Category Archives: First Aid Safety

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

ARE YOU AND YOUR CAR READY FOR WINTER?

ARE YOU AND YOUR CAR READY FOR WINTER? 

Because cold weather is on the horizon, it’s time to give your vehicle a good checkup.  You depend on it to get you safely wherever you are going, whether it’s to the grocery store, or a long trip.  If you maintain your car or truck with regular oil changes, and routine maintenance, hopefully, it will repay you with dependability. 

Here are some important things to check out on your automobile before you wake up to a freezing morning: 

  • Battery.  Cold temperatures reduce cranking power; your battery is asked to do more to start the engine with low temperatures, so be sure it is in good working order.
  • Don’t rev up the motor when you first start it; that won’t warm it up any faster.
  • Wipers and windshield wiper fluid.  Replace old wipers if they leave streaks on the window.  Normal life of wipers is one year.  Leave them in raised position to keep them from freezing to windshield if car is left outside.
  • Ignition system
  • Heater
  • Thermostat
  • Antifreeze
  • Lights
  • Belts and Hoses
  • Exhaust system
  • Flashing hazard lights
  • Defroster
  • Brakes
  • Oil level.  Make sure you use the right engine oil. (Consult owners’ manual.) Oil becomes thicker in cold weather.  Oil with (W) in the viscosity index is formulated for winter.
  • Tires.  Your tires need to have good tread.  If your travel in heavy snow conditions, carry a set of tire chains in your vehicle.
  • Gasoline or Diesel.  Keep your tank at least one-half full at all times when possible. 

O.K.: Now you’ve checked out the car/truck,  and it’s good to go.  If you are going on a trip alone, be sure to tell someone where you are going, when you plan to arrive, and then let them know you got there safely.  Be sure your cell phone is handy, but please, don’t text and drive!  Here’s some things you need to take along,  just in case of an emergency: 

  •          Food items, such as energy bars, peanut butter and crackers, etc.
  •          Gallon of water
  •          A flashlight
  •          First-Aid Kit
  •          Hand Warmers
  •          Thermal or other blanket
  •         Motorist Emergency Safety Kit    
  •         Fire starting supplies 

Most of us do keep our cars maintained properly, but emergencies can happen, such as a flat tire, accident, or any unplanned incident.  Having these things in your car could make a huge difference in keeping you warm and safe until help arrives.  We hope you never get stranded, but be prepared, and call for assistance as soon as possible.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH AT 2 A.M.

For those who live in the Daylight Saving Time zone, be sure to set your clocks back one hour next Sunday, November 4th!   (So set your clocks back Saturday night.) The pros and cons of this decision made by the government are debated year after year.  Many people enjoy having extra daylight to enjoy outdoor activities, and others wish it were just left alone and not changed. 

During World War I, Daylight Saving Time was instituted in the U.S. in order to save energy for war production, by taking advantage of the daylight between April and October.  Between the wars and after World War II, communities and states were able to choose whether they wanted to observe DST.  During World War II, the government again required the states to observe this change.    In 1966, Congress passed the Uniform Time Act, which standardized the length of Daylight Saving Time.    

Since 2007, DST is four weeks longer, due to the passage of the Energy Policy Act in 2005.  This act extended four weeks – from the second Sunday of March to the first Sunday of November, hoping that it would save 10,000 barrels of oil each day through reduced use of power by businesses during daylight hours.   Unfortunately, it is very difficult to determine energy savings from this plan, based on a variety of factors.  Many persons speculate that little or no energy is saved by this time change.  Power usage increases in the early morning hours, as people must get up for work while it is still dark to prepare for their day.  Some even have to commute before daylight. 

Although research shows that traffic fatalities are reduced when there is more daylight, the early morning darkness brings more danger for workers driving to work, and children walking to catch the school bus while it’s still dark.  With the time change, statistics show an increase in evening traffic accidents immediately following the time change in November, as drivers face going home in a darker environment, and possibly children are on their bikes returning home from after-school activities.

To ensure that we don’t “fall backward” on safety, this marks an excellent time to do a home safety evaluation.  The National Fire Protection Association recommends that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms be checked once a year.  Their figures show that around ninety per cent of homes in the United States have smoke alarms; however one-third of those are estimated to have dead or missing batteries.  They also recommend that smoke alarms be replaced after 10 years.  Some newer types of alarms have remote controls, making it easier than ever to check them. 

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be:

  •        Installed on every level of the home, and in sleeping areas
  •        Tested once a month
  •        Equipped with new batteries annually 

Also, keep a fire extinguisher handy, and have a fire escape plan for every member of the family.  While you are doing your home safety evaluation, also ensure that your door locks function properly,  keep your home locked, and have a stocked first aid kit, just in case.

Enjoy that extra hour of sleep we lost in the spring!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

TIMBERRRRRR!

For those brave souls who make their living  in the logging industry, “Timber” is a very familiar word to warn fellow workers that a tree in their area is being felled.  According to NIOSH (National Institute for Safety and Health), logging has been one of the most consistently hazardous industries, with a fatality rate 23 times higher than the rate of other dangerous occupations.  The Bureau of Labor statistics shows that there are 81 fatalities per 100,000 workers.

By many measures, logging is the most dangerous occupation in the United States. The tools and equipment such as chain saws and logging machines pose hazards wherever they are used. As loggers use their tools and equipment, they deal with massive weights and irresistible momentum of falling, rolling, and sliding trees and logs. The hazards are even worse when dangerous environmental conditions are factored in, such as uneven, unstable or rough terrain; inclement weather including rain, snow, lightning, winds, and extreme cold and/or remote and isolated work sites where health care facilities are not immediately accessible.  The combination of these hazards present a significant risk to employees working in logging operations throughout the country, regardless of the type of timber being logged, where it is logged, or the end use of the wood.

According to Eric Johnson, editor of Northern Logging and Timber Processing magazine, mechanized equipment has helped to make logging safer.  Loggers now often sit in steel enclosed cabs of big machines, rather than working with chainsaws on the ground.  Controls send chain saws out onto tree trunks from a safer distance.  Heavy machines and equipment are used to cut trees to be transported to a log mill.  Logging contractors are hired by industries such as agriculture, commercial businesses, industrial plants, and government agencies, as well as individual homeowners.  

Loggers can get crushed when trees fall in the wrong direction.  Large broken branches from up in the treetops often fall unexpectedly as the trees come down.   These are called “widow makers”.  Medical care is often very far away, so in the event of an injury, it takes a long time to get the attention the worker may need.

Logging companies must follow OSHA regulations in great detail.  Workers must be properly trained, and be provided with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment:  gloves, hardhats, safety glasses, and face protection, as well steel-toe boots.  Well-stocked first aid kits should be at each work location and in each worker transportation vehicle.

We give our logging workers a big “High Five”!  It takes special folks to do what they do.

Back Safety, Fall Safety, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

LET’S GET COOKING!

 Do you think you would be successful as a chef or a cook?  The responsibilities that are associated with this profession are very challenging.  Whether you go to a tiny cafe with only one cook, or a large restaurant, the success of that business primarily rests on the shoulders of the “kitchen commandos!”

The chef or cook in charge has to plan and oversee that their menus are prepared correctly, and also determine the quantity of food needed for each day.  It is their responsibility to order all the needed supplies and see that the kitchen is keep running in tip-top condition at all times.  If they are in charge of a hospital or other healthcare facility kitchen, they must also ensure that special dietary needs are met. 

Keeping foods safe in the kitchen are of the utmost importance.  We are  late in mentioning that September was National Food Safety Month.  The Centers for Disease Control estimates there were 80 million reported cases of foodborne illness, with 325,000 persons hospitalized, and around 5,000 deaths from this sickness in the U.S. alone annually.  One wonders how many illnesses from food poisoning go unreported. 

The person in charge of a kitchen must ensure that the kitchen is clean at all times, as bacteria can be harmful.  Many times there are only one or two persons working in the kitchen of a restaurant, and it is up to them to be sure the work area is kept spotless.  Professional cooks know that washing hands before and during cooking is a very important part of keeping foods safe for their patrons.  Large kitchens have people dedicated to keeping the food preparation area clean.

Cooks or chefs must be alert to the many hazards that are connected with working in a kitchen –  sharp knives, how to handle and store them, and the risks that other types of equipment  they use impose.  Cooks have to do repetitive manual tasks, such as chopping, mincing, and slicing.  Lifting heavy produce or carrying  heavy trays are parts of their duties, as well, and they must practice good lifting techniques.  They also must avoid getting burned from deep-fat fryers, steam, or stove fires.  Kitchen areas have to be kept free from clutter.  Many times, cooks must maneuver quickly, and shouldn’t have to worry that they might take a fall.  There should be a person who works in the kitchen that is trained in first aid in case of accidents.  First and foremost, fire extinguishers should be readily available, and a first aid kit, as well.

Kitchen workers need personal protective equipment, such as non-skid shoes, certain eye protection, and cut-resistant gloves, as well as gloves for processing and handling foods.  They also know to not wear loose clothing around the stove.  Persons handling foods must wear hair nets.

Catering services are very popular and are responsible for preparing, delivering, and serving foods at a chosen location.  Caterers know that they must transport the foods in a safe manner in order to keep them fresh.  Another choice for those who live in cities, is to visit certain markets where there are chefs who have prepared gourmet foods for you to serve at your dinner table.  Your guests will think you whipped up that amazing meal!

Thank goodness for those talented and skilled persons who enjoy preparing the foods we so enjoy!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

COULD YOU DO SOMEONE ELSE’S JOB?

Have you ever wondered if you could fill in for another employee at your workplace if they got hurt and were unable to work for a while?  Statistics show that many personnel absences are caused by accidents in the workplace.  If management has neglected safety measures and failed to do cross training for such occasions, everyone will suffer the consequences.  

Cross training procedures for absences in workplace management must meet with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s safety and procedural standards.  When companies do not follow those guidelines, they risk disaster for their employees and businesses.  Employees should be prepared for all types of emergencies.  With our present telecommunication systems, companies can conduct cross training for absences in the workplace for all employees in all work-shifts.  In the absence of a key employee, anyone would be qualified and able to perform safety standards and emergency measures for accidents and/or disasters.  More intensive training can be given in addition to computer-based plans. 

Do you know what to do in case of a bomb threat?  Fire? Emergency evacuation?  Does your management team conduct drills very often?  Do you have first aid training, and would you know how to respond to emergency needs of your coworkers?  Do you know where the first aid kit and first aid supply is?

Safety coordinators should be responsible for designating others to take their place in the event that they are not present at the time of an emergency.  There should be several persons that can conduct an orderly evacuation of employees, those who will stay in the premises for last-minute decisions, and someone to follow up and account for all employees.  It is very important that safety cross training is done.  Teamwork is a necessity!

If you work for a large company, and have noticed a job that you might be interested in, ask your supervisor.  People do best in the jobs that are suited for them.  Persons that follow the rules and are cautious in going about their duties, are ones that management recognizes.  Those that express a desire to learn different aspects of a variety of jobs are able to replace someone who may be absent due to illness or injury.  Being familiar with more than one job responsibility is beneficial to both the employee and company.  And companies may find they can do more with less, when they have employees that are able to “multitask.” 

Sometimes it may not be as easy to fill someone else’s shoes as it looks.  Everyone can stuff the “suggestion box” with great ideas,  but until you actually do someone’s job, you can’t know.  It certainly is admirable if you want to try!

Back Safety, Fall Safety, First Aid Safety, High Visibility Safety

FALL IS HERE!

In some parts of the country, it comes earlier than others, but September 23rd  is the first day of fall!   The northern states are already feeling cooler temperatures and seeing the changing of  colors.  It takes a little longer for those of us in the southern states; however, the early mornings are beginning to feel somewhat cooler.  For most of us, it’s a favorite time of the year.  Kids are back in school, football is in full swing, baseball playoffs are around the corner, and in general, it’s a great time.  

Fall brings a reminder of tasks that must be done to get ready for winter.  As the leaves begin to fall and cover the yard, the pleasure of raking them up is ahead.  Be sure to wear some good work gloves to avoid rubbing blisters.  Pruning trees is another chore, and should be done with extreme care.  Standing on a stepladder to prune trees isn’t a safe idea.  When you are lifting boxes full of trash and debris from the yard, remember to lift with your legs and don’t strain your back.  

Taking a drive on a beautiful fall day is a great idea.  There’s nothing better than seeing the array of colors.  Use extra caution, though, as there may be more animals crossing the roads during cooler days and evenings.  Deer, raccoons, skunks, and many other little critters are out and about, and not watching for you, so you must watch for them.  Those pretty leaves that fall from the trees can build up on the roads and create a driving hazard, if they are wet.  When wet, they become the same hazard as puddles or standing water.  They also may be covering potholes or other holes in the road.  Early cool mornings can also be foggy.  Fog is the single most dangerous condition a driver can encounter, so slow down. 

If you choose to take one last fall hike or outing, please consider using the same precautions that we have passed on to you before:

  • Take your cell phone.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
  • Watch for snakes, as they prepare for hibernation, they may be more restless.
  • Take along plenty of water, food, a first aid kit and supplies and flashlight.
  • Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot while you are camping.
  • Don’t attempt to get close to wild animals.
  • Wear high visibility vests and caps.
  • Stay alert to weather changes. 

Seasonal allergies also plague some of us in the fall.  Be sure you have some over-the-counter medication to take before they get the best of you; if necessary, ask your doctor to prescribe allergy medicine so you can enjoy the season. 

As you are driving to work, be sure to watch for children on their way to school.  Allow driving time to reach your destination without rushing.  As you go home, remember the days will be becoming shorter, meaning darkness will come earlier.  Enjoy every day of the season, and stay safe and well.  Be sure to get your flu shot if you haven’t done so already. 

One last reminder: your pets will notice the changes in the weather, too.  Be sure that those who live outside have good shelter, water, and extra food when the days get cold.  They are family members, too, and deserve to be well cared for.

First Aid Safety, Protective Clothing

HUNTING SEASON IS ALMOST HERE!

As fall approaches, so does hunting season!  Sportsmen and sportswomen who enjoy hunting, camping, hiking or other activities need to be prepared for disease-causing bacteria that may be waiting for them.  According to Guy Moore, a wildlife biologist with Texas Department of State Health Services, “outdoor activities bring a greater risk of exposure to diseases transmitted by fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other animals.”

Some of these germ carriers are:

  • Wild hogs, which can carry brucellosis, a bacterial disease.
  • Deer, which can transmit anthrax, a bacterium that can cause a severe, life-threatening disease in both animals and humans.
  • Fleas and some animals such as squirrels, cats, rats, prairie dogs, and mice can transmit plague to humans. 
  • Mice can spread hantavirus infection to people.  They shed the virus in droppings, urine and saliva, and upon drying, these excretions can spread in the air on dust particles.
  • Ticks – an infected tick can cause Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia.
  • Mosquitoes, of course, are a nuisance and can carry organisms that cause encephalitis and West Nile infection.
  • All warm-blooded animals are susceptible to rabies.  Skunks, bats, coyotes and foxes are known carriers of rabies.

If you are still determined to go out there and enjoy the outdoors, don’t let us discourage you.   Most of these illnesses are rare, with the exception of West Nile.  Just keep these reminders handy:

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after handling game.
  • Wear latex-type gloves when dressing game.
  • Wear eye protection when dressing game.
  • Use insect repellents containing DEET.
  • Wear protective clothing, and light colored clothes so you can see ticks on your clothes.
  • Stay away from overgrown brush and tall grass if possible.
  • Do not touch antlers, bones, hides or other parts of dead animals.

Now, more safety tips for hunters:

  • Be sure you take your cell phone and tell someone where you plan to hunt and when you plan to return home.
  • Don’t hunt alone.
  • Wear hi-visibility vest  and cap – hunter orange.
  • Keep your equipment in good condition.
  • Be sure of your target before you pull the trigger.
  • Watch for snakes, and keep your distance.
  • Be sure to carry a first-aid kit.
  • Never wave to another hunter; shout loudly and clearly.
  • Be sure treestands are in good condition; use a harness to climb in and out of stand.
  • Unload your rifle when you get back to camp; assume that every gun in the camp is loaded until you can see the action is open and  it is safe to handle.

Remember: Your safety is your responsibility! 

 

Texas DSHS

USDA Forest Service

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

HURRICANE EARL MAY VISIT NORTHEAST U.S. COASTS

Folks on the northeastern coast of the United States have been advised to do an evacuation “test run,” in case Earl decides to come calling.  From the National Hurricane Center in Miami, as of today (9-2), a tropical storm warning has been issued to persons along Connecticut and Rhode Island coasts into Massachusetts.  Earl is heading toward the Outer Banks of North Carolina with tropical system winds of 140 mph, and higher gusts.  The center of Earl is approximately 300 miles south of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. 

Even though Earl may remain at sea, and run parallel to the coast, a storm surge from the hurricane could cause damage.  National Hurricane Director, Bill Read, said he expects big waves to hit the North Carolina coast, and by Friday, Cape Cod and Long Island could see big swells and dangerous rip currents.  Mr. Reed suggested that he would recommend advance planning by persons living in this area, just in case the storm hits the coast. 

Suggestions that we want to repeat in planning for a disaster are as follows:

  •     Plan ahead;
  •     Keep your cell phone charged;     
  •     Secure your home;
  •     Have a plan that includes your family, elderly, and pets;
  •      Be sure your insurance papers are in order;
  •      Have a 3-day supply of food and water for each individual;   
  •      Freeze gallon jugs of water ahead of time;
  •       Be sure you have a manual can opener;
  •      Purchase fresh fruit and vegetables in addition to canned goods;
  •       Have a supply of pet food and water bowls.
  •        Be sure you have all medicines;
  •        Notify next of kin or friends that you may be needing to stay with   them until the all-clear;

In the event of a hurricane hitting your town, do not go back until the authorities give permission.  Many times, downed power lines or other hazards cause injuries. 

With Labor Day approaching, we hope residents of these areas will have the “all-clear,” and be able to enjoy their holiday weekend.  However, listen to the professionals and take precautions, as they know what they are talking about.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, High Visibility Safety, Home Safety Products, Uncategorized

WHEN KIDS LEAVE THE NEST, CONSIDER THESE SAFETY TIPS

When raising kids, certain family milestones are times for sadness and gladness.  You are happy because they have completed high school, and excited if they are going to experience college.  You know you will miss them, and regardless of their choices, either to enroll in college, or seek a profession, they are still young, and believe me, you will worry about them.  They are your kids, and you always have concerns, even when they are older; because you love them, you want everything to go well for them. 

There are many safety factors to consider for young people.  You probably have trained them since they were youngsters, but here are some reminders: 

  • They must understand that they are responsible for their own safety.
  • They need to scope out their new surroundings, and be familiar with  the safest routes they will be using.
  •  There’s always safety in numbers; go out in groups, or at least with a “buddy.”
  •   Never walk in dark places alone.
  •   Do not go to an ATM at night.
  •   Trust their instincts.  If they are uncomfortable with what’s   going  on, don’t be afraid to leave.  Most young people are going to try their wings.  But if things get out of hand, they need to move on.
  •  Always carry cab fare.
  •  Consider taking a self-defense class.
  •  Always tell a roommate, friend, or someone else where they plan to be if they are going out at night.  If plans change, they should let that person know, just in case they don’t return when they should.
  •  Have them make copies of important papers, credit cards, health cards, etc. and leave a copy with parents, just in case they are stolen or lost.
  •  Suggest that they have a “health buddy,” someone that will get them to a doctor or emergency room if necessary.  They can do the same for that friend.
  • Warm them of alcohol hazards.  Never mix acetaminophens with alcohol, and encourage them to not overdo drinking, just because it seems to be the popular thing to do.  They need to know that drinking and driving don’t mix. (Texting and driving don’t, either.)

Here are some safety items they should have: 

  • First Aid Kit
  • Auto Safety Kit
  • Smoke, carbon monoxide detectors if the apartment or dormitory doesn’t have them.
  • Fire escape ladder
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Mace or pepper spray
  • Key Chain Alarm
  • Reflective vest for jogging or biking
  • Fully charged cell phone
  • ICE programmed on phone (in case of emergency) on cell phone; authorities know to check for this in order to notify family 

Stay in touch with your kids; have them call you at least once a week, and let you know what’s happening in their lives.  They need to know you are just a phone call (or text) away.  Give them encouragement in the important choices they make.  It’s hard to believe that that little boy or girl you sent off to kindergarten is now going off to college, the military, or a job.  We send them our best for safe, happy, and successful futures.

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, Head Protection, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety, Weather Protection

BEING READY FOR A SAFE EVACUATION

As we go to work every day, we never expect a disaster to happen.  In the event of a natural or manmade occurrence, are we really prepared?  Weather forecasts help us anticipate bad storms, hurricanes, or tornadoes, but there could be any type of problem within the walls of our workplace, or accidents near our location that make it imperative for us to evacuate the premises.  Have you thought about what you would do if an evacuation were necessary?  Has your company given you instructions? 

Preparing for an emergency evacuation is an on-going project.  Employers and employees together should establish a good plan and have every one on board before an unforeseen situation happens.  In a crisis, it’s hard to think logically, so planning in advance and imagining the worst-case scenarios will be beneficial.  Fire, floods, toxic gas releases, chemical spills, explosions, radiological accidents, hurricanes, tornadoes, civil disturbances, or workplace violence resulting in bodily harm and trauma could cause a serious emergency.  

When drafting an emergency plan, a responsible individual should be chosen to lead and coordinate the emergency plan and evacuation.  This person would have the authority to make critical decisions during emergencies.  All workers would then understand who that coordinator is and follow his instructions. 

Be certain that every employee knows the escape procedures and where safe  refuge areas are.  Duties of persons responsible for reporting the emergency; those who are to render first aid, employees who shut down operations are all parts of the chain of command that each employee should be familiar with.  Special consideration should be given to assisting employees with disabilities.  An assembly area for gathering after an evacuation should be designated.  Take a head count after the evacuation.  Give the names and last locations of the persons not accounted for to the official in charge. 

Personal protective equipment may be needed to evacuate during an emergency.  A workplace assessment can determine potential hazards in your particular workplace.  PPE may include the following: eye protection – goggles, safety glasses, or face shields; head protection – hardhats; body protection – gloves, hoods, boots, or chemical suits.  Respirators should be appropriate to the hazards in your workplace, meet OSHA standards and be certified by NIOSH.  In case of an emergency  evacuation, your safety consultant may feel that respiratory protection may be necessary if the employees must pass through toxic atmospheres, such as dust, mists, gases, or vapors. 

This is the general training to be addressed by your employees, as recommended by OSHA:

  •       Individual roles and responsibilities;
  •       Notification, warning, and communications procedures;
  •       Threats, hazards, and protective actions;
  •        How to locate family members in an emergency;
  •        Evacuation, shelter, and accountability procedures;
  •        Location and use of common emergency equipment;
  •        Emergency response procedures;
  •        Emergency shutdown procedures. 

Conducting fire drills often is very important.  The more often drills are done, the more familiar the employees will become with what is expected of them.  Hopefully, this will never affect you; however, being prepared instead of panicked could possibly save lives.