Category Archives: Hand Protection
AID FOR THE PHILLIPINES
Following the most horrific typhoon to ever hit land anywhere, last Friday, November 8th, almost two million people of the Phillipine Islands, were either killed, hurt, or left homeless, without food or clothes. The hardest hit was Tacloban City, Leyte province in the central Phillipines. The death toll remains unknown, because of the destruction and devastation thoughout the country. President Benigno Aquino declared a state of national calamity. Local military have been assisting citizens as best they can, passing out water and also trying to control looting.
The people of the Phillipines are homeless, starving, and sick. Twenty-one countries have pledged to send relief through food and sanitation products, as well as medical assistance, and money. People are camping in the Tacloban City Astrodome, which brings back memories of the people of New Orleans, staying in the Superdome when Hurricane Katrina hit. With thousands of people jammed inside the structure, one can only imagine the lack of sanitation. Disease will take its toll on those who remain homeless.
In Tacloban, a hillside mass burial was held Thursday, November 14th. Bodies still remain in the streets. Only few survivors have received water and food, due to the delay in reaching them. Aid material is plentiful but because the airport was heavily damaged , planes couldn’t land, in addition, destroyed and blocked roads had to be cleared. Desperately needed aid has begun to reach some of the one-half million people that have been displaced by the disaster. The U.S.S. George Washington aircraft carrier arrived on the Phillipine Sea near the Gulf of Leyte Thursday. They will set up a position to assess damage and furnish needed food, water, and supplies. Twenty-one helicopters aboard the carrier will be able to view and hopefully get to inaccessible places. Six more U.S. ships are in the area, as well as the Marines.
Over 4,000 persons have been confirmed dead, but those numbers are expected to far surpass the total. It is going to take a long time to completely assess the damage and complete loss. Medical aid and supplies are needed urgently. Rescue workers and medical personnel will need personal protection, such as medical grade gloves, respirators, and other important gear to avoid disease.
Worldwide charities will be gathering money, donations of food and clothing, and other items that can assist the typhoon victims. Most of them have only the clothes they were wearing last Friday. If you are able to help, please choose the charity you know will be dedicated to sending relief for the people of the Phillipines as soon as possible.
BLACK LUNG INVESTIGATION
Black lung disease is the common name for coal workers pneumoconiosis (CWP). It once was a disease that affected coal miners over the age of 50; however, investigations show that younger mine workers are developing the disease as well. The name was given because inhalation of heavy deposits of coal dust makes miner lungs look black instead of a healthy pink. Since the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, average dust levels have fallen. The 1969 law also set up a black lung disability benefits program to compensate coal miners who have been disabled by on-the-job dust exposure.
An investigation by the Center for Public Integrity and ABC News, (Brian Ross, Matthew Mosk, and Chris Hamby), brings up the terrible reality that many of America’s coal miners have been denied their black lung benefits. Although they were diagnosed as having the disease by their primary doctor, a particular physician at Johns Hopkins University and Medical Center has reviewed more than 1,500 x-rays of claimants since 2000, and never identified a single case of black lung disease. In many cases, it took the miner’s death, and an autopsy that followed, to prove what the miner claimed all along, that the cause of his diminishing health was brought on by the dust he breathed while working underground. Johns Hopkins is reviewing its Black Lung Program. The Center for Public Integrity also reviewed the work of one of the coal industry’s “go-to” law firms for black lung cases, finding instances in which the firm withheld evidence of the disease while fighting the miners’ claims.
ABC News identified a group of specialists with affiliations who help the coal companies defeat the miners in numerous cases. (The disability benefit is around $1,000 per month). A corps of lawyers, doctors, and experts have helped these companies deny the benefit to workers they so desperately need to fight the disease, rather than legal and medical experts.
ABC News featured “Black Lung, Out of Breath” on Wednesday night’s evening news with Diane Sawyer. It also aired on “Nightline” later that evening. Hopefully, public awareness will help support the cause of protecting the mine workers who become ill, and receive their benefits, as promised in that 1969 law.
Unless one has worked in industries such as mining, oil fields, or any other occupation that produces the energy our country needs, (or other countries, as well), persons do not realize the hazards that are involved in this kind of work. Let’s not take those workers for granted. Even though they are equipped with respiratory protection, hard hats, and all types of safety gear, through the years the accumulation of coal dust and other particulates in mines may take its toll.
Note: Johns Hopkins Medicine has suspended its black lung program pending a review in response to an ABC News investigation with the Center for Public Integrity that showed how medical opinions from doctors at the prestigious hospital have helped the coal companies thwart efforts by ailing mine workers to receive disability benefits.
Source: ABC News, Center for Public Integrity
Texas America Safety Company Introduces New Mechanix “Touch-Glove”
Mechanix work gloves, as well as sleeves, knee pads and many other Mechanix wear products are probably the most popular and sought-after version of glove for the U.S. military and the NASCAR racing circuit. Try a pair out and you will agree.
Because of Mechanix’ popularity, Texas America Safety Company is introducing a new Mechanix “Touch Glove” that has been added to its Mechanix section of work gloves, featuring the Mechanix glove that works with your smart phone! Now you can use your phone or tablet without having to take off your gloves!
The Mechanix Original Touch glove was designed to simplify your life; while at the same time, offering hand protection from the elements. The Touch gloves are equipped to offer three fingers with conductivity that will allow you to work with all of your touch screen devices. The highly conductive AX™ material mimics human touch for easy navigation of your smart devices.
Check out our broad selection of Mechanix styles and colors (even camoflauge) and pink for the girls. Touch gloves should fit the needs of the military quite well, as computers are very important to their missions. See if you can spot how many NASCAR crews are wearing Mechanix gloves in today’s big race in Texas.
Mention that you read about these on Blog4Safety and you will receive a 5% discount!Stay safe and connected with the new Mechanix Original Touch Glove!
WHEN DO I NEED SAFETY WEAR, AND WHAT DO I NEED? (GUEST POST)
Safety wear is used to protect you in work environments but to the majority, it becomes part of the uniform and we forget its benefits. This article is going to give you a run down of what you need and when you might need it.
Labouring jobs and outdoor jobs are perhaps the most obvious occupations in which workwear is required. When you are working in a building environment for example, there is a risk with carrying heavy goods in case you dropped something on your toe. When your work outdoors, perhaps doing road works, there is a risk in foggy or dark conditions with your lack of visibility. Hazards exist everywhere you look but jobs, like the ones described, carry a higher risk. This is why you need safety wear. Safety wear decreases the chance of accidents and injuries.
But what is needed and why?
First of all let’s start with what is available.
- Socks with extra cushioning so you can feel comfortable while wearing safety boots.
- Safety boots – most contain steel toe caps to protect your toes and you should look for ones with anti-slip surfaces to ensure you remain steady on your feet.
- Work trousers – containing durable material, knee pads and lots of pockets.
- Safety gloves – to protect your hands.
- Safety goggles – your eyes are the most precious part of your body and although goggles might look unattractive, it is worth it to save your vision.
- High Visibility clothing. Vests and jackets help you stay noticed in unclear conditions.
- Knee pads – knees are weak parts of the body and the extra padding can be crucial if your spending a lot of time knelt down on the floor during your job. It is all about making you comfortable.
- Hard hats with cushioning to protect your head and brain are very important.
Who needs what though?
Well, if you are in a labouring environment, it depends.
Builders will more than likely require steel toe work boots in case any materials are dropped while doing the job. They also require hard hats and gloves are a must have, particularly if working outdoors in blustering conditions.
Mechanics need work trousers and knee pads. When they are knelt on the ground and under vehicles, comfort is essential and these must-haves are necessary to protect your knees.
Welders require safety goggles. This is a dangerous job and your eyes are the most sensitive part of your body. They are critical safety products.
If you are outdoors, maybe working on the roads as a traffic officer or as an highway operative, you need to ensure you stand out and people can see you. This is not always easy when the weather conditions are poor or even when it is dark; this is why your role requires high visibility clothing. Hi-vis jackets and vests come in fluorescent designs and contain extra reflective strips to ensure you are noticeable and in turn accidents are avoided. Jackets come in a variety of styles so if you are working in the cold, you can opt for a fleece lined parka that will keep you warm but also safe and secure.
Emergency services also wear hi-vis clothing to ensure they are apparent and people recognise them easily; this is particularly important for crucial situations.
Most workers require some sort of safety uniform but for occupations outdoors or in labouring environments, a specialised range of safety wear has been deigned to decrease any unexpected risks. It is very important and statistics suggest you need these items. Take a look at our range of workwear here http://www.sportsdirect.com/pages/workwear and stay safe!
KEEPING FOOD AND BEVERAGE EMPLOYEES SAFE (GUEST POST)
Workers of food and beverage industry are subjected to a large number of hazards. The primary of them are mentioned below:
- Workers are often subjected to same level falls arising from slippery conditions. Such falls may cause strains and sprains.
- They are exposed to sharp instruments like knives.
- Workers may collide with internal transport like containers and forklifts.
- The workplace often has poorly designed process flow and inadequate space of work. Workers are exposed to repetitive work and manual lifting. These factors lead to problems caused by poor work posture.
- Workers are exposed to excessive levels of noise caused by operations like use of beverage bottle fillers, conveyors, bottling and canning.
- Workers in this industry are exposed to chemical hazards caused by handling of chemicals used in disinfection and cleaning operations.
- They area also exposed to biological hazards caused by ingestion and inhalation of dust. Working in highly humid conditions also exposes the workers to microbiological and biological agents.
- This industry involves varying temperature conditions arising from activities like freezing, chilling and heat treatment. Workers are exposed to high temperatures during canning processes and pasteurization. They are exposed to chilling cold conditions while working in refrigerated spaces.
Measures to be taken for minimizing risks and hazards and maximizing workplace health and safety:
- The working surfaces and walkways should be kept dry and clean to prevent slips and falls. Workers should be provided with footwear having anti-slip features.
- Workers should use gloves while working with knives and other sharp instruments. This would safeguard them from cuts and similar injuries.
- Working areas and transport passages should be deferentiated. Handrails should be placed on stairs and platforms.
- Spillage of liquids and water on floor should be avoided.
- Training should be provided to workers on proper lifting techniques. To maximize the workspace of the workers, workstation should be created for each worker.
- For reduction in the noise levels, it is important to undertake engineering control measures.
- Emphasis should be made on the personal protection of workers.
Conclusion:
It is important for the safety personnel of food and beverage industry to design effective accident prevention methods and strategies aimed at making the workplace healthy and safe for the employees. A safe and healthy workplace would also lead to increased productivity of workers.
Author’s Bio: Alisa Martin is a guest blogger who writes quality articles on workplace safety. In this article she has written about workplace health and safety in food and beverage industry. Her articles are highly informative and useful to the readers.
FOUR SOLID CONCRETE SAFETY TIPS YOU SHOULD KNOW (GUEST POST)
Concrete is one of the most widely used materials in construction yet many contractors lack knowledge of the potential dangers posed by concrete and the equipment used to pour and finish it.
Thankfully, the deaths caused as a direct result of working with concrete are extremely rare. The injuries incurred from working with the material carelessly, however, are higher. And, like most workplace accidents, a significant proportion of these injuries were probably avoidable.
With that in mind, here are four essential concrete safety tips for anyone regularly working with concrete or related machinery.
Concrete burns; keep covered up and wear protective equipment
Concrete burns are one of the lesser understood risks of working with fresh concrete, principally because the thick, cold consistency of concrete isn’t something you’d expect to have a burning property.
However, fresh concrete has a high alkaline content, which makes it extremely dangerous to human skin. Even worse, alkaline attacks nerve endings meaning that those exposed to concrete might not feel the effects until well after initial contact. The severity of concrete burns can range from minor irritation to dermatitis and burns.
To avoid the risk of concrete burns, ensure that all skin that could potentially be exposed to concrete mix is fully covered; this includes forearms, legs and a face mask and goggles if possible. It goes without saying that you should invest in some hard-wearing protective gloves when handling concrete too.
Protect yourself from concrete dust
Concrete dust from pre-mix concrete is one of the more dangerous elements of working with concrete, as prolonged exposure and inhalation can lead to the development of asthma and other occupation-related respiratory illnesses. In the short term, it can also lead to severe irritation of the eyes.
Fortunately, protecting yourself from the effects of concrete dust is relatively simple. Always wear protective goggles and a face mask when pouring your concrete into a mixer. If any other unprotected workers are in your direct proximity at the time, tell to stand clear until the dust has cleared.
Be prepared for heavy lifting
Depending on the kind of concrete job you’re carrying out, workers might be required to lift heavy concrete blocks. Set concrete is extremely heavy, so ensure that you have the correct amount of workers lifting a block and that each worker follows the accepted ‘safe’ way to lift: a straight back, bent knees and lifting with the legs.
For heavier concrete blocks, you might require the use of machinery such as a crane. Before allowing a crane to lift a block, make sure that the block is properly secured and any risk of the block falling loose is minimal. Clear any workers out of the path of the block’s journey to avoid any fatalities should the block fall.
Stay safe with construction equipment
The finishing of concrete requires a lot of equipment, including some seriously heavy-duty machines such as ride-on power trowels. Safety checks should be carried out on this machinery before use; is everything in working order? Are there any loose parts? Also make sure that you fully train (or are fully trained) in the same use of all equipment you use – if you feel unsure or suspect that a worker might not be in a position to safely operate equipment, get someone else to operate the equipment and organise further training.
When using any construction equipment, other workers should be positioned well clear of the operating area.
Concrete is an extremely useful material and one that is relatively easy to use – so long as you follow basic safety procedures.
Christopher Smith is writing on behalf of Multiquip UK, suppliers of construction equipment
HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME: THE FACTS (GUEST POST)
If you work with power tools of any variety, the chances are you have experienced some degree of hand-arm vibrations. While limited exposure to these vibrations is unlikely to cause any lasting damage, over exposure can lead to hand-arm syndrome (HAVS) or carpal tunnel syndrome.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates that 2 million people are at risk of developing HAVS.
What is HAVS?
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome or Vibration White Finger Claims is a debilitating condition that damages the nerves, blood vessels, muscles and joints of the hands, wrists and arms. Those that operate hand-held or hand-guided power on a regular basis are significantly increasing their be at risk of developing the condition. HAVS or Vibration white finger are both permanent and highly debilitating.
Early Symptoms include:
- Loss of feeling in the fingers
- Tingling and numbness in the fingers
- Loss of strength in your hands
- Tips of your fingers going white, then red and painful.
If you continue to use high-vibration tools these symptoms may get worse, for example:
- Permanent numbness in hands leading to a complete loss of feeling
- Inability to pick up small objects such as screw or nails
- The vibration white finger could happen more frequently and affect more of your fingers
For a more detailed breakdown of symptoms, the HSE have produced an employee guide to hand-arm vibration.
Who is at risk of developing HAVS?
You are at risk from HAVS or Vibration White Finger if you use hand held or guided tools such as:
- Concrete breakers
- Sanders
- Grinders
- Hammer drills
- Chipping hammers
- Chainsaws
- Hedge trimmers
- Powered mowers
How can I reduce the risks?
Ultimately it is your employer’s responsibility to protect you against HAVS or Vibration White Finger, but you should remain vigilant and be conscious of the early symptoms. If it is possible try to find a way in which you can do your without using vibrating tools and machines. If this is not an option happen then:
- Use suitable low-vibration tools.
- Ensure tools are properly maintained and repaired to avoid increased levels of vibration
- Take regular breaks from using vibrating
- Avoid gripping or forcing a tool more than required
- Store tools so the handles are not cold when in use
- Keep warm and encourage good circulation
- Wear anti-vibration gloves
Asons Solicitors suggest that if someone would like to learn more about the HAVS or Vibration White Finger, or if they would like to better understand the HAVS and Vibration White Finger claims process that information is available at www.asons.co.uk, or via an expert helpline on 01204 521 133. Sent to us by Thomas Fairclough.
For further information contact:
Email: info@asons.co.uk
Website: www.asons.co.uk
THE IMPORTANCE OF WEARING THE RIGHT WORK GLOVES (GUEST POST)
Most of us take our hands for granted, but it doesn’t take a genius to realize that they’re fairly important and should be protected the best that we can! If you’re working in certain jobs, it’s vital that you wear the right work gloves to help prevent any injury or harm. Let’s take a look at why it’s so essential.
First, the danger of cutting in many roles is a very real one and must be avoided. Whether you’re using a small craft knife or a large saw, try to match the level of protection from your gloves with the level of danger that may be presented. Puncturing is a related worry, and specialized gloves exist if this is a worry in your particular line of work.
Another reason to wear the right gloves is vibration. Tools such as drills will often give off vibrations that can be potentially damaging, but lessened by wearing a pair of gloves. Cushioned gloves are a great option here as they provide insulation to lessen the shocks. If you’ve read about conditions such as Vibration White Finger, you’ll know just how harmful this can be and why it must be avoided.
Next up, hot and cold can have a serious impact on your hands. Lower temperatures can lead to frostbite in more extreme cases, and there’s the obvious danger of burning if you regularly handle items that are hot. A good pair of gloves will reduce the chance of either of these occurring, and will also enable you to carry out the job in comfort.
Finally, there’s the issue of grip. If you’re working with small and fragile items, gloves can lessen the likelihood of causing any damage to your material by ensuring a firm grip. In this case, gloves can increase levels of productivity and accuracy.
As you can see, choosing and wearing the right work gloves is vital for both your own safety and for ensuring that the task is carried out to your highest ability. Make sure that you do your research and buy the best pair of gloves for the job. There are several retailers that specialize in protective gloves for the workplace, so you’ll be able to find the right product to suit you needs. Your hands will thank you for it!
About the Author
This article was written on behalf of Protec Direct. Protec Direct are one of the largest suppliers of PPE & Workwear in the UK. Whatever industry our customers operate in, from heavy industrial to light catering, from professional construction to laboratory work, we are able to offer a comprehensive range of products to satisfy the most demanding performance criteria.
Note: We thank our guest contributors for this informative article about the importance of wearing work gloves. Texas America Safety Company has been in the business of selling all types of personal protective equipment for over 25 years. We have gloves that range from work gloves to medical grade gloves. As stated above, it is surprising that injuries to our hands that can be avoided by wearing the right type of glove for every specialized type of work. pb
EASY HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR THE WORKPLACE (GUEST POST)
Regardless of the type of industry you work in, whether it is construction, manufacturing or energy, it is extremely important that you adhere to any health and safety rules in the workplace. If you fail to follow the health and safety guidelines in operation, you may find that you inadvertently put yourself, and those around you, at risk. To ensure you are taking safety seriously, and protecting those around you, we recommend you follow these five simple tips:
Slips, Trips and Falls
Regardless of the environment you work in, you need to be conscious of any potential slips and trips that can occur. To avoid a fall at work, you should ensure that all employees have had relevant training, explaining how best to avoid any accidents in the workplace. For example, ensuring all equipment is returned after use, can prevent anyone from tripping over it. It is also important that all employees know not to ignore a spillage or hazard.
Heavy Goods and Lifting
If you work in an industry which requires you to constantly move products from one place from another, you should always ensure you are comfortable with the weight you are carrying. Currently there are restrictions in place, as to what a single person should legally be carrying, these regulations aim to protect employees from being expected to carry something that is too heavy for them. If you believe that an item is too heavy to be carried safely, you should use the appropriate lifting gear available, helping to prevent a heavy lifting injury.
Personal Protective Clothing
If you work in a hazardous environment, or you are operating dangerous machinery, you should always ensure that you are wearing the appropriate Personal Protective Clothing (PPE). Even if you are only going to be working for a short period of time, it is essential that you, and your fellow employees, are always protected.
Wiring
Most work places will have a high volume of wires to contend with. It is extremely important that all wires are maintained, and organized, in a manner that will prevent employees and visitors from tripping over them. If a little time is regularly dedicated to tidying and maintaining wires, you will find that any issues are quickly resolved. When setting up new equipment, or machinery, you should make certain that all wires are kept to the edge of a room, and that they are firmly fixed in place. Such measures will ensure they cannot move, avoiding the potential for a hazard to develop.
Fire Hazards
In any workplace fires are extremely dangerous, and can be devastating. With this in mind, you should prioritise protecting your workplace; making sure all employees are vigilant. It is crucial that you clearly explain and display fire procedures, making sure they are understood, in case of an emergency. You should also test and service all fire alarms and fire extinguishers on regular basis, so you know they will work correctly if they are ever required.
Asons Solicitors suggest that if someone would like to learn more about health and safety claims process, such information is available at www.asons.co.uk, or via an expert helpline on 01204 521 133
About Asons Solicitors:
Asons Solicitors is a Bolton-based law practice that specialises in personal injury and industrial disease claims. Founded by brothers Imran Akram and Kamran Akram, Asons Solicitors has developed to become a young and dynamic law firm that delivers practical solutions to clients in times of difficulty. Their continued focus on their staff has seen them awarded with the Investors in People “Gold Award”; which is reflected in the professional and personable approach they take in working with clients. They strive to grow and to develop, and their supportiveness and attention to detail ensures that their clients use them time and again.
For further information contact:
Email: info@asons.co.uk; Website: www.asons.co.uk