Tag Archives: safety gear

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

SKIP AND CONTAINER SAFETY WHEN MANAGING WASTE (GUEST POST)

Waste management is an essential part of completing a job for a professional tradesperson or DIY enthusiast. The safe use of skips and containers can be a tricky path to tread for those unfamiliar with health and safety regulations and guidelines. Unbeknown to many, skip and container related accidents are a common occurrence, in fact, these are the leading cause of serious to fatal incidents in waste management and recycling plants.  Here we take a closer look at utilizing skips and containers safely to help you reduce the risk of serious injury.

Skip (dumpster) compatibility

Whether you are looking to buy or hire a skip for your upcoming project, ensuring that your skip is compatible with the skip loader is a vital step to safe usage. Mini skips, with a capacity of 1.5m3 to 2m3, are the most popular choice, especially for household or small commercial / industrial upgrades. However, many of these mini skips are not manufactured to suit the design of a standard skip loader. Larger skips however are designed to be compatible with standard skip loaders, and their 3m3 to 20m3 capacity ensures a sizable solution to waste management on larger projects. Recommended safety checks There are a series of safety checks that must be carried out to ensure the safe use of skips and containers.

Training is recommended for workers who use and unload skips and containers on a regular basis, these training programs ensure workers can identify faults or damage to the skip that would otherwise make it unsafe to use. Regular checks must also be carried out to check the condition of important skip and container components, such as the lifting and locking points, tipping bars, doors, restraints, covers and wider condition. Workers must also be aware of the importance of using the right type of skip for the task at hand, and the skip or container’s strength, stability and distribution of load weight must all be taken into account.

Identifying hazardous skip use

There are a number of scenarios that would make the skip or container hazardous to move or unload, including:

  • Overloading
  • Insufficient headroom when retrieving
  • Insufficient space around the skip or container
  • Placement on sloping ground
  • Placement on soft ground

If any of these relate to your skip or container then it is recommended that you seek specialist advice to improve safety and reduce risk before removal or unloading. Overly damaged skips and containers should also be removed from service completely.

This post was written by Brittany Thorley. She works for Cheshire Demolition (http://www.cheshiredemolition.co.uk/) and regularly advises on maintaining best practice for safety on both small and large scale improvement projects.

Note: Of course, workers in this field should take all precautions and wear the correct personal protective gear, such as gloves, safety glasses, hardhats, and possibly respirators  pb

 

P.S. HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!  PB

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

HOW TO PREVENT WORKPLACE ACCIDENTS (GUEST POST)

When it comes to safety in the workplace, there should be a cooperative effort between the employer and workers to avoid accidents and injuries while on the job. As the employer you are legally responsible to ensure that proper safety procedures are in place in the workplace, and as an employee it is in your best interest to follow them. By taking preventive action you can drastically decrease accidents and create a work environment that is void of hazards and promotes your company’s stance on health and safety. 

According to the latest statistics from the UK’s Health and Safety Executive, HSE, between 2012 and 2013 there were 27 million working days lost due to workplace injuries or illness, 78,000 officially reported injuries and 148 deaths. 

Almost all work-related injuries are preventable, yet they are still happening at an alarming rate. Employers need to take responsibility for the health and safety of their employees by creating stringent policies that are strictly enforced. These three steps will help you to avoid accidents in the workplace, and move forward toward a safer and brighter future for all.

 Implement Company Safety Policies 

Every employer should have formal safety rules and procedures in place for their employees to follow. If you don’t have an official company policy yet, this is a great place to start. Creating a Health and Safety section in your company handbook that employees can reference not only provides helpful guidance, but is there officially when an employee does not follow official protocol. 

There should be a person in your company that is in sole charge of safety at the workplace. This safety coordinator ensures that protocols are followed, policies are adhered to, and government regulations are being met. 

Perform a Thorough Inspection of the Workplace 

Once you have a clear company safety manifesto in place, along with a person in charge of it’s implementation, you should do a top to bottom inspection of your workplace to pinpoint safety risks and create a response plan.

Identify areas that could be improved or that require further safety protection, and meet with the area’s supervisors to discuss possible solutions to the issues. 

Common problems include faulty vehicles, lack of proper personal protective equipment, debris and clutter, and areas prone to spillage. Do frequent checks to make sure your vehicles and machinery are inspected frequently and repairs are done as necessary. Requiring your employees to keep a certain standard of housekeeping and to wear protective equipment such as eye safety goggles, hard hats, and steel toe shoes will go a long way. Always be sure that any areas with safety concerns have clear signs informing employees, as well as company protocol that addresses the best way to handle those concerns. 

Provide Comprehensive Safety Training 

Safety in the workplace is an ongoing issue and should be addressed with your employees by providing regular training. Any new employee should be required to go through full training before stepping foot on the work floor, and permanent employees should have refresher trainings at least annually and anytime they will be using new equipment or performing a task they haven’t in the past. 

Putting a transparent and enforced safety policy in place at your workplace will help to decrease accidents and injuries on the job. Employees will be more productive and happier when safety concerns are at a minimum, and you will have done your legal duty to protect those under your watch. 

This article was provided by Essential Industrial, specialists in bearings and power transmissions and provide PPE equipment.

 

 

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

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR THE MOST DANGEROUS JOBS (GUEST POST)

We all need to get jobs; that’s a reality we all face. And all jobs, no matter how mundane they may seem, carry with them a certain level of danger. Of course, these levels of danger vary from to another. Let’s say you make a living wrestling and catching wild bears, then there aren’t really many effective safety precautions you can take aside from not catching and wrestling those bears. Working in a typical job, like an office or so, still can be dangerous, and here are some of the dangerous “normal” jobs out there and the safety precautions you can take to avoid accidents. 

Construction and Related Fields 

        If you work in construction or some other job that requires you to be physically present in a construction site, the first step to staying safe is recognizing that the construction site is inherently a dangerous place. With all the dangerous materials, heavy equipment, and the work going around, the chances of an accident happening is extremely high, no matter the amount or quality of supervision. The common safety precaution for being in a construction site is to always wear a hard hat, as the primary risk is having something heavy land on your head. A hard hat is your friend. Keep it on your head at all times. 

Jobs Involving Chemicals and Toxic Materials 

        Working with chemicals tends to be dangerous for your general health. There have been a lot of cases wherein people suffered burns, inhaled harmful substances, and other complications that came about due to exposure to these materials. When you work in an environment where hazardous chemicals and materials abound, the common safety precaution is to wear protective gear like goggles (in case of splash back), gloves, aprons, boots, and masks all made with protective materials like rubber or latex. In more extreme cases, hazmat suits are a popular choice. 

Work Involving Animals and Fieldwork 

        Being amidst the natural elements has provided the world with officially the most dangerous jobs ever. Fishing, farming, ranching, and logging are considered to be jobs that have seen the most accidents. These accidents are hard to avoid, as most of them come from unpredictable elements like animal attacks. While there are a number of equipment that can be used to lessen work-related injuries in line with these trades, the number of these injuries can be reduced mostly by workers themselves. Working in pairs, taking extra care of themselves on and off the field (maintaining one’s self in tip top shape and getting enough rest does make one more focused and alert), along with other precautions, would be helpful. 

        At the end of the day, working is hard and dangerous as much as it is personally and financially rewarding. Whether you’re a nine to fiver working in an office, or out in the open ocean fishing, one small accident can alter your life forever. The best courses of action are watching out for yourself, getting yourself covered with a personal accident insurance plan, and hoping for the best. 

Author’s Bio

Ryan Del Villar is a writer and online marketing specialist at Money Max, Philippines’ leading online comparison portal. Ryan is also a freelance writer at Helm Word, an Online Reputation Management company. He worked as an online video editor before he started his writing career.

 

 

 

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

NECESSARY WORK SAFETY MEASURES WHEN INSTALLING A GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM (GUEST POST)

Every industry has specific work safety requirements. Similarly, installing a geothermal heating or air-conditioning system in your home is not something you can do-it-yourself. You need professional help to install a geothermal heating or air-conditioning system.  (A geothermal system draws heat or coolness from the ground or body of water.)

A geothermal system provides great many benefits to homeowners. It ensures to provide adequate heating during cold weather and the cooling system keep the house pleasant and cool during summers. Here are the necessary work safety measures required when installing a geothermal heating or cooling system: 

1.  Inform the Residents of the Locality  

Geothermal contractors are required to inform the landowner, the residents of the locality and the officials that belong to different ministries that protect the environment. These contractors need permission in order to ensure they will use safe working methods and in case of a hazard, the concerned local authorities can help prevent it.

2. Make a Work Plan in Advance

The installers of geothermal units must provide the local government with the work plan, to ensure the system installed through horizontal boring will not create hazards for society. Once the plan is approved, the installation can take place. The plan should be developed with the help of a licensed engineer who knows the nitty-gritty of engineering and geothermal installation. 

3. Equipment and Safety Gear  

Last, but not the least, it is of chief importance for the geothermal unit installers to use appropriate safety gear that includes but is not limited to safety gloves, goggles, helmet, clothes. This is to keep any sort of hazard away that may be caused in case of contact with heating pumps, etc.  Moreover, the equipment used to install a geothermal unit should be of good quality and licensed. 

Having a geothermal heating system installed in your home can make the winter season enjoyable. Hire a professional who can install a geothermal heating system to ensure that the unit is installed in compliance with the necessary safety measures. Many contractors offer installation services for geothermal heating and cooling systems. These professionals can install the unit correctly in appropriate time.

Author Bio: Stephen Roshy is a professional writer and he writes quality and informative content on Ground Source Contractors. You can find him on Facebook , Twitter and Google+.

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

TEN THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR WHEN DOING AMATEUR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS (GUEST POST)

The nature of construction means there’s constantly the potential for disaster. Heavy objects, sharp ends, powerful machines and more don’t mix well with soft human bodies.

Even when I work with experienced teams or am just doing a little job around the house on my own, I still occasionally come across dangerous situations and close calls. These instances are even more common in the world of amateur construction, where people without professional training often find themselves at odds with the tools and materials they’re working with.

There are plenty of reasons to consider amateur construction. It can save you money, especially on smaller-scale work. It gives people a sense of accomplishment and ownership, and lets them express their creative side exactly as they envision with their own hands. But such projects cause disasters every day. Mishaps can cause expensive damage to structures and severe injury to the builder. If you’re considering a DIY construction project, be sure to use extra caution and be on the lookout for these common mistakes:

1. Dehydration and Overexertion

Often it’s not a wild swing of a hammer or improper use of a table saw that causes mistakes, but physical fatigue and breakdown. Unless you’re a very active person on a regular basis, your body may not be prepared for the rigor of heavy construction work. Exhaustion and dehydration make people clumsy and cause them to make bad decisions. Only work when you’re rested and hydrated, and be sure to make time in your efforts for breaks and refreshment.

2. Disorganization

A poorly organized work space is the bane of construction workers everywhere. It decreases efficiency and makes the entire job take longer to complete. More importantly, though, it creates hazards. It’s difficult to be safe and effective if you’re navigating through a mess of lumber and machinery. Always make a point to keep your work place as neat as possible; the investment of time will pay itself off.

3. Working Alone

Doing anything strenuous on your own is rarely a good idea. If something happens, like a sudden injury, it can be tough to take care of yourself. Avoid doing heavy construction work without someone who knows where you are and what you’re doing in case an emergency arises.

4. Improper Safety Gear

It’s amazing how many do-it-yourselfers try to tackle a project without even the most basic of safety equipment. You don’t need a HAZMAT suit to stay protected in most situations. Even just investing in some good work gloves and decent safety glasses will prevent an astonishing amount of injuries.

5. Electrocution

When many people undertake large construction projects, they often overlook the difficulty and danger of working with and around established electrical systems. Improperly fiddling with the wiring in your walls and appliances can cause a deadly shock. Always be sure you know how to correctly handle electrical installation or removal before starting any projects that will require it.

6. Hazardous Materials

Some construction work might involve the use of hazardous chemicals that people aren’t used to handling. This could include something as simple as gasoline, or something a little more complex like an industrial cleaner. Always be wary of any dangers related to flammability, toxic fumes, and chemical reactions due to exposure.

7. Unwelcome Visitors

Even in a relatively safe work site, it’s easy for someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing to hurt themselves or someone else. I see this commonly in homes with children and pets where boundaries aren’t properly established. Be sure to make clear to any kids present that the construction area is dangerous, and take care to zone the area off from a curious dog or cat.

8. Excess Stress on the Body

A lot of construction work is physically taxing. There’s a high amount of pressure put on sensitive body parts repeatedly. Your shoulders, wrists, knees, and back are especially at risk. To reduce the danger, follow best practices for lifting and moving heavy objects and using tools.

9. Working from a Height

Some of the nastiest construction-related injuries I’ve witnessed were due to someone getting careless and falling from a roof or ladder. Always take extra caution when working from a position where a fall could happen, even if you’re just a few feet off the ground. Learn ladder and harness safety as necessary to prevent a fall.

10. Incomplete Tool Knowledge

As tempting as it may be to skip, you should always read the manual for any tool more complex than a hammer or screwdriver. Always know the ins and outs of all your power tools, from power drills to nail guns, so you’re never taken by surprise.

Doing a personal construction project is rewarding both personally and financially, but only if you avoid causing any damage to yourself or the area around you. Always be sure to follow all general safety precautions before getting started. Happy building!

 

Author Profile:

Author Profile: Mike Thomas is a private contractor and writer for HomeWarrantyDeals.com. He enjoys DIY projects, college football and is also deeply passionate about restoring antique homes.

 

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

SAFETY TIPS EVERY TRADESMAN SHOULD KNOW WHEN WORKING WITH ELECTRICITY (GUEST POST)

 

As many of you may know, working with electricity does have its risks and tradesmen working with the hidden dangers of household and industrial electricity on a daily basis should be on their guard, exercising safety and caution at every turn. According to a recent survey by Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) in the past decade 46,000 workers have been injured on the job by industrial electrical hazards, but what can you do to ensure you don’t form part of this statistic?

Check out the following four safety tips for industrial professionals to ensure they get through their working day safely and without encountering all-too-common hazards and resulting electricity-related accidents…

Never Assume Safety

Forgetting the basics of electrical safety, whether working with industrial alkaline batteries on a small installation or live conductors at a large scale manufacturing plant, results in the majority of injuries, such as electrocution, electric shocks, burns and falls. Never assume that an electrical component you are handling is safe, always run the necessary checks to ensure that the component you are working with is free from hazards before starting your project.

Know the Warning Signs

The second part of the ‘never assume safety’ rule is knowing how to confidently determine the warning signs and dangers that come with electricity and electrical components. If you are unsure about how to identify these hazards, then get clued up before you take on the project with professional training and assistance from a more qualified industry expert. After all, even if you have experience working with household voltages, this does not mean that you can work safely with commercial or industrial application voltages.

Use the Right Safety Equipment

As well as using your industry knowledge to identify the warning signs of electrical safety, it is also necessary to know what type of safety equipment is appropriate when dealing with electrical faults, devices, panels and other equipment to avoid serious injury. Always wear the appropriate safety gear; safety glasses, ear protectors, gloves, dust masks and rubber soled shoes are all essential accessories for completing an electrical project.

Test, Test and Test Again

Testing all electrical components before you start work is also an important step in electrical safety and testing should be completed thoroughly before checking whether a device is even on or off, or industrial batteries are energised. A non-contact voltage tester is every electrician’s best friend so make it yours; this handy tester can pinpoint whether a circuit is on before you even touch the switch or remove the panel to view its internal wires. Keep up to date with the latest electrical safety equipment and see the risk of electrical injury diminish!

Bio: Brittany is from Steatite Batteries, a market leading supplier of industrial technology solutions. Using over 75 years of experience, Steatite design and manufacture custom battery packs and industrial alkaline batteries.

 

 

Ergonomics, Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection

TEN THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR WHEN DOING AMATEUR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS (GUEST POST)

The nature of construction means there’s constantly the potential for disaster. Heavy objects, sharp ends, powerful machines and more don’t mix well with soft human bodies.

Even when I work with experienced teams or am just doing a little job around the house on my own, I still occasionally come across dangerous situations and close calls. These instances are even more common in the world of amateur construction, where people without professional training often find themselves at odds with the tools and materials they’re working with.

There are plenty of reasons to consider amateur construction. It can save you money, especially on smaller-scale work. It gives people a sense of accomplishment and ownership, and lets them express their creative side exactly as they envision with their own hands. But such projects cause disasters every day. Mishaps can cause expensive damage to structures and severe injury to the builder. If you’re considering a DIY construction project, be sure to use extra caution and be on the lookout for these common mistakes:

1. Dehydration and Overexertion

Often it’s not a wild swing of a hammer or improper use of a table saw that causes mistakes, but physical fatigue and breakdown. Unless you’re a very active person on a regular basis, your body may not be prepared for the rigor or heavy construction work. Exhaustion and dehydration make people clumsy and cause them to make bad decisions. Only work when you’re rested and hydrated, and be sure to make time in your efforts for breaks and refreshment.

2. Disorganization

A poorly organized work space is the bane of construction workers everywhere. It decreases efficiency and makes the entire job take longer to complete. More importantly, though, it creates hazards. It’s difficult to be safe and effective if you’re navigating through a mess of lumber and machinery. Always make a point to keep your work place as neat as possible; the investment of time will pay itself off.

3. Working Alone

Doing anything strenuous on your own is rarely a good idea. If something happens, like a sudden injury, it can be tough to take care of yourself. Avoid doing heavy construction work without someone who knows where you are and what you’re doing in case an emergency arises.

4. Improper Safety Gear

It’s amazing how many do-it-yourselfers try to tackle a project without even the most basic of safety equipment. You don’t need a HAZMAT suit to stay protected in most situations. Even just investing in some good work gloves and decent safety eye wear will prevent an astonishing amount of injuries.

5. Electrocution

When many people undertake large construction projects, they often overlook the difficulty and danger of working with and around established electrical systems. Improperly fiddling with the wiring in your walls and appliances can cause a deadly shock. Always be sure you know how to correctly handle electrical installation or removal before starting any projects that will require it.

6. Hazardous Materials

Some construction work might involve the use of hazardous chemicals that people aren’t used to handling. This could include something as simple as gasoline, or something a little more complex like an industrial cleaner. Always be wary of any dangers related to flammability, toxic fumes, and chemical reactions due to exposure.

7. Unwelcome Visitors

Even in a relatively safe work site, it’s easy for someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing to hurt themselves or someone else. I see this commonly in homes with children and pets where boundaries aren’t properly established. Be sure to make clear to any kids present that the construction area is dangerous, and take care to zone the area off from a curious dog or cat.

8. Excess Stress on the Body

A lot of construction work is physically taxing. There’s a high amount of pressure put on sensitive body parts repeatedly. Your shoulders, wrists, knees, and back are especially at risk. To reduce the danger, follow best practices for lifting and moving heavy objects and using tools.

9. Working from a Height

Some of the nastiest construction-related injuries I’ve witnessed were due to someone getting careless and falling from a roof or ladder. Always take extra caution when working from a position where a fall could happen, even if you’re just a few feet off the ground. Learn ladder and harness safety as necessary to prevent a fall.

10. Incomplete Tool Knowledge

As tempting as it may be to skip, you should always read the manual for any tool more complex than a hammer or screwdriver. Always know the ins and outs of all your power tools, from power drills to nail guns, so you’re never taken by surprise.

Doing a personal construction project is rewarding both personally and financially, but only if you avoid causing any damage to yourself or the area around you. Always be sure to follow all general safety precautions before getting started. Happy building!

Author Profile:

Author Profile: Home-shield Mike Thomas is a private contractor and writer for HomeWarrantyDeals.com.  He enjoys DIY projects, college football and is also deeply passionate about restoring antique homes.

General Safety Issues

STAY HOME WITH THE SNIFFLES: STUDY SHOWS PAID SICK LEAVE REDUCES WORKPLACE INJURIES (GUEST POST)

Workers brave workplace hazards every day, hoping that they won’t reset the “number of days without a workplace accident” sign. It may seem obvious, but staying home when ill drastically reduces the chance of nonfatal occupational injuries.

Workers with paid sick leave were 28 percent less-likely to be injured at the workplace in comparison to workers without PTO days, a study conducted by the American Journal of Public Health concluded. Data on approximately 38,000 adults working in the private sector who participated in the National Health Interview Survey was used.

The financial pressure drives employees to work even though ill. “If fewer people work while they are sick,” study researcher Abay Asfaw, Ph.D., said in a statement, “this could lead to safer operations and fewer injuries in the workplace.” Depending on the job occupation and sector, workplace injury differed. Construction workers were at a 21 percent increased risk without paid sick time off compared with 18 percent for health care personnel.

Another study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health concluded that coming into work while sick increased the chances of needing to take more sick time off later, according to Rodale News. It may seem that employees will use less time off in the short run, but the sickness compounds or grows worse without necessary rest, resulting in a greater number of work absences over the long run. Ill workers reporting for work more than six times were 53 percent more-likely to be absent for two weeks in the future. Those same workers were also 72 percent more-likely to take two months sick leave in the following year and a half.

Sevenson, an environmental remediation service, practices a stringent Corporate Safety and Health Program to avoid an unnecessary Sevenson Environmental lawsuit along with worker injuries. Employees engaged in hazardous-waste remediation are monitored to ensure that their surroundings aren’t negatively impacting health. Here are some other blue-collar tips to prevent harmful accidents at work.

Break Time

Along with the aforementioned paid-time-off days, taking time off during the day is also of utmost importance. Hours of continuous work inevitably leads to fatigue. To avoid workplace mishaps as a result of fatigue, take a break at least once an hour to give your body and mind brief, restorative rest.

Awareness

Over time, workers become overly comfortable within their workplace environment. Comfort can lead to calamity. Workers’ previously sharp awareness is blunted, even though the level of danger remains the same. Always remain mindful of your environment and acutely focused on all surroundings.

Safety First

From slip-resistant shoes to hazmat suits, workers must equip the proper safety gear to avoid workplace incidents. Ensure that you’re always suited for safety — money spent toward equipment to prevent harm is well worth it in comparison to life-threatening, preventable injuries.

By Stephanie Diaz A former public relations specialist, Stephanie is a blogger who shares tips on saving money and getting ahead in any economy.

 

General Safety Issues

FIVE IMPORTANT TIPS FOR THE CYCLING COMMUTER (GUEST POST)

Five Important Tips for the Cycling Commuter

The price of gasoline has prompted many individuals to reconsider the expense and time efficiency of driving to work and, as a result, cycling has become a more popular form of transportation. Motorcycle owners figured this out long ago, but considerations for motorized vehicles can be different from mechanical transportation. Cycling to work is clearly not for everyone and is not appropriate for all types of employment, but the bicycle enthusiast can find riding a bike to work an enjoyable experience. Individuals that are required to wear a professional attire at work will find it problematic. There are still a few things that all riders should address when riding a bike as primary transportation.

1. Safety First
It is always a good idea to comply with all traffic laws, especially concerning pedestrian movement. Cyclists are pedestrians and have the legal right of way, but being involved in an accident is not an automatic determination of negligence on the part of a motorized driver. Cyclists that are abusing the ability to negotiate traffic can still be operating illegally and share in the blame of an accident. 

2. Follow the Traffic Regulations
Motorized vehicle operators need to be able to predict cyclist movement. Disregarding pedestrian regulations can result in a “reasonable assumption of risk” ruling for the rider in certain accidents, such as hitting a parked vehicle, and any accident attorney Indianapolis or Los Angeles based would probably advise against it. In addition, always wear the appropriate gear, including a helmet or knee pads, and be aware of all other traffic. This is especially true in metro areas where there’s intense traffic congestion.

3. Do Not Ride on a Sidewalk
Sidewalks are often designated for walkers only and riding a bike on a walkway is a dangerous practice. An accident involving a walking pedestrian can still result in a negligence claim against the cyclist, even though insurance is not a requirement. Many paved surfaces, other than the highway, designate that bikers are allowed, and often the lane will be designated specifically for cyclists. It is important to know suitable routes and situations involving unsafe biking conditions. 
4. Carry a Tool Kit
Bicycles are mechanical, and mechanical things break down. Sometimes brakes can get out of adjustment or tires can go flat; it is more important to get home safely than it is to get to work on time. A saddle basket of some type can be a good investment and can also help in transporting things that may be necessary at work. It’s also not a bad idea to carry a rain coat of some sort in case of bad weather. A lock for the bicycle can be absolutely necessary in many locations and should be considered part of the standard operational equipment. 

5. Allow Sufficient Time to Arrive
Cyclists that are in a hurry can cause an accident quickly. It is always a good idea to test-run the route and check the time and distance. The distance may already be known, but the amount of time necessary to ride a bike can be impacted by certain traffic conditions. Plus, it can be much more enjoyable. 

Always remember that accidents can easily occur for a pedestrian cyclist, and the best way to ensure safety and joy is taking your time. If you are in an accident, and you feel as though you weren’t at fault, contact an attorney. And, always remember to assess the possibility of danger before you ride and prepare accordingly. 

Saam Banai is a freelance writer and editor, and he commonly bikes to work alongside fussy vehicles.  Getting into an accident while riding a bike can be devastating to your health, but it doesn’t need to be financially devastating. Contacting the Sevenish Law Firm and talking to an will be the best option for figuring out how to pay for health costs and lost wages.  They proudly fight for the rights of accident victims throughout the state of Indiana, whether involved in car, motorcycle or bicycle cases.  

 

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

ROAD ACCIDENT: INJURY COMPENSATION FOR CYCLISTS (GUEST POST)

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Road accident: Injury compensation for cyclists

Cycling in the city: Good for the environment, good for your fitness, and sometimes a great way to beat the congestion in the morning rush hour. Nevertheless, city cycling can be hazardous and cyclists are particularly vulnerable sharing the road with much larger more powerful vehicles.

Thousands of cyclists are injured on the roads of the UK every year, sometimes fatally, and often through no fault of their own. Carefully following the rules of the road, and wearing appropriate safety gear and lighting should always be a priority if you are a cyclist, however accidents can still happen as a result of negligence on the part of other road users. If you are involved in a collision with another vehicle and it wasn’t your fault then you may be eligible to make a personal injury claim to compensate you for your injury and any financial losses that you incur.

If you are suffer a collision with a vehicle and you find yourself well enough to do so, you or someone acting on your behalf should exchange details with the other party, and note down as much information as possible regarding the nature of the collision. Photographic evidence can be particularly useful in establishing who was liable for the collision. If you are not well enough to take the details of the other person involved in the collision the police will usually do this for you.

If your claim is successful the amount of compensation that you receive for your injury will depend on a range of factors including the severity of the injury and the level of impact that it has had on your life as well as any financial losses that resulted from your accident.

The sooner you are able to begin the process of making a claim, the more successful it is likely to be. Making a compensation claim doesn’t have to be difficult or complex. If you’re wondering how to make a personal injury claim a specialist personal injury solicitor can help assess whether you are eligible, and proceed to guide you through the entire process, from obtaining the appropriate medical examinations to providing comprehensive legal advice.

A combination of the widespread introduction of inner city cycle lanes and increasingly congested roads across the UK have perhaps contributed to the rising popularity of pedal cycling. In spite of greater awareness on the part of motorists, the cyclist remains a very vulnerable road user. Protecting yourself should be paramount, but no matter what you do accidents may sometimes happen. If you sustain an injury through no fault of your own, making a personal injury claim can help you get the compensation that you deserve. 

This post was written by John Hughes

P.S. If I may add to this informative article, in addition to wearing all the safety gear that protects from injuries, certain high-visibility stickers placed on the bicycle or helmet may help prevent an accident, as well.