Category Archives: Head Protection

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

WHAT DO FOOTBALL HELMETS AND HARDHATS HAVE IN COMMON?

The answer: protecting our hard heads!

If you have waited all summer for football season to begin, it’s here!  My husband loves this time of the year, scoping out every football game that he plans to watch, while at the same time, switching channels to Texas Rangers baseball games, and week-end golf tournaments.  His remote trigger finger has to move pretty fast.  (He prefers to surf channels rather than watching two events at once!) 

Chances are, he’s not the only one who is in a great mood, now that NCAA and NFL  football is here.  Are you wondering where the hardhats come in?  Well, most guys and gals that are required to wear hardhats in their line of work have the opportunity to sport their favorite team hardhat!  Can you think of a better way to support your team than showing off their logo for an 8-hour shift?  Chances are, you will see some fans wearing their team hardhats at the games.  

Not wanting to slight any other sports, there are hardhats that display the MLB, NHL, NBA, and NASCAR logos.  The main function of hardhats is to protect our heads, either from getting hit by falling objects or bumping into things.  Hardhats have come a long way since they were first created, being made of leather and shellac.  There are all types of attachments that hardhats can contain, such as protective neck shields from the sun, sunshield that fit around them, earmuffs, headsets, and pencil holders. 

Just as helmets and pads protect our football players from injury, hardhats serve the same purpose for workers.  It’s surprising just how many types of hardhats exist: ones that are aluminum, high visibility Glow-In-The-Dark, and even Cowboy style hardhats that furnish the same safety functions.  The key to a successful safety program is to protect employees from head injuries.  The easiest and most important way is by wearing safety hard hats.  These protect workers from the shock of a blow to the head, and penetration.  The shell should be 1 to 1 ¼” away from the head to cushion impact, and the hardhat should have instructions for proper adjustment and replacement of suspension and headband.  Proper fit is of the utmost importance. 

While your employees are wearing their hardhats to be compliant with safety requirements, allow them to support their favorite teams by wearing their logo on their hardhat.  Make compliance fun!

General Safety Issues, Head Protection, High Visibility Safety

HOW TO ELIMINATE THE RISK OF INJURY WHEN RIDING A BIKE (GUEST POST)

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 Bicycling is usually a very common mode of travelling among children and teenagers, as it is inexpensive and environment friendly. Today apart from being a common mode of transportation for many across the world, it is also a world famous sport. Risk of injury is involved in every sport be it swimming, running, riding and so on and bicycling is no different. The amount of risk involved in cycling on the road is greater than any other sport, that is played within a boundary. Hence, it becomes all the way more  important to take a few measures of safety before indulging yourself in cycling. 

No matter if you are a trained cyclist, or a regular cycle commuter, this article is specifically written for you to prevent you from unexpected and undesired circumstances. It is necessary to take necessary precautions to prevent injuries. Small injuries can heal quickly, but serious ones heal may take long to recover or sometimes never heal. This could result in many undesired circumstances which is dreaded by every person. Prevention is better than cure should be the mantra of every one.  

 Safety Tips for Riding a Bicycle 

Wear a Helmet

  • ●        The golden rule – always wear a helmet that is approved by consumer product safety commission, while riding a bike.
  • ●        Never leave your straps unlocked.
  • ●        Always wear a  cotton hat underneath the helmet.
  • ●        If your old helmet is all broken then buy a new helmet.
  • ●        One should never compromise on the safety standards while buying a helmet. 

Wear Proper Clothes

  • ●        It is very important to wear a proper and comfortable clothes while bicycling.
  • ●        One should not wear loose pants as they can get stuck in the bicycle.
  • ●        Do not listen to music while riding as this could distract you from listening  to the traffic sounds.
  • ●        Always wear shoes, instead of sandals, and flat slippers while riding a bicycle , as this could damage your ankle.  

Check Your Brakes

  • ●        Always check your brakes before riding a bike.
  • ●        Make sure the brake wire is not loose.
  • ●        Get the tyre pressure and bicycle chain checked everyday, or at least twice in a week. 

Follow The Traffic and Road Rules

  • ●        While riding a bicycle always check for traffic signals, people crossing the roads, puddles, wet grounds, gravels, rains and storms.
  • ●        Do not speed up in crowded places as this could not only harm them but also you.
  • ●        Non-compliance of the traffic rules will not only harm you but also land you in jail.
  • ●        Obey traffic, as well as road rules to avoid major injuries, road accidents and other destruction. 

Do Not Ride At Night

  • ●        Avoid riding a bike at night as much as possible as you are not visible to car and truck drivers, which increases your chances of serious accidents.
  • ●        If necessary ride with bicycle lights and reflectors on your clothes or bike. 

Follow the above mentioned rules and preventive measures to avoid any kind of mishappening. Taking necessary precautions will not only save you, but will also let you enjoy your fun time without any unnecessary stress and hassles. Click here to know more in this context. 

Happy Cycling!

Author Bio:

Sachin is a freelance writer who writes on different topics such as health and safety.  He has published more than 500 articles about various topics.  You can Click Here to visit his website.  He loves to travel and make new friends.

General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Respiratory Safety

Construction Health and Safety: Working in Confined Spaces (Guest Post)

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In the UK, the construction and maintenance industries remain consistently one of the largest employers, with the current figures showing that over 2 million people work in this industry every day. However, it is one of the most hazardous places to work, with construction workers facing a variety of risks and dangers as they carry out their tasks on a daily basis.  Therefore, without the correct education, training and awareness, working in this environment can be potentially dangerous. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the authority which lays down the health and safety law in the UK, gives regulations on a variety of construction areas to make sure that workers’ wellbeing and health is looked after properly by their employers.

When working in the construction and maintenance industry you may be faced with working in a confined space – especially if you work on the docks, or in the sewage or mining industries. In January of 1998, the Confined Spaces Regulation came into force in the UK, which set out the legislation surrounding Health and Safety in these circumstances.

The HSE gives the following definition of a “confined space”: any place, including chamber, tank, vat, silo, pit, trench, pipe sewer, flue, well or other similar space in which, by virtue of its enclosed nature, there arises a reasonably foreseeable specified risk (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1997/1713/regulation/1/made). Due to the nature of the environment, it can be very dangerous to work in as there are many volatile characteristics to a confined space, for example, lack of oxygen, presence of gas or fumes, liquids which can suddenly rise in level or free flowing solids. With these risks present, there is no wonder that the HSE has a specific guidelines regarding working in a confined space.

The legislation states that every employer or self-employed person must ensure compliance with the regulations and the only way to do this is to make sure that those working in the environment understand the regulations and can recognise the risks involved in work of this nature. The issue with a large company is that you may not always be present to oversee the work, which is why a good education for your staff members is crucial – this is where construction training comes into the fray.

The confined space training course is one which is popular in the construction training category. On average, there are 15 fatalities each year following work in a confined space, and by ensuring that the HSE regulations are abided by, and that each and every worker, manager and supervisor is aware of their duties and how they should work this figure can hopefully be reduced.

A Construction Training Confined Space Course allows employers to ensure they are working within legislation guidelines, ensuring that their staff are trained in the risks which they may face when working in this environment. The courses are thorough and cover all elements from the definition of a confined space, to safe systems of work, how to identify hazards to safety equipment and form emergency procedures to access. You’ll usually find that there will be a short test at the end of the training session which is proof that you have digested and understood the information given to you.  It is also worth noting that there are different courses for the varying staff levels – from worker all the way up to site supervisors, as each has a different type of responsibility when working onsite.

Bio: Rebecca Field is writing on behalf of Britannia Safety and Training, a company offering construction training near Norwich in Norfolk, UK. Their industry experienced experts and purpose built training facility are designed to make your construction training course experience the best you can wish for. Visit their website here: http://www.britanniaits.com/  to find out more.

Thanks, Rebecca, for sharing this important information with us.  OSHA also has the same description and regulations for persons workin in confined spaces.  There should always be someone present watching workers in case of emergency, and those workers should have the proper personal protective equipment, such as respirators, hardhats, and other safety items. 

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

TEN THINGS TO DO DURING A HEATWAVE (Guest Post)

Debbie Denard  http://www.nanny.net/blog

During a heat wave, or a prolonged period of hot and often humid weather, it can be hard to keep the kids cool and entertained. Since a heat wave can pose a serious health risk to those who are exposed to the scorching temperatures, especially babies and young children, it is essential that parents and caregivers know what to do when the weather dictates that everyone stays cool and takes it easy.

If you’re facing a heat wave, consider these 10 things:

1. Avoid the heat. Stay out of the sun, especially during the hottest parts of the day. If you do venture out, be sure everyone has sunscreen and hats on.

2. Turn on the AC. Air conditioning can be a real lifesaver for those facing a heat wave. If you don’t have air conditioning, fill a pan with ice, put a box fan in front of it, and sit in front of the cool air.

3. Stay hydrated. During a heat wave it is essential that everyone stays adequately hydrated. Be sure to drink and offer lots of water and fruit juice. Adults should avoid anything with caffeine or alcohol, as both are considered diuretics.

4. Wear loose clothing. Light, breathable clothing will help keep you cool during hot and humid weather. Remember, the looser the fabric weave, the less protection it offers from the sun.

5. Shut the windows and draw the shades if it’s hotter outside than it is inside. If it is cooler inside than it is outside, keep it that way by closing the windows and shades. Light colored drapes may be more effective at keeping the heat out than darker or metallic colored ones.

6. Take cool baths or showers. Don’t underestimate the power of a cool bath or shower. A cool bath or shower can offer a refreshing break to the heat.

7.  Avoid strenuous activity. Don’t overdo it during a heat wave. During a heat wave, you’ll want to skip yours and the kids exercise routine and keep active outdoor activity to a minimum.

8. Create indoor fun. From playing board games to doing arts and crafts, there are lots of fun things you can do inside with the kids during a heat wave. Older kids may enjoy playing card games and younger kids may enjoy coloring, cutting, and pasting to make their own artful creations. Watching movies together is another way to beat the heat.

9. Eliminate additional sources of heat.  Incandescent light bulbs, appliances, and computers can throw off heat. Shut off and unplug all nonessential electronics during a heat wave to minimize the extra heat that is added to the environment. Instead of turning the oven on to cook, opt for simple suppers like cereal, sandwiches, or other items that don’t require using the oven or stove.

10. Head out for cooler fun.  If the kids get cabin fever, consider heading out for an indoor adventure. Head to a family movie, go for a walk around the mall, take a swim at an indoor pool, or visit other family-friendly, air conditioned venues for something fun to do.

Whatever you do, be sure that everyone keeps cool and hydrated to avoid heat stroke and other heat related illnesses.  Since babies, children, the elderly, and others with preexisting medical conditions are especially vulnerable to heat, be sure to care for them with extra caution during a heat wave.

 Debbie: these are good common-sense ideas, and we appreciate them very much.  It is important that persons of any age protect themselves from the sun and heat as much as possible, by wearing sunscreen,  protective sunglasses, hats, and long-sleeve clothing.  Keep cool by staying inside as much as possible!  Thanks again. pb

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Health Issues, Protective Clothing

NOW’S THE TIME TO GET OUT THE BUG REPELLENT!

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Every summer time, we are “bugged” by those pesky critters……flies, gnats, mosquitoes, bees, yellow jackets, wasps – you name it, we have it!  At this time, however, the biggest culprits are mosquitoes, those that are carrying a disease called West Nile Virus.  West Nile Virus causes an infection that is spread by certain kinds of mosquitoes.  They become infected when they bite infected birds.  Then, they spread the virus when they bite people or animals, such as horses.  This virus cannot spread from animals to people or from person to person  through casual contact. 

West Nile Virus causes an infection that can lead to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), the spinal cord (myelitis), or the tissues surrounding it and the spinal cord (meningitis).  There is no specific treatment available.  Mild infections go away on their own, with the use of mild pain  relievers.  Persons who are more susceptible to the virus are those over age 50 and those who have cancer, diabetes and kidney disease, or those with underlying health problems, as well as those who have received organ transplants.  

Dallas County, Texas’ second most-populated county, authorized aerial spraying of insecticide on Friday for the first time in almost five decades to help fight the mosquito-born illness.  Thus far, 12 North Texas residents have died.  This year, the Texas Department of State Health Services has tracked 214 cases of the neuro-invasive West Nile, the most serious form of the illness.  Because it is just now becoming the peak season for the illness, agency officials fear the state will break the record number for such cases, which was 438, reported in 2003.  Texas isn’t the only state reporting this virus, so persons everywhere should take precautions. 

People should do everything they can to avoid mosquitoes.  Some ways to control them around your home are:

            Remove their habitat (where they live and breed.  Eliminate standing water in rain gutters, tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys or any other container where they can breed.  Also, empty and change water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week to destroy potential mosquito habitats.  Keep swimming pool water clean and circulated.  Drain or fill temporary pools of water with dirt.

            To prevent your exposure to mosquitoes: use EPA-regulated mosquito repellents when necessary and follow directions and precautions closely.  Head nets, long sleeves and long pants should be worn if you are going into areas with high mosquito populations.  Stay inside during the evening when mosquitoes are active.  Be sure your window and door screens are “bug tight.”  Replace outdoor lights with yellow “bug” lights, which tend to attract fewer bugs than ordinary lights.  Remember the yellow lights are not repellents. 

There is no vaccine for the virus, which can cause high fevers, headaches and disorientation.  As stated earlier, however, most go away on their own.

This situation has become more serious because of the warm winter that insects lived through, and the extreme dry conditions that certain areas have experienced. 

The best solution is to stay inside, especially at night.   For those who must work outdoors, there are many types of mosquito repellents.  DEET has been proven to be a most effective repellent for mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, deer flies, stable flies, black flies, gnats and fleas.  There is even a type of netting  for those who must wear hardhats or ball caps!

 

Source: CNN,
ABC News, A.P., CDC, Texas Department of State Health Services

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

A GUIDE TO SAFETY EQUIPMENT FOR RENOVATION AND CONSTRUCTION (Guest Post)

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under the United States Department of Labor, there were 4,690 workplace fatalities in 2010 alone out of which 774 were in construction. These deaths were mostly related to safety hazards that could have been potentially avoided. The number one cause of death was falling, followed by electrocution, then being struck by an object, and lastly getting caught in or between things. These four major causes were addressed by OSHA and guidelines were provided to ensure safety among construction and renovation workers.

The proper use of safety equipment can also prevent injuries and fatalities at construction sites. Although required by law in many states, a large number of workers tend to ignore the importance of safety equipment. The following steps are guide to using safety equipment for renovation and construction work.

Avoiding Falls With Proper Fall Protection Equipment

Personal fall protection equipment is a necessity at any construction site. Whether the renovation or construction requires climbing high buildings or remodelling a small home, safety equipment is absolutely essential. Falling is the number one cause of death at construction sites, making protection against it highly important. Some of the main reasons for falling include floor openings, unprotected walls and side holes, wrong scaffold construction, protruding steel and iron bars, and portable ladder misuse.

OSHA requires that any openings six feet or more should be protected with a guardrail or safety net system. Moreover, all construction sites should be inspected prior to work for any hidden openings or holes that can pose a danger to workers. These “fall prevention systems” are known to be a better option than “fall protection systems.” Fall protection systems consist of safety equipment like safety belts, full body harnesses, lanyards, lifelines, rope grabs, shock absorbers, carabiners, and anchors. All fall protection systems must be checked for size, manufacturer’s identification, usage, date of manufacture, and model number.

Safety Equipment to Avoid Electrocutions

Electrocution is the second main cause of deaths among construction workers. Some of the serious forms of danger that workers are exposed to when working around electrical materials include thermal burns, arc flashes, electric shocks, and blasts. There are two protection systems that need to be in place when working with electricity: Insulating Protective Equipment (IPE) and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

1. Insulating Protective Equipment (IPE)
According to OSHA the following insulation protection should be included when dealing with electricity: 

  • Insulation should be provided for “(rubber) line hose, blankets, and hoods”
  • Insulation for “barriers made of fiberglass or phenolic resin”
  • “Live-line tools, such as hotsticks, switchsticks, and shotgun sticks”
  • “Plastic or fiberglass hardcover items that can be installed with live-line tools”

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Workers are required to use Personal Protective Equipment and workwear to protect against electrical hazards. The US Department of Labor suggests that all workers should be provided with training on how to properly use PPE. Security and hazard assessment should also be performed prior to any electrical work to judge the amount and level of PPE needed. Here are some of the PPE frequently used when working with electrical equipment:

  • Eye and face protection, such as safety glasses and face shields
  • Rubber gloves with insulation and leather protection
  • Industrial Hard hats
  • Safety shoes
  • Insulating sleeves
  • Chemical protection gloves
  • Flare resistant clothing

 Similarly, “struck-by” and other construction related fatalities can be avoided if proper measures and safety plans are put in place. OSHA requires that these measures are also taken care of when using construction vehicles. All vehicles must be fully inspected to guarantee functioning lights, brakes, mirrors, and other areas operating safely. To prevent hazards from falling objects, always make sure to wear a hard hat, goggles, and other protective gear. Load-carrying vehicles should be checked for safety prior to usage and all tools should be secured in place to avoid falling on people.

Almost all injuries and deaths can be avoided if workers are provided with proper guidelines on how to operate under different conditions with the necessary safety equipment. While some workers often tend to neglect these safety measures assuming that they are mere hindrances to their workflow, these measures are put in place for a reason — the safety and security of themselves and those around them. 

Below are listed some useful resources for those people that want to find out and read more about this topic:

Resources
http://www.osha.gov/oshstats/commonstats.html
http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/index.html
http://www.worksafebc.com/publications/health_and_safety/by_topic/assets/pdf/fall_protection.pdf

 

Our thanks to Lucy James for this very helpful article! pb

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

HARD HATS – WHEN DO YOU WEAR THEM? (Guest Post)

2 Comments
Some construction workers will tell you that the hard hat is one of hardest things to keep on your head but they are a necessary part of safety.  When you are on the ground and someone is working above you there is always a chance of something hitting you from above. Two of our construction workers were finishing out their day and they were lowering the buckets of tools down from a swing stage to the ground.  One of the buckets of tools flipped over while being lowered to the ground and one of tools flew out.  It did not hit the worker that was on the ground, it was, what we would call a near miss, but the hard hat would have been her protection if it had been any closer.  Why take that chance?
 
When working on roadways, on boulevards, or in ditches, the Safety hard hat is the first thing others will see when driving past. The hard hat identifies that work is going on and tells motorists to slow down.  Of course the safety vest is also to be worn on these types of jobs. It is also a crucial part of identifying the construction worker.  Even the supervisor has to wear a hard hat and a safety vest when going on the job site to set a good example. 
 
Several years ago, before a lot of the safety rules which are in place now, a supervisor on a job site had his hard hat save his life in a very unusual way.    That supervisor was my Dad.  He was always in the site trailer doing his job but on this particular day he had been called out to the job site where  work was in progress.  Like always as leaving the trailer, he grabbed his hard hat and put it on.  When he got to the work site, one of the workers who had been causing problems and been warned before, was again causing havoc on the job.  He had no choice but to fire him.  After solving the problem, my Dad started walking back to his site trailer but still oddly enough kept his hard hat on.   The worker that had just been fired came up behind him with a small sledge hammer in hand and hit my Dad on the head.  His hard hat saved him from a major head injury and as I said before, possibly his life.  Mind you, my Dad had a pretty hard head.   The company he worked for at the time awarded him the golden hard hat award for his safety diligence.
 
Moral of this story is:  When on a job site, wear your hard hat all the time.  This includes workers, foreman, supervisors, safety officers and any visitors to the site.  You never know what is going to happen.  When attending one of our job sites you must have a hard hat, steel toed boots and safety vest where warranted.  Where is that?  Everywhere, you are on our jobsites.  As you can tell, I was taught these rules early in life.  As a child if I visited my Dad’s sites, you had to have steel toed boots on your feet and a hard hat on your head, to go anywhere on one of his sites.   Remember this was before there was a Safety Association to tell us the right way, or any kind of safety rules like there are in place today.  It was called common sense, and that is what safety is.
Susan Schwabl
nascon.ca
safetyequipment.shopbuynenjoy.com/
770-7478
Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing

GET YOUR ARC FLASH GAME ON! (Guest Post)

4 Comments

Get Your Arc Flash Game On

By Jack Rubinger, jarubinger@graphicproducts.com, www.DuraLabel.com

What happens when an arc flash occurs? And what is being done to lessen the risk? Few topics stir the emotions as much as arc flash dangers.  There is so much energy involved, and the nature of electricity is unlike anything else: invisible and unpredictable. Think burns and severe eye injuries.  

Working smart is critically important though experts agree it’s still hard to anticipate an arc flash occurrence. That’s why it’s so important to be prepared.  The most important question is: “Can we do this work de-energized?” said Mike Balinskas of PowerHawke, Inc. 

“Unfortunately, arc flash studies aren’t an exact science. They are snapshots, based on current utility information. As the grid fluctuates over time, so does the hazard exposure,” said Dave Hill, Intertek Testing. So it’s not enough to rely on PPE. Every precaution should be taken to prevent arc flash.

What’s missing from many electrical safety programs is a strategic game plan to address arc flash hazards.

“The distance between a lifetime of pain, disfiguration, and disability when compared to going home safely is no further than the fraction of an inch air gap that can be ionized to initiate an arc in the presence of significant voltage. Knowing the site and following the rules keep individuals safe and equipment intact,” said Michael Morse, Professor of Electrical Engineering, University of San Diego.

Electrical safety plans must address:

  •         Training/compliance
  •          PPE
  •          Tools/equipment

Training/compliance

Employees fear they’ve not been adequately trained. Training needs to increase to keep employees up to speed. How familiar are you with new NFPA requirements and how they apply to your equipment?

Mr. Hill reviews current arc flash NFPA, ANSI, IEEE and NEC information:

  • NFPA 70-2011/NEC is the driving document for all electrical installations. The other NFPA, ANSI/UL, IEEE, NEMA and harmonized IEC documents refer back to the NEC for installation practices.
  • NFPA 70-2011/NEC Section 110.16 and the Informational Note reference NFPA 70E for guidance of Arc Flash and PPE as well as ANSI Z535.4 for the safety warning signage.
  • Industrial electrical equipment and control panels, are required by NFPA 70-2011/NEC Section 670.3(A) to have a permanent label denoting short-circuit current rating of the control panel with references to UL 508A Supplement SB as an example of determining the SCCR. Section 409.22 and 409.110(4) are the references for industrial control panels specifically.
  • NFPA code calls for labeling electrical panels, disconnects and access points to inform those servicing equipment to communicate potential arc flash hazards present based on studies of the electrical system feeding each location.
  • NFPA 70E requires workers to document arc flash analysis calculations used for electrical equipment labeling. Even though NFPA 70E and IEEE 1584 provide standardized calculations for an arc flash analysis, other methods exist, opening the door for variation. Posting key elements of your analysis on electrical equipment will help you remember the methods used after a job is complete.

As of September 30, 2011 NFPA requires labels to display the nominal system voltage, arc flash boundary and one of the following: 

  • Available incident energy and the corresponding working distance
  • Minimum arc rating of clothing
  • Required level of PPE
  • Highest hazard/risk category (HRC) for the equipment 

NFPA’s new standards require that labels display additional information and must be posted on switchboards, panelboards, industrial control panels, meter socket enclosures and motor control centers.

A switchboard is a large single panel, frame, or assembly of panels. Switches, overcurrent, other protective devices, buses and usually instruments are mounted on the face, back or both. Switchboards are generally accessible from the rear and from the front and not intended to be installed in cabinets.

Panelboards are single panels or groups of panel units designed for assembly in the form of a single panel. These include buses, automatic overcurrent devices and those devices equipped with or without switches for the control of light, heat or power circuits. Panelboards are designed to be placed in a cabinet or cutout box or against a wall, partition, or other support; and accessible only from the front.

There are two main types of industrial control panels (ICP) — enclosed and open ICPs. Enclosed ICPs are installed within a complete enclosure at the panel manufacturer’s location. An open ICP includes factory wiring, field wiring terminals and components mounted on a sub-panel without a complete enclosure. ICPs often contain motor controllers, switches, relays, power supplies, computers, cathode ray tubes, transducers and auxiliary devices used in the manufacturing process to control industrial utilization equipment.

Meter socket enclosures are equipped with matching jaws to accommodate the bayonet-type (blade) terminals of a detachable watt-hour meter. It also has a means of connections for the termination of the circuit conductors. It may be a single-position socket for one meter or a multi-position trough socket for two or more meters.

Motor control centers are unlike other types of power distribution equipment, which are used with a variety of load types. Motor control centers primarily control the distribution of power to electric motors.

PPE 

Whether you are in an underground high-voltage transmission system or a substation, personal protective equipment (PPE) reduces exposure hazards. PPE means wearable protective gear: a shielded hood, bibs or coveralls. 

“A key technology ensuring safety is the infrared window. Installed on cabinet panels and doors, IR windows are view ports providing access into electrical cabinets and other enclosures. With an IR window, an electrical worker uses an infrared camera to inspect energized internal electrical components for temperature abnormalities without the direct exposure from removing covers and panels,” said Andre´ Rebelo, FLIR Systems, Inc. 

Infrared windows are a framed lens made of special transparent crystal or polymer material allowing infrared spectrum waves to pass through the window making it easy to perform infrared inspections. IR windows have a protective cover to shield the lens when not in use. 

Tools and Equipment


Industrial labeling systems such as the DuraLabel Toro are indispensable for electrical contractors. New systems are mobile, compatible with many types of software and empower end-users to quickly create custom safety, hazard and warning signs and labels on-site, in sequence. Displaying arc flash calculations on an industrial label offers valuable information to other electrical workers, inspectors and emergency responders who will likely work on or around the equipment you label in the future.  

No one can dispute the power and force of an arc flash. Following these three strategic steps, we can minimize many arc flash hazards. 

For more information about Arc Flash, visit www.arcflash.me.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Home Safety Products, Protective Clothing, Weather Protection

PLAY IT SAFE THIS SUMMER! CHILL OUT!

July just arrived, and with it came plenty of hot sun and humid weather.  Life goes on, whether it is work or play, so the best way to cope with it is to keep your body temperature as cool as possible.  (My suggestion is to stay inside!)  For those folks who don’t have that option, there are some “cool” ideas that we hope will help you make this summer go by faster by staying as comfortable as possible. 

Here are some ideas  from Texas America Safety Company: 

Introducing the MiraCool Body Cooling Vests.These vests come with water activated MiraCool crystals sewn into the fabric of the vest. These crystals become activated once soaked in cold water for approximately 30 minutes, and then will stay cool for the rest of the day. The cooling vests can be worn over shirts, or under a protective suit to provide an excellent source of heat relief.The cooling vests measure 24 inches tall, and 16 inches wide. These are a one size fits most type of poncho design. The sides are open and have adjustable straps with snap-on buckles. Finally, the material is 100 percent cotton. Features:
  • Pull over poncho style
  • 1 3/8″ Yellow gloss reflective tape
  • Expandable sides with adjustable buckles
  • One size fits all

 

There are also MiraCool Bandannas, which work on the same principle.  They are great for outdoor workers, golfers, and athletes.  Once soaked with water for 30 minutes, they keep you cooled down for 18 holes, at least. 

If you have a way to carry these, here’s a suggestion you may not have heard before:

Purchase a pack of inexpensive washcloths from a dollar store, roll each up and secure with a rubber band.  Then toss them into a cooler of ice water for everyone to grab.  The neck and wrists are the best cooling points to choose, because the large arteries run close to the skin. 

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!  Water is the best choice, of course, but certain other drinks, such as Gatorade can help fight dehydration and fatigue on the job or at play.  Drinks with caffeine or alcohol can cause more damage than good, so leave those for later.  When we sweat, we lose weight, so we need to restore the weight lost by ingesting water.  Football and baseball players and other athletes that are exposed to extreme heat, should have plenty of water on hand during practice. 

Of course, it goes without saying that we must protect our heads, eyes, and skin.  For construction or other outdoor workers who must protect their heads by wearing hardhats, there are sunshields that fit well onto the hardhat for additional shade, as well as neck cloths.  UV rays can damage our eyes, so Polarized safety sunglasses can protect those peepers.  Regardless if you work outdoors or play outdoors, long-sleeve shirts and hats offer skin safety, along with plenty of sunscreen.  

Summer can be a fun time for vacations, but not-so-fun for those who must be out in the heat due to work or athletics.  Please take care of yourself by using the right precautions and protection.  Sunburn can be costly later down the line, while making you miserable at the time you experience it.  With the 4th Of July coming up, remember to drive safely, buckle up, keep your “cool” behind the wheel and have a safe holiday. 

We hope our tips on “chilling out” will help you this summer.  Be sure to check out all our cooling products, and if you mention you read it on the blog, there’ll be a 5% discount for you!

 

 

 

 

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

TOP FIVE TIPS FOR WORKPLACE SAFETY WITH CONTRACTORS (Guest Post)

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The use of contractors is inevitable in most workplaces. The type of work being carried out at such times can be potentially dangerous for both contractors and employees working at the site. In the UK at least, health and safety law puts legal responsibility on both parties (the contractors and the clients) for the safety of each other.

Here are just 5 ways to ensure the safety of all involved. 

Carry out a health and safety check prior to work beginning 

Prior to carrying out work, make sure a full health and safety check has been made which both parties are satisfied with. Contractors need to be sure they won’t be at risk from aspects of the site – e.g. lead, asbestos, structural damage, whilst clients need to be happy that their employees won’t be put at risk by the contractors’ activities. 

Take care in selecting contractors 

The best way to be sure of your employees’ safety when hiring contractors is to be thorough in selecting contractors to carry out the work. Ask them for references, particularly for similar jobs. Ask how experienced they are at this particular type of work. Ask what their health and safety procedures are and what training their employees receive. Ask how they undertake risk assessments (and if you can view this before work proceeds). 

Pay attention to sub-contracting 

Just as important is to be sure that if your contractors do sub-contract, that you’re happy with their methods for doing so. It’s up to them how they select sub-contractors, but you are perfectly entitled to be made aware of their selection procedures to make sure you’re satisfied with them, and to ensure any sub-contractors will be subject to the same health and safety regulations and procedures the contractors are. 

Inform everyone who may be affected 

It is absolutely essential that all employees know there is work being carried out, where it is, and what they need to do to take account for it e.g. wear a ANSI hard hat if you must go through this area.  Also ensure there is a clear procedure for reporting potential safety risks and that all employees are made aware of it. 

Regularly monitor work 

Aside from relying on employees to report potential safety risks, appoint a specific health and safety monitor to regularly check up on the contractors to make sure all work is in compliance with regulations and pre-agreed processes.  Ideally this person should be a trained health and safety officer who knows what to look out for.

 Nick Lewis is writing for Universal Platforms, cherry pickers hire and training in London. Find out more at www.universalplatforms.co.uk