Category Archives: Eye Protection

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, Respiratory Safety

THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT TRAINS – PART II

Occasionally, we hear about a train derailment, or the spill of a hazardous material from a train car.  Today, we will share typical instructions that are given to railroad personnel in case of such an occurrence.  First, the train crew should notify the train dispatcher of such a derailment and the location where the train crew will meet the emergency response personnel.  

SAFETY IS OF THE MOST IMPORTANCE.  (THIS MEANS SAFETY TO YOU, THE OTHER EMERGENCY RESPONSE PERSONNEL AND THE PUBLIC.) THE FIRE CHIEF IS IN COMMAND – DO NOTHING WITHOUT HIS AUTHORITY. 

As earlier mentioned, railroad authorities notify train personnel of such a derailment and the location of their crew. At the time the railroad company notifies the 911 dispatcher of a hazardous spill, the dispatcher must ask the railroad the location of the train conductor, who will have all the shipping papers in his possession. 

Know what you are dealing with first; do not get over anxious and go into an area with a derailed car that has hazardous material leaking.  Take note of the wind direction and which area should be evacuated first, should an evacuation be necessary.  Establish a command center at this point and notify all people involved with this incident of its location.  The evacuation should be handled by the local Police Department. 

It is the primary job of the railroad personnel to protect the public from fumes, fire or possible explosion that may occur from a hazardous material spill.  At some point the fire chief will determine if outside help (county, state, federal) is needed and notify the mayor to start the phone calls for assistance.  Containment and blockades will be the responsibility of the public works department. 

The spill area belongs to the emergency response personnel under the supervision of the fire chief until the proper hazardous material personnel arrive on the scene to take over.  The fire chief still remains in command of the area until such time as he and other specialists consider it safe.  Railroad personnel are highly trained and equipped for these situations, and should keep thing under control. 

If EMS personnel and ambulances are not immediately needed, they should wait in the immediate area of the command center and at the fire chief’s disposal.  Railroad company personnel should be equipped with the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) to ensure compliance with all safety requirements, as well as protection for their safety. 

In the event of an accident involving a train, there is no place for onlookers.  Keep a safe distance away, or find another route. 

Source: Daniel Burlison – Retired Manager, Train Operations

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues

PROTECTING YOUR EYES FROM TECHNOLOGY (GUEST POST)

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With technology all around us, we need to keep in mind how it effects our eyes. We use technology almost all day, every day. Whether we are checking our phones, working on the computer, or watching our favorite TV show, we use some type of technology. Our eyes weren’t meant to focus on 2-deminsional objects, like computer screens and TVs, for hours on end. By focusing on technology for too long, we can develop eye strain or Computer Vision Syndrome. Recent studies have shown that people who constantly use technology have a higher risk for developing glaucoma than those who limit their usage. There are a few things you can do to prevent hurting your eyes while using different technology.

An easy way to prevent eye strain is simply giving your eyes a rest. As a general rule, you should spend 5 minutes resting your eyes for every hour you spend looking at the computer. You can easily rest your eyes by either focusing on something else in the room or by closing your eyes. This will give your eyes a nice break and reduce the risk of getting eye strain or even an accommodative spasm. An accomodative spasm is when your eyes have focused on something close, like a book or computer, long enough that when you look away you have troubles focusing on further away objects, which can lead to several different problems. Accomodative spasm can result in eyestrain, headaches, troubles concentrating, and poor comprehension when reading. However, eye strains can result in headaches, dry or watery eyes, blurry vision, sore neck or back, shoulder pain, and sensitivity to light. By simply looking away and trying to focus on something else you can reduce getting sysptoms for either eye strain or accomodative spasm. To help out even more, you can get up and walk around for a few minutes as well. If you find it difficult to remember to take a break, there are plenty of programs such as EVO.  EVO is a simple desktop notification system that runs through your webrowser to remind you to take a break from your computer.

Changing the brightness on your screen depending on the time of day and the light surrounding you makes it a lot easier on your eyes. If you are using your phone outside at the brightest time of day, your screen should also be bright. The same concept goes if you are on your laptop at home with only a few lights on, you want the screen to be darker than it would be if the room was fully lit. Most laptops can be set to change the screen brightness automatically depending on the surrounding light. This is a special feature that most Macs come with, so if you are spending your day at work using accounting software you know that your Mac will instantly change the brightness of your screen according to the lights in your office. Where as, if your brought your accounting work home, your Mac would then change for the lighting in your house.  iPhone users can set their screen to change depending on the lighting around them. To set this up, you can go to the brightness and wallpaper settings on your phone and turn the Auto-Brightness option on. If you work in an office that has windows, you might need to reduce the glare on your computer screen. You can reduce glare by simply moving it in a place where the window won’t reflect on it, or by buying an anti-glare screen protector.

Having your computer in the proper position and making sure you are sitting correctly can help reduce eye strain, especially if you spend most of your day in front of a computer. When positioning your computer, you should keep the top of the monitor at eye level and have it be tilted slightly upwards. Doing this will make your eyes look slightly downwards at your screen instead of straight on. Looking downwards means that while you are using your computer, more of your eye will be covered by your eye lid and you will unconsciously blink more often. You should also position yourself about 20 inches away from your computer screen, or at arm’s length. With your screen at the proper distance, you should be able to see everything without needing to move your head too much. If you are using a laptop, you can put it on an adjustable stand so it sits at the proper height. You should also try to always sit up straight, with your arms and legs at a 90 degree angle. 

Your eyes are very important since you use them for just about any and every activity you do on a daily basis. You can take care of your eyes in more ways than changing how you use technology. A couple ways you can are eating right, living a healthy lifestyle, and getting your annual checkups. Some doctors also encourage patients to eat raw carrots because they contain vitamin A which is helpful for your eye site. Researchers even believe that drinking red wine can help protect your eyes along with other things such as your hear. Remember to take breaks when using technology, whether it’s watching TV, using the computer, or even using your smart phone. By making these small changes, you can protect your eyes from technology on a daily basis.

Nicky Elkins is a freelance writer from Pensacola, Florida. She attended the University of West Florida and earned her Graduate degree in Creative Writing. Nicky now uses her gift for writing and her love of all things technology to help others enjoy and understand consumer electronics, social media, and the coolest new gadgets.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection

MACHINING SAFETY (GUEST POST)

Sent by Jason, of riskatmedia.com. 

All work activities carry the potential to cause harm to our own and others’ health and well-being, but we sometimes forget how real and close to us these hazards are. Every year, a large number of people are killed at work, and an even greater number of people suffer work related injuries because they are unable to follow safe working practices.

There are particular hazards associated with machining activities, which includes both general machining activities and the use of magnetic based equipment. Some of these hazards accompany almost all types of work activity, such as handling and slips and trips. Others, such as contact with moving machinery and contact with hazardous substances are of particular concern to machine operators as they result in significantly higher rates of injury amongst these personnel than amongst other workers. 

Manual Handling

Manual handling related activities are a major cause of occupational injury. Low back pain, joint injuries and repetitive strain injuries affect over a million people each year, and many of these injuries are the result of manual handling. Prior to carrying out any unavoidable manual handling activity, you should help to protect yourself from injury by following good manual handling practices. Consider the task to be carried out and the nature of the load, and be aware of your own capabilities and the environment in which you are working. In particular, machine attachments and work pieces can be extremely heavy and you should give consideration to safe manual handling practices before undertaking any job that involves lifting these items. 

Slips, Trips and Falls

Slips and trips represent a significant cause of work related injury. Slips and trips can result from contamination, obstacles, inappropriate footwear, reduced visibility, the environment and people’s attitudes. Good workmanship and good housekeeping are practices that can help to prevent accidents and fires. By removing debris, swarf, packaging and other waste materials to waste skips you can contribute significantly to good housekeeping. You can also reduce the risk of slips and trips by properly routing any cables or air hoses that you use, by appropriately storing materials, tools and other equipment and keeping walkways clear, by ensuring that you always wear appropriate footwear and by taking responsibility for your own and your colleagues safety and appropriately containing any spills that you might discover. 

Risk of Contact

Contact with moving or rotating machine parts is a significant hazard to personnel involved in machining activities, as well as to personnel working close by, and can result in serious injury. All personnel need appropriate training and experience to be able to use work equipment safely. Never use machinery unless you have received suitable training and are qualified and competent to do so. You should ensure that you are suitably qualified and are competent to use the particular type of equipment that you will be working on. Before you begin to use a machine, study it to make sure that you know which parts of the machine move, which parts are stationary and which parts are sharp. Make sure that all guards are in place. Remember to securely clamp both the machine and the work piece. To ensure Machine Safety make sure that you only use that piece of equipment for the job it was intended to perform. To protect others from the risk of contact with the moving or rotating machine parts, make sure that the appropriate warning signs and barriers are in place before you begin machining ensuring Authorised Personnel Only can gain access.” 

Electrical Safety

Electric shock from machinery can result in death or severe burns. Additionally, serious injury can result if the person falls as a result of the shock. To prevent the risks posed by electrical hazards, all electrical equipment should carry a valid test certificate or label. Testing should be carried out by suitably trained individuals. If an electrical appliance does not carry a test label, then please, do not use it. You should also carry out a visual pre-use inspection of all machinery, if you discover a defect or problem with the machine, it should not be used and you should inform your manager. 

Machine Malfunction

It is equally important to monitor the machine while it is running for possible signs of a malfunction. If you notice that the machine is vibrating abnormally, doesn’t sound right or is displaying signs of any other problem, switch it off and report to your manager. 

Machine Maintenance

Ensuring that equipment is appropriately cleaned and maintained is also central to machine safety. Inspect and sharpen cutting tools, lubricate machinery and check the alignment of milling machines as appropriate. Clean machinery after each use, as a dirty machine is unsafe and is difficult to use. When you are carrying out machine maintenance, make sure that you follow the appropriate lockout and tag-out procedures to ensure that the equipment is correctly isolated and cannot be turned on accidentally.

When cleaning machines after use, ensure that the machine is switched off and that the swarf has cooled before using gloves and a brush to remove swarf and clean the machine. If you need to remove swarf from a running machine, make sure that you are not wearing gloves and use a rod to remove the swarf. Never use a rag to clean a machine while it is running. Never use compressed air to clean a machine, your clothes or yourself. 

Risk of Entanglement

When conducting machining operations, it is extremely important that you take the steps necessary to reduce the risk of entanglement. Wear close fitting garments, do not wear a tie or jewelry and tie back long hair and long beards. Never wear gloves when operating a machine. If material is rough or sharp and you need to wear gloves to handle it, make sure that you place or handle the material while the machine is turned off and that you then remove your gloves before turning on or operating the machine. You should never attempt to measure a part that is moving. 

Personal Protective Equipment PPE

Personal Protective Equipment, or PPE, is an important means of reducing the risks associated with projectile particles during machining operations. At least standard PPE with safety sun glasses should be worn. It may be necessary to screen the work area if projectile particles pose a hazard to individuals working or passing nearby. Only PPE in good working condition will reduce the hazards associated with your work, so it is important to remove, clean and store your PPE correctly. 

Noise at Work

Hearing loss caused by exposure to noise at work is a significant source of occupational disease, with many people suffering deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise levels at work. The level of noise and how long people are exposed to noise at work both contribute to potential hearing damage. Noise can be reduced to harmless levels by using ear plugs and ear defenders while conducting machining operations, and these items of PPE should therefore be worn unless local measurements indicate that noise levels are below the level at which such action is necessary. 

Human Factors

Human factors also play a role in increasing the risk of injury while conducting machining operations. Never come to work in possession of, or under the influence of, alcohol or drugs. These substances expose everyone to risks that are unnecessary and easily avoided. You should also not conduct machining operations if you are overly tired or unwell, as concentration is important to operating machines safely. Behave sensibly in the machine shop. Don’t run and don’t walk behind someone who is operating machinery as you may bump in to them. 

Hazardous Substances

Substances such as coolants and other metal working fluids, hydraulic, lubricating, gearbox oils and cleaning agents can cause dermatitis if they come into contact with your skin. Fluid systems containing water or water mixes can cause bacterial infection on contact.

If you need to use these or other potentially hazardous substances, ensure that you follow the procedures outlined in your hazardous substance assessment, which may include the use of additional PPE. Try to avoid getting these substances on your skin, but if you do, pre-work or barrier creams will make your hands easier to clean. Rehydration creams will also replace lost skin oils after washing, and help to keep your hands in good condition. Wash, eat and drink away from your work area, and always wash your hands before eating, drinking or smoking. Avoid breathing in metal working fluid mists by using machining procedures which reduce the amount of mist produced, by using extraction and by using appropriate PPE. Remember that all hazardous chemicals can be identified by their warning signs, and should be stored in suitable containers that are clearly labelled and which identify the hazards associated with their use. Information on the substance as well as an assessment of the hazards associated with its use should also be available. 

Magnetic Based Equipment

There are additional hazards relating to the use of magnetic based equipment. It may well be unsafe to use magnetic based equipment if you have an active implantable medical device fitted. Make sure that you have informed your manager if you have an implanted medical device and talk to your doctor about the safety of using magnetic based equipment. Particular safe working practices are necessary to prevent injury should the electrical supply to the magnetic base fail. You should label the relevant electrical supply sockets and switches to prevent someone accidentally turning off the supply. 

Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency while conducting machining operations, isolate any machinery that you have been using and evacuate the area according to the site emergency procedures. If you are involved in an accident, seek immediate assistance. You should never operate machinery while alone unless specific lone working procedures are in place.

 

Riskatmedia – Safety Videos

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing

MINING SAFETY AND PROTECTIVE GEAR (GUEST POST)

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Mineworkers that wear full safety clothing can address several dangers. All mines need to stipulate the mining safety and protective clothing required and the kind of activity to be carried out.

Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour

Purpose of the protective gear

Improved visibility: A gear with high visibility is critical in a mine particularly if dealing with high traffic. Retro reflective strips and bright colors always make the workers at the mining site visible.
Abrasion Resistance: Thick and tough leather offers high abrasion resistance in case of a crash though fabrics like cordura are also able to provide significant protection. Fabrics are waterproof, easy to maintain, cheap and quite comfortable during hot weather. Thick leather is uncomfortable during hot weather and could result in the loss of control and heat stress. There are fabric gears designed into a mesh-like pattern which provides cooling plus a more stable surface to attach the padding.
Padding: Quality pants and jackets offer significant extra padding within the joint regions that are more vulnerable. This takes the form of dual-density foam or simple foam padding. The integrated pieces are available inside some jackets.
Weather Protection: Protection against weather elements is very important in mines. At times, extreme weather makes the working conditions rather dangerous or unbearable.

What is the required protective gear for greater safety during mining?

Approaching safety experts is the best answer. Every safety expert is exposed to a number of risks in the mines and is a witness of accidents, nearing accidents, hazards and falls in all the weather conditions. Some of their recommendations on mine worker safety include:

  • Protective gear needs to conform to the anatomy but not the surrounding slide
  • The hands, head, knees, hips, shoulders and elbows are all vulnerable areas
  • A protective gear should be purchased not as some fashion statement but for protective purposes

Examples of specific protective gear items

  • Full-face helmet: This offers the most protection.  It is imperative that hardhats be worn.
  • Gloves: Gloves need to be designed specifically for a given mining activity. It is commonly made using cordura, Kevlar, leather or other given combinations. There are some with carbon fiber knuckle protection and other rigid padding forms. There are gloves that offer wrist protection.
    Jackets: Most jackets are made from ballistic nylon, leather, Kevlar, cordura and other related synthetics. Many jackets feature a special padding on the spine, elbows or shoulders.
    Pants: They include special protection for hips and knees. Cotton denim jeans that have Kevlar are preferred by some people.
    Boots: It’s specifically designed for the undertaken mining activity and includes plastic caps and reinforcement on the ankles or the toe area.
    Helmet Visor or Goggles: Something of utmost importance is eye protection. Metal pieces or pebbles that are kicked up towards your eye have sufficient momentum to render significant damage.
    Ear plugs: These devices offer protection against any hearing damage and reduce fatigue.
    Vests: Made using retro reflective materials with high-visibility color. It is possible to wear them over jackets so as to increase the possibility of remaining visible. This will more critical in adverse weather conditions.

Author bio:
This has been a post by Danny, a blogger from Australia. He is writing about business and human resources on behalf of Australia Mining, a company that provides information to people looking to get a job in mining.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Health Issues

FIVE TIPS FOR SAFE USE OF SWIMMING POOL CHEMICALS (GUEST POST)

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“Doctor, I store the chemicals in a shed by the pool. He must have gotten into them when I wasn’t looking. How old? He’s four.”

Chlorine is a chemical commonly accepted for use in pools to kill bacteria and control algae, and it does that function well. However, according to EPA.gov, it must be used with some caution, because it is a chemical which can also be used around the house for cleaning and as a disinfectant. So what does that mean for the average pool owner? Here are 5 tips which can allow the safe use of pool chemicals:

1) Don’t drink the water. Though chlorine will keep the walls and bottom of your pool clean, some safety precautions must be taken as part of maintaining a safe swimming pool. It may seem a bit obvious, but everyone who uses the pool must be instructed not to drink the pool water. This is especially important for young children, who as we all know, are prone to playing in the water, sometimes taking a mouthful of pool water to spew it out in the air or on a friend.  In the course of that, the child might accidentally or without thinking drink some of the water. Make it clear – don’t drink the water.

2) Know how to use the chemicals. Because everyone who uses the pool brings their own contaminants, the chlorine used in swimming pools must be stronger than in other uses. While a household cleaner might contain a two percent concentration of chlorine, swimming pool chemicals may contain from twelve to ninety five percent chlorine. The chlorine is not used at that strength, but will be diluted substantially before use in the swimming pool. The proper administration of pool chemicals is therefore best left to adults to assure they are handled correctly, and mixed in the proper proportions. Make sure to read the instructions and learn about how to safely use the products. If necessary, take a class at a local location on the proper use and mixing of chlorine for the pool.

3) Safety pays. As cautioned by HealthyPools.org, a number of chemical-related pool incidents have been reported recently, including many visits to the emergency room, from the improper handling of pool chemicals. If safety precautions are not taken when handling pool chemicals, injuries can occur: inhaling fumes when opening containers, or accidentally splashing chemicals in the eyes when trying to mix the chemicals. Always wear protective gear, such as glasses and gloves, when mixing the pool chlorine.

4) Be prepared in case of emergency. Although many precautions will lessen the likelihood of accidents related to pool chemicals, it is still wise to be prepared in case of an accident. EPA.gov describes a process to ensure minimal damage from this type of accident. First, the person affected should describe what exactly happened, and how they are affected – how and where did they come in contact, and what part of their body did it affect. If it is an accident related to the eyes, the EPA suggests rinsing the eyes for 15 to 20 minutes in the shower or under a faucet, then calling the poison control center or 911. If the chemical was inhaled, get the person to fresh air and then make the appropriate phone calls. Add the phone number of poison control to the list of emergency contact numbers.

5) Store it safely. According to HealthyPools.org, caution is the word for adult administering the pool chemicals – first make sure those chemicals are safely stored. It is imperative to store chemicals properly to prevent them from mixing or getting wet unintentionally. Equally important – store pool chemicals out of the reach of children and animals. No one wants to see a crying child come in the house because of accidental contact with pool chemicals.

Time spent to correctly administer chemicals will not only keep the pool clean, but make sure that no one gets hurt during pool maintenance time. Do it wisely, and it will never lead to that scary trip to the emergency room to treat a toddler exposed to chemicals.

Becky Flanigan is a freelance writer for InTheSwim.com.  She has 3 kids with her wonderful husband – two boys and a girl – and two lovely golden retrievers.  She spends hours at her family swimming pool, watching the kids and dogs splash and play.  She is also a runner, and diligently training for her first half marathon.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection

MORE ELECTRICAL SAFETY IN THE WORKPLACE TIPS (GUEST POST)

 We all use electricity on a daily basis; it’s become a necessary part of everyday life. However we must remember the dangers of electricity as it can kill or severely injure a person or cause damage to properties. This could be from contact with an electrical current causing shock or burns, faults which could cause a fire or an explosion where electricity could be the source. Electrical hazards are estimated to cause around 300 deaths and 4000 injuries in US workplaces each year. It should not be forgotten about or underestimated. 

Electrical safety in the workplace is vital as we use electricity in in every job we do, from typing on our computers to boiling the kettle. It is something that all business owners and managers should be conscious of and in order to reduce the risk of accidents with electricity, it’s important to take some precautions. 

Electrical equipment should be tested on a regular basis. This could be checking them yourself or using PAT testing services, which is completed through visual checks and electronic tests to ensure safety is maintained. If you already suspect that something is faulty then take it out of use as soon as possible to prevent any hazards. 

Where equipment is being used every day, this is most important. Computers and tills are used in the workplace constantly and therefore pose a safety threat if not maintained. Kettles, ovens and food processors are used in cafes and restaurants but also in offices. As they are used so frequently in these environments, appliances need to be fit for use. A switch could be provided near each piece of equipment in order to cut off power in an emergency. When in a factory, electricity is heavily relied on and can be the most dangerous if anything goes wrong. The right safety measures need to be in place so this does not happen. 

Signs should be present to alert workers to electricity dangers. Low voltage cables are still hazardous and should be clearly marked to avoid anyone touching them. 

Employees need to have proper training to ensure that they can carry out tasks safely. Accidents can always potentially happen, but as an employer you need to keep your workers as safe as possible, otherwise if anything was to happen then legal action could be taken. If you are a business owner then it is your responsibility to make sure your employees are working in a safe environment, ultimately this should be paramount to your company policy.

The correct PPE should be furnished by the employer, protective gear that meets the needs of the workers.  Dielectric glasses, proper gloves, and hardhats that do not conduct electricity should be worn. 

Bio 

David Quarmby is an expert in electrical compliance and testing for businesses and is part of the ElectricalCerts group.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues

LASIK: A SAFE AND EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR VISION PROBLEMS (GUEST POST)

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By Emily Joseph

Has this situation happened to you: You spend an hour choosing a movie with your partner and finding the right time and place to see it. You buy your ticket online – spending at least $12 per ticket – before heading over, waiting in line to get into the theater, then waiting in line to get your snacks, until you finally take off your jacket and sit down to watch the movie. And that’s when it hits you. As the lights go down you realize you will not be able to enjoy the movie: you forgot your glasses.

If you have found yourself in this situation – or some version of it – chances are you have also considered getting LASIK surgery. But if you are like most people, you do not take the decision lightly. That is smart. After all, despite being quick and easy, LASIK surgery is still surgery. You should make sure to discuss your particular situation with your doctor. But if you’re looking for more information about why LASIK is safe and effective – and could be the right choice for you – then read on. Below are answers to some of the most frequent questions about LASIK surgery.

Q: What happens in LASIK surgery?

A: During LASIK surgery, you will first be put under anesthesia. Then the surgeon will make a flap in your cornea, and use a laser to reshape the underlying cornea. He or she will be finished in less than a half hour, without having caused any pain, though there will be a little pressure.

Q: How common are complications arising from LASIK surgery?

A: While there is always a risk for complication involved in any medical procedure, the risks from LASIK surgery are relatively low. Before you are accepted as a patient, the doctor will perform a full examination to find any factors – e.g. dry eyes – that could increase the risk of complications.

Q: What vision problems can LASIK surgery address?

A: LASIK surgery can’t cure all vision problems, but it can help many of them. People with impaired vision are good candidates. Sufferers of myopia, also known as nearsightedness, hyperopia, aka farsightedness and astigmatism, the usual culprit behind blurry vision, are also good candidates for LASIK.  Of course, you should speak to your doctor about your personal health situation.

Q: Can I afford LASIK surgery?

A: Any responsible adult considers the cost of a medical procedure before electing it. Most people can afford LASIK surgery, but prices do vary. On average, the surgery costs approximately $2,150 for each eye or about $4,000 for both, according to AllAboutVision.com. Considering the cost of contacts – about $300/year – the surgery will begin to pay for itself after about twelve years for those who wear contacts.

Q: Will insurance cover the cost of LASIK surgery?

A: Though most insurers will not cover the full cost of LASIK surgery, you should check the details of your health plan to be sure about the status of yours. Some health plans might not cover the full price tag but will cover part of it.

Q: How successful is LASIK surgery in solving vision problems?

A: LASIK has been shown to serve its patients well. Elissa Shuler Adair, PhD, manager of health care research for Consumer Reports Health, says that 86% of people under forty who have had LASIK were still sans glasses nine years after undergoing the surgery.

About the author:  Emily Joseph is a writer for QualSight.  When’s she not busy writing or reviewing LASIK doctors, she spends her free time reading classic literature and listening to her favorite records.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

SAFE GRINDING OPERATIONS (GUEST POST)

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Risk of Fire and Explosion

Grinding and allied processes produce molten metal, sparks, slag and hot work surfaces which pose a risk of fire and explosion, and which can result in fatalities, serious injury and plant damage. Flying sparks are the main cause of fire and explosion, especially as sparks can travel up to 10 metres from the work space. Sparks and molten metal can travel even greater distances when falling and can pass through and become lodged in cracks, clothing, pipe holes and other small openings. To reduce the risk of fire and explosion, a permit to work should be obtained before commencing grinding operations. Working areas and the areas below them should be kept free of combustible material. Fixed items of plant, such as installed electrical cables should be protected by a fire blanket. And sparks should be contained by means of a non-flammable material. Fire extinguishers should be close at hand, and the working area should be inspected when work is suspended to ensure there is no residual risk of fire or explosion.

Cutting Operations

Where cutting operations are performed, it is always important to give consideration to the effect that these operations will have on the stability of the work piece. In particular, consideration should be given to weight distribution, as the removal of significant weights may alter the balance of the work piece. Where appropriate, the work piece should be supported. You should also plan how items that have been removed will be lowered without risk to yourself, to others who may be working nearby, or to equipment.

Disk Burst

Serious injury can result when grinding wheels or disks burst, so it is important to take the steps necessary to reduce the risks associated with this hazard. Abrasive wheels should only be fitted by individuals who are trained and competent to do so. A pre-use check of portable grinding machines should be carried out to ensure that they are only fitted with reinforced discs, that the disc is suitable for the type of material to be ground, as well as for the speed of the machine and that guards are fitted and properly maintained. To avoid damaging discs, disc centres detaching and increased vibration levels, discs should always be applied at 90 degrees to the work piece to avoid the lateral stresses that leads to discs bursting. Uniform pressure should be applied during cutting and strategic cutting positions and / or restraints should be used where parent metal movement, which may result in snagging, is possible. All grinders have the potential to jolt when disc snagging occurs, which can result in serious injury. Where a Grinding Safety assessment indicates that snagging is a possibility, you should adopt a position that considers the direction the machine will move should snagging occur.

Training

All personnel need appropriate training and experience to be able to use work equipment safely. Never use grinding equipment unless you have received suitable training and are competent to do so, or you are receiving supervised training to reach this level of competence. Remember that contact with the grinding wheel can result in serious injury and that you should also wear protective clothing including Kevlar gloves and a visor to reduce the risk of injury.

Entanglement

When conducting grinding operations, it is also important that you wear close fitting garments. Make sure your overall sleeves are buttoned, that you do not wear a tie or jewellery and that you tie back long hair and long beards to reduce the risk of entanglement.

Personal Protective Equipment

PPE is an important means of reducing the risks associated with projectile particles during grinding operations. At least standard PPE with gauntlets, leathers, a cotton drill or fire retardant overalls and a full face visor with neck muff worn over goggles should be worn. Prolonged exposure to the dust produced during grinding operations can potentially result in scarring of the lung tissue and subsequent breathing difficulties. During prolonged or heavy operations, disposable respirators should be worn. For permanent grinders, an air fed all in one hood should be worn. Only PPE in good working condition will reduce the hazards associated with your work, so it is important to remove, clean and store your PPE correctly. All PPE should therefore be cleaned down with a soft brush before removing.

Noise at Work

Hearing loss caused by exposure to noise at work is a significant source of occupational disease, with many people suffering deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise levels at work. The level of noise and how long people are exposed to noise at work both contribute to potential hearing damage. Noise can be reduced to harmless levels by using ear plugs and ear defenders while conducting grinding operations and the use of hearing protection should be mandatory within high noise areas.

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome HAVS

If you regularly use hand held grinders, you may be at risk of developing Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome or HAVS. This condition involves damage to the blood vessels, nerves and joints of the hand, wrist and arm. It is a painful and debilitating condition, resulting in numbness of the hands to the extent where it is impossible to feel with your fingers and very difficult for you to pick up small objects. This can make both occupational and leisure activities, such as playing darts, fishing or DIY, impossible. HAVS is entirely preventable. Always use the right tool for the job, as this will allow you to complete the job more quickly and will expose you to less hand-arm vibration. Carry out a pre-use inspection of all grinding equipment and report any damage to your supervisor, as faults and general wear may result in increased vibration. Try to reduce the amount of vibration you are exposed to in one go by doing other jobs in between grinding operations. Use a relaxed grip and avoid using excessive force on a tool or work piece. Store tools so that they do not have very cold handles when used next. Keep your hands warm and dry and take breaks to exercise your fingers regularly.

Sent to us by Kevin at Riskatmedia – Safety Video

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues

YOU MUST “SEE” THIS INFORMATION!

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, an important time to spread the word about this sight-stealing disease.  Currently, 2.7 million people in the United States over age 40 have glaucoma. The National Eye Institute projects this number will reach 4.2 million by 2030, a fifty-eight percent increase!

Over 2.7 million Americans, and over 60 million people worldwide, have glaucoma. Experts estimate that half of them are unaware that they have it. Combined with our aging population, we can see an epidemic of blindness looming if we don’t raise awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations to preserve vision. The World Health Organization estimates that 4.5 million people worldwide are blind due to glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal sight without warning, thus being called the “sneak thief of sight”, as there are no symptoms and once vision is lost, it’s permanent.  Up to forty per cent of vision can be lost without a person noticing. Although the most common forms primarily affect the middle-aged and the elderly, glaucoma can affect people of all ages.  Vision loss is caused by damage to the optic nerve. This nerve acts like an electric cable with over a million wires. It is responsible for carrying images from the eye to the brain.

The two main types of glaucoma are: primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), and angle-closure glaucoma. These are marked by an increase of intraocular pressure (IOP), or pressure inside the eye. When optic nerve damage has occurred despite a normal IOP, this is called normal tension glaucoma. Secondary glaucoma refers to any case in which another disease es or contributes to increased eye pressure, resulting in optic nerve damage and vision loss. Those at higher risk include people of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent. Other high-risk groups include: people over 60, family members of those already diagnosed, diabetics, and people who are severely nearsighted. Regular eye exams are especially important for those at higher risk for glaucoma, and may help to prevent unnecessary vision loss.

In the United States, approximately 120,000 are blind from glaucoma, accounting for nine per cent to twelve per cent of all cases of blindness.

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, according to the World Health Organization. Vision loss begins with peripheral or side vision, so if you have glaucoma, you may not notice anything until significant vision is lost. The best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to get a comprehensive eye examination, because glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness.   Then, if you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, treatment can begin immediately. 

Another factor in maintaining your vision, is to wear the correct eye protection that fits your job.  Vision can be lost due to work-related injuries and other factors.  Please take care of your eyes, by having regular vision checkups and using eye protection while working, biking, yard work, or other activities.  Last, but not least, spread the word about glaucoma!

Source: Glaucoma.org

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Weather Protection

WINTER ITEMS TO HELP THOSE WHO WORK OUTDOORS STAY WARM

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For all those persons who have to work outside – either during winter months or hot summer months, there are many ways to help you stay warm or cooler, depending on the season.  Since it’s winter for sure, let’s talk about the many safety items that offer extra warmth.  (We just happen to know where you can find several types of these, too): 

  1. Winter Liners:   There are different types of winter liners, all made to help keep your ears and neck warm underneath your hardhat or other type of headgear you must wear on the job.  Some have drawstrings so you can tighten them up, and others are stretchy so they can be pulled back over the brim of the hardhat.  These are not only excellent for workers, but for hunters, and others who enjoy the outdoors. 
  2. Warm Gloves: Nothing says “warm” like a toasty pair of gloves.  If our fingers are stiff, we aren’t able to function; frostbite may be just a nip away! 
  3. Hand or Foot Warmers:  These handy little hot packs keep the cold away.  They last for hours, too. (Please scroll down on this page to see the hot packs and some other excellent information.)
  4.  Boots: Everyone knows you must have a good foundation: boots that are comfortable in cold weather, and have good soles to keep you well-balanced all day! (Kind of like the cereal you have for breakfast!)
  5. Polarized Safety Glasses:  These won’t keep you warm, but our eyes risk being damaged by UV rays, winter or summer.  Glare off snow and ice can hurt your eyes.  Keep them protected by wearing some safety sunglasses with UV protection.
  6.  Heavy duty rainsuits and boots:  If you work in areas that are prone to rain, it’s good to keep this kind of personal protective equipment in your work vehicle.  That way it’s handy when you need it to keep you dry.

We hope all you outdoor workers and outdoorsmen and women stay safe, warm and dry this winer.  There is a myriad of occupational products just designed to help you stay that way. Our Parent Company, Texas America Safety Company, and Blog4Safety thank you for the opportunity to make these suggestions for your winter warmth.