hearing.

BIO – Tanya Wilson

Tanya has over 7 years’ experience working in the hearing healthcare sector and writes hearing health care articles for Connect HearingAustralia.

Tanya’s hearing expertise enables her to focus on a range of hearing topics, including tackling common hearing issues, treatment options and new hearing technology.

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

SAFETY TIPS WHEN WORKING WITH ISOCYANATES

OSHA has announced a new National Emphasis Program for occupational exposure to chemical hazards.  One such chemical compound is isocyanates, which can cause occupational asthma, irritation of the skin, eyes, nose and throat, and possibly cancer.  

What are isocyanates? These chemicals are used in materials including paints, varnishes, auto body repair, and building insulation.  Spray-on polyurethane products containing isocyanates have been created for a wide range of retail, commercial, and industrial uses to protect cement, wood, fiberglass, steel and aluminum, including protective coatings for truck beds, trailers, boats, foundations, and decks.  Other jobs that have exposure to these chemicals are the manufacture of mattresses and car seats. 

Polyurethanes were a creation of America’s post World War II science and technology – the time when hundreds of so-called wonder chemicals were invented.  Polyurethanes or plasticizers are produced in three forms:

  1. As rigid foams primarily for building insulation, support elements, and decoration, and:
  2. As flexible or soft foams used for cushioning, and:
  3. As elasto-plastics used for automobile body panels, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and as a substitute for rubber.  Because of easy application and versatility, manufacturers and employers consider polyurethanes to be invaluable.

Polyurethanes are formed by combining a variety of chemicals: the most important ingredient is the family of isocyanates, which is made up of a number of chemicals: Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI), Methylene Bisphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI), Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDI), Naphthalene Diisocyanate (NDI), and Diisocyanate Dicyclohexyl Urethane.  

Telecommunications and automotive manufacturing members work with and are exposed to isocyanate products.  This work involves the use of polyurethane products used as foam plugs to weatherproof and seal telephone cable splices in the telecommunication business.  In the automotive manufacturing industry, polyurethane products are used in the plastics and related materials. 

Hazardous Exposures: 

Health effects of isocyanates include irritation of skin and mucous membranes, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.  These chemicals include compounds known as potential human carcinogens, known to cause cancer in animals.  TDI exposure causes serious upper respiratory health problems that involve the throat, nose, esophagus and lungs.  It can also cause acute irritation, (such as a burn inside the nose, throat or lungs.)  This exposure can be so damaging that the body loses its ability to fight infections.  Before or as soon as possible after working with TDI, affected workers should have a complete work up and medical history, including, chest x-ray, lung function test, and blood tests.  This is very important for those workers who have a history of upper respiratory/lung allergies, previously weakened lungs, or lung/throat problems at the time of exposure. 

Controlling Hazards: 

The best way, of course, to control the hazard is to remove it from the workplace.  Some less toxic and more acceptable substitutes should be used.  Isocyanate products can be effectively controlled with the use of engineering controls, such as enclosed systems or methods, as well as local exhaust ventilation.  It is up the employer to ensure that their workers are not exposed to harmful levels of these chemicals.  If affected workers can smell the TDI substance (smells like fruit), they should leave the area immediately and notify the supervisor.  If, after implementing engineering and administrative controls, the workers are still exposed to harmful levels, employees must be given the appropriate personal protective equipment.  In addition to gloves, goggles, and protective clothing, the workers must also be given the correct type of respirator. 

Good hygiene by the workers is also a must.  They should not smoke or eat in TDI work areas.  Also, they should never wear contaminated work clothing home.  The employer should collect such clothing and arrange for it to be cleaned.  If TDI gets in the eyes, they need to be flushed with water for at least 15 minutes.  Affected workers should contact his/her physician.

If the chemical is inhaled, get the worker to fresh air, and call a physician immediately.  Trained personnel should give oxygen treatment to the patient.  If breathing stops, artificial respiration should immediately be given.

 

Sources: OSHA/NIOSH

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

TIPS TO PROTECT EMPLOYEES FROM HEAT ILLNESSES

We survived July, and are beginning the hottest part of the summer for many locales.  It seems this summer has been especially brutal on those in the northern United States, who are not as accustomed to extreme heat as those in the southwestern states.  There are several types of heat related illnesses, such as

  •          Heat Stress

  •          Heat Exhaustion

  •          Heat Syncope

  •          Heat Cramps

  •          Heat Rash

  •          Heat Stroke

According to the CDC, workers who are more likely to be exposed to extreme heat are:  outdoor workers and workers in hot environments such as firefighters, bakery and restaurant cooks, landscapers, yard workers,  farmers, construction workers, miners, boiler room workers, factory workers, welders, oil field workers, and many others. Workers at greater risk of heat stress include those who are 65 years of age or older, are overweight, have heart disease or high blood pressure, or take medications that may be affected by extreme heat.

Many reports of heat-related deaths of workers have been based on the fact that employers may not have been aware of certain medications that their employees are taking.  Others had simply not taken enough breaks while working in extreme heat, and many had not had enough fluids during the day, especially water, and certain sports drinks that help the body restore lost fluids through sweating.

Recommendations for Employers

Employers should take these very important steps to protect workers from heat stress:

  • Schedule maintenance and repair jobs in hot areas for cooler months.
  • Schedule hot jobs for the cooler part of the day.
  • Monitor workers who are at risk of heat stress.
  • Acclimatize workers by exposing them for progressively longer periods to hot work environments.
  • Reduce the physical demands of workers.
  • Use relief workers or assign extra workers for physically demanding jobs.
  • Provide cool water or liquids to workers.
    • Avoid alcohol, and drinks with large amounts of caffeine or sugar.
  • Provide rest periods with water breaks.
  • Provide cool, shaded areas for use during break periods.
  • Provide heat stress training that includes information about:
    • Worker risk
    • Prevention
    • Symptoms
    • Treatment
    • Personal protective equipment
    • The importance of monitoring yourself and coworkers for symptoms

Recommendations for Workers

Workers should avoid exposure to extreme heat, sun exposure, and high humidity when possible. When these exposures cannot be avoided, workers should take the following steps to prevent heat stress:

  • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as cotton.
    • Avoid non-breathing synthetic clothing.
  • Gradually build up to heavy work.
  • Schedule heavy work during the coolest parts of day, (early).
  • Take more breaks in extreme heat and humidity.
    • Take breaks in the shade or a cool area when possible.
  • Drink water frequently. Drink enough water that you never become thirsty.
  • (If you wait until you become thirsty, you are probably already beginning to dehydrate.)
  • Approximately 1 cup every 15-20 minutes.
  • Avoid alcohol, and drinks with large amounts of caffeine or sugar.
  • Be aware that protective clothing or personal protective equipment may increase the risk of heat stress.
  • Monitor your physical condition and that of your coworkers. 

As employers search for ways to help their employees stay cool, they might want to consider cooling vests.  Once activated, they keep the body cooler for hours.  Ranging in a variety of colors, styles, and prices, these can be a valuable tool to maintain cooler body temperatures.

 

General Safety Issues

VAN SUSPENSION SAFETY CHECKS TO LOOK OUT FOR (GUEST POST)

If you are a long-time auto owner or you trade vehicles for a living, you know that tuning van suspension is one of the most critical parts of getting the best performance out of the vehicle. In fact, it is even possible to have a competitive business van without getting expensive upgrades by simply having a balanced set-up.  In this case, it is important that all tradesmen regularly check the suspended level of the vehicle to avoid the common safety problems: 

Van Performs Poorly on Rough Roads

This may be attributed to worn shock absorbers, which are there in the van’s system to minimise vibrations. They are also responsible for making sure that the wheels are properly in contact with the path. When the vehicle is incorrectly suspended, this does not only reduce comfort but also the driver’s safety. 

Van Appears Low

If you have just checked the vehicle and you notice that there is something wrong with its height, you may want to check the leaf springs of your vehicle. In truth, it is not the shock absorbers that handle the abuse of where you drive, but the leaf springs themselves. What happens here is that when the springs rebound hard, the shock absorbers suffer in return. In this case, you have to make sure that the van’s leaf spring is properly suspended to avoid spring fatigue. The old or worn out leaf springs can change the curb height of the van, meaning its vital to install high quality leaf springs in their place. 

Car is Noisy

If the vehicle makes popping or clunking noises whenever it is turned or meets a bump on the road, this may be an indication that it has a worn ball joint. This happens if it is overused or if it is not lubricated well. 

Tires Rapidly Deflate and Steering Becomes a Problem

The suspension system of the vehicle uses rubber bushings right at the inner trimmings of the control arms. The rubber bushings act like a cushion for the control arms whenever they are used by the vehicle. Therefore, when the bushings are tired and worn, you will find that the van has steering problems and the tires wear too easily. You can avoid this issue if the car is properly aligned. If not, the only solution is to replace the bushings. 

Why a Correctly Suspended Vehicle is a Must

Many people in the car trade use suspension customisation to modify the look of their vehicle. You may find that it looks good, but there are actually more benefits to a properly suspended vehicle than meets the eye. The most popular is the reduction of the amount of fuel used by the van. The cost of fuel is unquestionably spiralling upwards and there seems to be no way to stop it.

However, there are effective ways to combat the heavy amount of fuel used including a well-suspended vehicle. Inspect the van’s fuel efficiency and if you see that you are consuming petrol more than you should, there may be issues with its balance.

Only the right van suspension can give you lower petrol consumption and provide better control on your tires. You should only trade used vehicles that have good van suspension because this means that the car is reliable. It also gives the ideal weight, reduced emissions, enhanced comfort and better driving dynamics.

It is vital as a van owner or van trader to regularly check the vehicle’s suspension – including the shock absorbers, ball joints, rubber bushings and leaf springs. Any problems should be quickly remedied in order to retain the performance, safety and fuel efficiency of your vehicle, especially when using the van for business purposes.

Author Bio: Ian Humphries, for UK Aftermarket Springs, which has been an established name in the automotive industry since 1962 and with almost 50 years of experience to draw from, we have the knowledge and expertise to help and guide you.

 

 

 

 

 

General Safety Issues

LOOKING AFTER YOUR STAFF PAYS OFF IN THE LONG RUN (GUEST POST)

Looking after your staff really does pay dividends. If you respect and support them through their working careers, they will stay longer, work harder and put much more effort into whatever they do. Happy staff are more productive and will offer you extra help when you really need it rather than a worker who feels unappreciated and gives work not even a second thought after clocking off time. They will more than likely also be unprepared to work extra hours or shifts when asked.  If you treat them as just mere workers and never give them the time of day, that is exactly how they will treat you and your company in return.

Hiring the right kind of staff for the job is of course crucial in the first instance, but looking after them after they have started employment with your firm is probably one of the most important things you can do. The ways to do this are simple. 

Make them feel a part of the team. Welcome them into your company and make them aware that your door is always open if they need help. Greet them on a daily basis and thank them at every opportunity. Make it company practice that their direct managers do this too, as it makes the staff feel valued and not just a number. 

If you set targets, give them an incentive like a prize for reaching set targets or just for doing well. Reward hard work with pay raises or a perk, such as a company car or gym membership. They are sometimes more valuable than extra cash in their paycheck.

You may also want to think about providing childcare vouchers for working parents or medical and dental plans for all staff, if your company can afford it. This way you may attract better workers for less direct outlay. 

Not only looking after your employees financial and physical expectations is needed but also their emotional and mental needs should be addressed. Freedom from bullying and harassment are just two situations that need to be looked at and dealt with quickly and harshly, so they are not repeated time and time again. 

Training is also key and employees should be given every opportunity to learn and grow within your business, a chance to advance their career and climb the company ladder. Give them every chance to prove to you and themselves that they can achieve great things. Let them make mistakes and learn from them, but also be there if they need help and support.  If their job includes safety hazards, be sure they know how to use their industrial safety supplies, (i.e., gloves, safety glasses, etc.) and take care of it.

Integrate them into company projects, this makes them feel important and gives them the push to succeed. Invite them to help make decisions, get them to vote on new company policies or set new rules. They are your staff and should also have a say in what happens within the company. 

Offer to give your staff time off when they really need it, for example when a family member is sick and they need to look after them or let them go early as a reward for working hard. All these generosities will be viewed kindly and will help you retain loyal, hard working employees who appreciate your efforts to make their working careers less stressful and more enjoyable. People who enjoy their job tend to stay on, even if they are offered a higher salary elsewhere. 

So if you treat your staff as you would like to be treated, you will earn their respect and gain their trust. Work in partnership with them, instead of dominating them at every turn. Work to their strengths and abilities and you won’t go far wrong!

“Good words of advice from Conner Short from The Van Warehouse“.