Category Archives: Eye Protection

HERE’S A NEW SPIN ON SAFETY: WATCH THIS VIDEO (GUEST POST)

In our everyday quest to bring safety to the forefront, we welcome guest authors from all over the world to present their take on safety.  It is amazing how many ways we all think about safety.  We recently heard about this video.  Based on the tune to “I’m Sexy and I Know It,” there’s a new version called “I’m Safety and I Know It”.  We think you will find it amusing, as well as presenting much of the safety equipment that is required to keep everyone SAFE!  Here is Dave Clare’s (General Manager of ATC) response to our request to share this video:

G’day Pat, 

We would be pleased if you would share about our video. As a non-profit organisation, we are hoping to reach out to as many people as we can about working safe. There are different regulations all around the world about safety, but the end game is all the  same, lets help people embrace safety as a part of what they do and how they do work and let everyone come home alive and in one piece. 

Safety is our No.1 core value at ATC and we wanted to find a fun way to make it relevant to a broad range of people. 

Sit back and enjoy this Australian video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=PGxKPf9eEhg

Apprentice & Traineeship Co. Midwest is a not for profit company that works with engaged partners to inspire the development of tomorrows leading workforce…today!

 

 

SAFETY IN THE CHEMISTRY LAB (GUEST POST)

By Maree Kyle

Safety is valued in any workplace, but in areas where dangerous materials and other hazards are present, it’s essential that workers and businesses create a safe environment where accidents are mitigated. Unfortunately, even the best workplace environments boasting well-trained workers are susceptible to the occasional accident, making it crucial that emergency protocols be developed and taught alongside accident prevention measures.

In chemistry laboratories, safety considerations are amplified. Accidents when working with volatile and potentially dangerous materials can be permanently damaging and, in some cases, fatal. Good chemical hygiene is of utmost importance and this encompasses many facets of lab operations. Here are some steps every lab should take to minimize the risk of an accident and to improve emergency response when mishaps do occur.

1. Demand storeroom organization

Maintaining organization and order in a storeroom makes for more efficient lab work, but it also greatly enhances safety in the workspace. Workers need to keep track of a number of chemicals, many with expiration dates, and old chemicals need to be properly disposed of. Additionally, better organization helps ensure property inventory levels of various chemical materials. A good approach to handling the storeroom is to put one worker in charge of the storeroom, managing its contents and handling upkeep as needed.

2. Display safety signs as intended

A little signage can be very helpful for reminding workers of the dangers present in the workplace. Make sure all signage is properly displayed to maximize its efficacy in helping workers avoid accidents.

3. Demand proper attire

It’s not unheard of that some confident chemists will occasionally decline to wear certain safety gear, considering it more a nuisance than a form of protection. But that’s a risky move that’s bound to end up in failure at some point. From the lab’s perspective, a failure to wear safety gear creates extra risks that could be a liability to the facility. Outline proper attire requirements in various situations and strongly enforce the protocol for failing to follow lab rules.

4. Clean, clean, clean

According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, the third-leading cause of workplace injuries is slips and falls. The vast majority of these are preventable by making sure hazards and obstacles are kept out of the workspace at all times. Clean floors, countertops and other workspaces frequently to eliminate fluids and other hazards that can lead to accidents. The lab should also be stocked with good materials for quickly and easily cleaning up messes. Other lab-specific safety measures include keeping clutter off of countertops, keeping excess chemicals in proper storage, and handling waste products properly and quickly.

5. Offer proper training on equipment

Greater familiarity with various lab equipment will prevent devices from being misused. Teach lab workers how to identify faulty devices, further preventing accidents resulting from equipment errors.

With so many dangerous materials present, chemistry labs can be particularly prone to serious accidents. Every lab needs to invest time and resources into educating their workers and instituting safety measures. Don’t let safety awareness be a one-time thing: Keep workers mindful of safety concerns with random inspections and continued training workshops to reduce your lab’s risk of a preventable accident.

Thanks, Maree, for this invaluable information regarding safety when working with chemicals.  Texas America Safety Company has a whole range of personal protective equipment to ensure employees’ safety at work. Pat

 

SAFETY WHILE PLAYING PAINTBALL (GUEST POST)

Sent to us by Grace Beckett 

When playing any game that involves shooting, safety should be your priority. Injuries, though not very serious, may still occur if you are not prepared for it. There are various safety issues and how to prepare for them. Knowing these can save you the unwanted trouble and pain of  an injury. Following these simple steps can ensure that you stay safe while having fun.

Safety equipment

Paintball masks that provide comprehensive protection for the face are available. It is necessary to wear a mask all the times in the playground. Even when you can feel the mask fogging up, you should not remove it during the game.     Play at places that have certified courses and staff, to aid you in case of any injury. The staff is adept at what they do and playing under their supervision can save you from potential injuries. 

  •      Avoid shooting wildlife when playing. It isn’t ethical, and is possibly illegal, too. 
  •      Check your CO2 tank before you start the games. It is important that you follow the steps explained by the manufacturer, as it can cause serious injuries. 
  •      Goggles are as important as masks. Eyes are especially susceptible to injury. If someone shoots directly at your face, it’s better to have your face protected, or you might even lose an eye. A paintball travels at over 200 feet per second, so it’s advisable to be safe than sorry. 
  •      Barrel plugs and barrel bags are important to be checked and done every time you take a break. Accidentally shooting someone is a realistic possibility and should be avoided. Put the barrel plug in place as soon as you go for a break. It not only ensures safety for others, but also for you, as you set an example for others by doing this. 
  •      Paintball is a fairly unregulated game. There are no statistics that give indications of the injuries afflicted by players. So, don’t believe the myth that it is safer than bowling or tennis. Field support has noticed increase in injuries in the last three years. So, play responsibly. 
  •      Avoid overshooting people. People generally get carried away and shoot opponents more than once in the heat of the battle. This shouldn’t be done. Repeatedly getting hit by these bullets can not only be uncomfortable, but also cause serious injury in the process. 
  •      Keep eyes in a different direction from air release valves. You can also wear jock or cup straps if you are a guy. This will reduce pain when hit by bullets. 
  •      Don’t shoot people from up close. In the heat of the moment it’s understandable that you might shoot someone from a distance. But it’s unacceptable to do it from point blank range without even calling surrender. If they don’t accept the surrender then you can go ahead and shoot them, but avoid doing it on the face as mentioned earlier. 

Paintball is a very entertaining game if played correctly and by following all rules. The game should be played responsibly to avoid causing injuries, or getting injured in the process. 

Grace is an expert with Airsoft BB guns, and posts blogs about these topics on various sites. The site she represents gives many offers on electronic and normal guns.

Grace, I believe I will stay on the sidelines for this one!  Thanks for the safety tips to follow while playing this game, and we can only hope participants follow your advice! Pat

DECEMBER IS SAFE TOYS AND GIFTS AWARENESS MONTH

For several years, Prevent Blindness America has declared December as Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month.  For parents, grandparents and others shopping for children, there are many things to consider about the choices they make.  Children have been seen in emergency rooms due to choking, eye injuries, or even poisoning.  Most of this was caused by injuries due to poorly made items and misuse of toys. 

In a 2010 report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission,  it was estimated that hospital emergency rooms treated 251,700 toy-related injuries throughout the U.S.  Of that number, 72 percent of injuries were to those less than 15 years of age.  They also found that 46 percent of the 251,700 ER-treated injuries occurred to the head and face area.  Lacerations, abrasions, and contusions made up most of the injuries.

There are two things to keep in mind when shopping for toys:

(1)   Keep the age of the child in mind when purchasing gifts and consider their maturity level.  Read the age recommendations and any warnings on the packaging, and abide by them.

(2)   Select toys that are well constructed and meet the American society for testing and Materials’ (ASTM) approval.  You will see a label on the package if the item meets these standards. 

Prevent Blindness asks you to make these recommendations to family members and friends about gifts that you feel are appropriate for your child, and be diligent about inspecting the gifts before the child plays with them.  This may seem a little heartless at Christmas, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Choose toys that are a developmental tool as well as a recreational activity for children, not to cause harm.  Children should be supervised at all times, and instructed on the proper use of the toy.  Labels are the best way to decide whether a toy or other item is right for a child.  Most new toys have appropriate age labels and these should be followed.  Stuffed items should be machine washable, fabric items should be non-flammable and/or flame resistant, and art supplies should read non-toxic.  Crayons and paints should say ASTM D-4236 on the package, ( evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials).  Outdoor recreational items such as skateboards or baseballs should be accompanied by the appropriate safety gear, such as helmets and gloves.  BB Guns should be given to only those of the proper age and maturity to handle them safely, and comfortable safety goggles should be included. 

Keep these tips in mind throughout the year, as children are given toys more often than just at Christmas.  It’s just a good time to emphasize that we want everyone to have a safe and happy holiday season! 

Source: PBA

TEN PLUMBING SAFETY TIPS (GUEST POST)

Submitted by Jim Klossner 

Many people are choosing to DIY when repairs need to be done in their home. With the increase in home handymen, or handywomen, comes more risk because non-professional plumbers naturally will not think about some of the safety precautions. It is critical to take safety steps to ensure that you get the job done unscathed, as well as to make sure that the job is done correctly. 

Be Mindful of Electricity

Since plumbing usually does not involve electricity, many people do not think to turn off the electricity. Keep in mind that water and electricity do not mix. This is especially important if you are doing something near a power source. 

Do Not Panic

If something goes wrong, like a pipe bursting, do not panic. You need to take the steps to correct the issue as quickly as possible and panic will prevent this. Take a little time before even starting the task to think about some things that could go wrong and then make a few rough strategies to fix these. 

Make Sure Your Eyes are Protected

When you are cutting into things and have the risk of water spraying everywhere, it is important that your eyes are protected. There is always the risk of things flying at your face and when you are wearing protective goggles you can pretty much eliminate the risk of eye damage. 

Protect Your Ears

Plumbing work can get loud and the ears can become damaged with too much loud noise. Things like power saws and other equipment can become loud and ear damage can occur without you even noticing it.  Wearing earplugs will help protect your hearing.

Protect Your Lungs

When doing plumbing work, you are sure to run into some type of dust and/or chemical fumes. If chemicals are being used, a respirator is something you may want to consider. If you will only run into dust, then a basic face mask is enough to prevent breathing in the dust. 

Make Sure You Have the Right Tools

Using the wrong tools can result in injury. For example, if you need a chisel, use a chisel and not a screwdriver. The screwdriver could slip when you are hammering, resulting in slamming the hammer on your hand. The wrong tools could also damage the thing you are working on, causing more issues and costing you more money. 

Have Emergency Numbers and a Way to Call Them Handy

Accidents happen and you need to be prepared to get help if necessary. Numbers like poison control should be handy, as well as utility company numbers. Keep a phone nearby just in case something happens and you need to call quickly. 

Practice Before Doing

Before you start the actual job, get used to the tools you will need to use so that you are confident in using them. You do not want to just learn that new saw when it is time to get work done as this adds more pressure which can lead to mistakes. 

Protect Your Hands

Chemicals, tools and hot water are all potential hazards to your hands. Be sure to wear gloves that are appropriate to what you might run into. For example, gloves that protect against chemicals generally differ than gloves that can protect hands from hot water. If it also a good idea to wear long pants, long sleeves and shoes to protect all of your skin. 

Know Your Plumbing

It is important to know things like the type of pipes used in your home, where the on/off valves are and where the pipes are behind the walls so that you can quickly access what you need. You also want to be able to quickly get to things if something were to go wrong. 

About the Author: Jim Klossner has been writing about plumbing and HVAC solutions for companies like John J Cahill, Inc. for nearly ten years. When he’s not writing, you can find Jim teaching safety courses at his local community center.

LOOKING FOR A DIFFERENT PRESENT FOR THAT “HARD-TO-BUY FOR” SOMEONE?

Look no further, friends, for quality safety products than Texas America Safety Company.

No more shopping in malls, crowded stores, or searching the “net”, when you can catch some useful things that your friends or family will enjoy having.  Giving the gift of safety means you really care. 

For the hard-working lady, we have all kinds of pink protective gear, ranging from pink hardhats to pink headsets.  Who says Mechanix is just for men?  Our pink Mechanix gloves are perfect fits for your favorite girl, to protect those delicate hands!  There are also some pink safety glasses that would complete the look. 

If you know someone who has hobbies, such as woodworking, or yardwork, goggles are a must!  T.A.S.C.O. has all types of goggles that will keep the eyes safe from flying particles, or sawdust.  Goggles are also needed for those who need exceptional eye protection at work. 

For your friends who like to ride bicycles or motorcycles, goggles also come in handy, as well as high visibility vests or high visibility decals that warn motorists to move aside and let them by! 

Anyone who works in manufacturing, construction, or other heavy duty-type work needs a good hardhat.  Ranging from team hardhats, (NCAA, NFL, MLB, NHL, NASCAR) to patriotic hardhats, or Western-style hardhats, and, if the company allows them to have their own personal hardhat, this is an excellent way to ensure compliance.  It’s fun to show your personality and team spirit with the just-right selection, at a very sensible price. 

Another great gift is a set of brim LED lights that clip onto a hardhat or baseball cap.  This would be an excellent way to be seen while riding after sunset.  For do-it-yourself tree trimmers, a chainsaw safety kit would be an excellent gift, offering a safe cutting.  (Always keep a first aid kit on standby, just in case!)

You may want to check out our huge selection of safety glasses.  Many styles don’t have the old “safety glass” look – they are stylish , and best of all,  priced lower than most sunglass stores.  The good thing about it is, they not only look cool, but also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. 

A nice pair of leather gloves would be a welcome gift.  We have all types to choose from.

What person couldn’t use a Personal First Aid pouch to keep in their car?  Flashlights are also a must-have for your car.  There are so many things to select that we invite you to check out our website, www.tasco-safety.com.   We have linked some of our suggestions to make your shopping easier.   Place your order early for a timely arrival. 

Last but not least, if you call Texas America Safety Company (1-800-646-5346)  to place an order between now and Christmas, you will receive “Free Shipping”!  Just be sure to mention this to our customer service personnel, so you can get that savings. 

Have a safe and very happy holiday season.

FIVE SAFETY HAZARDS TO AVOID AT CONSTRUCTION SITES (GUEST POST)

Another great article sent to us by Saam Banai

Whether you work in construction, have construction going on in your home, or you commute by construction on a regular basis, there are many things that you should be aware of in order to stay safe from injury around construction sites.  Over the years, construction related injuries and deaths have decreased dramatically due to the federal efforts of OSHA towards “collaborative safety,” but we can still do our part to pay attention our own personal safety regardless of regulations outside of our control.

The Dangers of Heights

Perhaps the most dangerous element of construction sites is gravity.  Usually, heights are involved when constructing multi-floor buildings so it’s possible for workers to fall from high up.  This is when the need for fall protection equipment is imperative. It’s important to be aware of ledges and loose guard rails when working near the edge of a high story.  Additionally, it’s important to be aware of objects that are placed near these ledges.  Tools, boards, and metal pieces might fall on unsuspecting workers or bystanders, ones whom hopefully have access to the best injury lawyers.

Electric Hazards

Electricity is always flowing on construction sites.  Be aware of sockets and frayed wires when installing lights or working with power-tools.  If you’re doing work in your own home, do some research and talk to an electrician before digging into your walls.  There’s no sense in being a hero when repairing or installing electric components for yourself or your family.

Machines

Power-tools and large machines are obviously a source of danger on construction sites.  When operating heavy equipment like cranes or bobcats, be sure to understand all of the safety information in either the booklet or told to you by a professional.  Do the same when working with saws, nail guns, jackhammers, and soldering irons.

Chemical Hazards

Dangerous chemicals are perhaps some of the hardest hazards to avoid on construction sites, but only if you fail to have due diligence.  Asbestos, a cause for Mesothelioma, is one of the best examples of things to look out for.  Others include lead paint, varnish, solvents, and materials that are flammable.  Be sure to use masks and gloves when applicable.

Noise

This danger is less life threatening than others, but it can still cause unfavorable injury.  Constant work with jackhammers and other tools can result in loss of hearing.  That’s why it’s important to always wear protective ear guards when working with louder than normal equipment.  Noise can also prevent people from hearing the warning sounds of other dangers, like an approaching vehicle or falling object.

There are many things to avoid when working or walking around construction sites, and these are just a few.  If attention is paid, and regulations are followed, we can continue the trend of decreasing accidents over the years.  Everyone has to play their part though and be diligently aware of much that is going on while on the job.

Saam Banai is a freelance writer and editor.  He contributes this article for The Perecman Firm PLLC, some of the best injury lawyers in New York, specializing in construction accidents, workers’ compensation, wrongful death, and vehicle accidents.  They have helped victims of various accidents in New York City to obtain over $200 million in settlements and verdicts.

As Saam stated in this article, all types of occupational safety products are needed around construction sites.  Keep your employees safe at all times on the job. 

 

TIPS TO ENSURE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY (GUEST POST)

By Grace Beckett

Industrial work is one of the most hazardous jobs that can affect the lives of its workers. Whether it is a minor cut, a major injury, or exposure to toxic substances, workers get affected everyday with any of these accidents which can otherwise be avoided with a little care and effort.

Tips You Should Follow for Industrial Safety

If you are involved in industrial work, it is high time you follow the tips that make sure you are safe and secure while you perform your tasks.

  • Protection from chemicals:If you are working with a lot of chemicals, paints and grease, it is better to apply ointments and creams on the exposed parts of your body before you get to work. This will save you from getting affected with skin diseases.Once you have completed working with the chemicals, you should clean your hands with a good quality lotion that can give a soothing relief to your hands.   

In fact, you can wear leather gloves to save your hands from getting injured due to rough surfaces and materials. Such gloves will also protect your hands when handling sharp tools and objects for industrial work.

In case you are dealing with acids, pesticides, petroleum, medical and other industrial agents, good quality rubber gloves can ensure that your hands are safe. But you should make sure that the gloves fit your hands exactly. If they are oversized, they won’t be able to work for your benefit.

  • Undertake safety measures:There are certain steps that you can take so as to avert accidents when lifting a load or working with screws. Be cautious against getting hurt due to broken glass, wood splinters and nails. Make sure you handle heavy objects such that they don’t your hurt your hands and fingers.You should also avoid testing the temperature of a liquid or gas through direct contact with your hand. Even if you get hurt, take quick medical precaution, or else it can lead to fatal results.
  • Concentrate on your tasks: Workrelated accidents may happen if you don’t concentrate fully while performing a task. Often you are distracted and wipe your eyes off with your hands which are not clean because you have been working with chemicals or machines. This can actually affect your eyes adversely.

Sometimes, you may not be careful with your clothes when working with machines. This can result in your clothes getting torn, thereby affecting your body. It is also advisable to keep your hands away from rotating machines; be careful when using them to control the speed of such machines.

In addition to the above procedures, you can wear hard hats to save your head from injuries caused due to the fall of any heavy object. When it comes to protecting your eyes, you can put on goggles so that dust and debris in industrial areas can hardly affect you.

Grace is an expert associated with Intersafety that deals with the distribution of workplace safety equipment and products. Browse through www.intersafety.co.uk/hand-sanitisers/c037 to check out their hand sanitizers and hand wipes.   

 

 

 

WHEN FLOODS ATTACK (GUEST POST)

Sent to us by Rebecca Wilcox

Flooding can cause enormous issues with your home in more ways than one. Sure, there is the initial damage and inconvenience that can come from heavy flooding. This is the damage that most people tend to associate with flooding, though it is honestly one of the least damaging aspects of a flood. 

The most damage from a flood generally comes from the long-term effects of what standing water can do to a structure. This damage is often not readily apparent when the flooding starts to subside, but instead causes unseen damage over long periods of time. In the end, things like mold, wood rot, and mildew can have a worse impact on your home than the flood itself.

To help protect against long-term damage like this, it’s important to do everything you can to keep water from getting into your basement or any other part of your home. This can be accomplished in a number of different ways, but the steps you’ll need to take will vary depending on whether or not you have a basement. Basements add another layer of difficulty to the mix because they are often very difficult to seal against flooding. If you do have a basement, the best thing you can do is work with a contractor to seal it. This will likely be a fairly expensive job.

The other aspect of keeping your home free of flood damage is to have measures on hand that you can use to get rid of water once the flooding starts. If your preparations fail or are overwhelmed, you may be stuck pumping water out of your home yourself. If this happens, you should have a strong pump on hand to get the water out of your house. Tough, durable pumps like Tsurumi pumps are a great, affordable option for this. You want to make sure that your pump is affordable, but not cheap. After all, what good is a cheap pump that ends up costing you thousands in flood damage after it breaks down at a critical moment.

Floods can be absolutely catastrophic if you aren’t prepared for them. Even when you are prepared, there will always be at least a little damage resulting from a major flooding event. Despite this, it is very possible to mitigate the damage done by flooding when you take the time to prepare and equip yourself with the right kind of gear.

As Rebecca advises, be prepared to protect yourself with the right kind of personal protective gear.  From gloves, goggles, waterproof clothing, to rubber boots, your body must not be in contact with contamination from flood waters, mold and mildew.  Some types of destruction require professionals to assist with the clean-up.  Use caution when working in this type of environment. Pat

 

EASY WAYS TO REDUCE INJURIES IN AN OFFICE SETTING (GUEST POST)

 Sent to us by Brandon Allred.

Work injuries that are related to computers are quickly becoming the most reported incidences on the job. This is because using computers in the work place are so very common nowadays in almost every area of the world. Since this is fact we have to take into consideration how these injuries occur and how to prevent them as much as possible. New standards set forth by occupational safety committees recommend safer ways to use computers and other such devices that will lessen the effects that cause the injuries in the first place. These tips are important to follow because using computers for a large amount of your workday can cause back problems, neck problems, and hand/wrist problems such as carpel tunnel syndrome. If you are someone who works heavily on computers at work (or even at home) keep reading to find out how you can boost your chances of sustaining injuries.

Tip 1:                                                      

The chair that you sit in can make all the difference. It can cause or prevent damage. Your chair should be designed ergonomically so that it fits your back (and your entire body) in a way that is more natural and comfortable, thus preventing strain in any one area and preventing injuries.

Tip 2:

Even with ergonomic chairs your body still needs a change of position every now and then. At least once per hour, get up and move around for a couple of minutes in order to get your blood flowing and your muscles moving.

Tip 3:

Many workplaces that require you to be sitting at desks or computers for long periods of time will require that you have a morning and afternoon exercise session. If your workplace does not have this then suggest it yourself. If the suggestion is not taken then do the small exercises on your own to help protect your body.

Tip 4:

If you are typing for long periods of time, move your wrists often. This will help relieve them from the stress being put on them from the mouse and keyboard which can cause carpel tunnel syndrome. This is a painful condition that may render you unable to work at the computer anymore and require surgery to fix.

Tip 5:

Use an ergonomic keyboard that tilts at a good angle to relieve any pressure put on your wrists and hands. Using one at home is also a smart idea and they can be purchased at most any store that sells computer items.

Tip 6:

Adjust the position that you are sitting in if you feel any strain or pain. Your shoulder, hands, wrists and arms should feel totally relaxed. If they are not then you are not sitting properly to prevent injury.

Tip 7:

Your eyes should also be protected while working at the computer. Make sure that the screen is tilted at an angle where you do not have to strain your neck or eyes to see it. Also make sure that the screen is not too light or too dark as this will strain your eyes as well.

Tip 8:

Your eyes should also be rested frequently throughout the workday. Staring at a screen all day can take a toll no matter how well your position is. Take several breaks by focusing your eyes on objects in the distance. This only takes a few seconds to be helpful so do it frequently.

Tip 9:

Avoid tensing your body’s muscles while working at the computer as this strain can cause all types of work related injuries.

Tip 10:

Have your computer fitted with a glare screen to keep your eyes as safe as possible and avoid further strain.

All of the above can make a real difference in workplace comfort and lessen the chances of becoming injured. Keep these tips in mind if you are often on your home computer as well.

Protective Technologies provides advanced http://www.pti-world.com/walk-through-detector security products.  Please check out the link for more information. 

An extra note: motivational posters placed in the office also offer reminders that go well with the above tips. Pat