Tag Archives: hardhats

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Head Protection

HOW TO ENSURE SAFETY IN SCAFFOLDING (GUEST POST)

Safety of workers is the primary concern in any kind of construction or maintenance work. There are basically three areas in which these issues take importance. They are:

  •          The work practices of workers
  •          Protective gear in use and
  •          The scaffold system being used

Scaffold System

The structure and the design of this support are very important to ensure that workers using it are safe. This can be ensured by a thorough inspection by the team and its leader. When inspecting following points should be kept in mind:

  •        Check footings since it is the foundation on which the entire support tower is standing. Footings must be sturdy enough to withstand weight of workers and equipment needed to be carried up.
  •          Toe boards, ladders, cross braces and guardrails are the other things to be sure about in terms of scaffolding safety.
  •          Guardrails should have some very minimum measurements; they should be 4 inches wide and 3.5 inches in height. 10 feet of spacing between them should be maintained. If these measurements are not adhered to then the scaffolding will not be very sturdy and can prove dangerous too.
  •          Now, when a building is being painted, cleaned or any other maintenance work  is done; there are bound to be passersby who may need to go underneath the scaffold. Their protection is also the responsibility of the contractor. This is where toe boards come in. These boards ensure that equipment or any other material does not fall down and cause injury to incent passersby.
  •          When workers need to get down or climb up they will be using ladders and cross braces; therefore easy access to them is necessary. Moreover they should be securely tied to the entire support tower.
  •          Poles should also be thoroughly inspected for any wear and tear.

Protective Gear

These cannot be emphasized enough. However, it is often seen that contractors are relaxed on this matter to save cost. This is highly unethical since people’s lives are at stake.

  •          Such protective gears include hard hats which should not only be worn by those working but also those people who may just be visiting the site for any reason.
  •          Non-skid shoes are another way to remain safe. These ensure that workers have a good grip in their upward or downward movement.
  •          Safety belts are another compulsory item on the list; this is especially important if the scaffolds are of the swinging type. These belts needless to say must be attached to something that is secure and reliable.

Work practices

There are some very important guidelines to be followed by all construction sites, their contractors and the workers there. These have been specified by the government.

As a logical thing to do; there should not be too much equipment or tools offloaded or put up on the support tower. Only the amount that will be used on the day should be taken and not the next day’s supplies too!

Author Bio

Matt Arthur – an expert and talented author, he involves in writing on creative and engaging content about various types of scaffolding, crane truck and temporary fencing.

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

FEBRUARY 2, 2014 – SOME BAD NEWS AND SOME GOOD NEWS

Today is Groundhog Day, and Punxsutawney Phil has predicted that we will have six more weeks of winter.  The way the weather has gone so far this year, I am betting on Phil!  Although the National Climatic Data Center has checked out his past predictions, stating that his record isn’t that good, folks around the country usually listen to the forecast by the furry critter anyway.  A little folk lore doesn’t hurt anyone!

The good news is, for football fans, that Groundhog Day actually fell on Super Bowl Sunday!  Phil isn’t making any predictions for the game, so it’s up to each fan to pull for their favorite team, either the Denver Bronchos or the Seattle Seahawks.

One thing for sure, it is certainly going to be a cold winter day for the Super Bowl.  Many folks are going to be staying inside and enjoy watching the game in the comfort of their homes, or at Super Bowl parties.  Hopefully, folks who plan to go the game or travel elsewhere will remain safe, because there are going to be icy roads throughout the country today.

If you don’t have your AFL Champions hardhat, or NFL hardhat,  and your team wins today, you’ll want to wear it to work and show everyone that your prediction was right all along!  There are NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA and NASCAR, as well as patriotic styles to choose from. 

Have fun today and stay warm for the next six weeks, just in case Punxsutawney Phil is right! 

 

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

SAFETY TIPS ABOUT HARDHATS

One time I was required to wear a hardhat when a group of our hospital employees was taking a tour of the new facility that was being built.  We all felt a little silly, but after I started working for Texas America Safety Company, I realized the importance of the personal protective equipment.  (And that something could have been dropped from up above us while we were taking that tour.) 

Hardhats are the most important type of head protection.  A friend once told me that while he worked in the West Texas oilfields for many years, he never had anything fall on his head; however, that hardhat  had kept him from bumping his head many times while maneuvering on drilling rigs. 

Head Protection under OSHA states that it is up to the employer to ensure that each and every employee at risk wears a hardhat.  This is when work has falling debris that could hit an employee or when an employee could possibly fall.  The hard hat that you choose should have the America National Standard for personal protection, as required by OSHA. 

Hardhats fall into three different groups:  C, E, and G.  A hard hat that cannot protect you from an electrical shock is classified under group C.  Hardhats that are capable of withstanding up to 20,000 volts of electricity are in Group E.  Group G can only withstand 2,500 volts of electrical shock.  There are also two types of hardhats.  Type 1, which protects the top of your head, and Type 2, which not only protects the top of your head but the sides of your head. 

Be sure that you make the correct choice of hardhat for the particular job and hazards that may occur: 

  • It should not be too heavy;
  • Needs to be comfortable and fit correctly;
  • Choose one that is made of the material that fits the job you do.
  • Some types of hardhats can be worn backwards, which at times may make your job easier to do.  If the description of the hardhat does not specify that this is possible, do not select that type of hardhat.
  • The lining of the hardhat should be thick enough to absorb shock in case you fall.
  • Straps on the hardhat should fit securely around the chin.
  • Hardhats have mounts for other types of equipment, pencils, lights, faceshields, etc. 

Maintenance should be performed regularly to ensure that your personal protective equipment is in good shape and doesn’t need repair or replacing.  Check for cracks on the hardhat, and if you find one, replace the hardhat.  Take the time to understand the importance of wearing a hardhat.  You are not making a fashion statement; you are complying with safety procedures. 

Another sign that your hardhat needs replacing is when the outer casing becomes dull.  If mounts on the hardhat break, it’s also time for a new one.  Chin straps that create problems should be discarded and replaced. 

There is one way that your hardhat can make a statement, whether it’s patriotic, camo, World War II, pink, or representing teams from the NFL, NBA, NHL, NASCAR, or your favorite NCAA team, wear your hardhat with pride.  Companies that allow their employees to wear the hardhat of their choice can ensure compliance with their safety programs.

So, as we’ve written before: “Use Your Head, Wear that Hardhat!”

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

WHEN DO I NEED SAFETY WEAR, AND WHAT DO I NEED? (GUEST POST)

Safety wear is used to protect you in work environments but to the majority, it becomes part of the uniform and we forget its benefits. This article is going to give you a run down of what you need and when you might need it.

Labouring jobs and outdoor jobs are perhaps the most obvious occupations in which workwear is required. When you are working in a building environment for example, there is a risk with carrying heavy goods in case you dropped  something on your toe. When your work outdoors, perhaps doing road works, there is a risk in foggy or dark conditions with your lack of visibility. Hazards exist everywhere you look but jobs, like the ones described, carry a higher risk. This is why you need safety wear. Safety wear decreases the chance of accidents and injuries.

But what is needed and why?

First of all let’s start with what is available.

  • Socks with extra cushioning so you can feel comfortable while wearing safety boots.
  • Safety boots – most contain steel toe caps to protect your toes and you should look for ones with anti-slip surfaces to ensure you remain steady on your feet.
  • Work trousers – containing durable material, knee pads and lots of pockets.
  • Safety gloves – to protect your hands.
  • Safety goggles – your eyes are the most precious part of your body and although goggles might look unattractive, it is worth it to save your vision.
  • High Visibility clothing. Vests and jackets help you stay noticed in unclear conditions.
  • Knee pads – knees are weak parts of the body and the extra padding can be crucial if your spending a lot of time knelt down on the floor during your job. It is all about making you comfortable.
  • Hard hats with cushioning to protect your head and brain are very important.

Who needs what though?

Well,  if you are in a labouring environment, it depends. 
Builders will more than likely require steel toe work boots in case any materials are dropped while doing the job. They also require hard hats and gloves are a must have, particularly if working outdoors in blustering conditions.
Mechanics need work trousers and knee pads. When they are knelt on the ground and under vehicles, comfort is essential and these must-haves are necessary to protect your knees.
Welders require safety goggles. This is a dangerous job and your eyes are the most sensitive part of your body. They are critical safety products.

If you are outdoors, maybe working on the roads as a traffic officer or as an highway operative, you need to ensure you stand out and people can see you. This is not always easy when the weather conditions are poor or even when it is dark; this is why your role requires high visibility clothing. Hi-vis jackets and vests come in fluorescent designs and contain extra reflective strips to ensure you are noticeable and in turn accidents are avoided. Jackets come in a variety of styles so if you are working in the cold, you can opt for a fleece lined parka that will keep you warm but also safe and secure.
Emergency services also wear hi-vis clothing to ensure they are apparent and people recognise them easily; this is particularly important for crucial situations.

Most workers require some sort of safety uniform but for occupations outdoors or in labouring environments, a specialised range of safety wear has been deigned to decrease any unexpected risks. It is very important and statistics suggest you need these items. Take a look at our range of workwear here http://www.sportsdirect.com/pages/workwear and stay safe!

 

 

 

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

IF CAMO IS YOUR STYLE, YOU’RE GONNA LOVE THIS!

Living in Texas, we see many folks wearing camouflage-style clothes.  Why, I even have a camo t-shirt, and I don’t hunt, work with gloves or do anything that qualifies me to wear it, other than it’s prety cool!

This pattern has been popular for a long time, so what better chance than to display the variety of camouflage products that Texas America Safety Company offers than right now?  Be sure to check out the entire page, and see why these are too good to pass up.  The MCR gloves, as stated in the description, support the Wounded Warriors project.  Portions of your purchase go to that great group.

If you prefer wearing, say, patriotic hardhats to work, we have a bunch for you to choose from.

Look for yourself, and see what we have to offer.  If you like something, be sure to mention you read about it on the blog, and you’ll receive a 5% discount, as stated at the beginning of our blog. 

Thank you for your time, and all the folks at Texas America Safety Company wish you a safe Memorial Day.  We hope everyone who travelled  arrives safely at home, ready to get back to work tomorrow!

General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Weather Protection

ESSENTIAL PROTECTIVE ITEMS FOR CONSTRUCTION SITES (GUEST POST)

Essential Protective Items for Construction Sites

In the construction industry, loud noises, extreme heights and unpredictable hazards are part of the job. You may also have to fight against rain, high winds and other extreme weather to get the job done. In this risky industry, having the right equipment and protective wear can protect you from common jobsite injuries. Following are some of the most important items for construction workers to have. 

Protective clothing

The weather conditions will have a big influence on the clothing you need to wear when working at a construction site. When it’s raining, you want appropriate rainwear, such as waterproof boots, pants and a raincoat with a hood. (When you’re handling tools, you don’t want to be slippery). If you’re working on highway or overnight construction projects, you can find rainwear with reflective strips, so people can see you in the darkness.

When the weather turns cold you will need warm hats, gloves and heavy socks to keep your extremities warm. Other protective clothing includes steel-toe boots, which protect your feet from falling objects, and polarized sunglasses that reduce glare.

Gear

Jackhammers, drills and other machinery can damage hearing permanently, so ear protection on the job is extremely important. In fact, the average 25-year-old carpenter has the hearing ability similar to a 50-year-old worker who doesn’t work in construction. Wear ear plugs or other ear protection devices to reduce the risk of hearing loss. And remind your coworkers to do the same.

Safety Hardhats are important when working in areas where construction activity is occurring above your head. The hard hat minimizes the risk of head injury, if an item falls from above. To prevent falling, rope ties, belts or harnesses are required by law when you’re working above a particular height. And you can protect your eyes from flying debris by wearing goggles or other protective face gear.

Quality tools

A construction worker depends on having reliable, quality tools. If your tools aren’t properly maintained or are in disrepair, that could increase your risk of accident or injury. Regularly inspect your tools to make sure they’re in good working order.

Radio

A two-way radio is important to have on the job, so you can communicate with others on the site and quickly get answers to questions. The two-way radio is also a great communication tool when there is an emergency and you need assistance immediately.

Having the right tools before heading out for the job site will help you do the job. It can be nearly impossible to successfully and productively do your job when you do not have the right equipment. Make a list of tools you need for each upcoming job and spend some time packing the items and ensuring each one works properly. While your employer is legally required to provide certain equipment, you should always double check to make sure it fits you well, is in good repair – and most importantly, you must remember to use it. That hard hat won’t do you any good if you forget to wear it.

Sent by Cassandra Lynne

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

SAFE WORKING AT HEIGHT (GUEST POST)

From Jason of riskatmedia.com 

There are particular hazards associated with working at height, some of these hazards accompany almost all types of work activity, such as manual handling and slips and trips.  Others, such as falls from height and contact with moving or falling objects are of particular concern to personnel who work at height.  Falls from height are the leading cause of fatal injuries at work. While contact with moving or falling objects is the third greatest cause of workplace fatality and the second greatest cause of major accidents at work. 

Manual Handling  Manual handling related activities are a major cause of occupational injury.  Low back pain, joint injuries and repetitive strain injuries affect over a million people each year, and many of these injuries are the result of manual handling. Prior to carrying out any unavoidable manual handling activity, you should help to protect yourself from injury by following good manual handling practices.  Consider the task to be carried out and the nature of the load, and be aware of your own capabilities and the environment in which you are working. In particular, tools, equipment and materials can be extremely heavy and you should give consideration to safe manual handling practices before undertaking any job that involves lifting these items while working at height, where manual lifts may be made more difficult by space restrictions and the potential to fall. 

Slip, Trips and Falls  Slips and trips represent a significant cause of work related injury.  Slips and trips can result from contamination, obstacles, inappropriate footwear, reduced visibility, the environment and people’s attitudes. It is extremely important that elevated work platforms and access ladders are kept clear of slip and trip hazards that could result in a possible fall from height.  By removing waste materials to waste skips you can contribute significantly to good housekeeping.  You can also reduce the risk of slips and trips by properly routing any cables that you use, by only taking the tools, equipment and materials necessary to the job aloft, by appropriately storing all such items and keeping walkways clear, by ensuring that you always wear appropriate footwear, and by taking responsibility for your own and your colleagues safety and containing any spills that you might discover. Scaffolders should ensure that no loose scaffolding materials are ever left on a finished scaffold. 

Contact with Moving or Falling Objects  Contact with moving or falling objects is a significant hazard to personnel involved in work at height, as well as to personnel who may be working in the areas beneath operations conducted at height.   Access to the area in which you are working from a ladder should be restricted by barriers when moving vehicles, trailers and hand bogies pose a collision risk.  Suitable barriers and signs should be used to keep the access roads used by Mobile Elevated Work Platforms clear. This will reduce the risk of collision with structures, people and other mobile plant and vehicles.  Care should still be taken to ensure that the platform’s boom or knuckles do not impede the access and working areas used by other plant and vehicles. 

Safe working practices should always be followed to prevent the fall of materials from a height.  All tools, equipment and materials essential to work aloft should be appropriately stowed to ensure that they do not fall.  Any excess materials and all debris should be removed from elevated work platforms, all loose items should be placed in storage boxes, bagged or secured where possible, edge protection should be used to prevent items falling from sloping roofs and all items you need to carry while using a ladder should be held in a belt pouch.  Where there is still a possibility that materials may fall from a height, access to the work area should be restricted by barriers and appropriate warning signs or by posting a banks-man. 

Elevated Working Platforms  Where work at height cannot be avoided, safe working practices should always be followed to reduce the risk of falling any distance which could cause injury.  You should always use an approved and safe means of gaining access to elevated working platforms.  Wherever possible, work at height should be carried out from an appropriate working platform with edge protection, making use of a safety harness and any other available work equipment and fall arrest systems to prevent falls from height.  Where this is not possible, work of a light nature and short duration can be undertaken from a ladder, while other work can be undertaken by suitably trained, experienced and medically fit individuals using a body harness and other fall arrest equipment identified during detailed planning.  You should never use temporary makeshift working platforms.

Work platforms on scaffolding should have full guardrails and toe boards.  A safety harness is required if full guarding is not possible, or if the work involves reaching over. Mesh should be installed if scaffolding is designed specifically to store bulk materials. 

Appropriate fall arrest equipment attached to a suitable anchor point inside the platform should be used whenever you work from a mobile elevated work platform. 

Edges of roofs from which a person could fall should be provided with a barrier that is properly constructed, anchored and fitted with toe boards as appropriate.  Roof openings should be protected by barriers or covers.  Fragile roof areas should be identified and protected by a barrier, or fitted with crawling boards, crawling ladders or duck boards that are properly supported.

Where ladders must be used, they should be securely lashed at the top, tied at the bottom, or held by a second person to ensure that they do not move or slip.  Ladders should be long enough to allow 3 or 4 rungs above the working step, 3 points of contact should be maintained at all times and a harness clipped to a secure anchor point should always be used. 

Structural Integrity  Elevated working platforms should be structurally sound to prevent accidents which could lead to falls from height.  All scaffolding should be erected by trained and competent personnel, they should verify that all materials are fit for purpose and that the load bearing ground and surfaces are fit for purpose.  Never be tempted to make unauthorised alterations to scaffolding. Prior to using any scaffolding on site, you must check that the scaff tag is in date and valid.  Scaffolding should be inspected weekly and following adverse weather conditions by a competent person.  If you are at all unsure that the appropriate inspections have been carried out, do not use the scaffolding and report to your manager. 

All ladders should also conform to the relevant Standard, be free from patent defect, and be inspected once a week by a competent person.  If you have any reason to doubt that a ladder has been appropriately inspected, do not use it and report to your manager.

Lanyards should be inspected before each use and should be subjected to a detailed inspection by a competent person at least once every six months.  If you have reason to think that any fall arrest equipment has not been properly inspected, please do not use it and discuss the matter with your manager. 

Planning  To reduce the risk of personnel falling all work at height should be suitably planned. Where the use of a body harness cannot be avoided for work at height, a competent manager should provide a plan which incorporates safe access and egress, as well as the type of harness and double lanyard that should be used. 

A suitable rescue plan should also be in place where a harness or restraints are used.  The rescue plan should ensure that effective communication links have been established so that assistance can be summoned. 

Training  All personnel need appropriate training and experience to safely carry out operations which involve working at height.  Only suitably trained and authorised personnel are allowed to use mobile elevated work platforms and body harnesses.  Cradles should only be used by personnel who are suitably trained and experienced. 

Human Factors  Human factors play a significant role in safe working at height.  For this reason, personnel should not work at height if you are tired or otherwise unable to give your full attention to the task at hand.  If you feel that your medical history, age, health or fitness might affect your ability to carry work at height, please discuss this with your manager.  Remember that you should never come to work in possession of, or under the influence of, alcohol or drugs.  These substances expose everyone on site to risks that are unnecessary and easily avoided. 

Environments  The risks associated with work at height can be increased by the environment in which you are required to work, Hot and cold environments can result in physical stresses and affect concentration, as they have the potential to raise or lower you body core temperature beyond safe limits.  Confined spaces limit your ability to move around, can be poorly lit and may increase the length of time taken to provide medical assistance in the event of an emergency. It is therefore extremely important that you follow safe working practices when working at height in these environments. 

Hot Works  Particular attention should be given to establishing a safe place of work and to following safe working practices when you carry out hazardous tasks, such as hot works, at height.  The risks associated with fumes, explosions and electric shock can result in falls from height.  Ensure that you use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, or PPE, that you use and store gas bottles safely and that all items of electrical equipment carry a valid appliance testing label. 

Personal Protective Equipment PPE  PPE is an important means of reducing the risks associated with work at height.  At least standard PPE with safety glasses, construction hard hats and gloves should be worn, with a harness attached to suitable fall arrest equipment while accessing or working on elevated platforms.  Additional PPE, such as dust masks, breathing apparatus and hearing protection may be required for particular tasks, as outlined in the relevant risk assessment.

You should also wear close fitting garments, not wear a tie or jewellery and tie back long hair and long beards to reduce the risk of entanglement.  Only PPE in good working condition will reduce the hazards associated with your work, so it is important to remove, clean and store your PPE correctly. 

Electricity and Overhead Power Lines  Electric shock can result in death and severe burns.  In addition, serious injury can occur if an individual falls from height as a result of an electric shock. All items of electrical equipment should carry a valid test certificate or label to reduce the risk of electric shock.  Testing should be carried out by suitably trained individuals.   If any item of electrical equipment does not carry a valid test label, it should not be used and you should inform your manager.  You should also carry out a visual pre-use inspection of all equipment to ensure that it remains undamaged. 

Because of the risk of electrocution, aluminium ladders should never be used where there is a risk of contact with electricity.

Electric shock can also occur as a result of contact with overhead power lines.  Where mobile elevated work platforms are to be used near overhead power lines, an appointed person should plan and supervise operations.  Power lines should be made dead where at all possible.  Where this is not possible, work under power lines should be of short duration and all appropriate restraints and barriers should be in place to ensure that the platform cannot reach or accidentally come into contact with live power lines. 

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms MEWPs   Other safe working practices are necessary to prevent mobile elevated work platforms from overturning during work at height.  The manufacturer’s safe working load should never be exceeded and the platform should never be operated in high winds.  You should also avoid handling sheet type materials in windy conditions.

Where the use of a platform on uneven ground cannot be avoided, they should be used at reduced speed, they should not be turned on slopes and the use of road plates should be considered. 

Emergency Procedures  In the event of an emergency while working at height, isolate any equipment that you have been using, make your work area safe and use a safe means of egress to evacuate the area according to the site emergency procedures.  If you are involved in an accident, seek immediate assistance. 

Riskatmedia – Safety Training Videos

General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Hearing Protection

IS ANYONE SAFE AT A NASCAR RACE?

1 Comment

I don’t intend to hang a big, black cloud over the race that is scheduled to start in about one hour, the “Superbowl of Racing,” the Daytona 500.  Race fans look forward to another season of spectacular driving, and talented drivers.  Yesterday’s accident, during the NASCAR Nationwide, marred the victory for veteran driver Tony Stewart, as two cars collided, sending one of the car’s motor and some of its tires through a hole in the fence, caused by the impact, or over the fence, injuring approximately 28 persons.  Fourteen were taken to a nearby hospital and the other fourteen were treated at the track. 

Through the years, NASCAR’s focus has been on safety – not only of the drivers, but also that of the pit crews, tracks, and fans, and of course, safer cars.  Maintaining safety for the cars and drivers is a challenge for both NASCAR and the owners and designers, because cars are becoming faster and faster.  Yesterday’s freak accident may deter some fans from attending, but I am betting most of them will go back for today’s race. 

The accident involved twelve cars, but none of the drivers were injured.  Stewart, when interviewed, stated, “We’ve always known since racing started, this is a dangerous sport, but it’s hard.  We assume that risk, but it’s hard when fans get caught up in it….I could see it all in my mirror, and it didn’t look good from where I was at.” 

One neat thing for female fans, is that Danica Patrick won the pole position for today’s race.  It will be interesting to see where she finishes today.  She is a very tiny person, 5’2”, and around 100 pounds, but she has proven to be as tough as the guys.  Many of the drivers will attest to it.  Jeff Gordon and Carl Edwards both took their daughters to meet her last week, at the Stewart-Haas garage. 

If you plan to attend any NASCAR events, Texas America Safety Company has NASCAR hardhats, which might prove to make you a little safer, and also fun to wear at work.  For sure, you could also use some quality hearing protection earplugs.  It gets noisy out there. 

Let’s send our thoughts and prayers out to those fans who were injured yesterday, that fans, drivers, and crews have a very safe day today and throughout the racing season.

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

MINING SAFETY AND PROTECTIVE GEAR (GUEST POST)

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Mineworkers that wear full safety clothing can address several dangers. All mines need to stipulate the mining safety and protective clothing required and the kind of activity to be carried out.

Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour

Purpose of the protective gear

Improved visibility: A gear with high visibility is critical in a mine particularly if dealing with high traffic. Retro reflective strips and bright colors always make the workers at the mining site visible.
Abrasion Resistance: Thick and tough leather offers high abrasion resistance in case of a crash though fabrics like cordura are also able to provide significant protection. Fabrics are waterproof, easy to maintain, cheap and quite comfortable during hot weather. Thick leather is uncomfortable during hot weather and could result in the loss of control and heat stress. There are fabric gears designed into a mesh-like pattern which provides cooling plus a more stable surface to attach the padding.
Padding: Quality pants and jackets offer significant extra padding within the joint regions that are more vulnerable. This takes the form of dual-density foam or simple foam padding. The integrated pieces are available inside some jackets.
Weather Protection: Protection against weather elements is very important in mines. At times, extreme weather makes the working conditions rather dangerous or unbearable.

What is the required protective gear for greater safety during mining?

Approaching safety experts is the best answer. Every safety expert is exposed to a number of risks in the mines and is a witness of accidents, nearing accidents, hazards and falls in all the weather conditions. Some of their recommendations on mine worker safety include:

  • Protective gear needs to conform to the anatomy but not the surrounding slide
  • The hands, head, knees, hips, shoulders and elbows are all vulnerable areas
  • A protective gear should be purchased not as some fashion statement but for protective purposes

Examples of specific protective gear items

  • Full-face helmet: This offers the most protection.  It is imperative that hardhats be worn.
  • Gloves: Gloves need to be designed specifically for a given mining activity. It is commonly made using cordura, Kevlar, leather or other given combinations. There are some with carbon fiber knuckle protection and other rigid padding forms. There are gloves that offer wrist protection.
    Jackets: Most jackets are made from ballistic nylon, leather, Kevlar, cordura and other related synthetics. Many jackets feature a special padding on the spine, elbows or shoulders.
    Pants: They include special protection for hips and knees. Cotton denim jeans that have Kevlar are preferred by some people.
    Boots: It’s specifically designed for the undertaken mining activity and includes plastic caps and reinforcement on the ankles or the toe area.
    Helmet Visor or Goggles: Something of utmost importance is eye protection. Metal pieces or pebbles that are kicked up towards your eye have sufficient momentum to render significant damage.
    Ear plugs: These devices offer protection against any hearing damage and reduce fatigue.
    Vests: Made using retro reflective materials with high-visibility color. It is possible to wear them over jackets so as to increase the possibility of remaining visible. This will more critical in adverse weather conditions.

Author bio:
This has been a post by Danny, a blogger from Australia. He is writing about business and human resources on behalf of Australia Mining, a company that provides information to people looking to get a job in mining.

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

HERE’S A NEW SPIN ON SAFETY: WATCH THIS VIDEO (GUEST POST)

In our everyday quest to bring safety to the forefront, we welcome guest authors from all over the world to present their take on safety.  It is amazing how many ways we all think about safety.  We recently heard about this video.  Based on the tune to “I’m Sexy and I Know It,” there’s a new version called “I’m Safety and I Know It”.  We think you will find it amusing, as well as presenting much of the safety equipment that is required to keep everyone SAFE!  Here is Dave Clare’s (General Manager of ATC) response to our request to share this video:

G’day Pat, 

We would be pleased if you would share about our video. As a non-profit organisation, we are hoping to reach out to as many people as we can about working safe. There are different regulations all around the world about safety, but the end game is all the  same, lets help people embrace safety as a part of what they do and how they do work and let everyone come home alive and in one piece. 

Safety is our No.1 core value at ATC and we wanted to find a fun way to make it relevant to a broad range of people. 

Sit back and enjoy this Australian video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=PGxKPf9eEhg

Apprentice & Traineeship Co. Midwest is a not for profit company that works with engaged partners to inspire the development of tomorrows leading workforce…today!