All posts by pat brownlee

General Safety Issues

WILDFIRES CONTINUE………..

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We talked about the tremendous amount of wildfires that firefighters were battling in Texas, back in April, in an article called “Wildfires Are Taking a Huge Toll on Texas.”  It is sad to know that wildfires are continuing throughout the United States, from Arizona to the eastern Atlantic coast, and north to Delaware.  So many states are suffering from extreme droughts, and excessive heat.  Northern states have already registered unusually high temperatures, with several persons already losing their lives from the heat.  This year’s weather is really hard to predict, so far. 

In Colorado, over 400 firefighters are battling the Bear and Purgatorie Fires, which scorched 13,000 acres near  the Colorado-New Mexico border on Thursday.  As of Thursday, June 9th, the Bear Fire has destroyed roughly 6,900 acres and is almost 40 per cent contained.  The Purgatorie Fire, which has destroyed 6,100 acres is 60 per cent contained, according to a report from the Denver Post. 

In Eastern Arizona, the state’s second largest wildfire is raging on.  Although it quieted down last night (June 9), small fires are igniting from burning embers, causing new concerns about the prospects of extinguishing the 13-day old Wallow Fire.  So far, 337,000 acres of land have been destroyed, and main electric lines that supply power as far as West Texas are threatened.  Thousands have been evacuated from their homes. 

Since fire season started on November 15, 2010, Texas Forest Service and area fire departments have responded to 11,695 fires, which have burned 2,876,303 acres.  Yesterday, Texas Forest Service responded to 24 new fires for 7,651 acres, including new large fires in Coke and Hardin counties.  The Hollow Rock Mountain in Shelby County was contained at 425 acres.  In the past seven days, the Texas Forest Service has responded to 138 fires for 30,263 acres.  I want to thank Dwight Dold, who is a local fire department chief, for this information.  He has also given us these resources that will be helpful to everyone: 

Prevention Messages:

  • Firewise (firewise.org) is a resource for residents to protect their home and property from wildfire.
  • Remove flammable materials from around your home.
  • Develop an evacuation plan for your family.  Resources are available on the Firewise website and at texasfirestorm.org.
  • Obey outdoor burning bans. Don’t burn trash or debris when conditions are dry or windy.  Unsafe burning of leaves, brush, household trash and other debris is the No. 1 cause of wildfires in Texas.
  • Keep lawn mowers and agricultural equipment in proper working condition and avoid rocks and other materials that might cause a spark.
  • To report suspicious activities, call the Arson Hotline at (888) 501-3850.  If possible, safely obtain an accurate description of the person and/or vehicle (including the license number) before calling the hotline.
  • Humans cause more than 90 per cent of all wildfires.  Do not weld or cut without a spotter, a water source and a shovel. 

There are many things that persons who live in areas prone to wildfires can do to help protect their property, such as not having any shrubs or trees too close to the house, and replace roofs that catch fire easily with ones that don’t.  Pavement and brick walkways may help, as well. 

Thanks to Mr. Dold, who is very involved in fighting fires throughout Texas.  I know he and all volunteer and professional firefighters will appreciate everyone who does their best to prevent fires and observe burning bans.  Once a fire starts, it takes a long time to put it out, and in the meantime, there is a terrible price to pay, with the loss of property, livestock, wildlife, and the health and well-being of those who serve.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

LET’S TALK ABOUT SAFETY AND SWIMMING!

New research shows that swimmers may live longer than runners and walkers! Researchers thought that swimmers and runners would have a lower risk of dying, but they were surprised that the swimmers had a statistically significant lower death rate than runners.  This serves as an inspiration to hop right into that pool where you can get year-round, low-impact aerobic therapy, or just take a few laps,  and hope to live longer!  Low-impact exercise in pools doesn’t strain your lower joints as intensely as running and walking.  This certainly doesn’t mean to give up your running or walking, but it gives you another reason to jump on into a new method of exercise.  Some persons can’t walk or run because of arthritis, so this would be a way for them to get some healthy and fun exercise.

Swimming is such an important activity for young people, and it is very important that children learn to swim.  Parents can teach them at a very young age to not be afraid of water, by accompanying them in the pool, and using floaties, tubes, etc. to keep them afloat.  Swim lessons are vital to everyone to be able to enjoy boating, and other water activities.  Swimming and other water-related activities are excellent ways to get the physical activity needed for a healthy life, and millions of people enjoy oceans, lakes, rivers, pools, and spas each year.  Listed is information from the Centers for Disease Control regarding information about swimming and the risks involved, such as drowning, water-related diseases, and sunburn:

  • There are 8.8 million residential and public-use swimming pools in the United States.
  • Drowning is the 2nd leading cause of all unintentional injury deaths in children aged 1-14 years and the 7th leading cause of unintentional injury death for all ages.
  • Among 0-4 year olds, 69% of drownings for which the location was known occurred in swimming pools. (Many home pools.)
  • There are over 6.6 million hot tubs in operation in the United States.
  • Sunburn is a risk factor for both basal cell carcinoma and melanoma (types of skin cancer). In 2003, a total of 45,625 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed in the United States, and 7,818 persons died from the disease . (Please use sunscreen!)
  • Over 12 percent (13,532 of 111,487) of pool inspections conducted during 2008 resulted in an immediate closure, pending the correction of the violations.
  • A total of 78 recreational water-associated outbreaks affecting 4,412 persons were reported to CDC for 2005-2006, the largest number of outbreaks ever reported in a 2-year period.
  • Of 48 recreational-water associated outbreaks of gastroenteritis during 2005-2006, 64.6% were caused by one chlorine-resistant parasite: Cryptosporidium..
  • Of 35 gastroenteritis outbreaks associated with treated (for example, chlorinated) recreational water venues, 82.8% were caused by Cryptosporidium .
  • Because of its resistance to chlorine, Cryptosporidium (Crypto) has become the leading cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks associated with swimming pool venues. Reporting of cryptosporidiosis cases increased 208 percent from 2004 (3,411) to 2008 (10,500).
  • In the United States in 2007, almost 32 million individuals participated in motor or power boat activities .
  • In 2006, 3,474 persons were injured and 710 died while boating .
  • The U.S. Coast Guard’s 2006 statistics stated that approximately 87 percent of boaters who drowned were not wearing life jackets.

Never leave a child unattended at a swimming pool.  Always check  that the swimming pool water has been tested for Crypto.  Water activities are a lot of fun, but can be dangerous if not taken seriously.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

YOUR QUIET NEIGHBOR – PIPELINES!

You have probably seen this sign in your town or neighborhood: “Know what’s below, Call 811 before you dig.”  Did you know that there are more than 200,000 miles of liquid petroleum pipelines and 300,000 miles of natural gas pipelines in the United States?  The National Transportation Safety Board says that pipelines are the safest method for transporting these products.  Pipelines have a safety record unparalleled by any other means of transporting energy products.  When these products are transported by other methods, there is a greater risk to the environment and the general public.  About 24 per cent of all the energy used in the U.S. is natural gas, and gas utilities serve more than 60 million customers.  Because Americans consume more than 700 million gallons of petroleum products per day, pipelines are an essential component of our nation’s infrastructure. 

Most pipelines are made of steel, often covered with protective coating, and buried underground.  They are tested and maintained using cleaning devices, diagnostic tools, and other methods to control corrosion.  Interstate pipelines have an integrity management plan; you may contact them directly for more information.  In addition to liquid petroleum and natural gas, pipelines transport a variety of products for our everyday lives, such as oxygen for hospitals.  They may contain other types of gases, chemicals, hazardous liquids, refined products or crude oil, as well as nonflammable products.  Some of these materials could cause environmental damage, if a leak occurred.  Other products may be highly flammable or harmful if inhaled, cause eye or skin irritation and possible difficulty breathing.  Because of these hazards, it is important that you know how to recognize a pipeline leak. 

Using your sense of smell, sight, and sound will help you to be aware of a suspected leak.  If you see a dense fog, mist, or white cloud over a pipeline, bubbling in water and creeks, or blowing dust and discolored vegetation around the pipeline, there may be a leak.   Frozen ground at the pipeline in warm weather is another indicator.  Natural Gas is naturally odorless, so a distinct gaseous odor may be added unless a hydrocarbon smell exists, but usually you will smell a very unpleasant odor.  A whistling, hissing or roaring noise coming from the pipeline is also a sign of a leak. 

Here’s what to do if a leak occurs:

  •          Leave the area immediately.
  •          From a safe location, call 911 and the pipeline company, if possible.
  •          Move upwind from the suspected leak.
  •          Warn others to stay away.
  •          Assist with traffic, medical help, evacuation, or shelter.
  •         Keep curious onlookers away.

Here’s what NOT to do if a leak occurs:

  •          Do not touch, breathe, or make contact with leaking liquids or gas.  Stay upwind if possible.
  •          Do not light a match, start an engine, use a cell phone, turn on or off any type of electrical switch such as a  garage door opener, or do anything that may create static or a spark.
  •          Do not attempt to extinguish any pipeline fire that may start.
  •          Do not drive into a leak or vapor cloud area.  Automobile engines may ignite the vapors.
  •          Do not attempt to operate valves. 

Most pipelines are monitored 24 /7 per week to ensure the integrity and security of these lines.  Sophisticated computers, alarms, meters, and satellite technology may be used to control and monitor pipeline systems.  They are designed to detect changes in pressure and flow and will be activated if a leak is detected.  Some lines contain automatic shut-off valves that will isolate a leak.   Pipeline markers are placed for your safety, to show the approximate location of the lines and name the companies that operate them. They indicate the material transported in the line, the name of the operator, and a phone number where the company can be reached in the event of an emergency.  It is a federal crime for any person to willfully deface, damage, remove or destroy any pipeline sign or right-of-way marker. 

Call 811 before you dig.  Whether you are starting a project, landscaping, building fences or other projects, pipelines have a right of way that must be kept free from structures and other obstructions to provide access to the pipeline for maintenance, as well as in the event of an emergency.  First, call the pipeline company in order for their personnel to mark the pipeline or stake the rights-of-way and explain the company’s construction and easement requirements to you. 

One last thing: the Nation’s Infrastructures, including pipelines, are a matter of National Security.  If you witness a suspicious activity on pipeline rights-of-way, please report it to the pipeline company.  Threat advisories may be found at the Department of Homeland Security’s website, Source:  Texas Excavation Safety System

 

 

General Safety Issues

BIG RIGS, BE READY FOR ROADCHECK, 2011!

Beginning today, June 7 , through June 9,  the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) – a not-for-profit organization behind the annual Roadcheck 2011 CMV Safety Blitz, will be conducting vehicle inspections throughout North America – Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.  Many truck drivers will undergo a North American Standard Level I Inspection.  This 37-step inspection takes about an hour to complete and focuses on a variety of factors, including alcohol and drug use, driver logs, vehicle brakes, lights, and cargo securement factors. 

The most frequent citations include brake issues and lighting issues.  For drivers that travel many miles, the most frequent violation is going over their hours of service.  Any truck used in business with a gross vehicle weight rating over 10,000 lbs., or a truck and trailer combination with a gross vehicle weight rating over 10,000 lbs. is subject to this inspection. 

This year’s Roadcheck will also include the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) focus on motorcoach safety.  Passenger carriers should be ready for the increased likelihood of a comprehensive inspection during June 7-9.  Another target will be unscrupulous trucking companies that are suspected of moving household goods without the necessary authority. 

The result of Roadcheck 2010 in Texas was that of the 6,906 commercial vehicles inspected by the DPS, 25 per cent were taken out of service due to serious safety violations.  Troopers placed 160 of the drivers out of service for violations such as improper log books or having suspended, expired, or canceled licenses.  

Truck drivers experience roadside safety inspections at other times of the year; however, “Roadcheck is a good exercise for industry and law enforcement,”says John Conley, president of National Tank Truck Carriers.  “Hazardous materials carriers always score well, but improvement is the goal.  For a new wrinkle this year, I suggest that enforcement personnel focus on inspecting carriers with whom they are totally unfamiliar.  Pull over a carrier you have never heard of and make a new friend.  CSA requires quality inspections that will help get subpar carriers off the roads.” 

Last year, during Roadcheck 2010, 97.5% of hazmat drivers passed inspection, with 2.5% placed out of service.  Across the entire trucking industry, 95.6% of drivers passed the inspections, with 4.4% placed out of service.  Almost 84% of hazmat vehicles passed the Roadcheck inspections, with 16.3% placed out of service.  Eighty percent of all commercial vehicles passed the inspections, with 20% placed out of service.

Commercial carriers have a five-month notice prior to this exercise, allowing them time to fix the problems that they have either with the trucks or drivers.  One attorney surmises that many trucks are taken off the roads during this time frame, or certain drivers may be given time off during those days.  It has also been questioned whether some trucks find a back road to avoid inspections.  

Keeping vehicles in good condition is expensive, but it’s much better than having an accident and injuring someone.  Drivers of large vehicles know the skills that are needed to maneuver those big rigs, and understand the importance of keeping accurate records.  Every vehicle that is on the road owes it  to others to drive safe cars, trucks, pickups, buses, etc.  If these Roadchecks save lives, it is well worth the time and effort put forth.

Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH – WEEK 2 – PREVENTING OVEREXERTION

Aren’t we all guilty of overdoing it, the first time we try a new job, sport, or game?  My granddaughter introduced me to the Wii a couple of years ago, and tennis was her choice of sport.  I was thrashing and slashing all over the room, when I noticed she was simply flicking her wrist and beating the socks off me!  We all want to try “extra hard” when learning a new sport or physical type of job.  That’s when the muscles show us that we aren’t in as good shape as we thought! 

This is the second week of National Safety Week, when the National Safety Council asks us to emphasize the importance of preventing overexertion.  According to Injury Facts, 2011 Edition, overexertion is the third leading cause of unintentional injury treated in emergency departments in the United States.  Approximately 3.3 million emergency department visits occur yearly because of injury from overexertion.  Usually it is associated with lifting, pushing, lowering, pulling, or carrying.  

We overexert ourselves in many ways, either at our jobs or physical training.   Close observation helps eliminate the possibility of serious effects of overstressing the muscles.  The load should be reduced and recovery pursued.  Symptoms of overtraining (and overexertion) may be:

  • Disturbances in movement;
  • Disturbances in rhythm and flow;
  • Lack of concentration;
  • Soreness in muscles, joints. 
  • Fatigue.

Here are some suggestions to prevent overexertion:

  • Stretch or warm up before lifting objects or strenuous activity;
  • Lift with legs bent and hold object close to body.
  • Avoid bending, reaching and twisting when lifting. 
  • Approach an object straight on;
  • Ask a friend for help when lifting.
  • Pace yourself when pursuing any activity.
  • Take breaks.
  • Stop if you can’t handle the load. 

Overexertion can lead to cardiac arrest when working or doing outdoor work during hot, humid days, or shoveling snow in the winter.  If our bodies are unaccustomed to these duties, we must gradually get in physical shape before taking them on.  When tendons, ligaments, and muscles work harder than they are meant to, sprains, strains, or other damage happens.  Usually the back is the most common area of injury.  Age has a lot to do with our strength, as well.  One should never try to lift an item that is too heavy, as he/she  may be able to do it now, but could have complications from it later on. 

Wellness centers have personnel who can help you get into shape and feel better, ready to tackle the world!  Workplace wellness programs offer incentives to employees by helping them with ergonomics, fitness, and nutrition.  Companies that offer these types of benefits may find less missed work time by their employees. 

To not be counted among the statistics of emergency room visits due to overexertion, “take it easy!”  Pace yourself, whether at work or play.

General Safety Issues

A MESSAGE TO YOUNG WORKERS

We want to share this important information with today’s young workers (those under age 25), to tell you how important you are to the future of your country!  We have compiled information from the U.S. Department of Labor and the Canadian Centre for Occupational Safety and Health.  The DOL’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA’s) main role is to protect workers from workplace hazards that can cause a serious illness or injury, as well as Canada’s OSH.  Employers have the responsibility to follow established safety and health laws and common sense safety practices that prevent tragedy.  Why, then is this message so important to young people?  Because you are the new generation of workers, and we want you to work safely.  Some of our workers are as young as 15; others are high school students, or college students working part-time, while others are already working full-time.  

When you begin a new job, talk it over with your parents or someone you trust, especially if you feel you are being asked to do tasks that are unsafe.  Your parents need to know of any hazards associated with your job.  Canadian experts believe, as well as those in the U.S., that many young persons are put into the job without the proper training.  You can’t just walk onto the job and be expected to know exactly what to do without being taught the fundamentals.  You have the right to a safe workplace.  Although new jobs may be intimidating, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and don’t rush just to impress your new boss.  You may be running a piece of equipment that an older worker has run for decades; hopefully, he will be your mentor and teach you the safe way to run it. 

There are many resources that can help you understand the particulars of your job.  Some of the ways young workers may be injured are lifting objects, working at elevations, working with hot substances and objects, working with knives, operating mobile equipment or motor vehicles, working with food slicers, and /or working near running equipment and machinery.  Whether you are working in a food service industry, construction, warehouse, grocery store, or on a drilling rig, there are going to be hazards that you must be aware of and respect. 

In a letter from Dr. David Michaels, the Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), this sums it up, so please pay attention: (I added a few words in italics that I think are important, too. 

YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO A SAFE JOB!

YOUR RIGHTS ON THE JOB

Your employer must provide a workplace free of serious hazards.  Your employer must also:

  • Tell you the hazards and dangers of your job;
  • Inform you about the OSHA standards that apply to your workplace (in a language you understand);
  • Provide job safety training regarding workplace hazards and the required safety gear;  (personal protective equipment)(PPE). Always wear whatever PPE (e.g., gloves, safety glasses, hardhat, etc) as required; and understand how to care for it.
  • Tell you who to talk to if you have a health or safety question, and
  • Inform you what to do and who to talk to if you get hurt on the job. 

To help assure a safe workplace, OSHA provides you with rights to:

  • Receive information and training about hazards, methods to avoid harm, and OSHA standards that apply in a language that you understand;
  • Exercise your workplace safety rights without retaliation and discrimination; and
  • Ask OSHA to inspect your workplace.

WAYS TO STAY SAFE ON THE JOB

To help protect yourself, you can:

  • Report unsafe conditions to your supervisor, parent, teacher or other adult that can help.
  • Wear any personal protective equipment provided to do your job.
  • Follow the safety rules. Always think and act with safety in mind.
  • Never by-pass the safety features of equipment or take short-cuts.
  • Speak Up. Ask questions. Ask for help. 

Someday you will be the leaders of industry.  Learn all you can and do your best to be a safe worker by encouraging others to do the same. 

Source: OSHA; Canadian Centre for Occupational Safety & Health

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

IT’S “HURRICANE WATCHING” TIME AGAIN!

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Because Hurricane Season began June 1 and continues through November 30th, FEMA Administrator, Craig Fugate, says “The tornadoes that devastated the South and the large amount of flooding we’ve seen this spring should serve as a reminder that disasters can happen anytime and anywhere. As we move into this hurricane season it’s important to remember that FEMA is just part of an emergency management team that includes the entire federal family, state, local and tribal governments, the private sector and most importantly the public.”  Now is the time to get your plan together for what you and your family would do if disaster strikes.  Businesses and families should be ready for all types of emergencies:

Climate factors considered for this outlook are:

  • The continuing high activity era. Since 1995, the tropical multi-decadal signal has brought ocean and atmospheric conditions conducive for development in sync, leading to more active Atlantic hurricane seasons.
  • Warm Atlantic Ocean water. Sea surface temperatures where storms often develop and move across the Atlantic are up to two degrees Fahrenheit warmer-than-average.
  • La Niña, which continues to weaken in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, is expected to dissipate in June, but its impacts such as reduced wind shear are expected to continue into the hurricane season.

NOAA expects that there will be twelve to eighteen named storms, six to ten could become hurricanes, three to six becoming major hurricanes.  Categories of hurricanes are as follow:

  • Category 1 – maximum sustained wind speed of 74-95 mph.  Damage category – minimal. 
  • Category 2 – Maximum sustained wind speed of 96-110 mph, with moderate damage category. 
  • Category 3 – maximum sustained wind speed of 111-130 mph,  with extensive damage category. 
  • Category 4 – maximum sustained wind speed of 131-155 mph, with extreme damage category. 
  • Category 5 – maximum sustained wind speed above 155, catastrophic damage category.  There have been only three Category 5 hurricanes in the United States since records were kept: Labor Day Hurricane (1935) in the Florida Keyes; Hurricane Camille (1969), near the mouth of the Mississippi River, and Hurricane Andrew (1992) in Florida.

Have you ever wondered who decides on the names of the Hurricanes?  A pre-approved list of Atlantic Ocean tropical storm/hurricane names is decided by the National Hurricane Center.  Beginning in 1953, the NHC’s list consisted of only female  names.  Since 1979, the lists alternate between male and female; however, no names beginning with a “Q” or “U” are used.  Six lists are rotated but when a hurricane is so devastating, the name is retired and given a new one.  This year’s list is from the 2005 one; however, four of them have been retired. Here are the names for 2011; let’s hope they run out of storms before they run out of names!

Arlene; Bret; Cindy; Don (replaces Dennis); Emily; Franklin; Gert; Harvey; Irene; Jose; Katia (replaces Katrina); Lee; Maria; Nate; Ophelia; Philippe; Rina (replaces Rita); Sean (Replaces Stan); Tammy; Vince; Whitney (replaces Wilma). 

When warned, already have your plans underway:

  • Secure your home;
  • Have your papers in order;
  • Have a first aid kit, flashlight, batteries and cellphone;
  • Have all medicines ready;
  • Notify next of kin or friends you may need to stay with them;
  • Plan for any elderly members of your family and your pets;
  • Have adequate supplies of water and non-perishable foods;
  • Do not return to your town until authorities give permission; downed power lines could cause injuries.

For those who have already gone through floods and tornadoes, as well as everyone else, let’s hope and pray the tropical storms will just disappear into the air – they aren’t welcome ashore!

Sources: FEMA, NOAA, National Weather Service

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

DO THE SMALL THINGS IN LIFE “BUG” YOU?

There are many things about life that get under our skin.  Sometimes we just have to cope with them, and do the best we can.  Little things, irritants that just “bug” the heck out of you. It may be a co-worker, spouse, child, or even a stranger making a certain remark that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up!  Well, we have to carry on and rise above these types of annoyances.  These are better known as from the “human species.”  Now, let’s talk about the real nuisances – insects! 

It seems the warm weather brings out the little critters that have been hibernating during the winter.  Sometimes, they don’t make it through the freezing winters, but other times, somehow, enough of them do, in order to carry on their tradition of making life miserable for us.  If you know what they are and the hazards they bring with them, it may make it easier for you to deal with them this summer.  I have listed some of the worst summer bugs for you to watch for: 

  • Bees.  Yellow jackets and bees are especially threatening to persons with allergies.  Bee stings can prove fatal if not treated in a timely manner.  They thrive in all parts of the country, making hives from overhangs around your home.  These hives can grow very large in size, increasing the likelihood of stings.  Sometimes it is necessary to call a professional to get rid of the hives, because when they are disrupted, the entire swarm may come out swinging (or stinging)!
  • Mosquitoes. Oh, joy, it’s time for mosquitoes.  Not only is their little “buzz”  irritating, but the bites they make are, too.  Their bites cause itching, redness and other physical discomforts.  Most often they are found in and around standing pools of water, where they lay their eggs in the summer.  They like humid areas, but live in almost every part of the U.S.  Mosquitoes carry disease, so it is best to decrease the amount of standing water in your yard, and wear long sleeves and use protective bug spray.
  • Cockroaches. Yuk! These are some of the nastiest bugs , but they love to invade your home. Too much heat outside drives them indoors causing them to seek out moist areas of your home.  I’ve seen reality shows where cockroaches were attracted to the glue that is used to put mobile homes walls together, and they were rampant.  Large groups of cockroaches can cause breathing problems for persons with respiratory illnesses.  The best policy is to have regular pest control treatments in your home to get rid of these bugs and keep them out.
  • Termites. Our home fell victim to the little monsters several years ago.  They didn’t particularly like us, but they loved the wood in our attic.  Luckily, we found out before the damage was too extensive, because they can literally eat your home up.  Call your termite control to do an inspection, as it can be very expensive to repair the damage they cause.
  • Ticks.  Ticks also carry disease.  If you find a tick on yourself, or your dog, remove it by pulling steadily and firmly.  Use fine-tipped tweezers, as close to the skin as possible, and pull slowly.  Wash the area and apply antiseptic or antibiotic ointment.  Watch area for infection, and see a doctor if you see signs of a rash in that area.  Be sure to use an insect repellent on yourself before going out of doors; use one that is approved for animals, as well.  Check your pet for ticks often.
  • Fire Ants.  These tiny little ants build huge mounds, and do a lot of property damage. They get into water systems, eat their little hearts out on electric wiring, and have been known to even kill small animals.  And, their stings are like fire, hence the name! 

Here’s some tips that might help you before you go on that next outing:

  • Protect yourself with a light-colored long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and a hat.  Don’t wear perfume or scented lotions.  Brightly colored clothing may look like flower colors and attract insects.
  • Stay out of tall underbrush when hiking.
  • If you are having a picnic, don’t leave open cans of sugary drinks unattended, as yellow jackets love to find a warm drink sitting in the sun.  Check your food and drinks before consumption.  Stings inside the mouth and throat are dangerous because of the potential of swelling and closing off the windpipes.  This is a good warning to parents of small children, who often leave their drinks on the picnic table and run off to play – try taking lids!  Take partially empty cans or cups and rinse them out at a faucet.  Don’t throw the leftover liquid in the grass. 
  • When you are cleaning up after your outing, wrap up all the trash and place in a sealed trashbag; if you throw it all loose into a trash bin, it’s an open invitation to yellow jackets or bees to come on in.  Then, the next person may get stung when they open the trash bin. 

Remember, these little pests were created for a reason.  While we stay in our nice, warm homes during the winter, they are out there somewhere hiding in cold, dark spaces in trees and other shelters.  When we come out for the summer months, we are moving into their territory, so in a way, we are the ones doing the invading!  Regardless of being the aggressor, however, we have the right to protect ourselves ……with the insect repellent, yard spray, allergy medication, first aid kit, and even fly swatters!  Go out there and have fun, just be ready for combat.

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

IT’S JUNE, AND THAT MEANS IT’S NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH!

It is hard to believe that another month of June has rolled around, meaning it is National Safety Month – time to focus on round-the-clock safety and health.  The National Safety Council emphasizes that June is the time to stress the urgent need to reduce unintentional deaths and injuries on the road, in the workplace and at home.  Week One’s focus is on “Summertime Safety” (June 1-4). “Preventing Overexertion” is the theme for Week Two (June 5 – 11).  A subject that is very important to parents and teens during Week Three – “Teen Driver Safety,” (June 12-18.) Week Four, (June 19 – 25), we will emphasize safety ideas for “Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls.”  Finally, “ON the Road – OFF the Phone,” is the topic of discussion for the end of the month, (June 26 – 30.)  These are all subjects that affect most all of us in one way or another.  

Accidents happen every day of the year, regardless of whether it is at work, traveling, or at home.  It seems that summertime does bring some unusual accidents, and one reason may be because there are so many more outdoor activities going on.  Summer is the time for boating, fishing, waterskiing, canoeing, bicycling, skateboarding, swimming, and many other fun actions that may cause injuries if we aren’t careful.  (For the past two weekends, we heard of two different boating incidents where young persons drowned.  None of them were wearing life jackets.)  Playgrounds are inviting to little ones, so there should always be adult supervision when they play on the different types of equipment.    

Heat is a threat to workers who must become acclimated to the change in temperatures; many times, it is a drastic change from what they are used to.  They must stay hydrated and get some rest breaks in the shade during long work shifts.  Teens new to working in the outdoors should be sure to drink plenty of water orpowdered drink mix, and everyone should wear sunscreen and light colored clothing.  Student athletes should also stay hydrated while working out for sports. 

Those who work in agriculture always face extreme weather conditions – dry, hot, windy, and sunny.  Farm children need to be supervised by adults, especially while they are around water, such as ponds or tanks, and animals.  There are lots of ATV riders in summer weather, as well as motorcyclists, who should know the safety rules regarding their vehicles, and wear the right gear for protection.  

We hope this summer brings everything you are planning for: vacation time, relaxation, fun in the sun (don’t forget the sunscreen and sunglasses), safe trips, and the other things that many families plan for during summer months when they have school-age children.  It seems there are always some types of accidents, associated with hot-weather activities, that we can’t encourage everyone enough to be extremely careful when planning vacations, trips, and yes, even work.  For most of us, work marches on, so we need to make the necessary accommodations to stay cool and safe during each workday, too. 

One way for young people to be safe is to have a “buddy” system.  It is always better to have a friend along just in case there is a problem.  One extra important reminder about summer: there will be more children playing in their front yards (and possibly the streets).  So keep a watch out for them when you are driving in neighborhoods. 

Have a fun and safe summer!

General Safety Issues

DOES YOUR SAFETY LEADER INSPIRE YOU TO BE SAFE?

Back in January, we presented an article, “How would you grade your safety leader?”  We listed the attributes that we felt described good leaders – ones that led by example.  A great President and leader, Dwight Eisenhower said, “Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.”  If you want to see real safety improvements, you need to motivate your team to want to be safe – even when no one is looking.  You must add leadership to your safety training. 

Although some people are born leaders, the rest of us can learn from them and gain leadership skills through the right training.  We have now completed the first five months of 2011, and have you wondered, how is our training program progressing?  Safety is learned through both training and experience.  A goal that everyone should live with, is “Nobody Gets Hurt.”  This must be the mantra of every company, being committed to rigorous safety programs that ensure that every worker is motivated to work safely so they can go home to their families every day, without injury. 

Safety leaders must have the safety of every worker in mind, which is sometimes a hard task.  Here are some goals for good leaders:

  1. Communication.  Learn all you can about your style of communication and how it affects others.  Do you have a positive reaction from those around you?  A course in interpersonal skills can help.  Being able to accurately convey your thoughts and ideas to those working for you is a key element of leadership.  Remember, your employees are not mind-readers; they have to understand exactly what you are wanting.  When you communicate well, employees can give good feedback to you.  Be sure you present the complete “big picture.”
  2. Teamwork.  Become a part of the team.  Encourage employees to make certain decisions without you, so you can exhibit your trust in them.  Great leaders can accomplish great things, and show appreciation to the people who made those things happen.
  3. Motivation.  Do not try to give instructions through intimidation: “If you mess up, something bad will happen.”  This can cause much resentment, and little success with the job.  Rather, challenge them with an assignment that is just a tad bit out of their range and let them try.  If it hits a snag, coach them back until the situation becomes right.
  4. Appreciation.  It’s always better to give someone a pat on the back.  A little bit of praise for a job well done, goes a long way.
  5. Organization.  Leaders must be able to organize teams and motivate them toward the goal: A Zero-Injury Workplace!  Wouldn’t it be great if the whole team led each other to meeting that goal? 

Some workers still may not completely understand.  They sometimes take chances with safety, and may endanger other workers.  Most workers assume that their workplace is free of hazards.  These unrecognized expectations can lead to job frustration, substandard safety performance, decreased job safety commitment and even high turnover.  This is the time that leaders must learn what expectations the individuals have and work with them to meet and adjust those expectations.  For leaders, being rigorous about workplace safety is not an easy job, but it is very rewarding.  Leadership means looking for workplace hazards, not leaving it up to the safety department.  First , looking for any hazards and starting the day with a short group safety meeting might just remind everyone to work safely, so they can go home at the end of their shift.  It’s a two-way street, however, with each worker meeting the safety leader half-way.

Thanks to all the safety leaders in the workforce!  Let’s hope that the remainder of 2011 will be a “safe workplace” year!