Category Archives: Uncategorized

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

The Dangers Of Golf Courses To The General Public

Golf is often described as one of the most relaxing sports to play, but there are perils lurking on every course and plenty of examples of horror stories of when things go wrong.
One story that recently came to light in Yorkshire, England featured a boy aged 11 who got stuck in the mud on a course and required assistance from the emergency services. Fortunately, the young lad emerged unscathed from his ordeal.
Here are a few other possible dangers to be mindful of while out and about playing golf:
Lightning
GUEST BLOG
Blog4Safety is always happy to receive articles from across the ocean; we know you will enjoy this one written by Matt Browne.
Matt is a copywriter with a journalism background, who forms part of  RightClub.co.uk’s team of experts who always come up with all manner of wonderful, weird, and downright crazy ideas.  We know you will enjoy Matt’s take on safety on the golf course.  Read on!  
 
Golf is often described as one of the most relaxing sports to play, but there are perils lurking on every course and plenty of examples of horror stories of when things go wrong.  One story that recently came to light in Yorkshire, England featured a boy aged 11 who got stuck in the mud on a course and required assistance from the emergency services. Fortunately, the young lad emerged unscathed from his ordeal.
Here are a few other possible dangers to be mindful of while out and about playing golf:
Lightning:
Lightning
Golf courses can be dangerous places if the weather suddenly takes a turn for the worse and it starts to thunder and lightning. Golfers are advised to seek shelter as quickly as possible if a thunderstorm does start and preferably get off the course altogether, steer clear of any lone trees, remove shoes with metal spikes on and leave their golf clubs well alone. Check the weather forecast before setting off on your UK golf breaks and act accordingly.
Golf carts:
Golf-Cart
No doubt many of you will have seen programmes such as Jackass when stunts in golf carts have been performed.  While this is an extreme example of the hazards associated with driving golf carts, it serves as a warning to be responsible when travelling around by cart. Drive at a sensible speed at all times, be mindful of other golfers in carts and resist the urge of some off-track fun as it could end in tears.
Sun exposure :
Sun-Exposure
Being open to the elements for hours at a time brings with it certain risks and exposure to the sun is a problem that golfers need to be aware of.  Spending lengthy periods in the sun without taking adequate measures to protect a golfer’s skin or eyes is irresponsible and dangerous. Carry a hat in your golf bag and have some sunblock on hand just to be on the safe side.  

Plant life and local wildlife:
Wildlife
There are certain places in the world where the local wildlife can pose a threat to the personal safety of golfers. Read this story, which tells what happened when an elderly golfer came into contact with an alligator in South Carolina a few years ago. There may also be a few nasty surprises waiting for golfers in the rough in terms of the plant life, while the uneven ground could cause a nasty slip, trip or fall.
A stray ball or club:
Stray-ball-or-club
The importance of being alert at all times during a round of golf should never be underestimated. A lapse of concentration can cost you dear if you end up being struck by a stray ball or even a club, depending on how close you’re standing to your fellow golfers.
 
Our thanks again to Matt Browne.  A personal thank you to Doug Turner, Texas America Safety Company and Blog4Safety, for his expertise and assistance.
 
 
General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

DO YOU HAVE TROUBLE “GETTING A GRIP” ON THINGS?

Lately, I have noticed pain in my right thumb and wrist.  Because I use a computer so often,  I am concerned that it could be carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).  Osteoarthritis could be another cause, but thankfully, there is relief for both.  The median nerve provides feeling and movement to the “thumb side” of the hand (the palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and thumb side of the ring finger).The area in your wrist where the nerve enters the hand is called the carpal tunnel. This tunnel is normally narrow,  so any swelling can pinch the nerve and cause pain, numbness, tingling or weakness. This is called carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is common in people who perform repetitive motions of the hand and wrist. Typing on a computer keyboard is probably the most common cause of carpal tunnel. The condition occurs most often in people 30 to 60 years old, and is more common in women than men.

Other causes include:

  • Sewing
  • Driving
  • Assembly line work
  • Painting
  • Writing
  • Use of tools (especially hand tools or tools that vibrate)
  • Sports such as racquetball or handball
  • Playing some musical instruments

Symptoms:

  • Numbness or tingling in the thumb and next two or three fingers of one or both hands
  • Numbness or tingling of the palm of the hand
  • Pain extending to the elbow
  • Pain in wrist or hand in one or both hands
  • Problems with fine finger movements (coordination) in one or both hands
  • Wasting away of the muscle under the thumb (in advanced or long-term cases)
  • Weak grip or difficulty carrying bags (a common complaint)
  • Weakness in one or both hands
  • Pain in thumb when trying to open a jar or door.

Don’t hesitate to consult with your doctor, if you have any of the above symptoms.  The doctor may find:

  • Numbness in the palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and thumb side of the ring finger
  • Weak hand grip
  • Tapping over the median nerve at the wrist may cause pain to shoot from the wrist to the hand (this is called Tinel’s sign)
  • Bending the wrist forward all the way for 60 seconds will usually result in numbness, tingling, or weakness (this is called Phalen’s test)

CTS symptoms may last beyond six months, but can be surgically relieved.  This procedure will release the pressure on the median nerve.  With older adults (me), osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage padding your finger and hand joints begin to wear away.  There are many home treatments.  Your physician may give you certain exercises that will help to lessen your hand pain.  Try hot or cold applications to ease pain, or splinting your thumb or wrist to give it a rest.  Ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin can all help to reduce the swelling of arthritis.  A cortisone shot will give longer-term relief.   Try to keep your joints active, before CTS or osteoarthritis “get a grip” on you!

Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians, American Society for Surgery of the Hand; National Institute on Aging; National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases,  AARP/Strive.

Eye Protection, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing, Uncategorized

COMPLIANCE – NOW, THAT’S WHAT WE’RE TALKIN’ ABOUT!

Most successful companies understand that the best way to meet compliance standards in regard to employees wearing their personal protective equipment is to furnish them some really “cool” products.  Products such as gloves, safety glasses, and hardhats that keep them safe while bringing out their personalities at the same time! 

We recently received the following note, which sets the example:   “I received the hardhat yesterday and I love it. It’s been the talk of the town here for the past two days in my motor pool in Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan. My 1stSgt, Co Gunny, and my CO all think it’s the coolest thing since sliced bread. It has not only provided my cranium protection, it’s given a sizable morale boost too to the Marines I work with. I wish to thank you one last time for ensuring its delivery here. I’d also like to thank your company for making the ordering process so easy and the site easy to navigate. Take care.”  (Goodness knows –  if anyone could use a lift, it’s our service personnel.) 

Many workers complain that their P.P.E. just doesn’t fit or look right.  Now, women’s products come in smaller sizes, from safety glasses to gloves and hardhats made just for them, some even in pink!  There are coveralls and other protective outerwear that is not just “one size fits all.”  Because people come in all sizes, companies should have their safety leaders include part of the workforce to make the decisions in the products they select.  It is unsafe for workers to have to perform their jobs in clothing that doesn’t fit.  Loose gloves and clothing can become caught in moving equipment. 

If companies allow their employees to wear, for example, say, hardhats that have sports team logos on them, it lets workers show support for their team, which in turn, might cause a little competition, along with a winning spirit.  We hope this encourages others to be aware that all safety glasses are not “Plain Janes.”  There are so many cool styles of glasses that surpass those found in optical stores, because not only do they look good, but furnish UV safety, as well as protect the eyes from foreign objects.  The look of safety equipment depends on the materials it is made from.  Therefore, many types of gloves and goggles or glasses are designed for protection and not style.  Whether they are industrial grade or medical grade gloves or outer clothing, chemists, medical personnel, food handling workers, and others who are engaged in types of work that require these special protective barriers are happy to wear them, knowing they are protected.  

The main concern toward keeping employees safe is to ensure they are compliant with safety rules.  PPE is the last line of defense when it comes to protection.  However, it won’t protect them if they don’t wear it!  The employee is responsible to know how to use this PPE for the particular purpose it was designed.  It is the responsibility of the company’s safety leader to ensure that they are trained and understand how to take care of their PPE, knowing when it is damaged and how it can be repaired if possible, or replaced when necessary.  It can be much more fun when workers to get to wear some type of PPE that puts a smile on everyone’s face.   

We thank our Marine for the kind words regarding the hardhat he ordered.  It is our hope that he and his buddies remain safe and return home soon!

General Safety Issues, High Visibility Safety, Uncategorized

A BIT OF HALLOWEEN HISTORY

Every year Halloween is celebrated on the 31st of October. The origins of Halloween can be traced all the way back to the 5th century BC. The celebration was originally adopted by the Romans in the first century AD. Two different Roman traditions that took place in October became a single holiday. The practice of dressing up a costume began a more ceremonial role as the belief in spirit possession lessened.

The distinct American version of Halloween has its origins in the separate beliefs and customs among many different European ethnic groups and the American Indians, which led to the history of the act of trick or treating. Kicking off early celebrations were public events that celebrated the harvest. Neighbors would often gather and share tales of the dead, reiterate ghost stories, and enlighten each other with fortunes.

In the United States, European immigrants had introduced Halloween by the 1840’s. The immigrants brought with them an assortment of holiday traditions and customs. Due to rigid religious beliefs during this time period, the act of celebrating Halloween was greatly restricted.  Irish immigrants to the United States began the popularization of the celebration nationally. The traditions of the Irish and English led to trick or treating. People would go house to house asking for food or money.

Trick or Treating is a great way for kids to have fun; however Halloween is no longer restricted to the kids, as adults dress up and attend Halloween parties to have fun and impress coworkers, friends, and peers.  Also, the expense of this holiday has expanded.  According to the National Retail Federation, an estimated $6.9 billion nationwide will be spent to celebrate All Hallows Eve.  Their figures for 2010 showed Halloween decorations brought in $1.6B, and candy sales amounted to $1.8B.  This means that it has since become the second largest commercial holiday in the United States.  Many people enjoy decorating their homes. It is common to see pumpkins carved, hay, straw, spider webs, strobe lights, and scary masks. People will often even try to scare others who are trick or treating at their home. Men, women, and children attend costume parties and wear disguises to both school and work. Haunted Houses have also become largely popular – where people walk through the dark and try to not get too scared and freaked out.

Like all holidays, Halloween is one to be enjoyed but should not be taken too lightly. Candy could potentially be harmful and must be inspected before given to children. In addition, parents need to follow their children while they are trick or treating. It is also essential to take the time to make sure the children wear costumes that are bright and colorful, sometimes by adding some high-visibility decals or stickers. 

We wish all little goblins a “Happy and Safe Halloween,” and for you big “ghouls and boys,” make it a safe one, as well!  See you in November!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

A TIME TO REMEMBER; A TIME TO PREPARE

September is National Preparedness Month and this year’s theme is “A Time to Remember. A Time to Prepare.”  Sunday, September 11, was a very sad day, a reminder of the tragedy caused by terrorists who cold-heartedly took the lives of thousands of hard-working people.  It certainly was an event we will always remember with compassion.  This year’s theme of National Preparedness Month not only asks us to remember, but be prepared. 

Editor’s Note: I found this article, written by John Mintz, published in the Washington Post, July 29, 2004, regarding Family Emergency Preparedness.  As you continue, bear in mind the date this was written, and see if you don’t agree that public apathy toward being prepared continues today?

Are you prepared?

If you’re not prepared, which one of the following categories – defined by the American Red Cross – fits you?

  • Head scratcher – Doesn’t know where to find preparedness advice
  • Head in the sand – Believes preparation is unimportant
  • Head in the clouds – Mistakenly believes they are ready
  • Headset crowd – Too busy and can’t find time to prepare
  • Heady unawareness – People who “simply haven’t thought about preparedness”

Planning for your basic needs

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, www.dhs.gov  or www.ready.gov  lists six general categories of readiness for disaster. Begin your planning with:

  • Water and food
  • Portable kit
  • Supply checklists
  • Special needs items
  • Safe Indoor Air

To get preparedness information locally, pick up planning guides at local fire stations or American Red Cross.

The percentage of Americans who have created an emergency plan for a terrorist attack has dropped in the last year, along with the proportion of Americans who believe terrorists may strike near their home or workplace, according to two new studies released July 20, 2004.

Civil preparedness experts said these and other numbers are going in precisely the wrong direction, with U.S. authorities warning that al-Qaeda is determined to strike the United States this fall (2004) . The information was released at a conference at George Washington University.

“We need to narrow the universe of the unprepared, of those we need to worry about in a catastrophic situation, and it is not going to be easy,” Red Cross President Marsha Evans said in a speech outlining her group’s survey on emergency preparedness. “Every one of those unprepared Americans is a potential barrier to the effectiveness of our response to any disaster.”

The Red Cross survey, conducted last month by Wirthlin Worldwide, found that the percentage of Americans who have created a family emergency plan on where to meet after a terror strike has dropped from 40 percent in August 2003 to 32 percent today (2004).

The percentage of people who expressed concern that terrorists might strike near their home or workplace has declined more dramatically, from 71 percent immediately after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks to about half today, according to a separate poll also released July 20 by the non-profit Council for Excellence in Government.

Preparedness specialists believe that the number of people readying themselves for the aftermath of a terrorist attack has dropped as time has passed since the Sept. 11 strike without another attack on the United States.

U.S. officials and counter-terrorism specialists say encouraging Americans to stockpile supplies for an attack, prepare themselves emotionally and take action to ready their families is vital to both self-protection and bouncing back from any strike that does occur.The Red Cross poll also found that the percentage of people who had assembled home emergency kits remained stable between 2003 and this year (2004), at 42 percent. But only one in 10 families have taken all three steps considered crucial for preparation: creating emergency kits and family plans for reuniting after a disaster, as well as getting training in first aid, the Red Cross study said.

Some public-relations experts said stepped-up marketing efforts for such citizen involvement could ingrain terror preparedness into the popular consciousness just as the ad campaigns to buckle seatbelts in the 1980s had children reminding their parents to secure their safety restraints. Those ads are credited with increasing seatbelt use from 10 percent in 1981 to 79 percent in 2003.

 A recent poll (2004), found that about 90% of Americans doubt that they would leave their homes during a terrorist attack, even if asked by government officials to do so.

Do you think these figures are the same, better, or worse today?  Where do you stand?

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized, Weather Protection

SUNSHINE AND CERTAIN MEDICATIONS DON’T MIX!

We have mentioned UVA and UVB rays in several articles and the damage that they can do to your skin and eyes.  Another consideration to factor in is what can happen if you are taking certain medications and are exposed to the sun.  We all worry about skin cancer, but there are other sun illnesses that can occur.  Because of some of the ingredients in certain medications, and depending on the sensitivity of a person, even a very brief exposure to the sun or using a tanning booth or sunlamp can cause a person to experience a burn. 

According to Dr. Mehmet Oz, in a recent article in AARP Magazine, there are three types of sun illnesses: phototoxicity, photoallergy and sun-induced eczema.  Also,  Brian Adams, M.D., a University of Cincinnati dermatologist, reports that some of the most common causes of a phototoxic reaction (sunburn) related to medication ingestion are the tetracyclines, (antibiotics).  This is frequently experienced, minutes to hours after UV exposure, causing pain and exacerbated sunburn.  Photoallergy and sun-induced eczema are more rare, and occur either gradually, over time, or one to two days after UV exposure, and can occur to either sun-exposed skin or anywhere on skin.  Their main symptoms are itching and redness, rash, and possibly blistering. 

According to Dr. Oz, dermatologists think long-term, intense sun exposure may alter our skin in such a way that our immune system no longer recognizes it as our own.  Sun-induced eczema occurs when your entire immune system goes haywire, causing itchy, red skin, or in some cases, blisters.  This is more common in older men who have a history of working outdoors, or women who love to sunbathe.  

This is a list of the types of medications that can irritate your skin if you are taking or using:

  • NSAIDS;
  • Antibiotics;
  • Statins;
  • Hypoglycemics;
  • Diuretics;
  • Sunscreens – containing para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), cinnamates, benzophenones, salicylates.
  • Fragrances, such as musk ambrette, 6-methylcoumarin, sandalwood. 

Fragrances, you wonder?  A sun allergy, called a photoallergy, comes on more slowly but can be dangerous.  This type of sensitivity usually happens when UV rays convert a chemical, such as a fragrance on your skin, into a substance that your immune system decides to attack, which results in an itchy, red rash that takes several days to go away. 

Experts at the University of Cincinnati report that sunscreen is designed for use under normal circumstances, and certain medications can cause abnormal conditions.  Because we have no preliminary test for knowing what type of reaction a person will have, experience can be hazardous.  The experts say the best defense is to avoid the sun altogether when taking medications recognized as producing an adverse reaction.  If you absolutely have to be out in the sun, take precautions with additional sunscreen and sunblock, paying attention to the face by using zinc oxide on sensitive areas such as the mouth, nose and ears.  Wearing a hat and sun protective clothing is always recommended. 

The American Skin Cancer’s website has a list of medications that can cause adverse reactions to sunlight.  One other thing to remember, (for next winter): some of the worst cases occur in the winter, when skiers, who are on these medications, do not apply any sunscreen to exposed parts of their face because, in part, they think it is too cold to sunburn. 

Source: AARP Magazine

             University of Cincinnati

 

 

 

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Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

THEME FOR NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH – JUNE 19 – 25: PREVENTING SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS

Slips, trips, and falls represent the most common cause of workplace injuries, behind  motor vehicle accidents.  Slips, trips, and falls can result in head, back, and neck injuries, as well as broken bones, cuts and bruises.  According to the National Safety Councils’ 2008 injury facts, the average workers’ comp costs for slips, trips, and falls, was $21,500.  So we’re not talking about minor incidents. 

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety reports that 60% of falls happen at the same floor level.  The other 40% are falls from heights.  Even the slightest change in elevation surface (1/4” to ½”) can cause a trip or fall.  Caution signs should be placed in obvious areas to avert falls.  Those who work at heights should wear some form of personal fall arrest system – harness, lanyards, tie-off slings, etc. – one that fits the particular job best.  Falls from ladders, roofs, stairs, or jumping to a lower level causes many injuries.  Each of these risks demand different considerations in a fall arrest program.   Many homes have areas with lower-level family rooms, which are hazardous for visitors.  Homeowners should warn them to “watch their step” while visiting.  

Good housekeeping in a business is vital.  If these practices are not enforced, other administrative control measures implemented will never be fully effective.  Safety and housekeeping go hand in hand.  This is extremely true, especially when addressing the serious issue of slips, trips and falls.  If the facility’s housekeeping habits are poor, the result may well be employee injuries, rising insurance costs, and regulatory citations.  If the facilities are noticeably clean and well organized, it is a good sign that its overall safety program is effective as well.  Disorderly work environments can negatively impact the morale of employees who must function in a job site that is dirty, hazardous, and poorly managed.  Because slips, trips, and falls occur more than any other occupational injury, it makes good sense for the company to ensure that employees comply with a good housekeeping program.  This is a plan that should be part of each worker’s daily performance.  If each individual does his/her part to keep work areas clean, the housekeeping program will be a success.  The same rule applies to our homes.  If we don’t place things in their right place, someone is going to come along and trip over something that shouldn’t have been there.  Nightlights are good for preventing falls (or running into a wall) for overnight visitors who could get lost in the darkness in your home. 

Most falls can be prevented.  All we should do is follow this simple rule: watch where we are going!  We take walking for granted, so we pay little attention to potential hazards.  Here are some common fall hazards cited by the National Safety Council that we should watch for:

  • Hidden steps;
  • Wet spots;
  • Smooth surfaces;
  • Loose, irregular surfaces;
  • Oil and grease.
  • Obstacles in walkways;
  • Electrical cords in walkways;
  • Aisles that have boxes stacked and left in the way;
  • File cabinet drawers left open;
  • Tools left out. 

Many workers are required to wear protective footwear on the job.  Shoes that have slip-resistant soles help prevent  injuries.  Safety footwear is designed to protect feet against the most common types of injuries, impact, compression and puncture.  It is important to choose footwear according to the hazards present, but also be sure it is comfortable enough to wear for several hours.  

Tomorrow we will delve into this serious subject a little bit more.  Until then, stay safe, and remain upright!

 

SOURCES: CCOHS, SORM (Sstate Office of Risk Management, Texas), OSHA

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

LET’S TALK ABOUT SAFETY AND SWIMMING!

New research shows that swimmers may live longer than runners and walkers! Researchers thought that swimmers and runners would have a lower risk of dying, but they were surprised that the swimmers had a statistically significant lower death rate than runners.  This serves as an inspiration to hop right into that pool where you can get year-round, low-impact aerobic therapy, or just take a few laps,  and hope to live longer!  Low-impact exercise in pools doesn’t strain your lower joints as intensely as running and walking.  This certainly doesn’t mean to give up your running or walking, but it gives you another reason to jump on into a new method of exercise.  Some persons can’t walk or run because of arthritis, so this would be a way for them to get some healthy and fun exercise.

Swimming is such an important activity for young people, and it is very important that children learn to swim.  Parents can teach them at a very young age to not be afraid of water, by accompanying them in the pool, and using floaties, tubes, etc. to keep them afloat.  Swim lessons are vital to everyone to be able to enjoy boating, and other water activities.  Swimming and other water-related activities are excellent ways to get the physical activity needed for a healthy life, and millions of people enjoy oceans, lakes, rivers, pools, and spas each year.  Listed is information from the Centers for Disease Control regarding information about swimming and the risks involved, such as drowning, water-related diseases, and sunburn:

  • There are 8.8 million residential and public-use swimming pools in the United States.
  • Drowning is the 2nd leading cause of all unintentional injury deaths in children aged 1-14 years and the 7th leading cause of unintentional injury death for all ages.
  • Among 0-4 year olds, 69% of drownings for which the location was known occurred in swimming pools. (Many home pools.)
  • There are over 6.6 million hot tubs in operation in the United States.
  • Sunburn is a risk factor for both basal cell carcinoma and melanoma (types of skin cancer). In 2003, a total of 45,625 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed in the United States, and 7,818 persons died from the disease . (Please use sunscreen!)
  • Over 12 percent (13,532 of 111,487) of pool inspections conducted during 2008 resulted in an immediate closure, pending the correction of the violations.
  • A total of 78 recreational water-associated outbreaks affecting 4,412 persons were reported to CDC for 2005-2006, the largest number of outbreaks ever reported in a 2-year period.
  • Of 48 recreational-water associated outbreaks of gastroenteritis during 2005-2006, 64.6% were caused by one chlorine-resistant parasite: Cryptosporidium..
  • Of 35 gastroenteritis outbreaks associated with treated (for example, chlorinated) recreational water venues, 82.8% were caused by Cryptosporidium .
  • Because of its resistance to chlorine, Cryptosporidium (Crypto) has become the leading cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks associated with swimming pool venues. Reporting of cryptosporidiosis cases increased 208 percent from 2004 (3,411) to 2008 (10,500).
  • In the United States in 2007, almost 32 million individuals participated in motor or power boat activities .
  • In 2006, 3,474 persons were injured and 710 died while boating .
  • The U.S. Coast Guard’s 2006 statistics stated that approximately 87 percent of boaters who drowned were not wearing life jackets.

Never leave a child unattended at a swimming pool.  Always check  that the swimming pool water has been tested for Crypto.  Water activities are a lot of fun, but can be dangerous if not taken seriously.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

YOUR QUIET NEIGHBOR – PIPELINES!

You have probably seen this sign in your town or neighborhood: “Know what’s below, Call 811 before you dig.”  Did you know that there are more than 200,000 miles of liquid petroleum pipelines and 300,000 miles of natural gas pipelines in the United States?  The National Transportation Safety Board says that pipelines are the safest method for transporting these products.  Pipelines have a safety record unparalleled by any other means of transporting energy products.  When these products are transported by other methods, there is a greater risk to the environment and the general public.  About 24 per cent of all the energy used in the U.S. is natural gas, and gas utilities serve more than 60 million customers.  Because Americans consume more than 700 million gallons of petroleum products per day, pipelines are an essential component of our nation’s infrastructure. 

Most pipelines are made of steel, often covered with protective coating, and buried underground.  They are tested and maintained using cleaning devices, diagnostic tools, and other methods to control corrosion.  Interstate pipelines have an integrity management plan; you may contact them directly for more information.  In addition to liquid petroleum and natural gas, pipelines transport a variety of products for our everyday lives, such as oxygen for hospitals.  They may contain other types of gases, chemicals, hazardous liquids, refined products or crude oil, as well as nonflammable products.  Some of these materials could cause environmental damage, if a leak occurred.  Other products may be highly flammable or harmful if inhaled, cause eye or skin irritation and possible difficulty breathing.  Because of these hazards, it is important that you know how to recognize a pipeline leak. 

Using your sense of smell, sight, and sound will help you to be aware of a suspected leak.  If you see a dense fog, mist, or white cloud over a pipeline, bubbling in water and creeks, or blowing dust and discolored vegetation around the pipeline, there may be a leak.   Frozen ground at the pipeline in warm weather is another indicator.  Natural Gas is naturally odorless, so a distinct gaseous odor may be added unless a hydrocarbon smell exists, but usually you will smell a very unpleasant odor.  A whistling, hissing or roaring noise coming from the pipeline is also a sign of a leak. 

Here’s what to do if a leak occurs:

  •          Leave the area immediately.
  •          From a safe location, call 911 and the pipeline company, if possible.
  •          Move upwind from the suspected leak.
  •          Warn others to stay away.
  •          Assist with traffic, medical help, evacuation, or shelter.
  •         Keep curious onlookers away.

Here’s what NOT to do if a leak occurs:

  •          Do not touch, breathe, or make contact with leaking liquids or gas.  Stay upwind if possible.
  •          Do not light a match, start an engine, use a cell phone, turn on or off any type of electrical switch such as a  garage door opener, or do anything that may create static or a spark.
  •          Do not attempt to extinguish any pipeline fire that may start.
  •          Do not drive into a leak or vapor cloud area.  Automobile engines may ignite the vapors.
  •          Do not attempt to operate valves. 

Most pipelines are monitored 24 /7 per week to ensure the integrity and security of these lines.  Sophisticated computers, alarms, meters, and satellite technology may be used to control and monitor pipeline systems.  They are designed to detect changes in pressure and flow and will be activated if a leak is detected.  Some lines contain automatic shut-off valves that will isolate a leak.   Pipeline markers are placed for your safety, to show the approximate location of the lines and name the companies that operate them. They indicate the material transported in the line, the name of the operator, and a phone number where the company can be reached in the event of an emergency.  It is a federal crime for any person to willfully deface, damage, remove or destroy any pipeline sign or right-of-way marker. 

Call 811 before you dig.  Whether you are starting a project, landscaping, building fences or other projects, pipelines have a right of way that must be kept free from structures and other obstructions to provide access to the pipeline for maintenance, as well as in the event of an emergency.  First, call the pipeline company in order for their personnel to mark the pipeline or stake the rights-of-way and explain the company’s construction and easement requirements to you. 

One last thing: the Nation’s Infrastructures, including pipelines, are a matter of National Security.  If you witness a suspicious activity on pipeline rights-of-way, please report it to the pipeline company.  Threat advisories may be found at the Department of Homeland Security’s website, Source:  Texas Excavation Safety System

 

 

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

CLEANING UP AFTER A FLOOD IS NOT “CLEAN”

The Mississippi River has crested at 48′ at this time, and the main part of the city is safe, thanks to levees and walls that are holding firm.  Many residents in outlying areas, however, have been evacuated from their homes, which are now underwater.

If you have ever seen the remnants of buildings that have been flooded, you know that it is a huge mess!  Some that I have seen looked the same as if they had been ravaged by a tornado.  There are so very many dangers lurking for those rescue, recovery and volunteer personnel that we cannot emphasize enough the importance of precautions that should be taken to stay safe. 

After flooding, the strength of the waters may have moved and/or buried hazardous waste and chemical containers far from their normal storage places.  This is a risk for anyone who comes into contact with them, and should be handled only by the police or fire department.  Flooded areas may also contain electrical or fire hazards connected with downed power lines.  Extreme caution should be exercised with these particular hazards, which hold the potential for fires and explosions. 

Floods can cause sickness in those workers who come in contact with contaminated floodwater.  This can be caused by the disruption of water purification and sewage systems, overflowing of toxic waste sites, and dislodgement of chemicals previously stored above ground.  This being said, workers should be aware that floodwater can contain infectious organisms, which include intestinal bacteria such as Salmonella, Shigella, E.coli, Heptitis A virus, and agents of typhoid, paratyphoid, and tetanus.  It is important that workers’ tetanus shots are current.  Tetanus can be acquired from contaminated soil or water entering broken areas of the skin.  This is an infectious disease that affects the nervous system and causes severe muscle spasms, known as lockjaw. 

Pools of standing or stagnant water also become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which can cause West Nile virus or other mosquito-borne diseases.  By wearing long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and using insect repellants, the threat of mosquito and other insect bites can be decreased.  Workers should also be alert for animals that have been displaced by the flood –  frightened, and prone to biting someone.  Seek immediate medical care for all animal bites.  (And be sure to watch for cottonmouth snakes, they have been seen often in the flooding Mississippi.)

Cleanup workers may need to wear special chemical resistant clothing and protective goggles.  They should also have on plastic or rubber gloves, boots, and other protective clothing needed to avoid contact with floodwater.  In addition to toxic and chemical wastes, agricultural wastes may be in floodwater.  Children should never be allowed to play in floodwater.  All toys recovered must be disinfected. 

All water should be considered unsafe until local authorities announce that the public water supply is not dangerous.  Keep an adequate supply of safe water available for washing and potable water for drinking.  Do not use contaminated water to wash and prepare food, brush your teeth, wash dishes, or make ice.  If you are unsure about the safety of a food or beverage, throw it out.  

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provides emergency personnel to assist with restoring power and other tasks in disaster areas.  Their engineering expertise is used for inspecting and assessing damage and clean up in disaster areas.  They recommend that workers wear appropriate life-saving equipment, such as vests, when working around deep water or where the currents are swift.  

This is a very unpleasant job for all persons concerned, especially those who citizens who have watched their homes and property disappear right before their eyes.  We hope that those who have been warned to leave will do so, and seek shelter until it is safe to return, and know that help is on its way.