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General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

WHAT’S BLOWING IN THE WIND?

In many sections of the United States, you have probably seen these tall, windmill-looking structures on the landscape. They look very peaceful, gracefully creating a new type of power to help energize our country.

Wind turbines have been used in Europe for a number of years, and in the past several years have become popular in the U.S.  Mechanical power from windmills is used to pump water, energy for grinding, etc.

Working opposite of a fan, which makes wind, turbines use wind to make electricity.  The huge blades spin a shaft inside, which connects to a generator and makes electricity.  A large group of these turbines contribute energy to the utility grid of power companies, and in turn, are distributed to homes, schools, and businesses.

  1. For persons who are contemplating using this type of energy, there are many things to be considered. The cost of interconnecting with the electric company, insurance in case the turbine causes damage or problems to utility systems, and liability insurance for damage to nearby properties.
  2. One of the hazards of the turbines are icing of blades, which could result in shedding of ice.Severe weather might cause problems.
  3. Blade throws are another hazard mentioned; however, these wind turbines are state-of-the-art and very safe. Equipped with sensors, blade throws are virtually non-existent.  The turbines have controllers that start the turbine when the wind is 8 to 16 MPH, and stop it if the wind reaches 55 MPH, due to risk of damage.
  4. Lastly, studies have been done by several medical experts that in certain cases, there is a correlation between persons who have been exposed for long periods of time to low frequency noise and vibration and living too close to a wind farm, that have experienced health problems.

Because every contractor is concerned with safe operations, the wind energy industry poses unique safety concerns.  The size of the propellers and remote location of the wind farms are two issues.  There has been a lack of a cohesive industrial study for wind project safety; however, a process has recently begun by an ANSI A10 subcommittee made up of wind industry experts and safety professionals.  As with any industry, training and planning are key elements to successful safety programs.

Issues being considered are:

  • On-Site Rescue: because of their remote locations, emergency personnel are not close by or may not be equipped with tools necessary to rescue persons from high structures.  Personnel of the contractor must be trained and able to reach injured workers, getting them to the ground and ready for local EMS to take over.
  • Weather Planning: Because some of the farms are located where harsh conditions exist, such as high winds, dust, ice, rain, the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment must be used, and workers must be trained to recognize when weather circumstances exceed safe working conditions.
  • Multiple Contractors: Several specialty contractors are involved in building wind farms, and all have to work in close proximity with each other.  Each contractor should know what hazards are present in the project, and communicate this information with all other contractors.  Communication is necessary to have successful safety performances.

It will be fascinating to see how many more of these wind farms will be built.  It’s a great plan to help with the demand for energy that is needed to keep our country going.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

RIDE LIKE THE WIND!

Kids of all ages love to ride on ATV’s (All-Terrain Vehicle, 3 or 4 wheels).  Before you hit the trail, however, there’s a lot to think about, safety being primary.  ATV accidents cause hundreds of deaths and thousands of emergency room visits yearly.

In our area not too long ago, a couple riding together on an ATV out in the country were unable to stop when they suddenly turned onto a road and hit the back of a dump truck.  The driver of the truck saw them coming from a side road and tried to veer out of the way, but they were coming pretty fast.  When the ATV driver tried to stop, the girl was thrown off the ATV and hit the back of the truck.  The rider was not hurt but the girl lost her life.  If they had been more aware of the risks involved, maybe this could have been avoided.

Here’s some Do’s and Don’t’s that could make a difference:
DO:

  • Get properly trained.  Drivers that have had formal training have a lower risk of injury.
  • Always wear protective gear.  Head injuries are a risk, so you should purchase a helmet that is certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Snell Memorial Foundation, or American National Standards Institute.
  • Wear other types of clothing such as ankle boots, goggles, gloves, long pants and long-sleeved shirts.  They help avoid cuts and abrasions, as well as injuries from rocks, trees, and other debris.
  • Be sure the ATV fits you like a glove.  Many accidents are caused because an ATV is too large for the rider.  Grip reach, throttle reach, and brake reach are very important.  There should be the right clearance between the seat and your inseam to stand up to properly absorb shock while riding in rough terrain.  Clearance should be 3” to 6” when standing.  Get advice from the dealer to be sure you choose the right size.
  • Go by ATV Safety Institute recommendations for appropriate age/engine size:  Age 6 and older to 70 cc’s; Age 12 and older to 90 cc’s, and Age 16 and older to 90 cc’s and up.

DON’T:

  • Take kids on adult ATV’s. One-third of all ATV-related deaths and emergency room injuries are kids.  Those under age 16 that ride on adult ATV’s are twice as likely to be hurt as those who ride youth ATV’s.
  • Ride tandem. Most ATV’s are designed to carry only one person, who is able to shift weight more freely in all directions.  Interactive riding is critical to maintain safe control, especially on varying terrains.  Passengers make it hard for the driver to control the vehicle.
  • Ride on pavement; it is very difficult to control an ATV on paved roads and there’s the threat of collision with cars or other vehicles.  Many fatal ATV accidents happen on paved roads.
  • Ride under the influence of drugs/alcohol; reaction time and judgment are impaired, plus, it’s illegal.

ATV’s do not handle the same as a motorcycle.  Most savvy riders will acknowledge that knowing how to properly drive either an ATV or motorcycle through getting the right training is very important.  You wouldn’t put a kid in a car and tell him to put it in Drive and take off, would you?  The old saying of “sink or swim” doesn’t cut it in today’s world.  Take the time to learn “safety first”, and you’ll have hours and hours of fun while “riding like the wind!”

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SMILE….YOU’RE ON “COPS” CAMERA!

Most often, if and when you get pulled over by a police officer, you are probably not going to be in a very good mood, because chances are, that patrol car has an onboard camera.  The fact that you are the star of the show may not be much fun – you really don’t want to be known as a speedster, and you sure don’t want your friends to see you if you’ve had too much to drink!

Currently, there are more than 600 law enforcement motorcycle officers across the United States that are equipped with clip-on video cameras.  The clip-on video cameras are also being utilized by private security companies, firefighters, and insurance adjusters, as well as motorcycle police.  In Texas, 45 to 50 law enforcement agencies are using the Vievu cameras.

Law enforcement has come a long way…. They first wore voice recorders attached to their uniform shoulders, and later, video cameras were placed in patrol cars.  The price for this type of camera ranges from $699 to $899, and $500 for extra hard drive storage.  There’s one switch, no wires, and the camera holds up to four hours of video.  With an average traffic stop taking only 2 to 3 minutes, they easily have enough room for a 10-hour shift.  The video can then be downloaded from the camera to a computer.

Not knowing how people are going to react to a traffic stop, these cameras document how everyone behaves: the driver, as well as the officer.  The clip-on cameras are a great way to protect the motorist, city, and police officer.

So next time, you get pulled over by a motorcycle officer, smile, because you may just be on “Cops Camera”.  Drive safely, don’t text while driving, pay attention, and you might just avoid being a film star!

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

TIPS FOR SAFELY “UNDECORATING”

This is the perfect time to remind you to be very cautious when taking down Christmas lights and decorations.  The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission notes that thousands of persons are treated annually in emergency rooms, doctors’ clinics, and other medical facilities due to injuries caused from improper ladder use.  Since ladders are the most important apparatus you use when doing this type of work, we want to share this information with you, to help you be sure that you use the right kind:

  • Industrial – heavy duty with a load capacity of not more than 250 lbs. – Type I.
  • Commercial – medium duty with load capacity of not more than 225 lbs. (such as painting or other tasks) – Type II.
  • Household – light duty with load capacity of not more than 200 lbs. – Type III.
  • Stepladders – ideal for chores in the house or office.  A stepladder makes a good choice for many duties: they are easy to manage and take up little storage space.  Be sure to try it in the store before you purchase it, because you want to be sure it is comfortable and feels stable to climb.

Aluminum ladders are the most durable, but they conduct electricity.  Wood ladders are popular, but they eventually may rot.  The most durable and non-conductive ladders are fiberglass.  Always be sure to inspect stored ladders for cracks or breaks.

Other tips on the use of ladders include:

  • Don’t go higher than the 2nd rung on a stepladder or 3rd rung on a straight or extension ladder.
  • Never stand on top or on the paint shelf of a ladder.
  • Do not leave ladders unattended.  Children love to try them out!
  • Maintain 3-point contact while climbing a ladder. (Either 2 hands and a foot, or two feet and one hand.)
  • Stay in the center of the ladder at all times.
  • If you work in an office, or at home, please, please don’t use a chair to change a light bulb or reach something. Find the stepladder, it’s much safer!

According to OSHA, falls from step, straight, combination and extension ladders are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries.  As we all know, accidents happen at home, as well, and might have devastating outcomes.  Play it safe as you take down the trimmings; because time flies, you’ll soon be putting them back up again.

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HELLO, 2010!

We are ready to bid 2009 farewell, and look forward to 2010!  We hope you all survived the holidays, and are ready to gear up for another year.  Let’s all hope that this year brings financial stability to our country, a chance for peace in order for our troops to come home, and a political establishment that will make good decisions for the entire country.  There are many hard-working Americans that just want us to all be on a fair playing field.  For those who are without work, let’s hope that you find a job soon.

Here are some interesting observances that January presents.  We’d like to pass them on:

  • National Birth Defects Prevention Month, (March of Dimes)
  • National Blood Donor Month
  • Cervical Health Awareness Month
  • Crime Stoppers Month
  • Eye Health Month
  • Fiber Focus Month
  • Glaucoma Awareness Month (Prevent Blindness America)
  • Thyroid Disease Awareness Month

If you know someone who has any of the above health problems, get involved and see if you can help!  We call need to be “Crime Stoppers” every day and be more aware of things that happen around us.

Here’s a little “January Trivia”, Days of Interest:

  • 1st – New Years’ Day, Of Course!
  • 15th – First Superbowl game (Green Bay Packers beat the Kansas City Chiefs, 1967)
  • 18th – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • 19th – Texas State Holiday – Confederate Heroes Day
  • 24th – California Gold Discovery Day, 1848, at Sutters Mill.
  • 25th – Elvis’ First #1 hit released, “Heartbreak Hotel”, 1956
  • 27th – Viet Nam Peace Accord, 1973.  End of the Viet Nam War.
  • 28th – U.S. Coast Guard was established in 1915.

We sincerely hope that 2009 was a good one for you and yours, and that 2010 will be even better!  Please make a pledge to work and play safely.  We wish a healthy, Happy New Year to you and yours!  Hello, 2010!

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GOODBYE 2009!

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Every year at this time, we are looking forward to a new and better year.  We have high hopes that many of the bad things that happened in 2009 won’t be repeated.  Many of us are making New Year’s Resolutions; most of us will break them before the end of January!  Goals include losing weight, saving money, and improving our lives in different, ambitious ways.
Good luck to all of you that reach your targets in 2010!

In bidding a fond farewell to 2009, we can’t help but review many memorable things that it brought us:

  • New President, Barack Obama was inaugurated in January.
  • “Twitter-Mania” – a social network that allows you to express your views in 140 characters or less.
  • The new Yankee Stadium, which replaced The House That Ruth Built in 1923.
  • A huge commercial US Airways plane sitting in the Hudson River, with many of its 155 occupants standing on the wings.
  • Visions of Jamaican sprinter, Usain “Lightning” Bolt shatter his own world records in 100 and 200-meter sprints at the World Track and Field Championships in Berlin.
  • H1N1 Virus – originally called “Swine Flu”, later changed to the medical name in order to absolve pigs of the stigma involved.  This terrible illness started in Mexico in April, and quickly spread throughout the world.  In June, the World Health Organization declared it a Global Pandemic.  Almost 10,000 persons died worldwide due to this virus.
  • A shooting at one of our military bases, Ft. Hood, Texas, that resulted in the deaths of 12 soldiers and one civilian, and wounded 30 others.  How could that have happened?
  • Scandals: in politics, entertainment, sports world, and the biggest Ponzi scheme in U.S history.
  • An historic healthcare debate and vote in Congress – with lots of work still ahead.

Famous persons that passed this year were: Walter Kronkite, Patrick Swayze, Ricardo Montalban, Ted Kennedy, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson.  These are just a few that had an impact on many lives through entertainment, politics, or in the case of Mr. Kronkite, the most trusted news anchor in the U.S. for many years.

It’s hard to believe that nine years have already zipped by in this new century. It’s going to take all our villages to make 2010 a safe, sane year!  Wouldn’t it be great if there were no bad headlines at all?  How about these resolutions: no missing kids or missing persons, no wrong-way or distracted driving auto accidents, no pandemics, no wars, no taking chances or shortcuts, no standing on chairs rather than ladders, no going without P.P.E., (get the idea?) Wouldn’t it be great to live in a perfect world? We don’t, so there will always be challenges.

This year, as always, our concerns are to continue to provide helpful safety ideas involving the workplace, home, and other activities.  In addition to safety issues, we focus on encouraging our readers to keep their bodies healthy by exercise and diet.   Let’s try hard to be careful at work, play, behind the wheel, and anywhere else an accident may be lurking.
GOOD LUCK AND GOOD HEALTH TO ALL IN 2010!

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MERRY CHRISTMAS!

While the kids are counting down the days until Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, the rest of the families are scurrying about to get a few last-minute gifts, making sure that all the grocery list has been filled, and thinking about all there is to do until that special time.

All the folks at Texas America Safety Company and Blog4Safety wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and that your loved ones will be safe and well.  There will be lots of travelers on the highways, and we urge you to be mindful of getting to your destination safely. Many of our friends are stranded in airports in northern parts of the country, due to bad weather.  We hope everyone gets to their point of arrival without any problems.  It’s always a good idea if you are going by car to take along some supplies, just in case.  Be sure to have your cell phone with you, and please don’t text while you are driving!

Also, this is a time of the year that there are many folks that are not fortunate enough to have any packages under the tree, or even a tree, for that matter.  Keep them in your heart and do what you can to help.  There will be people that are just happy to have a warm meal, or a place to stay.  Hopefully, in the coming year, we will see an increase in jobs for the unemployed, and fewer people losing their homes.

If the old saying “a chain is only as strong as its weakest link” has any truth to it, we must all stand together to become strong.  Keep this in mind when you see someone who needs a little boost, either physically or emotionally.  Be thankful for what you have and remember the foundation you were given to be able to provide for your family.

Have a blessed and Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

SMALL TOYS – BIG HAZARDS!

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For those who are shopping for toddlers this Christmas, there are many safety factors to keep in mind.  The national news last week issued warnings to keep child safety foremost when considering what toys to purchase.  Choking is the #1 cause of toy-related deaths and injuries, according to a report made by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group in its 24th annual “Trouble in Toyland”.

Their organization focuses on four types of hazards:

  • Loud toys that can cause hearing damage; toys that are close to the ears shouldn’t be more than 65 decibels.
  • Lead-tainted toys;
  • Plastic toys that contain chemicals call phthalates;
  • Small parts that can choke youngsters under age 3.  If a toy can fit in a toilet paper tube, it is too small for children under age 3.

In 2009, 5.3 million toys were pulled from store shelves due to choking hazards. In the past two years, 13 children nationally died due to choking.  Toys with magnets are also unsafe.

Chairwoman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Inez Tenenbaum, stated that parents should be more confident that toys are safer this year than in the past, because the government is enforcing the new Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, passed earlier this year.  The Toy Industry Association reports that they are pleased to be working with these two groups and agrees that toys should be safer this year than ever.

When it comes to all children, we can’t be too cautious.  From toys to cribs, (some drop-side types that have been recalled due to suffocation), it pays for parents and grandparents to go to the CPSC website (cpsc.gov) or other sites that list toys and children’s products that have been recalled.  It is truly amazing how many items that children wear or play with can be so dangerous, and have been recalled.

One example is children’s sweatshirts with drawstrings.  A small child was strangled when the drawstring got hung on playground equipment.  For tots under age 3, it is recommended that the strings be removed.

For all of Santa’s helpers, please keep safety in mind!

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

IS IT ALREADY DECEMBER?

Where in the world has 2009 gone?  We have 31 days left of this year, and we need to do all we can to make this hectic time a safe and healthy one!  With the upcoming celebrations, keep driving safety in mind, watching for the other drivers, as well.  Getting ready for the holidays is great fun, with all the extra goodies at work and parties!  Then reality hits (with a few extra pounds), and New Year’s Resolutions are made!  Maybe it would be a good idea if we don’t indulge quite as much during December; then we won’t have that many extra pounds to worry about.

Notable days in December are:

  • World AIDS Day is December 1 (Tuesday)
  • Pearl Harbor Day is December 7  (Monday)
  • Hanukkah begins December 12 (Saturday)
  • 1st Day of Winter – December 21 (Monday)
  • Christmas Eve – December 24 (Thursday)
  • Christmas – December 25 (Friday)
  • Kwanzaa begins December 26 (Saturday)
  • New Year’s Eve – December 31 (Thursday)

December 6 – 12 is Hand Washing Awareness Week, something we have all preached about with the H1N1 virus hanging around!

December is also National Month of:

  • Human Rights
  • Read A New Book
  • Safe Toys and Gifts
  • Love Your Neighbor
  • Universal Human Rights
  • Colorectal Cancer Awareness
  • Stress-Free Family Holiday Month (love this one!)

There are too many to list, but here are a few Days Of that are recognized:

  • Disabled Persons Awareness
  • Extraordinary Work Team Recognition Day (Dec. 4th) (Good one!)
  • Teacher Appreciation Day
  • Don’t Be a Scrooge

Enjoy this busy time of the year, and as always, keep safety in mind, both at work or play.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

THINK SAFETY WHEN TOY SHOPPING

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We all know how busy Santa must be right now!  He’s probably checking that list for the last time!    If you know any of his helpers, these are a few tips they might consider:

  • Buy age-appropriate toys.  Even though some children are exceptionally bright, most toys’ designs are suited for their age.
  • Be aware of toys that may contain lead paint.  Federal limits for lead in paint dropped to 90 parts per million, the lowest in the world, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
  • Check labels and do not assume that all toys are safe.  They must be properly labeled.
  • If you purchase toys online, be careful, as hazard warnings are not always given.
  • Avoid toys with cords or long strings, as they could cause strangulation in small children.
  • Toys for tots should not have sharp edges or points.
  • Be sure soft, plush animals are washable and have secure eyes and noses that won’t come off.
  • You can be assured that little ones are going to put anything they can in their mouths, so be careful in choosing the size of squeeze toys, rattles, etc.
  • Paints and crayons should have ASTM D4236 on the package (American Society for Testing and Materials).For grade school children, helmets should be given along with bikes, scooters, skateboards, or inline skates.
  • Purchase arrows or darts with soft tips.
  • BB or pellet guns should not be purchased for children under age 16.
  • Avoid balloons, magnets and toys with small parts when selecting gifts for children under age 6.
  • If you choose electric toys, be sure they have the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) seal, to ensure the parts have been tested for safety.
  • Grandparents and other relatives should confer with parents when selecting certain toys, especially if they require supervision.

In 2008, the Commission reported 19 toy-related deaths and approximately 172,700 hospital emergency room toy-related treatments to children under 15.  Nearly half of these injuries (82,300) involved children under 5 years of age.    In order to make this holiday a joyous one, take time to consider the safety factors in selecting just the right playthings for your youngsters.