Category Archives: Protective Clothing

Back Safety, Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, High Visibility Safety, Protective Clothing, Weather Protection

WORKING WITH SANDBAGS IS HARD WORK

The Mighty Mississippi is on the move!  Many persons in areas along the Mississippi River have already seen their homes flooded over the past several days.  Friday, Memphis authorities urged citizens to leave their homes that are located in low-lying areas.  The Mississippi is expected to crest by late today (Monday), or early Tuesday morning in the Memphis area.  The Mississippi crested at 48’7” in 1937.  Floods from northern Iowa to the Gulf of Mexico may cause heavy damage to farmlands, as well as homes.  In Arkansas, Interstate 40 closed this weekend because of rising waters of the White River.  This latest threat brings to mind the time when persons in the heart of the Delta were victims of the Great Flood of April 21, 1927 – the great Mississippi broke through a levee, crushing homes, destroying sharecroppers’ farms, trapping thousands on their rooftops for days, and hundreds of people died.

We know we are probably “preaching to the choir,” about filling, moving and placing sandbags in getting ready for floods, because that part of the work may already be done by now.  However, we want to pass on some safety tips for this physically demanding work.  Repetitious lifting and carrying heavy loads, and working in awkward positions can cause back and other injuries.  For those who will be doing this work, please follow this advice from OSHA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: 

General rules:

  • Three-person teams work best: bagger: holds open and closes sandbags; shoveler: shovels sand into sandbags. (use a short handled, #2 rounded point shovel with straight shaft and D grip, bagger scoop or funnel to fill sandbags; and mover: carries and places sandbags.
  • Do not overfill sandbags – fill them ½ to 2/3 full.  Overfilled bags can leave gaps in levees.
  • Keep the load in front of and close to body, both when filling, and later carrying.
  • Do not reach out, bend over or twist when lifting.
  • Lift with legs, not back.
  • Take frequent rest breaks.
  • Alternate positions every 20 to 30 minutes.
  • If using automated filling, put the bag on a support (pallet) to reduce the stress on hands, shoulders, and lower back.
  • Fold the bag opening closed; tie only if necessary.
  • Use pallets when available when moving them to staging area.
  • A brigade team should be used when passing bags to areas that are further away.  The line should be staggered and workers should face each other to avoid twisting and turning.
  • Never throw sandbags, as this stresses the shoulders and back.
  • Straddle drop point with the bag between your ankles as you place it. 

Working around floodwater is hazardous because of debris and bacteria in the water.  Please heed these general safety and health warnings:

  • Wear gloves to protect hands from chemically-treated sandbags and contaminants in sand and floodwater.
  • Do not touch your eyes and mouth.
  • Wash your hands and face before eating or drinking.
  • Wear safety glasses, especially on dry and windy days, and when working with automated equipment.
  • Waterproof gear is necessary when working in floodwater or rain.
  • Use protective clothing if exposed to polluted floodwater.
  • Wear reflective clothing when working at night.
  • Use a personal floatation device when working near floodwater.
  • Wear work boots (waterproofed if working in floodwater.)
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Keep several first-aid kits handy. 

Tomorrow we will share more information regarding other safety measures that should be taken when working in flooded areas.  We appreciate all those who work in rescue and recovery following natural disasters, such as floods and tornadoes.  They should take every precaution to stay healthy and safe, as many hazardous situations exist.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, High Visibility Safety, Protective Clothing

NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SAFETY MONTH MEANS “WEAR THAT GEAR”

Yesterday, we talked about May being National Motorcycle Safety Month, and how motorcyclists and vehicle drivers must “share the road.”  We know that there are careful drivers and careless ones; but the roads need to be free from distracted drivers and/or riders.  Today, we want to mention the several types of gear that motorcyclists need.  It’s advised that upon purchasing that long-dreamed of “bike”, one allows another $500 to $1000 to outfit themselves with the appropriate gear – gear that will keep them safe, while looking cool!  In the past, motorcyclists wore all black; however, studies have shown that by wearing reflective or fluorescent clothing, risk of a crash was reduced by 37%, by using headlamps all the time, the risk was reduced by 27%, and by wearing white helmets compared to black, the chance of collision was reduced by 24%.   Vests that are high visibility may be worn over jackets to increase being seen. 

Here are some other items of “personal protective equipment” for safe riders:

  •          Gloves.  Choose gloves that have surfaces that help maintain grip and control.  Some have a carbon fiber shell over the knuckles and padding on the palm.  Some gloves are designed specifically for riders.
  •          Pants.  These should be made of Kevlar, cordura, or a thicker leather than  popular leather jackets.  Ones made of Kevlar, ballistic nylon or cordura are cheaper than leather and easier to maintain, waterproof, and cooler in warm weather.  Also, some pants come with padding, removable liners, and reflective materials.
  •          Jackets.  Choose a quality jacket, preferably one with some type of reflective material, and that has special padding for spine, elbows, and shoulders.
  •          Boots.  Boots come in lightweight styles, but are very tough.  They should have rubber soles, reinforced and plastic caps on ankles and toe area.
  •          Goggles or Full Face Visors.  Be sure to choose excellent eye protection.  Goggles or visors keep bugs and debris out, and you need that added face protection that visors offer.
  •          Earplugs.  After you ride for a while, the noise from the wind, etc. can possibly damage your hearing.  You will still be able to hear horns, sirens, etc. while wearing earplugs.
  •          Vests.  Vests are made from sturdy and reflective materials that deflect light in all directions. 
  •          Off-road neck protection.  Although this is something new, these devices offer the possibility of prevention of or may reduce severe spinal column injuries from spills involving head compression.  On-road testing has not been as successful as off-road due to the fact that the devices limit head rotation, and therefore, visibility.  Someday they may become more popular among off-road riders.
  •          Helmets.  Now, for a very important piece of every rider’s gear!  It is a proven fact that helmets save lives.  The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all helmets sold in the U.S. meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218.  This standard meets the minimum levels of performance that helmets must have to protect the head and brain in the event of a crash.  You can even customize your helmet with some high visibility decals!

We’re not through about helmets, yet.  Do not purchase novelty helmets.  Many riders know that they are unsafe, but wear them anyway.  Helmets that meet the minimum Federal safety standard have an inner liner usually about one-inch thick made of firm polystyrene foam.  You should be able to feel its thickness. Unsafe helmets normally contain only soft foam padding or a bare plastic shell with no padding at all.  Helmets that meet the DOT standards have sturdy chinstraps with solid rivets, and they generally weigh about three pounds.  Be sure to check the manufacturer’s label and look for the DOT sticker on the outside back of the helmet.  Labels inside the helmet showing that it meets the standards of private, non-profit organizations such as Snell or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) are good indicators that the helmet also meets the Federal safety standard.  To date, the NHTSA has not seen a novelty helmet that has a phony DOT sticker in addition to a phony Snell or ANSI label, but always check for those labels.   And remember, helmets won’t protect your noggin if you don’t wear them! 

This last message applies to all drivers and riders – do not drive or ride and drink alcohol!   Alcohol affects skills essential to ride a motorcycle, such as balance and coordination.  Alcohol abuse plays a big role in motorcycle fatalities; the percentage of intoxicated riders in fatal crashes is greater than the percentage of intoxicated vehicle drivers on the roads.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration encourages all who drive or ride, to be smart and sober riders/drivers.  

Last, to all our motorcycle-riding friends, the rule-of-thumb: “ALL THE GEAR, ALL THE TIME!”  Ride safely, and watch for the traffic, as it watches for you.

General Safety Issues, Protective Clothing

MAY IS HERE, AND THAT MEANS IT’S NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SAFETY MONTH

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Sponsored by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, May is designated as National Motorcycle Safety Month.  Their main goal is to get drivers to understand that motorcyclists have the same rights and priviledges as any other vehicle on the road, and we all must “share the road.”  We should pay attention every time we approach a motorcycle and extend courtesy to them as they travel.  They don’t have all the protection that we in cars or trucks have; their driving abilities and gear are their main lines of defense.  I have posted a very similar list previously, but please pay attention to these ten things that all car and truck drivers should know about motorcycles and motorcyclists (from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation):

  1. There are many more cars and trucks than motorcycles on the road and some drivers don’t “recognize” motorcyclists. They ignore them, usually unintentionally. Look for motorcycles, especially when checking traffic at an intersection.
  2. A motorcyclist may look farther away than he or she is in actuality. It may also be difficult to judge a motorcycle’s speed. When checking traffic to turn at an intersection or into (or out of) a driveway, estimate that a motorcycle is closer than it looks.
  3. A motorcycle can be easily hidden in a car’s blind spots or masked by objects or backgrounds outside the car. Thoroughly check traffic, whether you’re changing lanes or turning at intersections.
  4. A motorcycle may seem to be moving faster than it really is. Again, don’t immediately rely on your perceptions.
  5. Motorcyclists sometimes slow down by downshifting or merely rolling off the throttle, thus not activating the brake light. Don’t tailgate motorcyclists. At intersections, anticipate that motorcyclists may slow down without any visual warning.
  6. Turn signals on a motorcycle are not often automatically self-canceling. Some riders, (especially beginners) sometimes forget to turn them off. Try to determine whether a motorcycle’s turn signal is for real. And if you’re driving a car, remember to use your turn signals too. They’re a great communication tool for riders and drivers when used properly.
  7. Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane to be seen more easily, to avoid road debris, and deal with passing vehicles and wind. Understand that motorcyclists often adjust lane position for a purpose, and it’s not an invitation for a car to share the lane with them.
  8. Maneuverability can be one advantage for a motorcycle, but don’t expect that motorcyclist can always steer or swerve out of harm’s way. Please leave motorcyclists room on the road, wherever they are around you.
  9. Stopping distance for motorcycles can be nearly the same or better than that of cars. But wet or slippery pavement can put motorcyclists at a disadvantage. Don’t violate a motorcyclist’s right of way, especially in bad conditions.
  10. Don’t think of it as a motorcycle, a machine: Think of the rider; the person on board is someone’s son, daughter, spouse or parent. Unlike other motorists, protected by doors, roofs and airbags, motorcyclists have only their safety gear and are at greater risk from distracted drivers.

Friday, May 6th, is the Fifth Annual International Female Ride Day.  Women riders are encouraged to ride that day, with the purpose of bringing awareness to women motorcyclists.  It says, “Just Ride” as its’ theme.  This is a global, synchronized day that reaches out to women from all parts of the world.  This idea was presented to women five years ago, and women of all ages, styles of riding, and motorcycle brands have made this a phenominal day, according to Vicki Gray, of MOTORESS, and founder of International Female Ride Day. 

I admire those who enjoy riding motorcycles, and have several friends who do so.  They have even given me a ride, (in my younger days) , and it was fun to enjoy that smooth glide down the highway.  However, when you look down at the pavement, you don’t want to wind up there.  Let’s all do our part to “share the road” with our fellow travelers, regardless of how many wheels they have. 

Tomorrow, we will talk about the protective gear that motorcycle riders wear, or should wear.  It always makes me uneasy to see a rider without a helmet.  Until then, ride friendly and safely!

Sources: NHTSA, Motorcycle Safety Foundation, Powersports Business

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Health Issues, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

THERE ARE MANY KINDS OF “GREEN JOBS”

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If you are interested in making a difference while improving our environment, a “green job” may be just the thing for you!  More and more types of jobs are opening up that offer new ways of furnishing energy, and conserving the natural resources that our earth offers.  Some “green jobs” have been around for a while.  Safety measures must be taken to protect the workers, just the same as in any other job. 

Recycling may have been one of the first ways that we began to think about ways to use things more than one time.  I remember my grandmother would rinse out little plastic bags, hang them on a little line by the sink with a clothespin to dry, and reuse them.  Saving aluminum foil was another way of recycling, a long time before the word “recycling” became popular.  Now, recycling has become a big industry.  Metal scrap recycling is a huge business that processes  in the U.S. alone, 56 million tons of scrap iron and steel, which includes 10 million tons of scrap automobiles.  Scrap copper, lead, zinc, stainless steel and smaller quantities of other metals are processed on an annual basis.  Ferrous scrap metal contains iron, and nonferrous metals do not contain iron.  There are ways to recycle just about anything these days – paper, bottles, and cans, to name a few. 

Since 1985, the percentage of waste recycled in the U.S. has doubled, and this trend will likely continue.  Turning materials that become waste into valuable products brings big financial, environmental and social returns to the country.  As this industry continues to grow, so do the number of available jobs, and each presents its own safety and health risks.  The most common causes of illness in this industry are poisoning from lead or cadmium, skin diseases and respiratory conditions due to inhalation of toxic agents.  Some incidents may be caused by contact with an object or piece of equipment, overextension, or exposure to a harmful substance.  Whether serving as a volunteer to do recycling, or working in that particular field, there are certain types of personal protective equipment that should be worn -from gloves, respirators, goggles, safety glasses, hardhats, to protective clothing, depending on the specific job. 

Weather Insulating/Sealing is another type of “green job.”   Weather technicians update old or inefficient residential or business structures to make them energy efficient.  Their tasks may include installation of fans, blower doors, energy-efficient windows, weather stripping, sealing and caulking.  They must be safety and environmentally conscientious.  Their jobs may require them to crawl into confined spaces, climb ladders, and use power hand tools.  Various types of weathering include blow-in and spray-on applications.  Persons seeking these jobs should have a certain amount of training in order to apply these materials to product specifications in order to achieve proper weatherization.  Because these applications and materials include working with fiberglass, cellulose, spray polyurethane foam, polystyrene, and latex sealant, workers should be provided with the proper respiratory protection, adequate ventilation, and training in first aid.  Some of these materials are flammable, so extreme precautions should be taken.  Other materials can cause asthma and allergic reactions in some individuals. 

Those who work in “green jobs” are making our world more environmentally friendly.  They must follow the same safety procedures and policies as those in other jobs.  We have described some of the “green jobs” that are improving our lives.  Support these by recycling, conserving energy, or trying something new that is “earth friendly.”  We all can do more by teaching our young people to appreciate the earth, and keep it beautiful.  Look around, and notice how many persons are picking up  trash on highways, or cleaning up after a sports event.  If every person would do their own little “green job”, we wouldn’t have to ask others to do it.  We have a saying in Texas, (as you know), “Don’t Mess With Texas.”  Why don’t we have a new theme, “Don’t Mess With Our EARTH!”  (It’s the only home we have!)

General Safety Issues, Protective Clothing, Uncategorized

POISON – AN IMPORTANT SAFETY TOPIC FOR EVERY DAY!

It is time to announce that this week – March 20 – 26,  is National Poison Prevention Week.  In the United States, it is reported that sixty-one poison control centers receive more than four million calls each year regarding how to deal with poison.  The American Association of Poison Control Centers reports that the majority of non-fatal poison incidents involve children younger than six years old, and 90% of the time these incidents happen in the home.  The same association, (AAPCC) reports that poisoning is one of the leading causes of death among adults.  This is a warning to all of us that we should be constantly aware of the threat of poisoning on an every-day basis; hopefully, this week will bring more understanding of the threat of poisonous substances, and how to prevent it. 

Prevention is the key to keeping children safe.  Toddlers are especially curious, and they’ll try just about anything.  If you have children in your home, or visiting your home, you should have all medicines under lock and key.  Do not take medications in front of children – they learn by imitation.  Take your meds where children can’t watch.  Also, never refer to pills or liquid meds as candy when you are encouraging a child to take their medicine.  If you carry pills in your purse, be sure they are in a tamper-proof bottle; even so, they are not child-proof, so you should provide constant supervision. 

Children can also be unintentionally exposed to harmful pesticides and cleaning products.  These items should be locked up so they cannot harm youngsters.  Poison control centers receive many calls from adults who believe they may have exposed to hazardous chemicals contained in pesticides and/or household cleaners.  Be sure to read the directions and caution labels on these products, never mixing household and chemical products together, as this could create a poisonous gas.  Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeve shirts, long pants, shoes and socks, gloves, and eye protection, when spraying chemicals.  Pesticides can be absorbed through the skin and can be extremely poisonous.  

 A reaction to certain medications can cause a different type of poisoning.  Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned about this, and also, don’t mix drugs and alcohol.  Certain drugs interact dangerously with food or other medicines.  Be sure your doctor knows all medicines, either prescription or over-the-counter, that you are currently taking.  Never give your prescription medicine to anyone else.  Dispose of old or outdated medicines safely.  

Animals can fall victim to poison, as well.  Be sure if you spray your yard, to keep your animal in the house until the pesticide or chemical you have sprayed has dried or been watered into the ground.  Also, keep harmful products where they cannot get into them.  Our “grandpug” got into some medicine that was stored with the dog food in a lower cabinet, and the other four dogs in the family got into it after he scattered it all over the kitchen!  All five dogs had to have their stomachs pumped, and it was determined that three of them had ingested some of the meds.  Thankfully, they were all alright; but I am thankful that I didn’t have to pay that vet bill! 

Since it is the beginning of spring, we want to also warn you that snakes and other critters will start slithering around.  This is another type of poison that you don’t want to have to deal with.  Our daughter was bitten by a rattlesnake when she was 16; she spent a week in the hospital, followed by several weeks of physical therapy.  It was a very painful experience for her.  In the United States, venomous snakes that we have to contend with are cottonmouths/water mocassins, rattlesnakes, pit vipers, and copperheads.  If a person is bitten by a snake, they should seek medical treatment immediately, and try to remain calm.   There are antidotes used to treat snake bites, once testing for allergies is done.  Most hospitals are stocked with the appropriate anti-venom medicines. 

Hopefully, this message will help us all be more aware of the potential harm that can come to anyone, our children, grandchildren, and our pets if we are not cautious about dangerous substances in our homes.  We must be vigilant in watching the children, what they are putting in their mouths, and all the harmful products that are sitting around in our cabinets or storerooms.  If there is any question that someone has been exposed to or ingested a harmful ingredient, call the National Poison Center hotline at 1-800-222-1222.  Keep that number handy, just in case!

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Protective Clothing

GREEN JOBS ARE NOT NECESSARILY SAFE JOBS!

Green Jobs are defined as jobs that help improve the environment.  In addition to revitalizing the economy by putting people back to work, they help the public become more aware of the ways we can all help our planet, each by doing his part to keep Mother Earth in better shape.  Green jobs are not always safe jobs, as we will point out some of the hazards that workers face in two particular “green job” fields:  Biofuels and Green Roofs.  Other green jobs are Wind Energy, Solar, Geo-Thermal Energy, Weather Insulation/Sealing, Hydrogen Fuel Cells, and Recycling, which we will cover in different segments. 

Biofuels have become a fast growing part of the energy sector, because demand for low-carbon impact, domestically produced fuels has increased.  These are created from renewable resources, such as plant biomass, vegetable oils, grains, and treated municipal and industrial wastes.  They can involve potentially dangerous situations, because they are combustible or flammable.  Workers must be protected from hazards of these fuels during their production processes.  The two types of biofuels that are currently being produced in the United States are Ethanol and Biodiesel.     

  • Ethanol is a flammable liquid that is readily ignited at ordinary temperatures.  Renewable ethanol is produced by fermented grains, or by using advanced technologies, from cellulosic materials such as waste paper, wood chips, and agricultural wastes.  The production process can involve other hazardous materials, such as bases, gasoline, and acids.  Up to 10% ethanol is blended with gasoline in most automotive fuel currently sold in the U.S.  Higher ethanol blends up to “E85” (85% ethanol blended with gasoline) are available in some parts of the country.
  • Biodiesel is a combustible liquid that burns readily when heated.  Blending with petroleum diesel fuel or contamination by materials used in manufacturing can increase its flammability.  Biodiesel is produced by combining organic materials, such as vegetable oils, with an alcohol (typically methanol), and using a strong base, such as a caustic, as a catalyst.  Glycerin, a combustible liquid, is produced as a by-product.  The caustic is neutralized with acid, typically sulfuric acid.  All of these materials may require careful management to protect workers.  Biodiesel is widely available.

This type of work will require extensive safety planning and training and the correct type of personal protective equipment (PPE), for workers who are exposed to the making of these biofuels.  From eyewear and face protection, to protective clothing and gloves, employers must  provide PPE to their employees. 

Green Roofs are steadily growing in popularity throughout urban areas in the United States.  The oldest Green Roof in the U.S. is on top of Rockefeller Center in New York.  Although the Rockefeller rooftop garden was built in 1930, interest in Green Roof technology has only occurred within the last 15 years.  Chicago, New York, and Portland are leaders in implementing Green Roof technology in the U.S.   Landscapers and roofing contractors are becoming more involved with installing green roofs, which are most often installed by green roof specialty companies.  Maintenance of a green roof falls under OSHA’s general industry standards.  The safety challenges associated with this growing industry have some new and often familiar safety issues.  In addition to wearing the proper type of PPE that fits the job, fall-arrest systems are very important. 

We will talk more about other green jobs soon.  In the meantime, if you are sipping a cool one on your “green roof” or driving to your favorite pub in your ethanol-burning new vehicle, have a safe and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!   If you aren’t doing either of those things, have a good time celebrating with the Irish!  (Don’t forget to wear green.)

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

SOME “SHOCKING” FACTS ABOUT OSHA VIOLATIONS

We all understand that working with electricity can be dangerous, and only persons that have been trained in this field should attempt tasks that deal with it.  Engineers, electricians, and other professionals work with electricity directly, including overhead lines, cable harnesses, and circuit assemblies.  Others, such as office workers and sales people, work indirectly with electricity and may also be exposed to electrical hazards.  Therefore, it is surprising that there were so many violations and citations leveled against companies that ignored electrical standards, risking injury or even death to their employees. 

Because electricity has long been recognized as a serious workplace hazard, OSHA’s electrical standards are designed to protect those employees exposed to dangers such as electric shock, electrocution, fires, and explosions.  Two of the Top Ten Most Frequently Cited OSHA Standards violations for 2010 were #7 – Electric, Wiring Methods (CFR 1910.305), and #9 – Electric, General (CFR 1910.303).  On the Top Ten Highest Penalties assessed by OSHA for 2010, was another standard, Electric, General Requirements (CFR 1926.403), which was listed as #2 on that list. 

Electrical wiring in general refers to insulated conductors used to carry electricity, and associated devices.  This is in reference to providing power in buildings and structures.  Wiring safety codes are intended to protect people and buildings from electrical shock and fire hazards.  Regulations may be established by city, county, provincial/state or national legislation, sometimes by adopting in amended form a model code produced by a technical standards-setting organization (OSHA), or by a national standard electrical code. 

Companies should do their utmost to be in compliance with federal safety regulations.  There should be a safety program with defined responsibilities and training for workers.  Equipment should be marked with electrical safety labels.  Workers should realize what happens when there is an arc flash.  This is a short circuit through the air that can happen when conductors can’t support the voltage.  An arc flash can be as hot as 5,000 degrees Farenheit, and creates a brilliant flash of light and loud noise.  As radiant energy explodes out of the electrical equipment, hot gases and melted metal can endanger human life.  This is why there are four separate industry standards or electrical safety requirements in place to protect workers against arc flashes and electrical accidents. 

When working around electricity, the biggest hazard is always electric shock.  Although disconnecting the equipment from power sources and using non-conductive tools is important, there is still one last defense against shock: protective clothing.  Listed below are types of personal protective equipment (PPE),that should be worn:

  • Long, flame-resistant pants;
  • Safety goggles with side shields, or wraparound goggles;
  • Long sleeve, flame resistant shirt (synthetic materials can be flammable or melt into skin), or;
  • Hardhat with flame-resistant liner;
  • Hair fasteners (for those with long hair);
  • Leather work boots;
  • Leather work gloves. 

Everyone should treat electricity with respect, at home or work.  It’s important to follow manufacturers’ instructions (read them thoroughly),  read labels, and never overload circuits.  For those in the workplace, check and double-check safety regulations.

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

DO YOU HAVE THE PERFECT “OUTFIT?”

Most of the time, when we get ready to go out, we (guys and gals) have to be certain that everything is pretty close to perfect……from  hair, clothes, shoes, the works, we want to look good!  How about your work?  Many jobs require wearing several different types of personal protective equipment, all at the same time!  What serves the workplace correctly must not interfere with ones’ ability to perform their job.  Do you have the correct “outfit” for your job? 

Personal protective equipment, or p.p.e., as it is called, may cover a worker from head to toe.  Construction workers may wear hardhats, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots, and other safety products.  Hospital employees not only wear scrubs or lab coats, but also may have to don face shields, goggles, safety glasses, and disposable medical gloves.  There are many types of p.p.e. that can accommodate one another.  Hardhats are made with slots that allow several other protective devices to attach to them, such as earmuffs, glasses, and even a pencil clip! 

For p.p.e. to be effective, workers must know that it is for their protection.  If it is uncomfortable or does not fit, they may not wear it.  Managers, who have employees’ safety in mind, must be a positive influence on their workers.  It is their responsibility to convey the importance of wearing the right p.p.e. that fits both the employee and the job.  They have prior experience and know the hazards of each particular job.  As well as enforcing safety, they must deal with issues, such as keeping up with OSHA guidelines, enforcing policies, and training workers in first aid and being prepared for workplace emergencies.   If industrial safety glasses are too big, they certainly aren’t going to protect the eyes.  (Hundreds of persons have had their eyes damaged seriously because they were not even wearing their safety glasses.)   If the hardhat doesn’t fit, it’s going to fall off and be of little use.  Not wearing p.p.e., or wearing it incorrectly can affect one’s health, quality,  and possibly duration of life. 

There are many kinds of p.p.e. that must be available at a moment’s notice.  Disposable clothing, for instance, may become soiled or damaged, and need to be replaced quickly, therefore, replacement supplies should be kept in stock.  Letting the workers make a personal choice of their p.p.e. could help ensure acceptance and compliance of safety policies.  Whatever it takes, the bottom line is the importance of personal protective equipment for the entire team – the managers, supervisors, and workers.  Each person is responsible for his own safety, but having good training and understanding of personal protective equipment and the role it plays in keeping each person safe is primary. 

You wouldn’t see a race car driver get into his vehicle without his entire suit of protective clothing, or a football or hockey player start to compete without first putting on those pads under their uniforms, so why should we begin our work without the right total “outfit?”

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

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE – DOES IT FIT?

We see more and more women working in occupations that men used to dominate.  Back in the 1940’s, the image of the American woman was that of “Rosie the Riveter,” a strong, independent female defense worker.  She wore overalls, and was doing her part to help the United States win the war.  You’ve probably seen pictures of posters that showed women rolling up their sleeves and confirming “We Can Do It.”  These women helped build bombers, tanks, and ships.  American women followed Rosie out of the kitchen and onto the shop floor.  Working women numbered 11,970,000 in 1940, growing to 18,610,000 in 1945.  One in every four wives was employed by the end of the war.  Thirty-six per cent of the civilian workforce was comprised of women.  I knew a “Rosie the Riveter.”  A very tough and determined lady, she lived for several decades after the war, but succumbed to mesothelioma.  Chances were that when she was working in that Navy shipyard and exposed to asbestos,  there was very little personal protective equipment available to the workers. 

Through the decades, we have seen women venturing into jobs that we once thought impossible.  I admire any woman who can work in jobs that require strength, determination, and are not intimidated by high-risk occupations.  Advocates for those who work in high-risk jobs emphasize the need to control or eliminate hazards for all workers.  Personal protective equipment is known to be the last line of defense against hazards in the workplace.  Once risk assessments are done and controls are established, it is important that the right personal protective equipment is furnished to fit the job and it’s hazards.  The word “fit” is important for all workers, but many types of p.p.e. are often designed to fit the average size man, according to the Centers for Disease Control. 

Anthropometry is a science that measures the human body to determine likenesses and differences among individuals and groups.  These tables clearly show that women are not small men.  A woman’s foot is shorter and narrower than a man’s.  A man’s safety boot can be manufactured to try to accommodate the woman’s smaller foot, but it would only be correct in length, and still be too wide.  Have you ever watched a toddler try to walk around the house in his daddy’s boots?  Could you imagine how it would feel to try to work all day in ill-fitting boots, or other protective clothing?  While watching a reality show recently, I observed a young woman who was working in the lumber industry, and she was giving it her all, trying to keep up with the men.  Her boots were too big and she had a hard time trying to keep them on, and from slowing her down.  

The average woman’s body is shorter than a man’s, which makes coveralls too long in the torso.  With narrower shoulders, the sleeves of coveralls would be too long.  Then, women are usually wider at the hip, so there again, the coveralls are just not made to fit a woman as well as a man.  

Gloves are usually one of the main things that are harder to fit on women.  Thankfully, manufacturers have designed womens Mechanix gloves with women in mind.  They are made with shorter, narrower fingers and a smaller palm circumference.  A man’s small size glove many times just won’t fit her hands. 

Women have smaller heads and faces than the average man.  So this affects the comfort and fit in eye and face, head, and respiratory protection that is normally made for men.  Women should try on hard hats and find ones that are not too heavy, and have adequate suspension, plus a chin strap that will help with the fit.  There are size small safety glasses that are designed for women and smaller men.  Safety goggles can create a problem with fit and comfort for women.  A “one size fits all” may be too big, which would allow an inappropriate seal to the face, which could cause hazardous substances to enter the eye area.  Again, employers should keep in mind the proper fit for each individual worker.  Not all women are unable to wear men’s protective equipment, but employers should allow for those men and women who are smaller than the average man.

As stated earlier, the first line of defense is to control or remove the hazard.  When it can’t be removed or controlled adequately, personal protective equipment must be worn.  That personal protective equipment is the last resort to keeping workers healthy and safe.  But if it does not fit properly, it won’t be worn because it is uncomfortable, unsafe, and awkward.  Workers should report this to their employer or supervisor if this is the case.

Protective Clothing

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING IN THE MEDICAL PROFESSION

When you go to a clinic or hospital, you will notice several types of clothing that medical employees wear.  There are many other types of medical garb in different departments that you don’t see, unless you must have certain tests.  Nurses and doctors are not the only ones who wear protective clothing.  Those different types of medical garments not only protect medical professionals from pathogens, but also protect patients from possible contamination by non-sterile clothing.

Manufacturers of medical protective clothing may vary the materials that they use in their products, but there are several features in common that allow the clothing to perform its  functions easily and comfortably, which include:

  • lightweight materials for comfort;
  • Different weave permeability based on intended use;
  • Adjustable closures, using either cloth ties or elastic bands;
  • Coatings or anti-static compositions to prevent bunching that could compromise protection;
  • Fluid repellant coatings on the inside combined with fluid repellant coatings on the outside;
  • No-lint grades of cloth;
  • Footwear with anti-skid treads for safety.

Listed below are some of the articles of clothing that medical professionals  wear:

  • Scrubs: These are one of the most familiar to patients.  They are worn by nurses, nurse aides, janitors, and others in hospitals, clinics, home health care and hospice settings, and dentists’ offices.  They may be worn over other clothing, and are easy to change and replace if soiled or contaminated.
  • clip on side shields: goggles protect against sudden splashes of fluids such as blood, vomit, or other body fluids.  They should completely cover the eyes, and wrap around to the temples for extra protection.
  • Masks:  Generally worn over the nose and mouth to keep from exhaling micoorganisms in a sterile environment or to protect them from contagious diseases in the surrounding air.  Many civilian individuals wear masks to keep from being exposed to particulate matter when they are traveling or have low resistance to catching illnesses.
  • Gloves: Gloves are another of the widely used parts of protective clothing.  It is imperative to wear gloves when dealing with body fluids or sterile equipment.  Latex gloves are flexible enough to not impair the provider’s dexterity.  They are inexpensive and can be discarded after use.
  • Shoe and boot covers: Thin, elastic booties cover footwear completely, and are made to accommodate shoe sizes and styles. 
  • Scrub and Surgical Caps: Headgear that covers the hair and scalp in order to keep microorganisms contained, but control the wearer’s hair.  Surgical caps are tighter than scrub caps in order to maintain a sterile environment.
  • Surgical gowns: Rear-closure gowns are used by surgeons and discarded after use to avoid contagion. 
  • Disposable Sleeves: Independent sleeves have elastic at both top and bottom for a secure fit, and are necessary when gloves do not furnish adequate coverage,yet a full gown is not needed.
  • Lab coats: Many physicians wear lab coats when in their clinics or making rounds.  They usually have several pockets for the wearer’s convenience.  Lab coats furnish a minimal level of protection in emergencies.
  • Radiology aprons:  These are made of lighter weight material, (but still contain lead), than the old lead aprons, allowing  more comfort to radiology workers while still protecting them from radiation.
  • Uniforms: EMS personnel wear high visibility uniforms to keep them safe while working around traffic accidents and other high level emergencies.  Uniforms include protective pants, shirts, vests, jackets, special belts and arm bands.

When you visit a hospital, you may be asked to don a mask, gown, gloves or other piece of protective clothing, especially if you are seeing a patient in intensive care, or children’s unit.  This is not only for the patient’s safety, but yours, as well.   Do not touch things the patient might touch – hand rails, the t.v. remote, or phone.  Be sure to wash your hands before entering and after leaving the patient’s room.

Have you noticed how glamourous  actors in medical shows are?  Most of the time when they are doing surgery, they aren’t wearing the protective face shields or goggles.  Maybe we couldn’t hear what their next line is!   Real medical professionals,  (the people behind the masks, goggles, and  all that other paraphanalia ) are doing their jobs while wearing the personal protective equipment that is required for each particular task they undertake.