Monthly Archives: March 2014

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection

Industrial Gloves Raises Safety Level of Its Workers (Guest Post)

 
There are specific Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) laws in place that makes protective equipment like gloves and sleeves mandatory for industrial workers. Indeed, without the use of these protective and secure gloves, it is quite possible that workmen may the victims of damages to, or even total loss of their hands through accidents caused by moving parts of machinery, chemical exposures, electrical shocks, fire and burns, hand injuries caused during welding and a host of hazards that make the protection of hands through industrial gloves mandatory and absolutely necessary to avoid damages or losses, either of temporary or permanent kind. 
To a very large extent, the kind of industrial gloves that would be necessary depends largely on the kind of industrial activity that is being carried out. However, the main types of gloves are:
  • Fire Resistant types
  • Cotton gloves
  • Inspection Gloves
  • Latex gloves
  • Knitted gloves
  • Leather gloves
  • Rubber gloves
  • Any other synthetic materials that is warranted due to danger of industrial activity
It must be remembered that the hands of industrial workers, especially when handling dangerous and moving parts of machines or welding, are highly risky and accident prone, and thus need full gloved protection while handling. There have been cases and instances when the entire ungloved hand of the workman had been severed by moving machine parts, or welding burns causing  third-degree burns perhaps beyond medical treatment, thus raising the bar for safety measures and regulatory regimes regarding the use of industrial gloves.
  1. The demands of the trade measure the quality, kind and toughness of the industrial gloves: Indeed choices of gloves are work based, the more hazardous the work, the more tougher, protective and robust the gloves need to be. Gloves made of asbestos (fireproof), leather or rubber (fire and acid proof) and latex gloves (liquids and water proof) are major kinds in demand, although certain activities specify the kind of gloves needed.
  2. Heavy work requires a tough pair of gloves: Protection against rough and unidentified objects, fire sparks, heat, fire and dust particles, need leather gloves that are all resistant and also durable and non-abrasive. Rubber gloves offer protection against chemical spills and oils too. 
  3. Sometimes a combination of gloves may be needed: for some hazardous and tough jobs, where the palms also begin to sweat profusely, it becomes necessary to have inner coating of cotton gloves (mops up sweat and body fluids) with outer coating of leather or synthetic gloving. While dealing with electricity and electronic devices, it is best to use insulating rubber gloves which offer better protection against leakages and shocks. In nuclear plants, specially designed gloves are required. 
  4. Workmen must be trained and educated on the safe and efficient use of gloves: During times of emergencies, it is important that workmen make good use of putting on and removing gloves and other hand safety devices and they need to be trained and modulated on the techniques of hand protection and other issues. 
In the context of industrial protection and safety, hand protection devices are indeed very critical and important, making the difference between safety and hazard, and thus gloves need to be a fully integrated port of workmen’s armory, both for defense and safe working. Historical records bear testimony on the number of accidents which could have been avoided if there had been sound and practiced safety measures and factory managers need to learn from past mistakes and learn for the future betterment and Zero Accident Tolerance standards. 
 
 
Author Bio: Christy Nelsen is a good researcher. And for the past several years, concentrated on academic assignments for students who require top-quality articles to accomplish their assignments and other projects. He helps students for write to learn many subjects.  He enjoys writing about current trends and innovations in education, technology and traveling.  
 
 
 
 
Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, Respiratory Safety

Unseen Dangers of Workplace Nobody Will Tell You About (Guest Post)

1 Comment

It would not be wrong to say that every workplace has some dangers lurking for the employees. These often go unnoticed by the employees,  sometimes causing much damage and irreparable injury.  It could be a result of carelessness on the part of the management, lack of required security for workers or simply ignorance about the existence of the danger a particular activity or device holds. This post looks into those potential dangers and discusses workplace hazards we need to be careful and alert about. 

Workers in the Hospitality and Services Industry 

All those working in hotel kitchens and whipping up delicious dishes would probably never have thought about constant dangers they are exposing themselves to. The heat and fumes that they are constantly functioning in are extremely damaging to the health of the lungs. The hot pans and bulky vessels are other sources of burns and injuries that workers in the kitchen often work with and take little care. Poor lighting in kitchens, uncared for inflammable substances are other dangers lurking around in the kitchen. 

The owner of the place must ensure proper lighting, storage, ventilation and functioning appliances in proper condition for the employees.   On the other hand, the relatively innocent looking fryers and pans could also be sources of danger. While there should be a warning board displayed in every restaurant kitchen for newbies, that isn’t the case always. And so nobody will tell you that you never put anything frozen in a fryer, the oil will bubble up and burn your hands. Similarly you must always use gloves to handle pans and pots, even those that have handles. Also a slightly unwelded or loose handle can cause the pan and its contents to fall on you. Sharp objects in the kitchen exist in abundance and you must always be careful when handling knives, scissors, peelers and other sharp objects. 

Workers in the Construction Industry 

Construction workers have one of the most high risk jobs. They are constantly exposed to all sorts of danger at work. Four workers falling to their death on Christmas Eve in Toronto was a complete jolter and again brings into focus the nonchalant, lackluster attitude some employers have towards the safety of their workers. 

While working around a backhoe, being electrocuted, cut by machines and crushed between boulders and vehicles are the obvious dangers workers are encountering at all times, there is another latent kind of danger that is of late becoming increasingly common in the construction industry. It is this phenomenon called “independent contractors”. A lot of desperate, migrant workers function as cheap labor and pump in their blood and sweat (literally) into these industries. The scarey fact here is, that employers are completely exploiting these “independent contractors” as they are not properly covered within the employment benefits.  The employers as well as the insurers can get around not paying them benefits and worker’s insurance coverage. 

States must take into account these desperate workers and make laws that help them to cover expenses and financial blows experienced due to an injury at the workplace. These workers can also seek legal counsel from aggressive and dedicated personal injury lawyers who will fight for their rights and litigate to secure them the best possible settlement in the given circumstances. 

Besides these, construction workers are exposed to a number of other things that can be highly dangerous to them. Contaminated building products lead to a lot of damage in the worker’s bodies but one building product that few people know is very harmful for workers is asbestos. Painters, demolition workers, roofers, masons and bricklayers are all exposed to asbestos in some form or the other. There has been an increased incidence of peritoneal cancers and lung cancers in asbestos exposed workers. Studies have revealed that employers are using much higher concentration of asbestos than recommended,  which is immensely harmful for the employees.  Respirator protection, eye protection, and safe gloves are required for these workers.

When Working as Drivers

Motorbike delivery services, truck drivers, taxi-drivers, chauffers may get into the job thinking it is relatively risk-free. After a few days into the job they will know it’s not. You are expected to meet deadlines when you are in the delivery service and travelling on a bike, you will be speeding for your job. A fall or an accident can never be too far and you are always at risk.

Those jobs that involve loading and unloading can give you serious spine and back injuries. Many drivers also become a victim of violence and assault while on the road, which most of them do not expect and are not prepared for.  Prolonged sitting on the job  can lead to a lot of health problems like backaches and bad posture. Handling of constant communication tools even while on the road is dangerous though not deemed so by the owner of the vehicle or the driver. If you are in this profession, avoid using your cell phone as much as possible. Moreover, your job can involve engines, brakes, doors malfunctioning anytime, which can again lead to serious accidents.Regular servicing and maintenance of the vehicle is a must to make the automobile/truck as safe as possible for the drivers.

When You are a Farmer or a Rancher

While many believe farming as one of the most safe and satisfying occupations, the truth is slightly deviated from that. Satisfying, yes, probably for most, however, there are a lot of dangers lurking in farming as well. Constant exposure to various types of chemicals, fertilizers and pesticides can lead to breathing problems as well as allergies. Ask a farmer and you will believe me.  In addition, you are also dealing with some pretty big animals (who have horns and teeth) on your ranch. They are well behaved and somewhat tame, but if any of these animals get out of control, they can severely injure you – causing fractures, deep cuts, or spinal injuries.  Hence, it is not surprising to know that the death rate percentage among farmers and ranchers as high as 21.3 per cent, which makes it  actually counted as one of the most dangerous occupations in U.S.A.

Conclusion

Most of us spend the largest chunk of our lives at the workplace whether it is a farm, car or office. Each place and each job comes with some inherent risks and potential dangers. Some of these dangers are known to us and we know how to tackle them. But there are other physical and emotional dangers associated with the job as well, which we may not be aware of and that is what makes them all the more risky. If you have discovered any such unknown danger at the workplace, letting others know will help save many from injuries, fatigue and fatalities.

Author’s Bio: 

Attorney Mike Hulen is a personal injury lawyer at the Law Office of Hulen & Leutwyler, LLC in Colorado. Hulen has more than 30 years of legal experience in helping the people to rebuild their lives after being injured in accidents.  Whether you are looking for a strong representation in your personal injury case or need immediate help, call us at 888-717-7891.

Ergonomics, Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection

IS YOUR JOB THE “SECOND TIME AROUND?”

Many senior citizens have found themselves taking on a semi-retirement job.  Due to financial need or simply because they enjoy working, more and more seniors are working past the retirement age. 

Those who have certain professional experience from their first job, or the one they retire from, may use those skills in another setting.  Employers are happy to have older employees with experience, as they are very dependable and have a work ethic not found in many younger workers.  There is aways new technology they must learn, but they are willing and able to do so. 

Continuing to work helps keep our minds sharper.  We have to think about each step, especially when learning a new skill set.  Employers are conscious about the safety of all workers, but know that they must provide all employees with the personal protective equipment that fits the job duties, whether it is hearing protection, eye protection, gloves, or ergonomic products.  Older employees may be more susceptible to injuries, but their job descriptions must fit their physical abilities.

By working after age 65 into their 70’s, senior citizens have the feeling of accomplishment.  Most of them are just not ready for the rocking chair.  There are many activities to participate in that allow us to enjoy life, but when we are working, there is not only the sense of pride in doing a job well, but there’s also a paycheck that helps, as well.

It is sad that there are so many unwilling to work because they think a job is beneath them.  Too many citizens draw benefits that should be going to ones who really need and deserve them.  When you see an older person working at a grocery store, convenience store, or any other business, you should admire what they are doing.  You have no idea why they haven’t retired, so be happy for them that they are able to work.

Having worked in many different occupations during my life, I have enjoyed every one of them.  It would be hard to imagine what I would do if I didn’t have this part-time, semi-retirement type of job!  There are other things that fill our lives, our family and friends, but each day that I can work on this safety blog is a gift.  I have met so many friends through this website; ones from countries all over the world, and it is a pleasure to have had them share their safety tips with our readers.  In this type of work, there is no age barrier.  I have no idea the ages of our guest authors, nor do they know mine.

That’s the way all work should be: respect for your co-workers, no matter how young or old they are.  Everyone’s expertise is needed, and it’s amazing how much we can help each other if we just try.  Keep yourself safe at all times, and if you aren’t ready to retire, don’t.  Just find something that keeps you going and be proud that you still have your talents to give to the world.

Without the help of our team (of all ages) at Texas America Safety Company, my job would be very different, but thanks to their support and assistance when I need it, there’s always someone who lends a helping hand.  I can honestly say “work is better, the second time around”, and mean it. 

Pat

 

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

AVOIDING FALLS IN THE WORKPLACE (GUEST POST)

1 Comment

Most of us don’t have workplace safety at the forefront of our minds when we are on the job. Unfortunately, injuries in the workplace are far from uncommon. The U.S. Department of Labor has reported that 15% of accidental deaths in the workplace are caused by falls, slips, or trips, and also account for an astounding 25% of all reported injuries.

Avoiding falls in the workplace should be a priority for not only employees, but also for the employers who are legally obligated to prevent them. While you may get out lucky with just a bruise or scrape, falls can often result in death. Going forward, follow these safety guidelines to stay safe on the job, avoid falls, and focus on the task at hand.

Avoiding Falls In The Workplace 1

Falls account for 25% of all workplace injuries. They can be prevented.

Where do Falls Occur?
Most reported falls occur at ground level, either by tripping over an object such as wires or slipping on a liquid such as oil. The remainder are from falling from higher areas such as ladders, rooftops, steps, or a higher floor.

Avoiding Falls In The Workplace 2

Never allow boxes or other objects in main walkways.

Precautions to Avoid Falls
Almost all workplace falls can be avoided either by wearing the proper safety equipment or by making sure that workplace conditions are safe before working. Here are a few tips to help prevent falls.

Create a workplace clean-up plan that must be followed daily. Housekeeping such as putting away loose objects, cleaning up spills as they happen, and ensuring all equipment is properly tied down will help prevent most falls from happening. 

  • Always use equipment for its intended purpose. For example, when reaching for something up high, a safety ladder is a much better choice than a desk chair.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for the environment. Make sure the footwear provides the traction and protection you need for your particular job.
  • Keep walkways clear. Boxes, cords, and hoses should never be left in main walking areas.
  • Work areas should be well-lit, and lights should be turned on upon entering any room.
  • Always be mindful of your environment. Paying attention to what is around you can be a preventative measure in itself.

Avoiding Falls In The Workplace 3

Always clean up spills right away to avoid slipping.

Why is Workplace Safety, and Avoiding Falls Important?

The main reason avoiding falls and following workplace safety protocol is important is to keep employees safe, free from injury, and to avoid accidental death. If you are injured on the job, you will be facing even more issues than your injury.

  • Will you have paid time off if the injury could have been prevented?
  • Will you have worries such as how to manage finances if you’re suddenly laid off‘ .
  • Will your health insurance cover the injuries sustained on the job?For employers, the cost of a fall in the workplace can be astronomical. Medical bills, paid leave, and legal fees are not worth ignoring safety protocol and ensuring injury prevention.

  • Falls can be prevented in the workplace. Following safety procedures, keeping the work areas clean and tidy, using equipment only as intended, and wearing safety harnesses when appropriate along with other safety gear will go a long way in the prevention of falls.

    Jessica Galbraith is a writer, blogger, and safety advocate. 

General Safety Issues

A GENTLE REMINDER: “SPRING FORWARD” SUNDAY!

Although the first day of Spring is not until March 20th, and most will agree,there have been few signs of Spring so far.  However, for those in the timezone that is affected by the time change, it is a good idea to set your clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed Saturday night.  That way you won’t be late to church, or other plans you may have for that day.

Folks either love or hate Daylight Saving Time.  It gives those who enjoy golf and other sports more light in the evening.  Sunrise will be later, so for those driving to work or school, be extra careful to watch for youngsters on their bikes or walking to school.

This is a good time to check your batteries in your smoke detectors to ensure they are working correctly.  It’s also an opportunity to start preparing for warmer weather (we hope), and shop for any personal protective equipment you may need.  If you are a gardener or yard worker, be sure you have some good gloves, eye protection, and dust masks for mowing.  Other industrial businesses need to check their list for products that keep their workers more comfortable and stock up on supplies before it does get warm.

The folks at Texas America Safety Company and Blog4Safety hope that Spring arrives on time, as it has been such an extremely cold winter for most of the U.S.  Remember, too, that when you make a purchase and mention our Blog, you will receive a 5% discount. 

 

General Safety Issues

Stay Safe by Installing Security Roller Shutters with These 10 Tips (Guest Post)

Useful Tips to Buy Security Roller Shutters – Are They Advantageous?

The security roller shutters are the best way to increase the privacy and security. They are used both for business and home purposes to provide extra security against any intruders. The roller shutters are mostly attached to the windows. They are available in different types and sizes, which mean the right size, can be chosen according to the individual’s requirements, be it for door or window.

Benefits of Security Roller Shutters:

The roller shutters used for security purposes are made from metal or fiberglass, which are commonly used for their robust features. Here follows some of the main benefits of installing the security roller shutter:

  • They help in keeping the intruders away and prevent graffiti or any damages that may happen to the doors or window
  • The fiber shutters, though found to be less expensive than metal, are the resilient and require very less maintenance
  • There are also other material choices of roller shutters available, which can be chosen according to the requirements
  • They are durable and light weight
  • Needless or no maintenance and can function in good condition for many years
  • Available in different colors
  • Security roller shutters are available in both automatic and electric type and both the types can be used for business and home purposes, however electric shutters are less time consuming and easy to use, by just pressing the button

Tips for buying Security Roller Shutters:

Before buying the security roller shutters, it is very important to know a few things to make the right decision. It is important to determine the factor, why to purchase roller shutter and how to buy. These shutters not only serve for security and privacy purposes, but they also help to control the temperature of the entire home or room.

Here follows some useful tips to help you buy the right choice of Security Roller Shutters:

1.      The foremost thing that must be considered while buying Security Roller Shutters is the price. This determines the type and quality of material to choose among the available option. There are also cheaper roller shutters available on the market, but when considering a quality one that can with stand for many years, then it becomes essential to spend a little more and find the branded quality shutter that guarantees long lasting usage.

2.      Try to identify the right company before buying. There are many companies manufacturing roller shutters for security purposes. It becomes a difficult task while choosing the company, as all come with attractive features and guarantees quality security shutters. But it is important to take some effort to research and analyze if the company chosen is reliable and reputable before buying the security roller shutters.

3.      Look for extra features that the shutters could offer. With the advancement in technology, many new features have been included in the security shutters to enhance its usage. Such features may increase the usability and benefit the users. Therefore, it is very important to know the differences and extra features integrated in the roller shutter chosen.

4.      Try to know the lock mechanisms and the profile of the shutters such as; noise reduction, easy insulation and better security. It should be the best solution for all demands that the owners put forward.

5.      Remember, the installation methods may be different with each company, therefore it is important to know the method of installation before buying the roller shutter.

6.      Colors and finishes also differ with manufacturers. Therefore, it is important to know the differences to choose an appropriate shutter with expected finish and color choice.

7.      Look for any other extra features including, battery backups, system control, code pads, remote controls, automatic cleaning brushes, manual override systems and many others. Intact the shutters must be user-friendly and give peace of mind to the owners.

8.      Before buying the security roller shutters, it is important to check for the company‘s credibility. To do this, try to call the Consumer Affairs and check the reputation of the company or manufacturer and then check for the customer reviews and testimonials.

9.      The next important thing to consider while buying security roller shutter is the quality. It is important to make sure that the quality of material used for manufacturing roller shutter must be of high grade, which ensures the durability of the shutter. Try to know the complete details of the materials used its grade and other essential information. The portfolio online given by the company can also provide you enough details of the shutter material types and quality used.

10.  The service that company provides while buying and after buying and installing is very important. The company that sells security roller shutter must be capable of providing the best after sales services, which increases the confidence in using the shutter peacefully, even if there occurs any fault in the system. They must guarantee and assure services if there arise any problem after installing.

Besides knowing these factors to buy the best quality security roller shutters, there are also a few points to consider.

The most important thing to consider in addition to the above said buying guide is, make sure that the shutter does not create huge noise. Try to install safeguards that can help blocking excessive noise, which is available along with the security roller shutter.

Another important thing to consider is, the roller shutters must be foam injected. This gives unique installation qualities and may help in keeping about 90% of severe heat during summer in particular, from entering into the home or workplace. Similarly, it can also retain about 70% of the heat inside the workplace or home during winter. Therefore, in addition to security and safety consideration, varying weather conditions must also be noted in order to get a complete protection.

Moreover, the roller shutter can also prevent light entering into rooms during daytime in addition to preventing heavy noise. This is very advantageous to the shift workers who sleep during daytime.

Thus, considering not only the security measures while buying roller shutters, it is also essential to consider the comfort factors in order to choose the right one. 

Author Bio:

This article written by Justin Jersey for readers to provide useful information related Window shutter. If still looking for more then Get more help about Security Roller Shutters. 

Note: Another great article from Australia!  Thanks so much. pb

General Safety Issues

Securing Your Home While On Holiday (Guest Post)

1 Comment

 Note: With spring break coming up, these are excellent safety tips that we all should follow. pb

The last thing you want when relaxing on holiday is to be worried about the security of your home. As professional locksmiths, one of the most common questions we are asked is how best to secure a house when you are away. Here are our Top Seven Tips. 

1. Get a trusted person to house sit 

This is the ideal option as it ensures your house is not empty. Do you have a family member or friend who might like somewhere to stay for a few weeks? This is often a great option for young adults who still live at home or in share houses. They are responsible enough to care for a home and might appreciate a break from where they are living.

 For longer trips you can also consider professional house sitters. Agencies screen their candidates very carefully. You will pay a small fee and have the peace of mind knowing your house, garden, mail and pets are being cared for. 

If you do get someone to stay in your house, remember to tell the neighbours or your own family – anyone who might come past and get suspicious if they see a stranger entering or leaving your home! 

Tip: Keep close track of who you give keys to and write down some guidelines if you are using a friend / family member or house sitter for the first time. 

2. Don’t advertise the fact you are away 

The internet has become a place to share a lot of personal information. Please be mindful about how much you give away online. We would recommend never advertising on social media sites or public forums that you are going away. Of course you may email family or friends who need to know this information. But if you are posting the news anywhere that strangers can access the information, think twice. 

Tip: If you do want to share your holiday photos or news, do something simple such as implying you have someone staying in your house. This will minimise the chances of a stranger who might come across the information online ‘trying their luck’. 

3. Inform neighbours or close family / friends 

If you are lucky enough to have good neighbours, you probably already have asked or given favours in the past. Even neighbours you don’t know that well are usually happy to do basic tasks such as: 

  • take bins out and put them back
  • collect your mail
  • keep an eye on the house for any unusual occurrences 

They may even be happy to water the garden or feed a cat. If you don’t have neighbours you can ask to do this, consider asking a family member to stop by once every few days. And if this is not an option, you should put a stop to your mail – including any regular deliveries – so it doesn’t pile up. 

Tip: Put a No Junk Mail sign on your mail box so this doesn’t pile up while you are away. 

4. Inform Security Company or local authorities 

If you have an alarm system, let your security company know you will be away and contact details for a person close to home in case of an incident.  You may also like to inform local police (only for trips longer than a few weeks) especially if you live in a small town where you know they will keep an eye out.   Some neighbourhoods have a Neighbourhood Watch or similar community program. Find out if there is one in your area and contact them. 

Tip: You can place a sticker on your front window saying the house is protected by a security system even if it is not. Every small deterrent helps. 

5. Invest in a light switch timer 

One small and worthwhile investment is a light switch timer. You don’t want to leave all lights off the whole time, nor do you want lights running all through the night. 

Install a light switch timer in a few key rooms, as well as on a few outdoor lights. Set them to emulate normal living hours. Again, the aim is to provide a deterrent. Anything that will give a potential intruder enough reason to doubt their actions and move on. 

Tip: A sensor light is so simple and yet amazingly effective. Nobody wants to get caught in an unexpected flood of light. 

6. Check all locks, bolts and keys 

You can do this yourself or get your local locksmith to come and do a safety check and audit. This can include: 

  • ensuring deadbolts on all external access doors
  • checking window locks
  • reconciling your keys – if in doubt, it can be wise to get locks re-keyed to a master key system. This way you can be 100% certain nobody else has keys to your home and you control all keys that are cut. 

Tip: Make sure a family member, neighbour or friend has a key in case of any unusual event or emergency, but don’t leave one anywhere on your premises. 

7. Secure windows, sliding doors and other unusual entry points 

Not all entry points can be secured with deadlocks. But make sure there are no easy access points. Things to check and install include: 

  • place rods in the bottom of sliding doors so they can’t be forced open
  • place nails or bolts in window frames so windows only open a small amount
  • check padlocks to places such as sheds, garages etc to ensure they are secure
  • lock or seal any unusual entry points such as attics or cellars 

Tip: Screen doors and screens on windows are a way to provide an extra level of security and protection for your home. 

Author Bio: 

Jeremy works with Five Star Locksmiths (Melbourne). Five Star Locksmiths provide 24 hour locksmith services in Melbourne’s CBD and its suburbs. Jeremy writes content that provides value to the readers.

 

 

 

 

 

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

IT MAY BE TIME FOR A WELD FUME AUDIT (GUEST POST)

As many welders know, one of the most important aspects of the job is to protect themselves from weld fumes and the toxicity associated with these externalities. To avoid health risks, weld fume exposure levels should be checked periodically to be certain that the levels fall within Occupational Safety and Health Standards Association’s (OSHA) acceptable exposure limits and the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists’ (ACGIH) threshold limit values. 

While the amount of audits depends on the size of the company and the amount of welding, weld fume audits should be done regularly. Even though every welding environment is different, these must be evaluated by a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) to determine the appropriate course of action for fume controls (if any). The CIH will monitor the air in your facility and offer consultation on necessary next steps. 

Welding different materials gives off large amounts of heat, light, and gas. This exchange can release hazardous gases and fumes, not visible to the eye. Over the years, studies have found that welding stainless steel can cause occupational asthma. This occupational asthma is not only linked to stainless steel, non-stainless steel welding can actually be more problematic as occupational asthma has been reported without any specific agents determined as the cause. 

While the list of health hazards linked to weld fumes is ongoing, many are associated with respiratory issues.  Lung and skin cancers are also linked to overexposure of metal fumes, over long periods of time. With eye and skin irritation rounding out the less invasive illnesses related to dangerous weld fumes. 

When an audit is performed, the CIH will check for acceptable levels of hexavalent chromium Cr(VI). If an audit shows levels of Cr(VI) higher than OSHA’s Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), then further action must be taken. While this action varies upon the company size and exposure levels, there are items on the market today that offer preventive maintenance along with long-term improvements in air quality. One product sold by Lincoln Electric is a fume extractor that’s an in-house standalone system used to continuously filter the air, in order to extract welding fumes released during the fabrication process. These extractors can also be modified to force ventilation through the roof or wall fans. Another in-house option is the use of detection panels. These panels are often used with the extraction systems in order to prevent, detect, and suppress fires in the welding and fume extraction equipment. 

Outside of installation, individual responsibility is also paramount to keep people safe from weld fumes. It’s important that you know how to protect yourself. Facilities need to have good ventilation, perform air quality tests, and determine if a respirator is necessary for the task. Whether or not your facility is at risk for Cr(VI)exposure, it’s crucial to stay informed about exposure and the risks involved with welding. Proper preventive measures can be substantial in hindering the dangerous health risks associated with the incidental inhalation of weld fumes.

Bio:
“Katie Netherton is a blogger and writer for an SEO and marketing company. She has a background in journalism and contributes articles for various newsletters and websites.” 

 

Eye Protection, Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, High Visibility Safety

SAVING LIVES ON CONSTRUCTION SITES BY REDUCING HAZARDS (GUEST POST)

1 Comment

In order to keep the staff and management safe on construction sites, it is important that both parties participate in the proper safety standards and regulations. Not adhering to safety rules can put everyone involved in danger, can damage equipment and can cost the project time and money. Construction sites are some of the most dangerous work environments because of falls, equipment malfunctions, cuts, electrocution, backovers and so much more. Here are few suggestions for keeping your construction safe for all present and to finish your project with all of your staff still intact.

1) Employee Training

         When hiring a staff to perform construction duties, it is easy to want to hire the cheapest labor possible, but that also means you may be paying for less experience and training. Many people assume that any able-bodied person can work with a construction company but this is a job that requires equipment knowledge and experience to perform the proper safety measures. Taking the time to educate your staff on safety standards and OSHA regulations can protect your staff from injury and your company from legal consequences. Making sure new hires are familiar with safety techniques, equipment and tools can save from surprises later on down the road. Having continuous education for your staff on new innovations in the field is another way to keep them safe and valuable.

2) Equipment Maintenance

         Keeping equipment properly maintained and updated is essential to keeping construction staff safe. When you start to notice that certain tools or instruments used by your crew are beginning to malfunction or fall apart, be sure to mark them and put them aside from the other tools. Construction equipment is expensive and can break easily but it is better to throw these pieces away instead of having someone pay for negligence with a visit to the emergency room or the morgue. Every six months, inspect the tools and equipment the labor uses and be sure that your managers are informing you and the staff when certain equipment is out of commission.

3) Loose Wires and Exposed Hoses

         Usually there is a lot going on at the average construction site. And in the confusion it can be easy for something small like a loose wire or an exposed hose to become to a big problem. During the process of installing the electrical systems, there are often hanging wires and loose cables lying around a site. These wires are dangerous because they can cause electrocution to a member of the staff or become entangled in equipment and be damaged. Improper electrical work will cost time and money later on and likely cause the finish date of your project to be postponed. Instead, use cable protectors from companies like Brahman Systems to protect the cables and wires that your staff need to operate. Exposed hoses are also a common site during the construction process. Hoses should be protected with steel reinforced hose protectors so that what they supply or transport can be properly maintained and not damaged by vehicles or materials.

4) Proper Uniform

         The proper uniform should always be present at construction sites and is the employee’s first line of defense against injury. Proper uniform includes rubber soled shoes, hard hat, gloves, safety goggles, denim jeans, and reflective vest if working at night. If the employee is going to using equipment that is extremely loud like a jackhammers or nail guns, be sure they are wearing protective earmuffs or foam earplugs. Another aspect of proper presentation should be that no employee be found under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When one employee is not of proper state of mind, they put everyone at the site in danger and place the company under huge liability. Construction sites should have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to drugs and alcohol on the job.

 This post was written by M.G. Bachemin in association with Brahman Systems, a Louisiana producer of cable and hose protectors that decrease worksite hazards.

 

General Safety Issues

HOW TO PROTECT YOU AND YOUR HOME FROM FIRE (GUEST POST)

1 Comment

Fire is  extremely dangerous;  unfortunately, the destruction and devastation it can cause is often underestimated.  Always take the correct precautions  to help ensure that you and others are not injured should a fire occur.

Below are five tips to keep you and your home fire free:

 1.Equip your home against small house fires

It is crucial that your home is equipped to put out small fires that may occur in your home. The best way to ensure that you are equipped against small house fires is to fit fire extinguishers and fire blankets in the kitchen and any other rooms in the house that a fire would most likely start. For instance, place fire extinguishers near any fireplaces you may have in your home. To help equip your home further, fit fire doors throughout. By doing so it will help contain any fires and stop them from spreading throughout your home. 

2.Become educated in how to extinguish fires

After having fire extinguishers and blankets fitted,  it is advised that you read all instructions carefully and seek advice where needed about how to extinguish different types of fires. Many people are unaware that different types of fires should be extinguished using different types of fire extinguishers. If the wrong type of fire extinguisher is used it can have disastrous effects and as a direct result the fire could spread further and quicker. 

3.Pay attention in the kitchen and do not leave hob (stove) unattended

A large majority of house fires start in the kitchen. Many of these fires are due to negligence and leaving pans unattended on the hob. The best way to combat this is by never leaving the hob (stove) unattended and being vigilant of oven cooking times. When finished cooking it is vital to check that all hobs and the oven are switched off before leaving the kitchen.

  4.Fit and check regularly, the fire alarms throughout your home

In the unlikely event of a fire, the fire alarm will be able to alert you. If you are sleeping and a fire starts in your home you will need to be alerted by a fire alarm or there is a good chance that you will not wake and may become overwhelmed by the fires smoke. If you or anyone else in your family is deaf or hard of hearing they may not be woken by the sound of a fire alarm. With advance in technology now fire alarms are being produced that are able to wake the deaf and hard hearing in the unfortunate event of a fire. These types of fire alarms such as the Deafgard are able to wake the deaf and hard hearing through vibrations and high density flashing lights. 

5.Fully extinguish all cigarettes

Although the smoking ban has meant that many people can no longer smoke inside in public places, many people still do smoke inside in the privacy of their own home. Cigarettes can easily ignite a fire if left unattended. If you do smoke inside your own home always check that your cigarette is fully out when finished and never leave a lit cigarette unattended in the home.

Finally in the event of any fire in the home that is out of control always remember to dial 999 immediately.  (In the U.S., call 9-1-1.)

Our thanks to George Tester of  Deafgard for sending this fire safety information.  It is comforting to know that there are fire alerts that can warn those who are hard of hearing or deaf when there may be fire in their homes.  The same fire safety info would apply to offices and other industries that should have the correct amount of fire extinguishers on hand, and employees trained in their use. pb