Category Archives: Respiratory Safety

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

Respiratory Products That Promote On-The-Job Safety

Approximately 5 million workers in 1.3 million workplaces are required to use respirator products, according to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). Offering protection against a multitude of different hazards, respirators and other respiratory devices can help reduce incidences of cancer, lung impairment and disease caused by job site exposure. OSHA’s research indicates that compliance with its Respiratory Protection Standards could potentially prevent thousands of illnesses and hundreds of deaths every year in the United States.

What Do Respirators Do?
A respirator is a protective device which reduces exposure to dangerous inhaled substances, including toxic chemicals and other infections particulates. Respirators are considered a vital piece of equipment for work in hazardous environments. Selecting the right type of respirator is critical, and dependent upon each individual workplace. Respirators perform two basic functions: decontaminating breathable air and providing a clean supply of air from an external source.

Air-Purifying Respirators
Particulate respirators, which fall under the category of air-purifying respirators, provide simple, cost-efficient and moderate protection against dust particles, but are an insufficient defense against chemicals, gases and vapors. They work by filtering particles out of breathable air, and are best suited for workplaces with low hazard levels. Also referred to as dust masks, these filtering facepieces are commonly used in healthcare settings for protection against infectious diseases. When particulate respirators become damaged or clogged, they need to be replaced.

Personal Protective Equipment

Using caution is key when it comes to protecting yourself from workplace hazards.

Chemical cartridge/gas mask respirators are an alternate type of air-purifying respirator. These perform a similar function except they filter chemical gases instead of airborne particulates. This two-piece apparatus includes a cartridge or canister, as well as a facepiece which attaches via straps to the head. The type of filter depends on the hazards to which you will most frequently be exposed. These replaceable cartridges are color-coded to make the selection process easier.

Combination respirators have filters for particulates as well as gases and vapors and can be used in settings which may contain both types of threats.

Supplied Air Respirators
Supplied air respirators provide clean air from an external source. Airline respirators use a hose to deliver clean, compressed air from a stationary source. These lightweight and long lasting devices are appropriate for use in areas where there is no immediate danger.

Combination respirators have a self-contained backup auxiliary air supply, and are ideal for entry into compact spaces, as well as extended use in potentially hazardous environments.

Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) generate their own supply of respirable air. Commonly used by firefighters, SCBAs consist of a wearable air tank, and offer the highest level of protection against toxic chemicals. Weighing in at more than 30 pounds, however, they require specialized training and knowledge regarding use and maintenance. These contain a limited air supply — generally less than an hour — which is dependent on a number of different factors, such as breathing rate. Despite these downsides, SCBAs provide the best protection in hazardous situations.

Respiratory-Products--2-final

SCBAs help firefighters perform their lifesaving work.

The Importance of Test Apparatus
A respirator is useless if it doesn’t work to optimal standard. Respirators should provide a snug seal around the entire face during inhalation. Any leaks may cause exposure to contaminated air. While they come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different facial shapes, the only true way to determine whether a respirator works is through fit testing. Kits are available for both face-to-respirator seals and gas/vapor seals which help determine whether performance criteria is being met.

Between contagious diseases, everyday workplace hazards and job site accidents involving toxic chemicals, respirators serve a critical safety purpose. Proper planning and preparation ensures an optimal outcome in any situation.

Byline:
Joanna Hughes is a freelance writer who covers everything from lifestyle and beauty to financial matters, such as getting an auto loan with bad credit.

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

STAYING SAFE IN THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY BY CLEANING YOUR TANKS (GUEST POST)

  Industrial accidents are more than just frustrating occurrences: they can be potentially disastrous and dangerous for employees and employers. In order to prevent these instances of injury, taking preventative measures and solving problems before they begin can help decrease the chance of problems and loss of profit. For those in the oil and gas industry, staying safe and maintaining the integrity of the product are the highest concerns. By having a regular tank cleaning and maintenance system will ensure the longevity of the product as well as the protection of the employee. 

1. Preventative Maintenance 

By regularly and effectively cleaning oil tanks, you can maintain the life and functionality of the tank. Tank malfunctions can cost companies huge losses in time, profit as well as employee attention to their other respective tasks. A tank malfunction can lead to leaks and more, which is not only time consuming to fix, but as the employer you are exposed to legal ramifications, and that’s where the real cost is going to be.

 2. Sludge Removal               

The material accumulation at the bottom of oil tanks is technically referred to as “sludge” and this accumulation can be potentially problematic if not properly and consistently removed. By using industrial tank cleaners, you can remove or regulate this sludge so that you can maintain the most product. 

3. Decommissioning 

 By cleaning oil tanks properly, the ability to decommission them can be done quickly and safely. If not, decommissioning an oil tank can be become extremely dangerous and will require more employee time and energy to take apart. 

4. Maximize Oil Recovery               

By maintaining a regular cleaning schedule for oil tanks you can also maximize the product you have. Many industrial tank cleaners can re-use the sludge by converting it back to the liquid so that there is no loss of profit. By keeping this sludge to its lowest and by using the best equipment, you can ensure that employees do not have to enter the tanks or expose themselves to harmful inhalation or accidental injury. 

5. Maximize Storage Capacity               

Maintaining proper storage space for materials like oil is crucial in keeping employees and businesses safe. If the tanks experience pressure or improper space requirements, the product risks becoming compromised and will require human intervention to correct. This is when safety becomes an issue and easily preventable.   Cleaning tanks is the key to maintaining the safe and good standing of your company. 

                This guest post was written by Steve Bronson in association with Waterline Tank Technologies. They have pioneered an inexpensive and effective method of crude oil tank cleaning.  More information can be found at http://www.waterlinellc.com/.

Note:  When workers are required to go into tanks for cleaning, much personal protective equipment is required.  Tanks are considered confined spaces, and there is the danger of fumes that can cause respiratory problems, in addition to the sludge and other hazardous materials they may have to wade through.  Companies should furnish the proper protection such as rubber boots, protective clothing, gloves, hardhats, respiratory protection, and eye protection. pb

 
Back Safety, Ergonomics, Eye Protection, Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, Respiratory Safety

DO YOU KNOW HOW TO DO A JOB HAZARD ANALYSIS

In our blog, we are always mentioning “perform a job hazard analysis” in our safety tips; however, it made me ask: “Just exactly what is a job hazard analysis?”  So I went to the OSHA site and am sharing the instructions on how to conduct this analysis.  This information is for employers, foremen, and supervisors, but employees are encouraged to use the information as well to analyze their own jobs and recognize workplace hazards so they can report them to you. It explains what a job hazard analysis is and offers guidelines to help you conduct your own step-by-step analysis. The document (OSHA 3071)  also continues with pictures and form samples that you may use to complete your analysis.

What is a hazard?

A hazard is the potential for harm. In practical terms, a hazard often is associated with a condition or activity that, if left uncontrolled, can result in an injury or illness. Identifying hazards and eliminating or controlling them as early as possible will help prevent injuries and illnesses.

What is a job hazard analysis?

A job hazard analysis is a technique that focuses on job tasks as a way to identify hazards before they occur. It focuses on the relationship between the worker, the task, the tools, and the work environment. Ideally, after you identify uncontrolled hazards, you will take steps to eliminate or reduce them to an acceptable risk level.

Why is job hazard analysis important?

Many workers are injured and killed at the workplace every day in the United States. Safety and health can add value to your business, your job, and your life. You can help prevent workplace injuries and illnesses by looking at your workplace operations, establishing proper job procedures, and ensuring that all employees are trained properly.

One of the best ways to determine and establish proper work procedures is to conduct a job hazard analysis. A job hazard analysis is one component of the larger commitment of a safety and health management system.

What is the value of a job hazard analysis?

Supervisors can use the findings of a job hazard analysis to eliminate and prevent hazards in their workplaces. This is likely to result in fewer worker injuries and illnesses; safer, more effective work methods; reduced workers’ compensation costs; and increased worker productivity.  The analysis also can be a valuable tool for training new employees in the steps required to perform their jobs safely.

For a job hazard analysis to be effective, management must demonstrate its commitment to safety and health and follow through to correct any uncontrolled hazards identified. Otherwise, management will lose credibility and employees may hesitate to go to management when dangerous conditions threaten them.

What jobs are appropriate for a job hazard analysis?

      Jobs with the highest injury or illness rates;

       Jobs with the potential to cause severe or disabling injuries or illness, even  if there is no history of previous accidents;

       Jobs in which one simple human error could lead to a severe accident or injury;

      Jobs that are new to your operation or have undergone changes in processes and procedures; and

      Jobs complex enough to require written instructions.

A job hazard analysis can be conducted on many jobs in your workplace.   Where do I begin?   Involve your employees.

It is very important to involve your employees in the hazard analysis process. They have a unique understanding of the job, and this knowledge is invaluable for finding hazards. Involving employees will help minimize oversights, ensure a quality analysis, and get workers to “buy in” to the solutions because they will share ownership in their safety and health program. 

Review your accident history.

Review with your employees your worksite’s history of accidents and occupational illnesses that needed treatment, losses that required repair or replacement, and any “near misses” —events in which an accident or loss did not occur, but could have. These events are indicators that the existing hazard controls (if any) may not be adequate and deserve more scrutiny. 

Conduct a preliminary job review.

Discuss with your employees the hazards they know exist in their current work and surroundings. Brainstorm with them for ideas to eliminate or control those hazards.  If any hazards exist that pose an immediate danger to an employee’s life or health, take immediate action to protect the worker.

Any problems that can be corrected easily should be corrected as soon as possible. Do not wait to complete your job hazard analysis.  This will demonstrate your commitment to safety and health and enable you to focus on the hazards and jobs that need more study because of their complexity.  For those hazards determined to present unacceptable risks, evaluate types of hazard controls. 

List, rank, and set priorities for hazardous jobs.  List jobs with hazards that present unacceptable risks, based on those most likely to occur and with the most severe consequences. These jobs should be your first priority for analysis. 

Outline the steps or tasks.

Nearly every job can be broken down into job tasks or steps. When beginning a job hazard analysis, watch the employee perform the job and list each step as the worker takes it.  Be sure to record enough information to describe each job action without getting overly detailed. Avoid making the breakdown of steps so detailed that it becomes unnecessarily long or so broad that it does not include basic steps. You may find it valuable to get input from other workers who have performed the same job.

Later, review the job steps with the employee to make sure you have not omitted something. Point out that you are evaluating the job itself, not the employee’s job performance. Include the employee in all phases of the analysis—from reviewing the job steps and procedures to discussing uncontrolled hazards and recommended solutions. 

Sometimes, in conducting a job hazard analysis, it may be helpful to photograph or videotape the  worker performing the job. These visual records can be handy references when doing a more detailed analysis of the work.

How do I identify workplace hazards?  A job hazard analysis is an exercise in detective work. Your goal is to discover the following:  What can go wrong? What are the consequences?  How could it arise? What are other contributing factors?  How likely is it that the hazard will occur?

To make your job hazard analysis useful, document the answers to these questions in a consistent manner. Describing a hazard in this way helps to ensure that your efforts to eliminate the hazard and implement hazard controls help target the most important contributors to the hazard.

Good hazard scenarios describe:

Where it is happening (environment), who or what it is happening to (exposure), what precipitates the hazard (trigger), the outcome that would occur should it happen (consequence), and  any other contributing factors.

Rarely is a hazard a simple case of one singular cause resulting in one singular effect. More frequently, many contributing factors tend to line up in a certain way to create the hazard. Here is an example of a hazard scenario:

In the metal shop (environment), while clearing a snag (trigger), a worker’s hand (exposure) comes into contact with a rotating pulley. It pulls his hand into the machine and severs his fingers (consequences) quickly.

To perform a job hazard analysis, you would ask:

 What can go wrong?  The worker’s hand could come into contact with a rotating object that “catches” it and pulls it into the machine.

• What are the consequences?  The worker could receive a severe injury and lose fingers and hands.

• How could it happen? The accident could happen as a result of the worker trying to clear a snag during operations or as part of a maintenance activity while the pulley is operating. Obviously, this hazard scenario could not occur if the pulley is not rotating.

• What are other contributing factors?

This hazard occurs very quickly.  It does not give the worker much opportunity to recover or prevent it once his hand comes into contact with the pulley. This is an important factor, because it helps you determine the severity and likelihood of an accident when selecting appropriate hazard controls. Unfortunately, experience has shown that training is not very effective in hazard control when triggering events happen quickly because humans can react only so quickly.

Note: This very thing happened to the son of one of my friends about two weeks ago.  The fingers of the gloves he wore were slightly too long, and the glove got caught in a piece of equipment, injuring his hand before the machine could be stopped, to remove his hand.  He missed some days of work, but luckily, none of his fingers. pb

Source: OSHA

 

 

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, Respiratory Safety, Weather Protection

SAFETY IN THE U.S. AGRICULTURE BUSINESS

We recently published a guest article about farmers losing their lives on the job in Ireland.  Farmers all over the world have one of the most hazardous professions anywhere.  From those in third-world countries, to the ones with sophisticated equipment, there is still risk for injury and/or death in this occupation.

Farmers are at high risk for fatal and nonfatal injuries; it is one of the few industries where family members often share the work and live on the premises.  Many are migrant workers who may lack training or misunderstand the seriousness of the job, through language barriers.  NIOSH was developed in 1990 to create an agricultural safety and health program.  Through intramural research and funds, programs are developed at university centers in twenty states.  Programs such as these address injuries associated with agriculture, in addition to stress, musculosketal disorders, hearing loss, and pesticide exposure. 

In 2010, the U.S. had 1,823,000 full-time workers employed in production agriculture.  In 2009, an estimated 1.03 million young persons under 20 years of age resided on farms, with about 519,000 youth performing farm work.  An estimated 230,000 youth were hired to work on farms in addition to the ones who lived on the farms in 2009. 

Four hundred seventy-six farmers and farm workers died from  work-related injuries in 2010.  Tractor overturns were the leading cause of death for those involved.  Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) are the most effective way to prevent tractor overturn deaths.  In 2006, 59 per cent of tractors used on the farms in the U.S. were equipped with ROPS. 

One hundred thirteen young persons (on average) die annually from farm-related injuries; most of these deaths happen to those age 16-19 years of age.  Sources of fatalaties were twenty-three  per cent from machinery (including tractors), nineteen percent involved motor vehicles (including ATVs), and sixteen per cent were due to drowning.

Around two hundred forty-three agricultural workers suffer a lost-work-injury.  At least five per cent of these leave permanent impairment.  In 2009, around 16,200 youth were hurt on farms; 3,400 were due to the actual farm work. 

Other risks that farmers are exposed to:

  • Getting kicked by animals;
  •  Work-related lung disease;
  • Prolonged sun exposure;
  • Skin diseases;
  • Hearing loss;
  • Certain cancers associated with chemical use.

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture supports the AgrAbility program, which reached newly disabled farmers and ranchers through education, assistance, and networking with on-farm assessments and assistive technology implementation on their worksites.  NIFA farm safety efforts work to assist farmers avoid workplace hazards, help those with disabilities remain employed and ensure equal access to the agriculture profession for all workers, regardless of background or ability.

Agricultural workers benefit from these efforts by increasing their knowledge of the hazards and changes in practices in order to reduce risk of exposure to those hazards.  This helps farmers remain economically competitive and safe in an often economically and physically challenging agricultural work environment.

Some of the personal protective equipment that farmers and their employees should have are good work gloves, safety glasses or goggles, knee pads, sunscreen, face masks when using pesticides or sprays, ear plugs, and a big, wide straw hat!

We thank our farmers for providing food for our tables and wish them successful harvests  in 2014.  Please stay safe.

Sources: CDC, NIOSH, NIFA

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

MICHAEL SCHUMACHER’S SKIING ACCIDENT – WHAT LESSON DOES IT TEACH? (GUEST POST)

Nothing is considered as a failure if you learn from your mistakes and stop repeating them over and over again. The human history is full of interesting incidents that teach us plenty of lessons. However, most people are unable to learn and continue suffering because of the blunders they make. 

Even if you are not interested in knowing about the past, you just have to look around and see what is happening everywhere. You can connect to the internet and find out everything about the world in order to become more knowledgeable. Although any sort of information will help, yet the most significant piece will be the one that aims at improving your personal safety. 

People related to racing, especially on two wheels, are always at a risk of sustaining serious head injuries, thus it is extremely crucial for them to wear the right kind of protective gear that can at least prevent the brain from damage. You can easily find some high quality helmets at JS Accessories and find some other useful gear as well. 

However, racing is not the only activity that puts your life at a risk, as there are numerous other fields of life in which you have to take precautionary measures. For example, working at a construction site or a mine requires you to be fully equipped with protective helmets, goggles, boots and different other things that are necessary. 

While working at such a workplace, you should always be prepared for the worst, as there are things that are simply out of your control. Simply by wearing a helmet, you can reduce the risk to a greater extent, as this wonderful head gear saves you from direct impact. Then of course you have the skull that can also shield your brain to some extent, but that alone will not work in most of the situations. 

Recently, a legendary sportsman was involved in an accident in France that left him fighting for his life. He was neither racing someone at that time nor was he at a work station, yet you can learn an important lesson from the accident that he encountered. 

If you have not guessed it by now, the person involved in the accident was the seven-time Formula 1 champion, Michael Schumacher, who fell on his head while skiing with his son in the French Alps and sustained serious head injuries.

Luckily for the 44-year-old, he was given immediate medical attention by some of the best neurosurgeons in the world. He was initially thought to be perfectly fine, as he was conscious and talking after being brought to the hospital. However, he soon went into a coma, which indicated that something was terribly wrong. 

Looking at the condition of the former Ferrari and Mercedes F1 driver, the doctors decided he needed an operation. By this time, his brain has been operated twice and there has been a slight recovery, which is positive news for his fans worldwide. However, no one is really sure whether what will happen to the legendary figure, who has been in an induced coma since the day he hurt his head. 

Despite that, the doctors made one point quite clear that Schumacher could not have made it this far, had he not been wearing a helmet. Although people do not take this quality head gear seriously, yet it has numerous benefits and it certainly does work. 

So, the message is quite clear for everyone out there regardless of what field they belong to. If you are involved in any sport or work at a place where your head can be exposed to any danger, you should always wear a helmet or any other protective gear available. Nothing is more precious than your own life, so value it as much as you can. 

Even if a helmet cannot give you 100 percent protection, it can offer the most amazing thing that a person can have – hope. It is the same hope that millions of people worldwide have kept alive for Schumacher that he will be fine and smiling once again like he used to in the past. 

Author Bio:

This Guest post is written by Randy Martin. He is a bike racer and blogger who like to write on safety tips while riding Motorbikes. 

 

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Health Issues, Respiratory Safety

DO YOU HAVE THE FLU BLUES?

We are smack-dab in the middle of flu season, and unless sick people stay at home until they feel much better, we are all potential candidates to catch this “bug.”  There are several types of influenza;  the seasonal flu activity usually peaks in January or February.  However, it can sneak up on you as early as October, until the month of May.  There are many precautions we can take to avoid being ill from this virus.  The best preventative measure is to get the flu vaccine.  

Vaccines vary according to the strain of flu that is prevalent every season.  However, the Centers for Disease Control provide the vaccine that is deemed proper for the expected type of flu that is anticipated to be widespread.  Everyone six months of age to the elderly should get this vaccine.  Those age 65 and older and children younger than age 2 are more likely to have complications from the flu. 

Flu viruses are a contagious respiratory illness.  It can cause mild to severe illness, and sometimes, the flu can lead to death.  At last report, in our state of Texas, twelve persons have died from complications of the flu.  One of those persons  lived in my small hometown, and was only 47 years old.  She had the swine flu.  Complications from the flu may be pneumonia and dehydration.  

When you are around someone who is sneezing, coughing, or talking to you, experts say that you are exposed to the flu because their germs land in your mouth or nose.  Yuk!  If you touch a surface or object that has the flu virus on it, and then touch your mouth, eyes, or nose, you hve found another way to contact the virus.  That’s why it is important to keep your hands clean.  Keep some hand sanitizer in your pocket or purse, and another container in your car.  Remember, when leaving a public restroom or any other public place, elevator, escalator, or using shared equipment in your place of work, watch what you touch,  and wash or clean your hands often.  (And stay away from anyone who is sick as much as possible.) 

Flu and the common cold have similar symptoms.  We want to help you understand the differences.  First, flu symptoms: 

  • Fever, body aches, cough, and fatigue.
  • A 100°F or higher fever, or feeling feverish (some persons with the flu do not run fever).
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Headaches and body aches
  • Cough or sore throat
  • Almost never causes upset stomach, except:
  • Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea (most common in children)
  • Chills. 

Cold symptoms: 

  • Colds rarely cause fever or headaches.
  • Runny nose.
  • Stuffy nose.
  • Sneezing, coughing. 

The flu can be much worse than the common cold.  Seek medical attention immediately if you have any of the following: 

  • Sudden dizziness;
  • Confusion;
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen;
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath;
  • Seizures;
  • Purple or blue discoloration of the lips. 

If you think you have the flu, go to your doctor, who can test to see if your illness is the flu.  Please stay at home until you are completely over it.  Some of the flu-like symptoms can improve, but later come back with fever and a worse cough.  Avoid contact with your co-workers until you are well.  Your family members can use antibacterial spray and wipes to help avoid catching the flu, and if they have been vaccinated, this will be most  helpful.  Face masks can help both the patient and caregiver avoid those germs floating around in the air.  Face masks and latex gloves  are also very useful for persons with underlying health problems to use when traveling.

One additional clarification:  Stomach “flu” is really gastroenteritis, not the flu. 

Source:  Flu.gov                  NIH National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Respiratory Safety

HOW TO IMPROVE SAFETY AT WORK (GUEST POST)

People often talk about safety for motorcyclists, as there are plenty of roadside accidents that result in deaths of riders all over the world. There is no doubt that this is a serious issue and needs to be addressed in the most appropriate manner. However, there are some other fields where there is plenty of risk involved and they need to be taken care of as well.

One area where safety standards need an improvement is the workplace that involves dangerous equipment and heavy machinery. The employees working in such industries are always at a risk of losing their lives, so they need to be protected. No matter how tough you are, things can go terribly wrong for you if an object hits your head near a construction site or you get trapped inside a mine.

Just like some motorcycle products provided by stores such as Riderwear, there are some top quality companies developing safety equipment like helmets, gloves and goggles etc for employees at a dangerous workplace. It is the responsibility of the employers to provide such products to the workers, so that things continue working smoothly and there is minimum danger involved.

As an employer, there are quite a few steps that can be taken to ensure safety at workplace. Some of the most useful tips are as follows.

Be proactive

First of all, you need to be proactive and think of some innovative steps in order to make your workers feel safer. It is not ideal to wait for any bad incident to happen and then react. Therefore, you should assess the dangers involved in your industry; look at some mishaps that occurred in similar industries and find out what solutions are being used by other organizations in order to make the workplace safer. 

Warning Signs

Some of the employees might be new to the office and there is every chance that they end up in trouble. Therefore, it is always best to post warning signs alongside every machine or at every possible area where there is some danger involved. This way, the employee will himself take preventive action or will get assistance from a senior member. 

Protective Equipment

Next thing is to have the protective equipment provided to all of the staff. Not only do you have to make it available, ensure that each employee is fully geared up during the working hours. This should be mandatory for the workers otherwise they should be fined or given warnings. 

Skilled Personnel

Although inducting fresh workers is always a good idea, you should work according to the nature of your business. In case there are complex machines and hazardous products at the workplace, you should get skilled personnel if possible, rather than fresh ones, who are vulnerable to getting injured because of their lack of knowledge. 

Get Help

In case you are confused over something, try getting help from your seniors rather than going for experimentation. Things like these can put your safety under threat and even if you come out of the situation unhurt, you could lose your job. 

Written and contributed by Nicolle Suzan.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

WINTER YARD MAINTENANCE TIPS (GUEST POST)

 


Something that isn’t in use is bound to go unnoticed and off the care that one usually does for it on a regular basis. The most apt example for this is going to be your lawn in the winter season. Since its too cold and mostly snow covered, there isn’t much that you do about it. Rather, you feel it is about OK to let it stay that way.  But hygiene isn’t always about what meets the eye. Not caring for your lawn and keep up with its upkeep may infest disease prone areas in there and also ruin your lawn. Read on to understand how you can manage the winter lawn for best possible results. 

1. The Regular Clean Up 

Cleaning your yard or lawn is of supreme importance. If you leave random things like toys or do not pick up the leaves and debris off it, it becomes prone to creating a breeding ground for diseases and infections. There is a lot that can pose as infection carrier, if not cleaned up on time. The toys may bring along dirt which attract insects and thus infections. Also, in the case when the regular cleaning does not take place, rodents and mice are bound to roam around. If they do get around your lawn, it won’t take them much time before they find ways to enter the home too. Enough to scare you already? 

2. Mowing your grass right 

Before packing up for the season, mow your grass a little more than you usually mow it. Keep it shorter than the usual by lowering the height of your mowing machine by an inch or a half. If your grass remains to be long, it is going to smother itself and infest diseases. Also, it may pose danger for its growth once the winter season is gone because of the consequential damage that it has met with because of the chill and thawing. 

3. Judge the climatic conditions



Turf is known for its ability to stand extreme winter conditions. Yet still one must not completely rely on it. In case there is a snow storm predicted, you might want to chip off a little ice. This is just a preventive measure for the grass to stay fine. It does have a lot of resistance but its better to keep things safe than to regret later. 

4. Analyze and keep yourself updated on the traffic 

The amounts that your grass is going to grow is also dependent on the season and whether conditions. Analyze how much grass grows in a specific season and sow and mow accordingly. Winters make their growth dormant and thus the traffic is rather low. 

Also, make sure you do all the clean up and management before the snow sets on the turf. It isn’t advisable to do anything to the wet and frosty grass. It may worsen the situation. Scarification, aeration and moss control are some of the techniques or treatments for treating turf that has gone bad because of the detrimental effects of winters and snow.

Written By: 

Katie Gomez is a geek by the day and a party woman by the night. She teaches how to make a website in a design institute and blogs about ways to keep up with changing SEO trends on her personal website. On the side, she mentions that she loves the tequilla.

When one is working in the yard, especially mowing, winter or summer, it’s a good idea to wear a dust mask and some goggles in order to prevent all types of dust, grass, and other debris to cause injury. pb

 

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Hearing Protection, Respiratory Safety

DECEMBER 6TH – NATIONAL MINERS’ DAY!

In 2009, Congress proclaimed that each December 6th would be recognized in remembrance of the 1907 Monongah coal mine disaster, which resulted in the deaths of 362 miners, becoming the worst industrial accident in American history. The Proclamation designates this date ‘in appreciation, honor and remembrance of the accomplishments and sacrifices of the miners of our Nation; and encourages the people of the United States to participate in local and national activities celebrating and honoring the contributions of miners.’  Being unaware of this occasion, I failed to write about this important day; however, we still can ask Americans to appreciate these mine workers everyday, and be aware that December 6th is “National Miners’ Day.” pb
American miners play a much larger role in our lives than most people realize: Raw materials that they extract, such as coal, copper, phosphate, silver, limestone, iron and zinc–ores that are essential components in the products we use every day. Do you know that coal, and the electricity generated by coal power, play prominent roles in our homes, businesses and communities?  The roads we travel are full of gravel, crushed stone, tar, asphalt, road salt and cement – materials produced by miners to make travel safer. Miners also produce rock and mineral products for bridges we build to span canyons and rivers.

Thousands of everyday consumer goods are made with the fundamental materials secured by miners. These range from cosmetics to toothpaste, from cookware and dinnerware to appliances.  Think about the components in electronics that we use every day, such as smartphones, computers, and televisions.  Gold, silver and copper wiring, silicon processing and memory chips, as well as ceramic insulators are essential components in those electronics.  These components are the brought to you by our hard-working miners, who deserve protection on the job from workplace hazards that have killed tens of thousands and injured hundreds of thousands of miners throughout our history.

We are making progress. In 1907, the same year as the Monongah disaster, 3,000 miners died in tragic accidents. Fatalities numbering in the thousands were not uncommon during the first part of the 20th century. These numbers decreased to about 140 in the 1970s due in large part to the passage of the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 and the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977. The 1977 Act created the Mine Safety and Health Administration in the U.S. Department of Labor to oversee the safety and health of miners. Thirty-five years later, we have seen the lowest fatality rate in this nation’s history. And, through the “End Black Lung–Act Now” initiative and other occupational health efforts, we are making progress in limiting miners’ exposure to respirable dust and other harmful contaminants. While more needs to be done to prevent death, injury and illness in the nation’s mines, our efforts and collaboration with labor and industry stakeholders are showing positive results.

From the Department of Labor: “We will continue to work hard to send miners home safe and healthy at the end of every shift. On this National Miner’s Day, we honor their contributions and thank them for the sacrifices they have made on behalf of this nation. We hope the American people will join us in commemorating this day of recognition.”

Source: Department of Labor

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Respiratory Safety

ANAPHYLAXIS IN THE WORKPLACE

If you suffer from allergies or know someone who does, read  this article from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety.  A personal note: Several years ago, I experienced anaphylaxis, and it is a very frightening event.  We will never know what caused the reactions that I had, but I was traveling and the nearest hospital was about 30 miles away.  My reactions began with continuous sneezing, and watery eyes; later, the sneezing stopped and suddenly I couldn’t breathe through my nose.  Then my ears began to itch and felt like they were closing.  The most frightening part was when my throat started swelling.  We barely reached the hospital in time; thankfully, I met a doctor in the hallway, who immediately escorted me to the emergency room.  Epinephrine was one of the first drugs I was given.  Because I was having reactions to some of the medications, either raising or lowering my blood pressure to extremes, I really felt my life was being threatened.  The hospital staff worked fervently and once things calmed down, they kept me for several more hours.  The following article can help someone who suffers allergies to know what to expect.  (My physician advised me to carry an antihistamine at all times.)  This information could save someone’s life:

Anthony was climbing a ladder when he accidentally disturbed a nest of angry hornets. He was stung several times and when his throat began to tighten and he had trouble breathing, he knew he was in trouble. His swollen red face alarmed his co-worker who made the lifesaving 911 call. Anthony is one of millions in North America who experience a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction each year.

Anaphylaxis is a dangerous allergic reaction that can develop quickly, affecting many different body organs and systems. Allergic reactions can be mild, affecting only the skin, to severe, affecting the airways and/or the heart, resulting in death.

Signs and symptoms
Anaphylaxis includes a range of symptoms that can occur in various combinations and be hard to recognize. If you are having an anaphylactic reaction, you may experience a few or all of these signs and symptoms:

  • hives and itching, flushing, or swelling of the skin
  • rapid heart rate
  • itching and/or swelling of the lips, tongue, palate, and throat
  • swelling of the eyelids, and itchy, watery eyes
  • weakness, faintness, and loss of consciousness
  • abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • difficulty breathing, wheezing, and asthma
  • a feeling of impending doom

Severe symptoms can develop within minutes after being exposed to an allergen, and the severity usually peaks within three to thirty minutes. There can be an equally serious second phase reaction, one to eight hours after the initial anaphylaxis.

Causes
Anaphylaxis can be triggered by many different allergens, the most common being those found in certain foods such as peanuts and shellfish, and in insect venom such as bee or wasp stings. These severe allergic reactions may also be caused by medications, certain chemicals (for example diisocyantes), latex, and less commonly, exercising within 2-4 hours after eating a food to which you are allergic.

What can be done

Everyone deserves a safe workplace. There are things employers can do to prevent and prepare for anaphylaxis, and ensure they can respond effectively to protect the lives of their employees.  Workers should be informed about the hazards they are exposed to and how to work safely. While it may not be possible to completely eliminate the risk of anaphylaxis in the workplace, employers and employees can take steps to reduce the risk, and respond effectively if and when someone has a life threatening reaction.

The first line of defense in managing the risk of anaphylactic reactions is strict avoidance of allergens. It’s important to be aware of the ingredients in foods, stay away from at-risk areas if allergic to insect venom, and reduce or eliminate exposure to chemical sensitizers.

Epinephrine is the preferred first treatment for anaphylaxis. However, at-risk people don’t always own or carry epinephrine auto-injectors. In fact, many people don’t know they have an allergy until their first anaphylactic reaction begins.

Prevention of occupational anaphylaxis
Occupational anaphylaxis results from causes and conditions that exist in a work environment. Work-exacerbated anaphylaxis is pre-existing or co-existing allergy (for example, a food or pollen allergy) to a particular agent that is triggered by workplace exposures. Some persons cannot tolerate an insect sting- scorpions or as mentioned, hornets.

Avoiding worker exposure to sensitizers is the primary effort to prevent work-related anaphylaxis. Whether at the source (elimination, substitution, local exhaust ventilation), along the path (enclosure of emission source) or at the worker level (administrative controls, respiratory protective equipment) this must be done. Employers are encouraged to consult experts such as engineers and occupational hygienists to find ways to substitute or eliminate allergens from the workplace, or to reduce exposures as much as possible.

For instance, elimination of exposure to natural rubber latex (a causative agent) would involve making the environment latex-free. In some production processes elimination is not always possible. In these situations, employers should make every effort to reduce airborne concentrations of the allergen. With latex, this may involve changing from powdered latex gloves to powder-free low-protein latex gloves to reduce airborne latex particles. For a healthcare worker or anyone who is allergic to latex, the use of latex-free surgical or dental procedures is necessary.

Employer preparedness and response

Ask employees if they have a life-threatening allergy to certain foods, insect bites, medications, chemicals, or other materials.  Educate employees about the dangers of anaphylaxis, how to recognize and respond to the signs of anaphylaxis, and how best to avoid known allergens.  Promote basic principles of allergen control including handwashing, cleaning and disinfecting work surfaces, and properly handling and/or preparing food.

Employees with known anaphylaxis

Tell your manager and co-workers about your allergies and help create your emergency response plan together.  Keep an epinephrine auto-injector with you at all times, and another labeled with your name, in a readily available location at work. Replace auto-injectors when they expire.  Tell your manager and others where to find your epinephrine auto-injector.
Wear identification such as a medical alert bracelet or necklace that would alert others of your allergies if you were unable to do so.
Seek immediate emergency medical treatment after use; an epinephrine auto-injector does not prevent a reaction from re-occurring.
Replace your epinephrine auto-injector immediately after use.
Obtain permission from employees with allergies to make information and identification sheets about them (photographs, allergens to avoid and an emergency response plan) readily available to others in the workplace.
Teach employees how to recognize the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction and how to use an epinephrine auto-injector properly.
Provide immediate assistance if an employee is unable to self-administer the epinephrine auto-injector due to the severity of the anaphylactic symptoms; a delay could be fatal.
Ensure that your employee gets immediate emergency medical treatment after use of the epinephrine auto-injector either by calling 911 for medical assistance and/or taking the victim immediately to an emergency care facility.

This article  endeavors to raise awareness of this serious issue so that everyone involved can take steps to ensure worker safety and even save lives.

Additional resources

Anaphylaxis, World Allergy OrganizationImportance of Anaphylaxis Awareness in the Workplace PDF, American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM);Managing Anaphylaxis in the Workplace Health and Safety Checklist PDF, ACOEM; Work-related Anaphylaxis PDF, Allergy Society of South Africa; Anaphylaxis, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease; Anaphylaxis Canada; Allergy/Asthma Information Association; Association québécoise des allergies alimentaires; The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Alliance; Analphylaxis: Tips to Remember, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI)