Category Archives: Respiratory Safety

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

KEEPING THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SAFE (GUEST POST)

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Construction is a notoriously dangerous industry.  In the UK, where we are based, the industry employs around five percent of the country’s workforce.  According to government statistics thosefive percent have twenty-two percent of the work related fatal injuries and ten percent of the reported major injuries.  In the US, seventeen percent of worker fatalities are in the construction industry. 

As shocking as these statistics sound, there’s been a significant improvement in both countries over the last forty years.  I think the reasons for this are threefold.  Firstly, there is much more safety legislation nowadays than formerly.  Secondly there’s a much more consistent use of safety clothing and equipment – much of which you can study at leisure on this site.  Thirdly, more workers receive various forms of safety training.  I firmly believe that the way to continue to improve safety in construction is to make training and refresher courses widely available for people employed in the industry and I also think that it’s in the construction companies’ best interest to ensure that their employees can access training.  Why do I believe this?  Well, there are several reasons: 

1)      Companies can be financially liable for the safety of their employees.  Even with insurance your premiums will go up dramatically if you have accidents on your sites.

2)      Companies generally want to employ the best workers.  If you have a good reputation for safety practice, people are more likely to want to join you and stay with you.  If your employees see that you’re willing to develop their skills, they’re much more likely to stay loyal to you.

3)      Workers are often injured by the actions of other workers.  Think about it – how likely is it that you’ll be fatally injured by a falling object that you’ve dropped? How likely is it that you’ll have put up the scaffolding that’s worked loose and caused you to fall?  The more workers on your site who have safety training, the safer the whole site will be.

4)      Companies can receive site inspections from official bodies.  Some are empowered to fine companies for non-compliance with legislation.  The more knowledgeable your employees are, the less likely you are to have compliance breaches on your sites.

5)      Companies are in a position to request bespoke training from education co-ordinators if they’re putting through a large number of pupils.  This means that the trainer(s) will put your company’s policies and procedures at the heart of their training.  You are also in a position to monitor the way that the training is delivered and make sure that your employees have the skills rather than just the piece of paper at the end of it. 

Are you involved with the construction industry?  Do you have any views on the safety training  you’ve received?  We’d be interested to read your responses in the comments section.

 Sent to us by Carl, of blogginghelper.co.uk
Email: carl@blogginghelper.co.uk
Twitter: @blogginghelper
Web: www.blogginghelper.co.uk

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

OUTBREAK OF TUBERCULOSIS IN LOS ANGELES

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The feds are descending on downtown Los Angeles to combat a dangerous outbreak of a drug-resistant strain of tuberculosis. KCAL9′s Jeff Nguyen went downtown in search of people who may have been exposed.

John Williams started living at the Weingart shelter on LA’s Skid Row two weeks ago. Before he could be admitted, he had to undergo a screening for tuberculosis.  “They make you go get checked before you get into one of these programs because they don’t want it spread out in there,” Williams said.

With nearly 80 cases of tuberculosis being identified in LA County since 2007 — thirty of which have been on Skid Row — tuberculosis screenings are more important than ever for some.  In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has launched a coordinated effort to contain the area’s largest outbreak in a decade.

“We are really putting our resources into this,” said Dr. Jonathan E. Fielding, the director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.

Anthony Stallworth, who pastors Central City Community Church of the Nazarene on East 6th Street, also volunteers at the LA Mission.  He constantly washes his hands to prevent illness, but he doesn’t want to live in fear.   “The work that we do down here in the church and the work that we do at the LA Mission, I believe that God has His hands on it,” Stallworth said.

Dianne Artea sleeps at the Midnight Mission and says she’s always worried about the people around her.  “These guys are walking around with masks. And we got to sleep next to them. They split,” Artea said.

TB is contracted by inhaling droplets from infected patients who sneeze, cough or laugh, which is why Williams is mindful of avoiding a few things while living on Skid Row.  “Don’t be smoking after nobody, and drinking after nobody. Let nobody use your phone,” he said.

His advice is correct.  That is why respirators are needed to help filter out germs and airborne particles.  These masks would be very helpful to slow down the spread of tuberculosis.

General Safety Issues, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

ASBESTOS AWARENESS TRAINING (GUEST POST)

In the last few days, the Daily Mail in Great Britain has reported on the heart-breaking story of a Cardiff housewife who contracted a type of cancer called mesothelioma from washing both her husband’s and son’s work overalls when they were working at a local power station.  Their overalls were covered in asbestos fibres and a verdict of death by industrial disease was returned at an inquest into her death.  The couple received a small sum in compensation that was donated to charity.  Whilst this case highlights the horrific unforeseen consequences of the use of asbestos in building in the 20th century, and the way the damage lurks unseen for possibly decades, we are much more aware of the dangers today.  However, as an employer or person working with asbestos, it takes more than just awareness that it is a dangerous material to operate with truly safe procedures.  

Awareness of the Problem 

In the UK, they have the highest incidents of mesothelioma in the world and the use of asbestos was only officially banned in 1999; any buildings built or renovated before 2000 have the potential for asbestos contamination.  In America, asbestos use was similarly not banned until the late 90s; the grave repercussions of its potential handing means any company accountable for people working with it needs to be fully aware of their responsibilities.  Adequate training for management and employees should always be a priority.  

Categories of Asbestos handling 

In the UK, they have two types of asbestos handling, classified as non-licensable and licensable (in which a government permit is required).  In the USA, there are four classes of scheduled asbestos handling work relating to how much the material might be disturbed.  It is obviously a complex matter and if you are a building manager/owner or employee you need to know what is expected of you. 

Training and Help

 Training is not just about being aware of the dangers posed by asbestos, but also making sure the exact problems posed by your specific work and environment might pose.  Good training should give you knowledge about every step, and provide you with expert advice.  Whilst it is an important process, it does not have to cost you or your business too much time or money.  There are many experienced companies offering asbestos awareness training online you can consult.  Initially any good firm can assist you with a risk assessment, but any training should also cover (but not restricted to): 

  • Safe work practises and methods and explanation of safety gear
  • Selecting appropriate protective clothing
  • Waste handling and waste disposal
  • Emergency procedures
  • Legal requirements, permits etc.
  • Refresher training where needed 

As an employer, you need to ensure that all relevant employees undergo the necessary training and that all managers and supervisor understand their duties.  Make sure your training provider is competent and reputable and that your staff subsequently follows appropriate and safe work methods. It is a hazard we have all heard of due to tragic deaths like the housewife in Cardiff, however, the correct asbestos awareness training can help you as an employer avoid many more hazards.

Author bio: Inguinn Bjøru sent this very informative article.  Asbestos Awareness Training online  is more easily accessible than regular training courses and can be accessed from anywhere at any time.

 

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

WHAT SHOULD I INCLUDE IN MY CONSTRUCTION SITE SAFETY INDUCTION? (GUEST POST)

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Sent by Jason of riskatmedia 

Every week at least one construction worker will die as a result of work-related injuries.  Most of these fatalities involve skilled construction and building workers. Falling from a height is the greatest single cause of fatal injury, followed by being struck by a moving or falling object, contact with electricity, being trapped by something collapsing or overturning and being struck by a moving vehicle. In addition to this, over 3500 construction workers suffer major work-related injuries every year.

There are many dangers involved in working on any construction site.  These hazards are real and often potentially life threatening, but we face them every day and sometimes forget how real and close they may be to all of us. This blog will cover most of the topics required for a Construction Site Induction.

Site Access

Access onto site should always be controlled for safety and security reasons.  This may be by means of a signing in and out procedure, or by means of controlled entry technology.  It is important that you use controlled entry procedures every time you enter or exit the site, this will allow management/security to determine exactly who is on site should an emergency situation arise. 

Personal Protective Equipment – PPE

Personal protective equipment, or PPE, is an important means of reducing the hazards associated with work on a construction site.  The minimum PPE that should be worn on site is a hard hat, appropriate gloves, safety footwear and a high visibility vest or jacket.  This PPE should be worn on site at all times and may be supplemented by additional PPE, such as eye protection, ear defenders, dust masks and a safety harness, as stipulated in your risk assessment and method statement or permit to work.  All items of PPE need to provide a good fit and be in good working condition, so it is important to check your PPE before you use it.  PPE should be stored in a secure, clean and dry environment and any contaminated PPE should be removed carefully, cleaned or disposed of in a safe manner.” 

Alcohol, Drugs and Medical Conditions

It is extremely important that you never come to work in possession of, or impaired by alcohol or drugs. These substances expose everyone on site to risks that are unnecessary and easily avoided. If you have a medical condition, have an active implantable medical device fitted or use prescribed or other medicines, you should report this to your manager/supervisor so that the details can be recorded for use in the event of an emergency.  Any information that you provide should be treated in the strictest confidence. 

Traffic Management and Pedestrian Walkways

Construction sites are busy and noisy environments with mobile plant and vehicles often in close proximity to pedestrians.  For these reasons, designated pedestrian walkways and Egress Routes should been marked out on the site. Stick to these walkways whilst on site and don’t be tempted to take short cuts that might expose you to unnecessary risk.  If you drive on to site, make sure that you stick to the speed limit, that you only park in designated parking bays and that you keep footpaths, access routes and pedestrian walkways clear.  A copy of the most up to date traffic management plan may be displayed on site notice boards, along with other important safety information. 

Welfare Facilities

Welfare facilities should be available on site and may include toilets, a restroom, a washroom and drying room and may include a canteen.  Use these facilities responsibly by helping to keep them clean and tidy and recycling your waste as appropriate. 

Vermin

Vermin are encouraged by the presence of food on site, so it is very important that you only eat in designated areas, that you dispose of food waste appropriately and that you do not take any food on to site.  Vermin, such as rats, can spread diseases, including the serious and possibly fatal disease Leptospirosis. 

Smoking, Music and Mobile Phones

Smoking and music are generally not permitted on construction sites, except in areas designated by site management.  Mobile phones should only be used in lower risk areas, such as offices and welfare facilities, where you are safe and unlikely to affect other workers or operations.  Mobile plant operators and drivers of site vehicles must never use a mobile phone whilst operating or driving. 

Hazardous Substances and Materials

During your work you may use or come into contact with substances such as adhesives, paints or dust, which may harm you or the environment.  If you use these hazardous substances you are required to understand the precautions that must be observed and the PPE that must be used, when transferring, mixing or using these substances.  You are also required to understand the relevant storage, disposal and emergency arrangements.  Information on the substance as well as an assessment of the hazards associated with its use should also be made available.

Any spills of fuels, oils or potentially hazardous substances, should be immediately contained using the appropriate spill kit and then reported to the supervisor or manager so the spill can be safely cleaned up. 

Shots relevant to environmental management

To help reduce the effect of operations on the environment:

  • Reuse and recycle as many materials as possible
  • Compress waste and use waste segregation facilities where possible
  • Dispose of waste responsibly and in accordance with legislation
  • Damp down to minimise dust
  • Turn off any plant or equipment not in use
  • Ensure plant and equipment are well maintained
  • Only use task lighting where necessary
  • Turn off any taps and hoses when not in use and report any leaks 
  • Never pump or pour anything down the drains and only wash down plant and equipment such as cement mixers in the areas provided
  • Where there are trees that need to be protected, please remain within designated work areas and avoid damaging tree routes
  • Do not disturb nesting birds, newts, badgers, bats or invasive weeds
  • Be aware of any habitats or historical remains on site. 

Emergency Fire Procedures

Specific emergency procedures should be followed in the event of a fire.  If a fire occurs, an alarm will sound.  If you hear a fire alarm, stop what you are doing.  Isolate any plant or equipment that you have been using and make your work area safe.  Take the nearest escape route and follow a safe route to the nearest assembly point.  Remain at your assembly point until you are given the all clear to return to work.  Take the time to familiarise yourself with the specific emergency procedures that apply to the site, as well as the location of the assembly points. 

Flammable Materials

To help prevent fires, flammable and combustible material should always be stored safely.  Gas bottles should be stored in secure, vented cages or stores with appropriate warning notices.  When working with gas, always ensure that you do so with adequate ventilation well away from any naked flames. 

Accident Procedures

Construction site rules and procedures are designed to minimise the risks to the safety of everyone who works on site.  But accidents may still happen.   In the event of an accident, first aid facilities should be available on site.  The names of all trained first aiders may be displayed on the site information board.  If you are involved in an accident or a near miss, no matter how minor, please report it to the site management so that they can ensure you get the correct medical treatment and take steps to prevent the incident from recurring.  If you witness a serious accident, get help and send someone for the site manager.  Try not to move the injured person, but do make sure that they are safe. 

Slips, Trips and Falls

Good workmanship and good housekeeping are practices that can help to prevent accidents and fires.  Remember to route power and lighting cables so that they do not pose a potential trip hazard.  Tools, materials and equipment should only be stored where indicated and should be stacked safely.  All access routes and walkways should be kept clear of obstructions, especially those that are used by members of the public including children.  Tidy and clean your work space throughout the day and never leave tools, equipment or materials where they could create a trip hazard. 

Electrical Safety

All items of electrical plant used on site should carry a valid testing certificate or label to ensure Electrical Safety.  If an item of plant does not carry a valid electrical testing label, is damaged or has a missing guard, then please, do not use it.  If you use battery powered tools ensure that batteries are charged in a safe area and do not obstruct welfare facilities or create trip hazards. 

Tower and Mobile Cranes

Tower and mobile cranes may be in use on site, so it is important that you do not enter unloading areas unless you are authorised to do so.  You should also be aware of the fact that plant including cranes, telehandlers and powered access equipment should only be operated by individuals who are suitably trained and authorised to do so.  If you are trained and authorised to operate plant, make sure that you carry out daily pre-use safety checks, that all safety devices and locking pins are in place, that the flashing beacon and any warning devices are working and that all-round visibility aids are in place and effective.  Seek the assistance of a banks-man where visibility is limited and never leave the keys in an unattended machine. 

Work Equipment

Whatever work activity you are carrying out on site you will be using work equipment. Only use the correct tools for the job and only use tools and other work equipment which you have been trained to use. 

Risk Assessment, Method Statement, and Permit to Work

Before you undertake any job, make sure that your supervisor has briefed you, that you have a complete and valid risk assessment and that you are able to and do work according to your method statement.  Be aware that new risk assessments and method statements may be required where jobs have changed or where new hazards have been introduced.  In addition, certain work on site may require a permit or permission to work. These are issued after you have submitted a risk assessment and method statement for a particular job.  If you are unsure whether a particular job requires a permit, ask your supervisor or manager. 

Working at Height

You may remember that falls from height represent the single largest cause of death in the construction industry so Safe Working at Height is essential. It is therefore extremely important that you follow safe working practices when work at height cannot be avoided.  Always use an appropriate working platform or work equipment whenever there is a potential to fall, which includes loading and unloading of vehicles.    Always check your work platform before use, and be especially vigilant in windy, wet or icy weather.  Remember, the use of a harness requires extra competence and is a last resort.  If you operate powered access equipment you must have the appropriate training, certification and authorisation for that particular type of equipment.  You should also carry out and record a daily pre-use inspection.  Ensure that the access equipment is only used on stable ground, that it is not used in high winds, and never use it to lift or transport loads. In a boom type mobile elevated work platform you must wear a full body restraint harness secured to an anchor point by a suitable length, work restraint lanyard. Remember to park the mobile access equipment safely and to remove the key when the machine is not in use.  The use of ladders and stepladders is discouraged and may be permitted only where the task is simple, of short duration, and no safer alternative is possible.  Scaffolding, access ladders and mobile towers may only be erected, dismantled or modified by trained and competent persons.  Remember to lock the wheels and fit the guard rails and to check that the scaff tag is in date and valid. Close all loading bay gates after use and never load materials onto guard rails. 

Excavations and Quick Hitches

Safe working practices are essential when excavating.  Check and mark the location of services, protect services with barriers or road plates, dig trial holes to confirm location and depth and avoid the use of mechanical equipment, picks and forks around pipes and cables.  Don’t enter an excavation unless you have to.  If you do enter an excavation, make sure that the sides are battered, stepped or supported, use a ladder to gain access and put barriers around the edges if there is a potential to fall.

Buckets can become detached from excavators during operations if the appropriate locking pin or device is not properly fitted.  The excavator operator must ensure that the locking pin or device is correctly engaged and secure before commencing operations. 

Manual Handling

Workers in the construction industry suffer considerably higher rates of manual handling related injuries than workers in any other industry.  Help to protect yourself from injury by following good principles of manual handling.  If you must lift a load, assess whether you can lift it alone or whether you need someone to help you.  Remember to consider the environment in which you are working.  Always adopt the correct lifting technique. 

Your Health

Your health is as important as your safety.  Vibration white finger and dermatitis are too often suffered by construction workers.  Protect against these painful conditions by reducing your daily exposure to vibration, wearing the correct PPE and using barrier creams to protect yourself from contact with potential skin irritants such as cement.  Remember to apply sun cream if you are going to be working in direct sunlight. Wear an appropriate dust mask and use vacuums rather than sweeping to clear dust.  Check your tetanus vaccinations are up to date. Never touch discarded needles or syringes.  Stop work and clear any area if you discover a substance you think might be asbestos.  If you discover asbestos or discarded needles, please report this to site management. 

Riskatmedia – Safety Videos

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT PROPOSED WORKPLACE STANDARD REGARDING SILICA DUST

Our parent company, Texas America Safety Company, recently received this information, and we want to pass it on to our readers, because you can help.

As you may know, about 1.7 million workers in the United States each year are exposed to silica dust and run the risk of developing silicosis, lung cancer and other debilitating diseases. Public health experts estimate that 280 workers die each year from silicosis—and thousands more develop silicosis as a result of workplace exposures. 

But a proposed workplace standard on silica dust exposure from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been delayed for nearly two years as the Office of Management and Budget reviews the proposed standard.

Your membership and audience can help spur action on controlling this deadly workplace hazard by signing a White House “We the People” petition urging the Obama administration to move forward with the silica dust standard. 

Laborers (LIUNA) President Terry O’Sullivan says:

Any further delays in the rule-making process will only add to the death toll. The construction industry urgently needs stronger OSHA standards to prevent overexposure to silica dust. LIUNA and our supporters across the country will keep fighting for progress on this issue until a new safety standard is approved.

The petition requires 25,000 signatures by Feb. 11 to elicit a formal response from the White House. Click here to sign the petition. 

The current delay in moving ahead with a silica dust standard is just the latest in what is now a 15-year saga of trying to protect workers, even though the dangers of exposure to silica dust and the crippling and fatal lung disease it causes have been known for decades. 

At a Senate hearing last year focusing on the innumerable delays and roadblocks new OSHA safety standards must clear before becoming law—about eight years—Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, blasted corporate opposition to workplace safety laws and anti-worker lawmakers for blocking needed safety measures.

Today, rather than hearing outrage over worker deaths, we hear misinformation campaigns from corporate lobbyists about OSHA supposedly killing jobs. We see legislative proposals that call for blanket prohibitions on new regulations and proposals to add even more red tape to the regulatory process….We must come up with ways for OSHA to do its job without intimidation or interference.

Strategic Communications Department
Tad Kicielinski / Media Outreach Manager

Note: For your information, Blog4Safety wishes to explain more about silica dust to help in your decision regarding the petition:

What is crystalline silica?
Crystalline silica is a basic component of soil, sand, granite, and many other minerals. Quartz is the most common form of crystalline silica. Cristobalite and tridymite are two other forms of crystalline silica. All three forms may become respirable size particles when workers chip, cut, drill, or grind objects that contain crystalline silica.

What are the hazards of crystalline silica?
Silica exposure remains a serious threat to nearly 2 million U.S. workers, including more than 100,000 workers in high risk jobs such as abrasive blasting, foundry work, stonecutting, rock drilling, quarry work and tunneling. Crystalline silica has been classified as a human lung carcinogen. Additionally, breathing crystalline silica dust can cause silicosis, which in severe cases can be disabling, or even fatal.

What can employers/employees do to
protect against exposures to crystalline silica?

  • Replace crystalline silica materials with safer substitutes, whenever possible.
  • Provide engineering or administrative controls, where feasible, such as local exhaust ventilation, and blasting cabinets. Where necessary to reduce exposures below the PEL, use protective equipment or other protective measures.
  • Use all available work practices to control dust exposures, such as water sprays.
  • Wear only a N95 NIOSH certified respirator, if respirator protection is required. Do not alter the respirator. Do not wear a tight-fitting respirator with a beard or mustache that prevents a good seal between the respirator and the face.
  • Wear only a Type CE abrasive-blast supplied-air respirator for abrasive blasting.
  • Wear disposable or washable work clothes and shower if facilities are available. Vacuum the dust from your clothes or change into clean clothing before leaving the work site.
  • Participate in training, exposure monitoring, and health screening and surveillance programs to monitor any adverse health effects caused by crystalline silica exposures.
  • Be aware of the operations and job tasks creating crystalline silica exposures in your workplace environment and know how to protect yourself.
  • Be aware of the health hazards related to exposures to crystalline silica.
  • Smoking adds to the lung damage caused by silica exposures.
  • Do not eat, drink, smoke, or apply cosmetics in areas where crystalline silica dust is present. Wash your hands and face outside of dusty areas before performing any of these activities.
  • Remember: If it’s silica, it’s not just dust.

Source: OSHA

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

TIPS TO REMOVE ASBESTOS FROM GARAGE EASILY (GUEST POST)

Asbestos is natural mineral that is attributed to a few but very lethal diseases science has discovered so far. Mesothelioma is one of those diseases and is caused after decades of exposure to the mineral. Asbestos has been one of the widely used components in the building and construction industry since 1930s. The mineral in the form of sheets was specifically used in the making of garage roofs and ceilings. The utilization of the mineral paced up in the following years until it was as late as 1990s when the Government of USA put a ban on the use of Asbestos, fearing the adverse manifestations provoked by the mineral. Although the use of asbestos has been plunged down, the sight of old buildings and houses is not uncommon and even today every tenth house is found to have been built of 1950s or 1970s. When the dangers of asbestos are known, it just does not make sense to keep on living in a house that leaves its residents at a frequent exposure to asbestos. However, changing and abandoning a house is not always possible and feasible but what is feasible is to remove the asbestos from garages or wherever it is used. In the following text we discuss some very simple and easy tips to get rid of asbestos garage. 

  1. ‘DO IT YOURSELF’  a BIG  “NO”

The most important and the foremost thing to be taken in to consideration is that never EVER attempt to remove the asbestos sheets from the garage yourself. Since the beginning of 21st century, a number of contractors have emerged who offer the service of asbestos removal from the buildings. So, when you can always find an entity to help you through your objective, it wouldn’t be a wise decision to resort to ‘DIY’. Secondly, they are professionals and are qualified enough to do their chore safely and eliminating all the hazards posed by the mineral.

       2. Compensation in the expenses of Asbestos removal

The removal of asbestos from garages may cost you anywhere from tens of dollars to hundreds and thousands of dollars depending upon the size of the roof, area of the garage and other relevant factors. The cost may seem expensive enough to proceed with the removal process; however no compromise should be made when your health is at sake. For this reason, there are a number of organizations and councils that are willing to foot in the expenses. What can be better than that! So, if you have decided to get rid of the deadly mineral, and it’s the money that intrigues you; consult to any such council and grab what ever you can. 

  1. What substitutes you have?

In the instance that you do not totally support the idea of paying huge sums on the removal of asbestos, there is possibly another option open for you. Instead of asbestos removal, you can always resort to asbestos encapsulation, which is much more cheap and produces almost similar results. 

Author Bio: Roma Haswani is currently researching on mesothelioma lawsuit and he also helps people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma.

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

DIFFERENT TYPES OF RESPIRATORY EQUIPMENT DESIGNED TO LET YOU BREATHE EASIER (GUEST POST)

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Construction is a rewarding and essential line of work, but also a dangerous and difficult one in some cases. It’s no secret that there are multiple hazards to deal with on any given job site, but one that is especially common is the variety of risks to workers’ lungs and airways. Protecting the respiratory system of workers is vital not only for their personal health, but also for the longevity of the company that employs them. After all, endangering the health of workers by neglecting to provide them with proper respiratory equipment can lead to dire legal consequences.

Respiratory protection equipment is used to block a wide range of substances from entering the lungs of those who wearing them, including hazardous dust, fumes and vapors. Quality construction companies will know which ones are present on each job site, and will have the necessary equipment to handle each of these potentially harmful substances and fumes properly. These are the main types of respiratory equipment that are used on construction sites today.

Disposable Masks

The equipment that is used to protect a worker’s respiratory system can range from very basic masks to more complicated central ventilation systems. Air purifying respirators are generally the most common category of respirators used on most construction sites. In their most basic form, they are disposable masks that are meant for short-term use and are discarded after each day, or even multiple times during a single day of heavy use. The breathing process of the person who is wearing the mask naturally draws air through it, removing dust particles and debris.

Reusable Respirator Masks

The next step up from these disposable masks is reusable respirator masks. Essentially, they work the same as the disposable masks, as the user is responsible for breathing in the air that must be purified. The difference is that this type of mask is capable of blocking out more harmful materials than the disposable variety. The filters within these masks can be removed and replaced, and the masks can handle a variety of different filters that are specially designed to block specific substances. Some versions of these masks will sometimes leave an open area for the user’s eyes, while other models will have eye protection built in. Which is preferable depends on the work situation in which they’re being used.

Powered Respirators

Powered respirators are masks that use a powered blower to pull outside air into a filtration system. They usually include a mask unit that covers the entire face of the user, and they eliminate the need for the user to manually pull air into the system.

Atmosphere Supplying Respirators

The next step up from a powered respirator is an atmosphere-supplying respirator. This type of mask is connected to an external oxygen tank, and includes a built-in valve that lets users control the airflow into their mask. Atmosphere supplying respirators are used for jobs near more dangerous contaminates than air purifying respirators and powered respirators can handle.

Of course, each of these basic types of masks includes quite a few specific variations. Which masks will be necessary on a particular construction site depends on such factors as the air flow at that site, the contaminants in the air and the duties of the workers in question. Regardless, respiratory equipment is a vital aspect of any construction job that should be taken very seriously.

 By Maire Hunter

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

THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT TRAINS, PART I

Have you ever wondered as you drive down the highway about those trains you see rolling along, and what on earth could be in all those cars?  You also see lots of graffiti, done by some local “artists” along the way, and can’t help but question all the places that train has been.  One thing you need to understand, is that many of those cars are carrying hazardous materials, and in the event of a derailment, or spill, you need to drive away from the area as soon as possible. 

Railroad companies are overseen primarily by the Federal Railroad Administration, but also answer to the Department of Transportation, and the National Transportation Safety Board.  No person may transport a hazardous material in commerce unless that material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and placarded and is in condition for transportation according to DOT regulations.  Railroad Company computers are able to track the trains at all times. 

For your information, here are the hazard classes and divisions:

  • 1 – Explosives (1.1 – Explosive with mass explosion hazard; 1.2 – Explosive with projection hazard; 1.3 – Explosive with predominantly fire hazard; 1.4 – Explosive with no significant blast hazard; 1.5 – Very insensitive explosive; blasting agent, and 1.6 – Extremely insensitive detonating substance.)
  • 2. – Gases (2.1 – Flammable gas; 2.2 – Nonflammable, nonpoisonous, (nontoxic), compressed gas; and 2.3 – Poisonous (toxic) gas (by inhalation).
  • 3 – Flammable Liquids
  • 4 – Flammable Solids and Reactive Solids/Liquids (4.1 – Flammable solid; 4.2 – Spontaneously combustible material, and 4.3 – Dangerous when wet marked.)
  • 5 – Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides  (5.1 – Oxidizer; 5.2 Organic peroxide.)
  • 6 – Poisonous (Toxic) Materials/Infectious Substances (6.1 – Poisonous (Toxic) material; 6.2 – Infectious substance.
  • 7 – Radioactive Materials
  • 8 – Corrosive Materials
  • 9 – Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials

Worded Classes

Combustible Liquids (regulated in bulk packaging only)

ORM-D (Other Regulated Materials – D) (regulated in air transportation only; not regulated in rail transportation. 

Shipping hazardous materials are time-sensitive.  Those under a 20-day time limit to arrive are:

  • 1.      Ethylene, refrigerated liquid
  • 2.      Hydrogen, refrigerated liquid
  • 3.      Chloroprene, stabilized
  • 4.      Flammable liquid, N.O.S.
  • 5.      Hydrogen chloride, refrigerated liquid
  • 6.      Vinyl fluoride, stabilized

Those having a 30-day shipping limit are:

  1. Styrene monomer, inhibited
  2. Flammable Liquid, (Recycled styrene) 

When transporting hazardous material shipments in a train, a member of the train crew must also have acceptable emergency response information and a document showing the current position of each hazardous material in the train.  This documentation provides railroad and emergency response personnel with accurate information for every hazardous material being transported. 

Next, In Part II, we will talk about what type of training railroad crews experience to be prepared for a hazardous material spill caused by a railroad derailment or railroad car leak.  Please read on…..

Source: Daniel Burlison, Retired Manager, Train Operations 

 

 

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

THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT TRAINS – PART II

Occasionally, we hear about a train derailment, or the spill of a hazardous material from a train car.  Today, we will share typical instructions that are given to railroad personnel in case of such an occurrence.  First, the train crew should notify the train dispatcher of such a derailment and the location where the train crew will meet the emergency response personnel.  

SAFETY IS OF THE MOST IMPORTANCE.  (THIS MEANS SAFETY TO YOU, THE OTHER EMERGENCY RESPONSE PERSONNEL AND THE PUBLIC.) THE FIRE CHIEF IS IN COMMAND – DO NOTHING WITHOUT HIS AUTHORITY. 

As earlier mentioned, railroad authorities notify train personnel of such a derailment and the location of their crew. At the time the railroad company notifies the 911 dispatcher of a hazardous spill, the dispatcher must ask the railroad the location of the train conductor, who will have all the shipping papers in his possession. 

Know what you are dealing with first; do not get over anxious and go into an area with a derailed car that has hazardous material leaking.  Take note of the wind direction and which area should be evacuated first, should an evacuation be necessary.  Establish a command center at this point and notify all people involved with this incident of its location.  The evacuation should be handled by the local Police Department. 

It is the primary job of the railroad personnel to protect the public from fumes, fire or possible explosion that may occur from a hazardous material spill.  At some point the fire chief will determine if outside help (county, state, federal) is needed and notify the mayor to start the phone calls for assistance.  Containment and blockades will be the responsibility of the public works department. 

The spill area belongs to the emergency response personnel under the supervision of the fire chief until the proper hazardous material personnel arrive on the scene to take over.  The fire chief still remains in command of the area until such time as he and other specialists consider it safe.  Railroad personnel are highly trained and equipped for these situations, and should keep thing under control. 

If EMS personnel and ambulances are not immediately needed, they should wait in the immediate area of the command center and at the fire chief’s disposal.  Railroad company personnel should be equipped with the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) to ensure compliance with all safety requirements, as well as protection for their safety. 

In the event of an accident involving a train, there is no place for onlookers.  Keep a safe distance away, or find another route. 

Source: Daniel Burlison – Retired Manager, Train Operations

General Safety Issues, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

TOP SAFETY TIPS FOR DOMESTIC FUEL STORAGE AND USE (GUEST POST)

 New domestic fuel or gas tank owners often ask, where is a safe place to position my tank. Ideally it needs to be placed near the home for convenience, yet far enough not to cause damage in the occasion of a leak or spill. 

Spill containment is a serious safety measure that should always be considered when owning a fuel or gas tank. Fuel or gas spills can have a detrimental effect on the environment and the vicinity of which you reside in. They can destroy the local wildlife’s habitats and breeding grounds, and can affect any close by waterways. The impact the spill has on the environment can depend on many factors including the volume of the spill, the type and weight of the substance and the location. However, no matter how big or small the spill is it can cause long-term environmental damage. 

Fuel Spill Action Points 

  • Identify the source and assess the hazard
  • Ensure the safety of all persons
  • Check for fire risk
  • Move any machinery nearby
  • Wear necessary safety clothing and equipment before dealing with the spill
  • Stop any flow by sealing holes in containers, drums and bunds
  • Limit the spread of the spill
  • Protect any drinking water if applicable
  • Once safe notify a environmental officer where the source is, the volume of the spill and if there are any risks of fire
  • Contain the spills by using absorbents or building small dams

Once the fuel or gas has been contained try to recover as much oil as possible. This can be done using pumps to remove any spillage from the ground and then placed in a drum or using absorbent pads that are then discarded. 

Spill kits 

Due to the effects gas and fuel can have on the environment it is imperative that owners not only store hazardous liquids in an environmentally friendly manner, but also have some form of spill kit in case of an emergency. 

Oil and fuel absorbent spill kits are ideal for cleaning up spills. They contain all the tools you require to clean-up efficiently and leave little residue. Many spill kits include oil absorbent pads, socks or “booms” and a bag to dispose of the used absorbents. 

The location of a domestic tank is very important and we would always recommend that UK domestic and commercial oil users alike use an OFTEC registered engineer when installing an oil tank. 

Top safety tips for domestic fuel storage and use has been written by RPM Fuels and Tanks, who stock a variety of tanks, spill kits and spill pallets.