All posts by Gary

General Safety Issues

Chemical Hazard Identification – Why Do I Need GHS Labels?

 Chemical Hazard Identification – Why Do I Need GHS Labels?

What is hazard communication, and why does it apply to my workplace?

The Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA) recently aligned with a global system to simplify workplace safety. Hazard communication is a procedural standard set forth by the United Nations to standardize the identification, communication, and labeling of chemical related hazards.

The globally harmonized system (GHS) of chemical identification and labeling can be a bit complicated, so here we’ll try and dive in to the finer details and help make sense of it all. In order to understand hazard communication (also known as HazCom), first we must differentiate between common workplace containers.

Primary Container vs. Secondary Container Labels

Primary containers come straight from the manufacturer. They come in drums, tubs, pails, bottles, or other larger canisters that are pre-labeled with the chemical identifier. The “primary container” labels are required to include the manufacturer information. The next section is where things are a little confusing.

Often times, workplace operations require transferring chemicals from the original labeled container into a smaller secondary container (beaker, flask, or bottle). Additionally, certain manufacturing processes require hazardous materials to be transferred into larger containers (plating and finishing operations, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical manufacturing, etc.)

Secondary container labels do not require the manufacturer information. HCL Labels, a great source for safety signs & labels, offers chemical resistant GHS labels to help standardize your workplace chemical labels.

Labeling Requirements for Secondary Containers

The secondary containers are required to be labeled with a GHS chemical label, given if any of the following events occur:

-The material is not used within the work shift of the individual who makes the transfer.

-The worker who made the transfer leaves the work area.

-The container is moved to another work area and is no longer in the possession of the worker who filled the container.

-Labels on portable containers are not required if the worker who made the chemical transfer uses all of the contents during the work shift.

If you use chemicals in the workplace, chances are that you need GHS labels. These labels inform workers of chemical hazards, and keep the company compliant with the HazCom standard.

OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard
OSHA hazard communication federal standard [29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(1)] states the following:

“Employers must ensure that no worker uses, stores, or allows any other person to use or store any hazardous substance in a laboratory if the container (including bags, barrels, bottles, boxes, cans, cylinders, drums and reaction vessels) does not meet the following labeling requirements in OSHA’s Hazard Communication standard.”

The OSHA standard also indicates the primary aspects of a GHS Label.

-The identity of the chemical and appropriate hazard warnings must be shown on the label.
-The hazard warning must provide users with an immediate understanding of the primary health and/or physical hazard(s) of the chemical through the use of words, pictures, symbols, or any combination of these elements.
-The name and address of the manufacturer, importer or other responsible party must be included on the “primary container” label.
-The hazard label message must be legible, permanently displayed and written in English
HCL Labels, a leading online source for Hazard Communication labels that are compliant with the OSHA/GHS standard, specializes in the creation of secondary chemical container labels. Their website can be found here – www.hclco.com

Sources:
OSHA QuickFacts. Laboratory Safety Labeling and Transfer of Chemicals. Web. OSHA 3410 8/2011. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. www.osha.gov. 19 April, 2017.

General Safety Issues

Workplace Injuries Facts and Accidents: Things You Need to Know

Injuries are no laughing matter, and when they happen at the workplace, they can sideline you for weeks or months depending on the severity. The worse an injury is, the more time you will likely need to recover; in that time, you may be wholly unable to go to work. You should not wait until you have already suffered an injury before you learn about workplace accidents. Knowledge is power, and the more you know about common trends in workplace incidents, the better prepared you will be with each passing day.

Here are a few things you need to know about workplace injuries.

Communication Problems

In many accidents, the lack of communication between individuals can be blamed as the cause. Workers who had misgivings did not bring up these issues to their supervisors or managers, while others who were hesitant about completing a duty did not inform their coworkers. It is not uncommon for workers to carry out a task despite not feeling comfortable doing so. If there is communication, the problem can usually be solved with the help of a few different people, and an accident would be avoided. Without communication, employees will have a hard time completing their day to day job duties

You should make it a point to double check with people about anything you feel hesitant about doing.

Be Aware of Falls

Falls are the most common cause of workplace injuries and deaths, accounting for nearly 40% of employee fatalities in 2016, as per the OSHA website. Falls can happen anywhere and anytime – it does not take a lot for a person to fall, merely a loose piece of fabric on a rug or a small we spot on the ground. These falls often take the victim by surprise, and as a result, there may be no time to break the fall.

In some cases, the falls happen near equipment or excess merchandise. Still others happen due to an unreported problem with a staircase or a corridor. As a worker, you should make it a duty to report any issues you find before they become sources for accidents.

Do not fall victim to a trip or slip. You can quickly lose everything if the accident is severe enough.

Construction and Injuries

Construction workers have some of the most dangerous jobs in the country, data which is supported by the OSHA. Even though police officers and firefighters may face more apparent risks, construction workers enter job sites each day surrounded by extremely deadly equipment and low levels of safety. It is not uncommon for construction workers to be struck by falling objects, fall in trenches, or be crushed or harmed by equipment.

These workers need to do everything they can to prevent injury, whether that is undergoing additional training or implementing more safety measures. For all employees, you must not be afraid to voice your opinion if you feel something is dangerous or if there needs to be higher standards of safety and more hands on training.

Other Jobs

You should keep in mind that construction, public service positions, and other similar careers are not the only ones that have risks. Employees in every kind of company suffer injuries at work. Food service workers are usually on the receiving ends of burns, while desk workers in offices are often afflicted with carpal tunnel syndrome.

There is always the chance for injury at a job, whether it is by electrocution, violence, falling objects, falls, or occupational hazards. No job is completely safe, and you should be properly knowledgeable about procedures just in case an accident occurs.

Worker’s Compensation

In many states, the chance to earn worker’s compensation in the event of an injury is invaluable. There are people who suffer injuries that are not their faults, and their medical bills can be taken care of. In some states, like California, there is a no-fault system in place, which deems that you can collect worker’s compensation for an injury you sustained while at the workplace regardless of whose fault it was.

It is important that you learn more about worker’s compensation in your state, but it is also equally important that you obtain the information from your employer. The lack of a visible sign detailing worker’s compensation benefits and procedures can be an offense. You should be aware of your rights ahead of time instead of attempting to figure out what you can do after an injury already happened.

Pain and Suffering

Speaking of worker’s compensation  did you know that you are generally unable to sue your for pain and suffering or noneconomic damages? The majority of cases end in award settlements for compensation of medical bills and reimbursement of lost wages. There is usually an agreement that is signed upon hire that disallows employees from suing for these damages. It is to be expected, as pain and suffering can net a fairly sizeable amount of compensation on its own.

Deaths in the Workplace

In 2016 alone, over 5,000 employees were killed n the workplace for various reasons. Many of these incidents could have been prevented by using some of the tips discussed above. It is a complete tragedy to see a worker pass away due to a job-related incident or injury.

No matter what kind of occupation you hold, whether you are a truck driver who may be at risk driving while tired or a factory worker who is in danger of developing lung problems because of the smog, you should take care of yourself and do everything in your power to stay safe.

Independent Contractors

Independent contractors do not always have the same set of rules that employees do. For example, someone who has been contracted to do construction is not an employee of the business doing the contracting, and the company cannot be held responsible for any injuries. In other cases, such as with Uber, this is not true.

Uber initially claimed that its drivers were independent contractors and the company was not liable for any accidents that occurred while the driver was on the clock. This was later changed after a law was put into effect; now, Uber carries insurance policies for its drivers that allow them to recover compensation for damages in the event of an accident. There may still be some confusion at times, however: these Uber accident lawyers claim that some Uber drivers are still curious if they can earn worker’s compensation in the event of a crash or if they have to rely on the insurance coverage from Uber. The short answer is the latter; Uber will not provide worker’s compensation benefits for its drivers.

What to Do Next

Workplace injuries are serious incidents, and the amount of information present on standards, laws, statistics, and more is near limitless. There are many outlets for information, and we recommend finding out as much as you can. It is better to be well prepared before anything happens than it is to be rushing for help in the wake of an accident.

General Safety Issues

Material Handling Tips for Safe and Efficient Work Performance

Material Handling Tips for Safe and Efficient Work Performance

The way materials are managed in a warehouse determines operational efficiency and profits. A poorly organized warehouse with wrong shipments results in too much or too little inventory that is being over-handled. When too much weight is being handled manually, workers can become excessively fatigued, maximizing the risk of injuries and minimizing productivity. This creates the need for a well-managed warehouse that is ergonomically designed to ensure worker safety and efficiency.

Potential Hazards for Workers Handling Materials Manually

Lifting and carrying bulky objects is a major factor that is responsible for back injuries since it involves lot of bending, twisting and turning. Improperly stacked materials and falling objects also pose hazards to worker safety. Lifting loads that are either too large or too heavy can also result in strains and sprains. Cutting ties wrongly and securing devices incorrectly can invite cuts and bruises. Injuries also occur due to exposure to moving machinery parts, collisions and nip points. In fact, according to a study published by the National Safety Council, material handling alone accounts for 20-40% of all occupational injuries. But all of this can be avoided when supervisors train workers on proper techniques and enforce the best practices that minimize risk and maximize efficiency.

How to Improve Material Handling Quality, Worker Safety and Efficiency at the Same Time

Protect your employees from injuries with well-designed operations that are both safe and efficient. Review the following 10 areas and use the insights to redesign tasks and reduce the risk of material handling:

  1. Instead of pushing, pulling, lifting, and carrying equipment manually, use hand trucks, slides, lift trucks and conveyor belts.
  2. Reduce the force needed for moving the equipment and loads.
  3. Keep the load small and reduce the distance between the hands and the body when pushing and pulling loads.
  4. When carrying load, provide grips and handles for comfort and safety.
  5. Any load that needs lifting or lowering should be kept between the shoulder and the knuckle.
  6. Bending can be easily eliminated by placing materials at work level.
  7. Twisting can also be eliminated by providing adequate space for the entire body to turn.
  8. If objects are being handled manually, reduce their size, keep the load close to the body, and eliminate all reaches that go beyond 16 inches.
  9. When pushing and pulling objects, reduce the distance and lessen the force.
  10. Ensure that the loads are carried while keeping arms straight down.

Every worker should be specifically educated on handling oddly-shaped objects that are bulky and they should be directed on safe practices for handling heavy objects.

The Importance of Using the Right Material Handling Equipment

Material handling equipment is available in a wide variety ranging from robust lifting platforms to heavy-duty conveyor belts. There is a specific solution for every conceivable set of material handling requirements. While manual material handling is laborious, risky, and time-consuming, using the right material handling equipment makes the task quick, efficient, safe, and easy. It not only reduces the risk of injury when carrying heavy items but also eliminates the possibility of musculoskeletal problems. When it comes to safety, conveyor belt systems bring massive benefits for handling various weight loads of all sizes and styles. Apart from conveyor belts systems, material handling equipment is also available in the form of storage equipment likes shelves, racks, pallets, and containers, automated equipment for handling moving materials and bulk material equipment like trucks, drums, silos, and grain elevators.

An important thing to ensure when handling automated equipment is to provide proper training to employees. When operators know how to handle the equipment safely and correctly, no damage is caused and efficiency is improved.

Author Bio:

Kevin Hill heads the marketing efforts at Quality Scales Unlimited in Byron, CA. Besides his day job, he loves to write about the different types of scales and their importance in various industries. He also writes about how to care for and get optimized performance from different scales in different situations. He enjoys spending time with family and going on camping trips.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

4 Most Important Tips for Fire Safety

4 Most Important Tips for Fire Safety

Whenever a fire breaks out at home, it is best to leave the place as early as possible. However, there are some things to remember and more importantly to follow, while escaping the catastrophe. This post will explain, step-by-step, what to do in case of fire.

What should you do When Fire Breaks Out at Your Workplace/Home?

There are several things that can lead to a house fire. However, what matters the most is that how you can save yourself when you are stuck in such situation. How? Let’s have a look.

  1. Keep Your Cool

The most common, or we may say the natural reaction of anyone, who is stuck in a fire is getting panic. This is exactly what you have to avoid. DO NOT PANIC! This is because, when you go into the panic state, your brain stops working, and you don’t know how to get out of the situation. So, the very first thing that you should do is KEEP YOUR COOL! This will allow you to think of ways of saving yourself. Some of these ways are:

  • Call 911 for help, and tell them your location.
  • Don’t have access to the phone? Not a problem, you can yell for help.
  • Keep the smoke out by plugging clothes, or blankets to any vents or cracks.

Once you have a clear and calm head, you can think of the second point below.

  1. Plan Your Escape Route

Now, you need to identify all the exits of your home, so that you can plan your escape route. See? This is why you need to keep your head cool to remember all the possible escape routes, such as a back door, front door, or emergency exit. Once you are ready with all the possible routes, decide which route you are going to follow. However, always have a backup route, so that if the decided route is blocked by fire, you can immediately jump to plan B (second route), without wasting much time.

Is there a specific technique to follow, while actually escaping the catastrophe? Yes, there is. This brings us to our next important point.

  1. Get Down, and Crawl

When a fire breaks out, the smoke rises up to the ceiling. Thus, there is some breathable air near the floor surface. Besides this, the temperature goes on increasing towards the ceiling. This means that the temperature of the floor is lower than that towards the ceiling. So, it is strongly recommended that you get down on your knees, and crawl your way to escape. Another thing you need to remember while crawling is that keep your nose covered with a piece of towel or cloth. This will stop the smoke from entering your body, which can make you dizzy and pass out.

Are you stuck in an apartment, several floors up, and want to go down? In such cases, always remember the following point.

  1. Strictly, No Elevator Please!

This is the most important point to remember. An elevator is not the option for coming down in case of fire. DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT. It is an electrical device, which can fail during a fire, or worse can itself catch fire. So, there are two things that can happen, when you choose the elevator – either you’ll get trapped, or if the elevator gives out, you’ll enjoy your fall several floors down, along with it. Thus, it is strongly recommended to use the emergency staircases instead.

You need to bear all these points in your mind, which will help you save yourself as well as other, during a fire. In addition to the above-mentioned steps, there are various fire protection products that you can easily depend on. These include gloves, fire extinguishers, etc. It is important that you source these products from a reliable supplier like GND Consulting and Supply.

Eye Protection, Hand Protection

From Gloves to Goggles – Power Tool Safety Guide

From Gloves to Goggles – Power Tool Safety Guide

Power tools are no joke and save time on any job! Be it drilling, cutting, grinding or heating power tool are incredibly useful for any tradesperson. But they also require a great level of skill and care in order to be used correctly. We have come together with Orbital Fasteners to help you stay safe when working with 5 of the most common power tools.

Cordless Screwdriver

Cordless screwdrivers are can be found in most toolboxes, you will find a type of cordless screwdriver, which are portable, flexible, and compact! When using a cordless screwdriver, you should wear some form of long-sleeved protective clothing or old clothing, to avoid causing pain or irritation to your skin. When you are piercing through wood or metal you may have dust in the air so wearing goggles is essential to prevent irritation.

Angle Grinder

Angle Grinders are versatile tools used on hard materials such as steel, concrete, and asphalt. To remain safe, you must use the correct disc for the job otherwise, you’ll be putting yourself in danger and may damage the tool itself. As a dangerous piece of kit, you should always wear protective eyewear or goggles as angle grinders can throw up debris which can cause damage to unprotected eyes. Heavy duty gloves should also be worn if you are cutting through metal to avoid any swarf coming into contact with your hands. Protective workwear such as CAT Workwear is also recommended for extra safety along with ear protection.

Hammer Drill

Hammer Drills are a very handy tool to have for any tradesperson or DIY enthusiast. Making sure you have protective eyewear, footwear, gloves and clothing which will not be caught in the Hammer Drill is an important detail which is often overlooked. Lose items of clothing getting caught will obviously be ruined and could cause risk to yourself. The way a hammer drill rotates gives it a different kind of risk compared to say a Power Drill which has a lower risk compared. Removing dirt and shavings from previous use can also prolong the life of your Hammer Drill and prevent any overheating and reduced performance.

Jigsaws

When using a Jigsaw, you have to avoid a whole host of risks whether it be shocks, fire or lacerations. When a jigsaw is exposed to water it can cause a shock so should be kept in a dry location free of any moisture. Some of the most common injuries are fire based when it comes to electrical power tools and Jigsaws are no different. When operating a jigsaw, you can get burnt when excessive flows of electricity which can spark a fire. So, fire protective gloves are advised. The most common injury with Jigsaws are lacerations which happens when the operator gets their hand too close to the Jigsaw and slices their skin.

Heat Gun

Heat Guns might not at first glance look like the most dangerous of power tools but with the high levels of heat that a Heat Gun can produce, the risks are very high. Firstly, PPE or Personal Protective Equipment will be needed when using this tool. Respirator Masks prevent inhaling any fume the Heat Gun produces and using gloves which are resistant to chemicals can protect your hands from any danger or risks which a heat gun can cause. Additionally, make sure there are no wood shavings or sawdust around the area you are using as they may start to combust causing a risk of fire.

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

Safety in the Lab – Essential Equipment You Need

Safety in the Lab – Essential Equipment You Need

Any laboratory that practises good safety will take care to ensure it has the right equipment on hand at all times.

No matter the industry – pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial engineering or food production – the same safety precautions must be taken to create a safe, productive and enjoyable working environment for all.

Below are some of the main safety clothing and equipment that should be found in most laboratories. Though the needs and requirements of labs will vary, many of these will lend themselves to a variety of processes and uses.

The equipment can be roughly categorised into three groups:

–          General PPE (used daily)

–          General purpose equipment

–          Specialised equipment, if required.

General PPE

  1. Safety shoes/boots        Safety shoes or boots are used for a number of reasons in the lab.

First, they improve grip performance on the lab floor, helping to avoid slips and trips.

Second, they protect the feet against falling heavy or sharp objects, which would otherwise puncture normal shoes.

Safety boots incorporate protective toe caps as well as other protective features such as slip-resistant soles and insulation against extremes. Safety shoes, meanwhile, incorporate protective toe caps like boots but are available metal-free as “composite footwear”. This makes them much more lightweight.

There are many different types of safety shoes on the market, which can make choosing the right ones overwhelming. However, all in all, safety shoes must:

–          Meet the legal requirements

–          Be the correct type for the task or worker

–          Be sued or worn correctly by all staff required.

Safety shoes ideally need to be slip-resistant, avoid static build-up and suit the main contaminants and surfaces in your workplace.

  1.    Safety Glasses/Goggles

Safety glasses and goggles protect against foreign objects that may splash into the eye, as well as cuts and scrapes to the cornea.

Some of the most common workplace injuries happen to the eyes, 90% of which could be easily avoided by the correct safety eyewear being worn.

The most common types of eye injury include splashes from grease and oil; burns from steam; ultraviolet or infrared radiation exposure, and flying wood or metal chips.

Also, some lab staff may be at risk of acquiring infectious diseases from eye exposure.

Types of safety eyewear include:

–          Safety glasses with side shields (worn in areas with flying particles and dust)

–          Goggles (work when working with chemicals)

–          Special-purpose safety glasses, goggles, face shields or helmets (for working near hazardous radiation).

Eyewear should be selected based on the hazards of each activity. Prescription safety glasses are also available for those that usually wear spectacles, with safety glasses having much stronger lenses and frames than regular glasses.

The most common materials for safety glasses are plastic, polycarbonate and Trivex, with polycarbonate offering the most protection.

  1.    Safety Gloves

As with other PPE, safety gloves need to be suited to the hazards workers will be working with. They will usually be made of nitrile or latex, depending on allergies, but different gloves are more suited to different types of chemicals.

Glove selection can be determined by:

–          Chemical type

–          Temperature extremes and cryogenic properties

–          Physical hazards (piercing objects)

–          pH

–          Toxicity

–          Infectious potential of biological hazards.

It’s also necessary to consider whether contact with the chemical will be incidental or extended.

If the contact will be incidental (short-lived), disposable gloves are usually fine. Nitrile gloves are generally preferred over latex due to their chemical resistance and easy visibility when ripped.

If contact will be extended, norfoil gloves are recommended for highly toxic or easily absorbed through skin. These are usually reusable, but must be washed, left to air-dry and checked for punctures and tips after each use.

  1.    Lab Coat

A lab coat should fit properly and chosen according to the type of hazard and chemicals. There are various styles available, including women’s fit and varying sleeve lengths, so it’s always possible to find the fit you need.

Lab coats should be worn in the work area at all times buttoned or snapped, with the sleeves rolled down. They should be removed whenever one exits the work area, for example, when leaving work or going to the restroom.

If contaminated by spills or splashes, the lab coat should be removed immediately and disposed of as hazardous waste. They come in a range of materials – from flame-resistant Nomex and cotton, to traditional materials like polycotton blends and polyester (a good barrier).

General Purpose Equipment

 5. Fume Extraction

Fume extraction can be acquired in the form of either a cabinet or localised fume hood.

When choosing between the two, a hazard analysis will need to be done first of all to see what contaminants need to be removed, as well as air monitoring, which will determine what chemicals workers are exposed to.

The pertinent data obtained will determine what type of fume extraction system you need.

Ducted hood extraction systems are ventilated enclosures, where the ducting connects to the outside so contaminants are pulled out of the building. They are safe and easy to maintain and usually made up of a base, work surface, hood, blower and ducting.

Biosafety cabinets are another form of fume extraction that use HEPA filtration. They are categorised by three classes:

  • Class I – air is drawn away from the lab worker and across the work surface
  • Class II – air is drawn safely around operator, whilst sterile air flows downwards onto the work surface and exhaust air is HEPA filtered before either being recirculated into the lab or released into the atmosphere through ductwork or a canopy.
  • Class III – a gas-tight enclosure, with both intake of air and exhaust air passing through HEPA filtration.

Biosafety cabinets provide a safe environment for the research and examination of infectious microorganisms or other hazardous particulates.

Specialised Equipment

Full Face Respirators

These are highly recommended for all clandestine lab decontamination jobs, as eyes and nostrils can be an entry point for hazardous chemicals.

It is important to choose the right type of respirator. In secondary areas (where contamination has spread but no actual cooking took place), it may be acceptable to wear a half-face respirator with protective glasses.

Consider also the type of filter to be used with the respirator. Some only work in certain situations; for example, clan lab remediation jobs require the use of an ammonia filter.

  1. Tyvek Suits

When it comes to protective suits, Tyvek make an excellent choice. As the trusted leader for a variety of products, Tyvek suits offers high protection along with comfort, being made from versatile materials which are tough yet lightweight.

Tyvek’s creator DuPoint are widely known for their extensive testing against things like inward leakage, penetration and permeation. The suits are an excellent barrier against liquids and aerosols, are anti statically treated, and are “low linting” thanks to the non-woven fabric.

Because Tyvek suits aren’t made from films or laminates that can wear off over time, they are extremely long-lasting and abrasion-resistant.

Tyvek suits can provide protection against chemicals, oils, liquids, dust particles and fibres and airborne elements. They can be used for a variety of scenarios, including chemical safety, pharmaceuticals, biological hazard protection and chemical protection.

Different suits are tailored to different hazards, so as with anything else, always determine the type of hazard and select the correct suit accordingly.

  1. Dust Mask

Processes such as grinding, sieving sediment or plant materials or polishing can generate fine dust particles in the air.

Dust masks protect against these particles, which can be potentially harmful, and cause allergic reactions and asthma, if these processes cannot be carried out in a fume cupboard.

Dust masks can also be worn when handling or transferring powders in bulk.

  1. Chemical Absorbant granules

Chemical spill cleanup is something that must always be planned for in any lab, with the right tools on hand to control and manage spills when they occur.

Different industries require different types of spill cleanup processes, but chemical absorbent granules serve many different purposes and carry many advantages over other spill cleanup substances, with a simplistic and flexible application to small spills.

There are a few different types od chemical absorbent granules on the market. These are:

  • Multi-zorb – an industrial spillage absorbant quality granule clay. Multi-zorb absorbs spillages without granular breakdown, and is clean, dry and safe.
  • New Safety thread – this is non-marking, non-dusting, and suitable for strong chemicals.
  • Light Plus – paper pellet granules.
  • E-Sorb – fire retardant wood fibre granules.
  • ELCEF fibre – biodegradable oil selective fibre.
  1. Saline Eye wash

The first 10-15 seconds after a hazardous chemical coming into contact with the eye can often be the most critical. If immediate flushing is carried out, this greatly minimises the likelihood of any serious damage being done.

Emergency eyewash stations provide on-the-spot decontamination, helping workers flush away hazardous substances that can cause injury to the eye. They are an essential addition to the lab as they provide a necessary backup in the case of exposure to chemicals.

Saline is a very popular “flushing fluid” that is medically approved, and often used as a solution for eye washes.

The worker should use the eye wash station to flush the eyes for a minimum of 15 minutes, or 20 minutes if substance is not known.

The total flushing time may vary for different types of chemicals. For example, non-irritable substances may be flushed for only five minutes, whilst corrosives will need 30 and strong alkalis will need to be flushed for 60 minutes.

Whilst flushing, the user must keep eyes open and rotate numerous times in all directions to thoroughly remove the contamination.

About ReAgent

ReAgent has been producing chemicals for the food and construction industries for the last 40 years. As well as the supply of raw chemicals and materials, they also specialise in the production of chemical solutions, mixing, blending, filling and packing.

ReAgent is particularly proud of its high quality policies and transparent working relationship with its customers.

They are currently ISO accredited in both the 9001 Quality Standard and 14001 Environmental Standard, and are proactively working towards accreditation in ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety Standard.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

5 Must-Follow Safety Tips While Doing Electrical Work

5 Must-Follow Safety Tips While Doing Electrical Work

Image Source: https://www.logicum.co

Did you know that about 97% of all electricians have been either shocked or injured while working? Shocking, isn’t it (no pun intended)! There is always some risk when you are working around electrical products, which is why you must maintain safety and work with extreme caution.

Being careless around electrical equipment can cause serious injuries, some of which may even lead to death. You must maintain strict safety standards in the workplace so that no one is at risk. Here are 5 safety tips that you must follow if you work with electrical equipment.

  • Maintain Situational Awareness

You must be absolutely aware of your surroundings. Make a habit of locating overhead power lines and knowing where they are. You must keep a distance of 10 feet between the equipment and overhead lines when you move tall equipment near overhead power cables.

Don’t forget something basic like avoiding contact with live electrical wires or circuits. Keep a track of what’s live and what isn’t. It would be better to treat all electrical circuits as if they were live to be on the safe side. You must be aware of the condensation on a job site. Be aware of the rooms temperature as condensation occurs when the room gets cold. You must avoid using electrical equipment in these rooms whenever possible. If there’s no workaround, mount the equipment vertically.

Lastly, take note of all the safety signs on the job site and follow the instructions without fail.

  • Always Wear Appropriate Clothing

If you work around electricity, make sure you wear something that fits you well and isn’t too baggy or loose as ill-fitting clothes put you at a risk of getting entangled by moving parts of the machinery. Moreover, baggy pants may also put you at a risk of tripping over electrical cables, which is dangerous while working around electricity.

Apart from that, it is imperative that you wear clothes that are designed for electrical work such as non-conductive gloves, shoes with insulated soles, etc. Opt for 100% cotton or wool as they are less likely to catch fire and stay away from fabrics like polyester, nylon, etc.

  • Take Necessary Precautions when Digging

If you undertake digging, you must first report to the relevant authorities so that you can get the area surveyed and mark the utilities within or near the job site. Once you are on the site, you must maintain minimum 2 feet from the marks that identify the utility. If it is absolutely necessary to dig near the utility line marks, avoid using electrical devices and rather do it by hand.

  • Perform Equipment Service Regularly

You must perform regular maintenance on all the electrical equipment to make sure that everything is working properly. Identify if there is any breakdown or wear and tear on the equipment which can put you at risk and fix the issue through inspections and service. If your electrical product is old, get in touch with your nearest electric service provider to change it.

  • Avoid Touching Things You Aren’t Familiar With

If you are not familiar with any piece of equipment, do not touch it. Never handle electrical equipment with wet hands or feet or if condensation is formed on it. If you are working in a hot environment, your perspiration may also become a hazard near electricity.

If a co-worker comes in contact with a live conductor, disconnect the power source from the circuit breaker or use a non-conductive material to pull the plug. Do not grab the person getting electrocuted, the electrical conductor or the cord.

You must maintain workplace safety at all times when you use electrical products. Service the electrical wires and electrical conduit fittings regularly to be on the safe side.

Author Bio:

Jeson Pitt works with the marketing department of D&F Liquidators and regularly writes to share his knowledge while enlightening people about electrical products and solving their electrical dilemmas. He’s got the industry insights that you can count on along with years of experience in the field. Jeson lives in Hayward, CA and loves to explore different cuisines that the food trucks in the Bay area has to offer.

General Safety Issues

Trucking Safety Tips

Trucking Safety Tips

Safety is a subject that all truckers need to keep at the top of their list of things to think about when on the road. Truck driving is a profession that not only comes with a decent salary, but it’s also one that comes with risks for injury and even fatality in the line of work. According to the FMCSA, there were more than 4300 fatal accidents involving large trucks and buses as well as more than 87,000 involved in accidents that resulted in injury in 2015.

Below are tips to keep truckers and motorists on the road safe from harm on the road.

  1. Stay Alert! Truck drivers need to stay alert and keep an eye on their surroundings. When traffic is heavy and congested, check for safe ways to slide out of line to avoid a crash. To stay alert, it’s important to get enough sleep before jumping behind the wheel. Fatigued driving is a huge contributor to fatal crashes and can be avoided with rest and paying attention when driving.

 

  1. If a trucker needs to park the truck, it should never be parked on the side of the road without using flashers, safety triangles and flares to alert other drivers that the truck is parked. Unless the truck is having a mechanical issue and is not able to pull off the road at the next exit, it should not park on the side of any road where the speed limit is higher than 30 mph or where it will obstruct the view for other motorists to safely drive. If the truck breaks down, it is best to contact a licensed heavy duty truck transporter to make sure it can be safely moved off the roadway as fast as possible to reduce the risk of an accident.

 

  1. Slow Down! Big trucks simply do not maneuver like a small sports car will around a curve and they certainly won’t stop on a dime if someone abruptly stops in front of them. Truckers need to watch their speed and reduce it around curves, in work zones and when traffic is congested to avoid a crash.

 

  1. Blind Spots. All vehicles have blind spots, but for a big truck, it can be difficult to see small vehicles on the road. Truckers need to check their blind spots frequently because cars often do not realize that there are certain areas that truck drivers just cannot see them. For car and small vehicle drivers, truck drivers may not be able to see you when your vehicle is positioned in the following areas around the truck:
  • Behind the truck.
  • Beside the truck at the front of the cab.
  • Beside the truck but in a bad location that is too close for the side mirrors to see.

 

  1. Weather Updates! Whether the sun is bright and shining when you head out in the truck or you see cloudy skies ahead, a trucker always needs to stay updated on the weather report for all areas the truck will be driven. Knowing what the weather has in store can help a driver know what to expect and allows the driver to plan on how fast the truck can be driven and how long a delivery may take.

Are you a licensed truck driver who works long hours on the road each day? If so, it is up to you to take safety seriously and stay on top of the things that can cause crashes and pose a risk to your safety and the safety of other motorists on the road.

 

 

General Safety Issues

Lead testing in the workplace: why is it so important?

Lead testing in the workplace: why is it so important?

For a long time, lead appeared to be something of a miracle metal. One of the earliest metals discovered by humans, it’s soft, malleable, and has a low melting temperature, making it perfect for a variety of applications. Back in the days of the Roman Empire it was used to build water pipes, aqueducts and even cooking pots (apparently to enhance the flavour of food!), whilst the ancient Egyptians used it as an ingredient in kohl, a cosmetic applied to the eyes. In more modern times, it was used in ammunition, ceramic glazes, paints and protective coatings.

Unfortunately, in the late 19th century it was discovered that lead is actually incredibly toxic to mammals. A potent neurotoxin, it accumulates in the bones and soft tissues of the body. This can eventually lead to convulsions, coma and even death at dangerously high levels. This was a huge health hazard. For instance, it was often used as an additive in paint, which it oddly gave a sweet taste to. This made tasting lead paint very tempting for young children, leading to childhood lead poisoning becoming endemic in certain areas. It’s also since been theorised that the Roman’s fondness for lead hastened the Empire’s downfall!

Children are most susceptible to lead poisoning simply because their bodies are smaller. However, bans and regulations around the world mean children are now unlikely to come into contact with lead in their day to day lives. In fact, the group now most at risk of lead poisoning are adults working in the smelting, refining, alloying and casting industries.

Lead is impossible to smell, see or taste, so until symptoms of lead poisoning appear it’s hard to know it’s there. This means lead testing is essential in high risk workplaces to protect against long-term health problems. If it’s present, adequate guidelines should be put in place for the healthy, safety, and general wellbeing of the workforce. Paint Inspection Ltd have created this handy infographic which goes into more detail about the dangers of lead in the workplace…

 

Uncategorized

Top Health and Safety FAILS

Top Health and Safety FAILS

Author: Beth Meakin

So, it seems like some of us don’t take Health and Safety as seriously as others. There are some workers, whether they are in the construction industry or an office role, who completely ignore the rules and regulations put in place for their safety. According to the OSHA, around 4,850 people are killed on the job each year in the US, which works out more than 93 workers a week! A lot of these could have been avoided with appropriate health and safety training and compliance.

Ladders

Ladders should be safe and the correct height for the task in hand. We recommended you also have another person hold the ladder steady – don’t improvise like these guys!

Confined Space

When entering confined spaces, it’s important that workers have adequate training and the correct equipment is used. Remember this next time you find yourself lifting your buddy out a manhole by his pants!

Protective Wear

Protective wear or personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for anyone working in a hazardous environment. Using (highly flammable) paper as a mask, or an air-restricting plastic water bottle for head protection is definitely not recommended.

 Flammables

Flammable liquids and materials should be kept away from all sources of ignition. It’s common sense really, but these guys are clearly lacking in that area! What are they thinking?

Electricity

Whether it’s computer leads in an office or wiring on a construction site, electrics are present in nearly every workplace. The risk of fatalities is significantly increased with the presence of electricity, so working safely should be a main priority. Water + electricity = disaster.

 Vehicle Safety

Unsafe loads on vehicles cause thousands of accidents and damage to goods every year, costing people and businesses millions. Secure all loads safely and appropriately within your vehicle, and if you ever think about carrying flammable liquid on the back on your scooter.