Tag Archives: Safety

General Safety Issues

HOW IS YOUR ATTITUDE ABOUT SAFETY?

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How is the “safety climate” or attitude regarding safety within the organization where you work?  “Safety climate and safety culture are two terms that are used interchangeably.  A safety culture is described as safety attitudes, values and practices that exist at a deeper level within an organization.  To build positive safety attitudes, the workplace must have a strong safety culture.  A safety climate is how workers perceive the safety management of the workplace.  How is your attitude about safety? 

Effective accident prevention efforts strengthen the workplace stance of both employees and supervisors.  The entire workforce should be involved and committed to creating the best possible safety environment.  Rather than building the policies and procedures from the “top down”, it should begin from the “bottom up”.  The ones that are doing the work are the ones most likely to be injured, so their ideas and suggestions should be listened to closely.  They are the ones who witness near-misses, patterns of co-workers’ behavior, attitudes, taking shortcuts, or making decisions based on guesses rather than following  standard operating procedures. 

A well-planned and implemented behavioral safety system leads to workforce stewardship of safety systems, fewer accidents, fewer near misses, less property damage, more reporting of defects, and added reporting of accidents.  Supervisors must work with their employees to understand why and how incidents happened, and work together to take corrective actions.  Sometimes the saying, “It’s just the way we do things here,” may not mean that it’s the safe way to do things. 

Motivational posters can contribute to better feelings toward our work.  Whether they are serious or funny, they can make one stop and think.  Don’t ignore them, as your employer has placed them there for a reason. 

Take a look at the attitude you display at your workplace.  Think about how your job performance affects your coworkers.  Everyone wants to go home at the end of his/her shift.  A bad attitude can cause a mishap that leads to regret.  Show a safe attitude by behaving that way.  Can you name the safest person at your workplace?  Is it you?

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

A WORD TO THE WISE….NEVER TRUST A THREE-YEAR OLD!

I recently went to stay with our daughter, recovering from surgery, to help out with the meals and kids.  However, I think I did more harm than good.  Here’s the story, and yes, there is a safety message: 

Because I am always looking for good safety topics to write about, my daughter had told me to feel free to use her laptop while I was there.  As I was diligently searching the web, our three-year-old (almost four) asked her dad for her scissors.  Dad told me where they were, and I handed them to her, and continued reading.  (I’m supposed to be focused on safety, after all!)  He asked her what she planned to cut, and we later saw a flower stem cut into tiny pieces on the cabinet, so we assumed that was the answer. 

A little later, she went into the bathroom near where I was still working.  I noticed that she seemed to slam the door a little firmly, but after a short while, she emerged, with a very proud look, saying “Look, it won’t be hot on my neck anymore!”  (Sometime earlier during a conversation with my daughter, I had mentioned that I had gotten my hair cut, so it wouldn’t be so hot on my neck.)  You can imagine my horror, even though she was so proud of what she had done.  I immediately knew where she got the idea.  And I have failed to mention that her parents prefer long hair, and hers was long, and curly.

After taking her to a salon to have it styled, she was very pleased with her new “do”.  Her parents took it pretty well, and are still speaking to me.  Friends and family have assured us that this has happened to their kids, as well.  It happened on my watch, though…. me, the one that focuses on safety, and here she was, plotting what she was going to do with those scissors. (The scissors were not pointed).  But it’s a good idea to keep them from toddlers unless you are planning to watch whatever action is involved.   So here’s the warning to all parents and grandparents: be sure to pay attention to what those little angels are up to, because they can be sneaky! And maybe keep an eye on grandmothers, too!

General Safety Issues

REMINDERS FOR A SAFE FOURTH OF JULY

Well, we’re halfway through 2010, and ready to celebrate our country’s birthday!  As everyone knows, July 4th marks “Independence Day”, which commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  There will be parades, ballgames, picnics, cookouts, and all types of fun.  But before you get ready to celebrate, we want to remind you that the Fourth of July weekend usually has the highest numbers of injuries and emergency room visits of any holiday, (around 10,000), according to the Centers for Disease Control.  The majority of the injuries are due to the misuse of fireworks, and many are children under age 15.  So, let’s talk a little about safety, so you can enjoy the rest of the summer! 

First, here are some fireworks safety tips:

  • Have adult supervision at all times where children are present around fireworks.
  • Read the labels and follow instructions carefully.
  • Keep water close by, as conditions may be dry, and could easily start a fire.
  • Be sure projectile-type fireworks are not aimed near anyone standing close by.
  • Keep a safe distance.
  • Remember that even sparklers can reach a heat of 2,000° F.
  • Never carry fireworks in your pocket. 

The National Fire Protection Association reports that more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than on any other day.  Fireworks account for more than one-half of those fires.  Let’s try to give our local firemen a break. 

If you have toddlers and you attend an outdoor activity where there’s a large crowd, keep these safety ideas in mind: get your little ones accustomed to holding hands.  Some parents use a child leash, which may look a little cruel, but in a crowded area, keeps them close at hand.  I’ve seen them used often in airports, which allows parents to take care of traveling arrangements while knowing their youngster is right there. Strollers are an ideal way to be sure they are safe.  Children too large for a stroller need to be watched closely; they can disappear in the blink of an eye.  

Also, keep in mind that your pets may not enjoy this particular holiday, especially the noise from fireworks.  An example of their sensitivity to sound: if you hear a radio at a distance of 50’ away, your dog will hear the same radio, same volume from a distance of 200’.  It might be a good idea to leave them at home, with a television or radio left on, to calm them down while you are enjoying the festivities. 

Many of you will be spending the holiday around a lake or river.  There’s always the danger of drowning, so be attentive to swimmers, and wear those life jackets while in a boat.  Anyone driving a boat should be responsible for the welfare of themselves and others.  The same goes for driving.  Drink responsibly.  Abide by the laws of your state in regard to driving a car or boat. 

Have a wonderful time and stay safe.  Remember our troops who can’t be home for the Fourth of July!  May God Bless them and our country.  Happy Birthday, America!

General Safety Issues, Protective Clothing

NORTH TO ALASKA!

It’s always been my dream to go to Alaska, and someday, I hope to make it come true!  After watching the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch”, however, I don’t think I want to make any career changes!  It takes special persons, to make up the crews on those big fishing vessels.
The lures to become this type of fisherman are money and adventure.  There’s money to be made, depending on the total catch, and how it is divided among the crew.  Since the work is seasonal, the crews work hard to have successful catches.  Newcomers must get experience on other types of fishing boats, such as those fishing for salmon before they can get hired to work on the King Crab ships.  There is usually an abundance of work in canneries and processing, and persons such as students or teachers can enjoy the extra money during their time off from their regular job.
This is one of America’s most dangerous professions; the Bureau of Labor determines the risk factors, and commercial fishing usually tops the list of risky occupations, but there are others that have higher rates of occupational deaths.  From year to year, the lists vary, according to other resources that study occupational injury and death.  Usually the military has been left off the lists; however, because of the wars we are involved in, they have been included, and rightfully so.
While fishing off the Alaskan coast, the crews face turbulent seas, fog, falling overboard and drowning, icy waters, working with huge winches and hoists.  Another major problem is ice, which can form on the masts and decks.  Those who stay at sea for extended periods of time must be well prepared.  Fishermen must have warm clothes, rainsuits, boots, winter liners, and gloves.  If there is illness or injury while out to sea, access to medical assistance is far away.  Because the potential of injury is present, applicants should inquire about the safety policies and procedures the company has established, and obey every safety aspect of the work involved.
The coast of New England also boasts a huge fishing industry, with lobsters being the main attraction.  So, the next time you are in your favorite seafood restaurant, think about the effort and risks taken by those brave souls that furnish the delicacies we take for granted.
It’s always been my dream to go to Alaska, and someday, I hope to make it come true!  After watching the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch”, however, I don’t think I want to make any career changes!  It takes special persons, to make up the crews on those big fishing vessels.
The lures to become this type of fisherman are money and adventure.  There’s money to be made, depending on the total catch, and how it is divided among the crew.  Since the work is seasonal, the crews work hard to have successful catches.  Newcomers must get experience on other types of fishing boats, such as those fishing for salmon before they can get hired to work on the King Crab ships.  There is usually an abundance of work in canneries and processing, and persons such as students or teachers can enjoy the extra money during their time off from their regular job.
This is one of America’s most dangerous professions; the Bureau of Labor determines the risk factors, and commercial fishing usually tops the list of risky occupations, but there are others that have higher rates of occupational deaths.  From year to year, the lists vary, according to other resources that study occupational injury and death.  Usually the military has been left off the lists; however, because of the wars we are involved in, they have been included, and rightfully so.
While fishing off the Alaskan coast, the crews face turbulent seas, fog, falling overboard and drowning, icy waters, working with huge winches and hoists.  Another major problem is ice, which can form on the masts and decks.  Those who stay at sea for extended periods of time must be well prepared.  Fishermen must have warm clothes, rainsuits, boots, winter liners, and gloves.  If there is illness or injury while out to sea, access to medical assistance is far away.  Because the potential of injury is present, applicants should inquire about the safety policies and procedures the company has established, and obey every safety aspect of the work involved.
The coast of New England also boasts a huge fishing industry, with lobsters being the main attraction.  So, the next time you are in your favorite seafood restaurant, think about the effort and risks taken by those brave souls that furnish the delicacies we take for granted.
General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

HOW SAFE ARE YOUR WINDOWS?

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When it comes to child safety, the type of window coverings you select may play an important part in keeping your little ones safe.  One of the many tasks we have in furnishing our home is choosing window treatments.  Whether we have children, grandchildren, or an occasional toddler visit our home, we must be aware of certain hazards that exist.  If you select blinds to cover your windows, be sure they are the new type of cordless ones.
Blinds made prior to 2001 do not meet child safety regulations.
Little ones love to climb up to look out of the window, and if they slip and fall, they could become entangled in the cords.  Infants in cribs that are placed too near a window may grab a cord, place it in their mouth, and get it wrapped around their neck.  One child died as a result of getting strangled by a loop attached to a treadmill.
Here are some actions you may take to ensure safety regarding this hazard:
q Never have furniture near dangling cords in windows.
q Buy new cordless window blinds.
q Consider other window treatments, such as shutters or curtains.
q If you have older blinds, get retrofit kits to make them safe.
q Never place cribs near windows.
q Keep the child away from blind cords.
If you want to adjust the existing blind cords that you now own, the USCPSC recommends eliminating loops on 2-corded horizontal blinds by cutting the cord above the end tassel (looks like a small wood or plastic thimble).  Remove equalizer buckle and add new tassels for each cord, or replace it with a safety break-away tassel.  Do not retie the cords in a knot, as that only recreates a new loop.  Or, you can lower the blind all the way, cut cords as close to top of blind as possible and then re-install tassels.  Parents can reach, but the tots cannot!  Otherwise, use old-fashioned cord cleats, which are available at most window covering stores.
UPDATE:  As of December 15, 2009, the USCPS Commission issued one of five of the largest recalls in the 35-year history of the agency.  Roman shades have killed five children and almost strangled sixteen others since 2006.  Since 2001, roll-up blinds have caused the deaths of three children.  More than 50 million roll-up blinds and Roman shades are involved in the recall, due to strangulation of children.  The space between the inner cord and shade fabric of the Roman shades, and the roll-up loop at the end of cords on blinds are very hazardous to children.  “The agency is considering setting federal mandatory standards, as repeated recalls are not the answer,” said Scott Wolfson, spokesman for USCPSC.  The Window Covering Safety Council is also backing the recall.
The Window Covering Safety Council provides free retrofit kits: cord stops, tassels, and tie-down devices.  Their toll-free number is 800-506-4636.  You can contact them at their website or give them a call for more information.
When it comes to child safety, the type of window coverings you select may play an important part in keeping your little ones safe.  One of the many tasks we have in furnishing our home is choosing window treatments.  Whether we have children, grandchildren, or an occasional toddler visit our home, we must be aware of certain hazards that exist.  If you select blinds to cover your windows, be sure they are the new type of cordless ones.
Blinds made prior to 2001 do not meet child safety regulations.
Little ones love to climb up to look out of the window, and if they slip and fall, they could become entangled in the cords.  Infants in cribs that are placed too near a window may grab a cord, place it in their mouth, and get it wrapped around their neck.  One child died as a result of getting strangled by a loop attached to a treadmill.
Here are some actions you may take to ensure safety regarding this hazard:
  • Never have furniture near dangling cords in windows.
  • Buy new cordless window blinds.
  • Consider other window treatments, such as shutters or curtains.
  • If you have older blinds, get retrofit kits to make them safe.
  • Never place cribs near windows.
  • Keep the child away from blind cords.
If you want to adjust the existing blind cords that you now own, the USCPSC recommends eliminating loops on 2-corded horizontal blinds by cutting the cord above the end tassel (looks like a small wood or plastic thimble).  Remove equalizer buckle and add new tassels for each cord, or replace it with a safety break-away tassel.  Do not retie the cords in a knot, as that only recreates a new loop.  Or, you can lower the blind all the way, cut cords as close to top of blind as possible and then re-install tassels.  Parents can reach, but the tots cannot!  Otherwise, use old-fashioned cord cleats, which are available at most window covering stores.
UPDATE:  As of December 15, 2009, the USCPS Commission issued one of five of the largest recalls in the 35-year history of the agency.  Roman shades have killed five children and almost strangled sixteen others since 2006.  Since 2001, roll-up blinds have caused the deaths of three children.  More than 50 million roll-up blinds and Roman shades are involved in the recall, due to strangulation of children.  The space between the inner cord and shade fabric of the Roman shades, and the roll-up loop at the end of cords on blinds are very hazardous to children.  “The agency is considering setting federal mandatory standards, as repeated recalls are not the answer,” said Scott Wolfson, spokesman for USCPSC.  The Window Covering Safety Council is also backing the recall.
The Window Covering Safety Council provides free retrofit kits: cord stops, tassels, and tie-down devices.  Their toll-free number is 800-506-4636.  You can contact them at their website or give them a call for more information.
First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety, Weather Protection

IMPORTANT SUMMER SAFETY REMINDER

Sooner or later, all of us have to drive on busy freeways.  Those who live in small towns find it a little intimidating to drive in heavy traffic, (at least, I do!).  While visiting my daughter in Georgetown, Texas, last week, I asked her for some topics to feature in our safety blog.  Her daily route to and from work is on Interstate 35.  She mentioned that debris on the highway is a problem and causes very serious accidents.  She and her husband watched a tire and wheel from an 18-wheeler going the opposite way, cross the median, and roll across four lanes of traffic before it came to a stop beside the highway.  Luckily, no vehicles were hit, but a very serious accident could have resulted.  She also said she sees ladders, tools, boxes, and other debris often during her commute.
This is a common problem throughout the U.S.  California reports that approximately 25,000 accidents per year are caused by debris.  A Los Angeles County deputy sheriff died when he swerved to dodge a stove that had fallen off a truck in front of him.  (The driver who didn’t secure the stove has been charged with murder and may face twenty-five years to life if convicted.)  Officials responsible for road clean up in California say that they collect enough junk from their state highways alone to fill up the Los Angeles Coliseum 8’ deep.  You can find similar stories from every state in the U.S.
Recycling is becoming big business, and there is more demand for scrap metal, cardboard, and scrap paper.  Many persons fill up their pickup beds to the max to haul junk to recycle stations.  Failing to secure their loads can be costly in some states.  California and ten other states are increasing penalties for losing loads on the roadways.  Fines may be as much as $5,000; if the lost debris causes an accident, persons can be jailed up to one year.
Overfilled gravel trucks can also cause accidents.  Examples of debris include, rocks, boulders, grease, engine oil, plants and their branches, etc., furniture, mattresses, garbage, nails, screws, glass, auto parts, lumber, tires, construction supplies, and animal corpses.  You can probably name other things you’ve seen on busy freeways.
Drivers that are hauling things should inspect their loads before they begin their journey.
There are littering laws and penalties that all travelers should follow.  If you see an unsafe load, get the license number of the vehicle and notify authorities.  It might help prevent an accident.
This is a difficult subject to even think about, but a very important one to pass on to our readers.  We are getting into the hottest time of the year, and so far, eighteen children have died of hyperthermia, eight of them since June 13th.  Hyperthermia is a rapid and often fatal rise in body temperature.  These young victims were left in cars.  We read about a parent or family member that simply forgot about the little passenger in the back seat.  We also read about children that climbed into unlocked cars in the driveway to play and then couldn’t get out, only to later be found dead.  Keep your parked car locked at all times.
July is known as the most deadly month for children to be trapped in cars.  Their respiratory and circulatory systems can’t handle heat the same as adults.  Hyperthermia is the third-leading cause of death in non-traffic related incidents involving children and vehicles.  It takes only 10 minutes for the temperature inside a car to spike 19 degrees, and then can go up to 29 degrees in 20 minutes.  On a 78° day, the temperature inside a car can climb to 97° in just ten minutes.
Organizations such as the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, KidsandCars.org, and PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) are among several others that warn parents not to leave their kids or animals unattended in or near vehicles.  PETA and KidsandCars urges “the most vulnerable beings among us– children and animals, need and deserve our protection.  Never leave a child or animal in a parked car on hot or even warm days.  Always leave dogs and cats at home, especially during a heat wave.”
It’s hard to understand how anyone can become so distracted that they would forget about a child in the back seat of their vehicle.  But it happens, and happens often.  It is suggested by the experts that drivers should place a purse, briefcase, or cell phone near the child’s seat as a reminder to retrieve the child.  Don’t become so overwhelmed by everyday pressures that you forget the most important person in the world, your child.
Get involved.  If you see a child or animal that has been left in a car, call 911.
  
Since this article was written on June 28 of this year, according to statistics from San Francisco State University, the total of children that have died from hyperthermia has reached 36 - double what we reported in late June!  The total for the entire year of 2010 was 33.  They also furnished statistics on the circumstances of these deaths, totaling 443 from 1998 through 2009.  Here are the terrible facts:
  
  
51% were forgotten by care giver or parent
  
  
30% were playing in an unattended vehicle
  
  
18% were intentionally left in a vehicle by an adult
  
  
This is one safety product that is advertised on the internet.  If you have a child passenger, you may want to check into this or a similar one.
  
  
Here’s how it works:
  
  
The seat pad is placed under existing car seat cushion.
  
  
Baby is placed in car seat, which activates the safety system,
  
  
This activates receiver, located on the driver's key ring.
  
  
If driver exits the car without removing baby from car seat an alarm sounds on driver's key ring.
  
  
If the driver does not hear or respond to the alarm within a predetermined elapsed time, a louder alarm, using a voice synthesizer, saying  ''Baby in Danger'' will activate from the seat pad itself, hopefully alerting passers by to the dangerous situation.
You may save a life.
General Safety Issues

SUMMER’S HERE!

As the month of June is closing, our final installment for National Safety Month is “Summer Safety.”  What better time to pass on to you many safety issues that this time of the year brings.  We hope you will have a great summer, and maybe some of these ideas will help you avoid some of the pitfalls that hot weather brings.
v First, the sun:  most of us spend more time outdoors during summer months.  Exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer, especially for those who have fair skin and freckles.  Be sure to wear sunscreen with a high SPF, and apply it often.  Wear a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect your eyes.
v Heat: You need to gradually become used to being in the heat, especially those who must work outdoors.  Drink lots of water or sports drinks, and stay hydrated.  Take breaks as often as possible.
v Another heat issue: summer athletics.  This is the time of year when baseball and other sports are taking place.  Those who are working out for football are also exposed to conditions they are not used to.  Be sure that your summer athlete stays hydrated and is allowed to take breaks.
v Fireworks: even sparklers can cause burns.  Don’t allow children to use fireworks unattended.  The best idea would be to watch a fireworks display and let the professionals handle it.
v Water: many boating and swimming accidents happen because of alcohol or drugs.
v Summer is a high-risk time for child drownings, the 2nd leading cause of unintentional deaths in children ages 1-14.  Remember, no one watches your child as closely as you.  A child can drown in 20-30 seconds.  Don’t be distracted by cell phone calls or reading a magazine while supervising young swimmers.
v The driver of a boat should be as responsible as when he/she is driving a car.  Be sure                all children wear life jackets in a boat, and adults should wear them, as well, to set the example for the kids.  Swimmers should not go out alone, but use the “buddy system.”
v ATV’s:  Those who are not licensed to drive a car or under age 16 should not operate off-road vehicles.  It’s safer to not carry a passenger, and always wear eye protection and reflective clothing.
v Camping: always tell somewhere where you plan to camp.  Take along insect repellant, a first-aid kit, cell phone, and plenty of water.
v Picnics: keep cold foods cold.  Avoid dairy products; mayonnaise spoils quickly.  Throw out foods that are left out for more than one hour.  Remember: “if in doubt, throw it out!”
v Traveling: if you are driving, watch for motorcycle and bicycle riders. They are entitled to their place on the road, too.  If you are on a motorcycle or bike, watch for cars, and don’t get too close.
v Traveling, again: if you are traveling by plane or ship, be sure to wash your hands frequently and have hand sanitizer with you.  You are exposed to more “bugs” when you travel and you don’t want to take them home with you.
v Weather: always be aware of approaching changes in the weather.  Pay attention to forecasts, and find a safe place to retreat if the need arises.
v Pets:  your pets are family members, too.  Be sure they have plenty of fresh water throughout the day, and a shady place if they are outside.  Never leave an animal in a car.  It only takes a short time for them to be overcome by heat.
v It goes without saying: never leave children in a car!
Hopefully we have covered some of the hazards of summer.  For kids, it’s the best time of the year – no school, no waking up early, and just having fun in general.  For adults, it’s carrying on as usual.  But when vacation or week-end outings roll around, always keep safety in mind.
As the month of June is closing, our final installment for National Safety Month is “Summer Safety.”  What better time to pass on to you many safety issues that this time of the year brings.  We hope you will have a great summer, and maybe some of these ideas will help you avoid some of the pitfalls that hot weather brings.
  • First, the sun:  most of us spend more time outdoors during summer months.  Exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer, especially for those who have fair skin and freckles.  Be sure to wear sunscreen with a high SPF, and apply it often.  Wear a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect your eyes.
  • Heat: You need to gradually become used to being in the heat, especially those who must work outdoors.  Drink lots of water or sports drinks, and stay hydrated.  Take breaks as often as possible.
  • Another heat issue: summer athletics.  This is the time of year when baseball and other sports are taking place.  Those who are working out for football are also exposed to conditions they are not used to.  Be sure that your summer athlete stays hydrated and is allowed to take breaks.
  • Fireworks: even sparklers can cause burns.  Don’t allow children to use fireworks unattended.  The best idea would be to watch a fireworks display and let the professionals handle it.
  • Water: many boating and swimming accidents happen because of alcohol or drugs.
  • Summer is a high-risk time for child drownings, the 2nd leading cause of unintentional deaths in children ages 1-14.  Remember, no one watches your child as closely as you.  A child can drown in 20-30 seconds.  Don’t be distracted by cell phone calls or reading a magazine while supervising young swimmers.
  • The driver of a boat should be as responsible as when he/she is driving a car.  Be sure                all children wear life jackets in a boat, and adults should wear them, as well, to set the example for the kids.  Swimmers should not go out alone, but use the “buddy system.”
  • ATV’s:  Those who are not licensed to drive a car or under age 16 should not operate off-road vehicles.  It’s safer to not carry a passenger, and always wear eye protection and reflective clothing.
  • Camping: always tell somewhere where you plan to camp.  Take along insect repellant, a first-aid kit, cell phone, and plenty of water.
  • Picnics: keep cold foods cold.  Avoid dairy products; mayonnaise spoils quickly.  Throw out foods that are left out for more than one hour.  Remember: “if in doubt, throw it out!”
  • Traveling: if you are driving, watch for motorcycle and bicycle riders. They are entitled to their place on the road, too.  If you are on a motorcycle or bike, watch for cars, and don’t get too close.
  • Traveling, again: if you are traveling by plane or ship, be sure to wash your hands frequently and have hand sanitizer with you.  You are exposed to more “bugs” when you travel and you don’t want to take them home with you.
  • Weather: always be aware of approaching changes in the weather.  Pay attention to forecasts, and find a safe place to retreat if the need arises.
  • Pets:  your pets are family members, too.  Be sure they have plenty of fresh water throughout the day, and a shady place if they are outside.  Never leave an animal in a car.  It only takes a short time for them to be overcome by heat.
  • It goes without saying: never leave children in a car!
Hopefully we have covered some of the hazards of summer.  For kids, it’s the best time of the year – no school, no waking up early, and just having fun in general.  For adults, it’s carrying on as usual.  But when vacation or week-end outings roll around, always keep safety in mind.
General Safety Issues

WHEN WILL WE PUT SAFETY FIRST?

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As the Gulf of Mexico waters continue to be spoiled by oil and chemicals released from the BP oil well, we are reminded that too many times companies “put the cart before the horse.”  Only after an accident such as this, causing the loss of life of eleven people, injuries to many workers, and ruining the livelihoods of thousands who depend on fishing and tourism, do we begin to point the finger of blame.  Congressmen are trying to find out why it happened, but what are they going to do about it?  Where are the ones responsible to initiate plans to prevent these mishaps, rather than wait until it’s too late?
An example of this is the tragedy in West Virginia, where several miners lost their lives in the explosion at the Upper Big Branch South Mine, on April 5th.  Shortly afterwards, we learned about the numerous safety violations that their company, Massey Energy, had committed.   If corrections to the citations had been made, it’s possible that the explosion may not have happened.   According to an Associated Press release of June 15, 2010, the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration is heading a civil investigation of the explosion, which is also the subject of a federal criminal probe.  Hopefully, something will be done to keep our miners safer in their daily work.
“Safety First” should be the motto of every company, and it should mean just that.  Every employee should have the assurance that he will go home at the end of his/her shift.  There are many dangerous jobs out there, and working on a drilling rig is one of them.  Jobs that provide energy for this country are risky, and the people who do that type of work know that.  But they should be able to trust that the company they are working for is not going to cut corners or take shortcuts to complete the job because of the bottom dollar figure.  The result of this accident is going to cost billions of dollars and years of repair to restore the Gulf Coast region.  It is taking not only a human toll to those who live and work in the area, but birds, animals and sea life have paid with their lives.  We salute those who are working diligently to save as many birds and sea creatures as possible.
It is time that whatever agencies “oversee” safety regulations do what is expected of them. That’s what our tax dollars are paying them to do.   We hope that the people of the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida are compensated fairly in a timely manner for their losses.  Drilling has gone on in the Gulf of Mexico for years without tragedies such as this.  We need the oil that the Gulf of Mexico can furnish, and those persons who work on drilling rigs need their jobs.  Citizens should expect that our government agencies enforce all employers in every type of business to fulfill their obligation to their employees by abiding by the details of their safety policies and procedures.  This is a hard lesson in “crying over spilled oil” instead of “crying over spilled milk.”
As the Gulf of Mexico waters continue to be spoiled by oil and chemicals released from the BP oil well, we are reminded that too many times companies “put the cart before the horse.”  Only after an accident such as this, causing the loss of life of eleven people, injuries to many workers, and ruining the livelihoods of thousands who depend on fishing and tourism, do we begin to point the finger of blame.  Congressmen are trying to find out why it happened, but what are they going to do about it?  Where are the ones responsible to initiate plans to prevent these mishaps, rather than wait until it’s too late?
An example of this is the tragedy in West Virginia, where several miners lost their lives in the explosion at the Upper Big Branch South Mine, on April 5th.  Shortly afterwards, we learned about the numerous safety violations that their company, Massey Energy, had committed.   If corrections to the citations had been made, it’s possible that the explosion may not have happened.   According to an Associated Press release of June 15, 2010, the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration is heading a civil investigation of the explosion, which is also the subject of a federal criminal probe.  Hopefully, something will be done to keep our miners safer in their daily work.
“Safety First” should be the motto of every company, and it should mean just that.  Every employee should have the assurance that he will go home at the end of his/her shift.  There are many dangerous jobs out there, and working on a drilling rig is one of them.  Jobs that provide energy for this country are risky, and the people who do that type of work know that.  But they should be able to trust that the company they are working for is not going to cut corners or take shortcuts to complete the job because of the bottom dollar figure.  The result of this accident is going to cost billions of dollars and years of repair to restore the Gulf Coast region.  It is taking not only a human toll to those who live and work in the area, but birds, animals and sea life have paid with their lives.  We salute those who are working diligently to save as many birds and sea creatures as possible.
It is time that whatever agencies “oversee” safety regulations do what is expected of them. That’s what our tax dollars are paying them to do.   We hope that the people of the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida are compensated fairly in a timely manner for their losses.  Drilling has gone on in the Gulf of Mexico for years without tragedies such as this.  We need the oil that the Gulf of Mexico can furnish, and those persons who work on drilling rigs need their jobs.  Citizens should expect that our government agencies enforce all employers in every type of business to fulfill their obligation to their employees by abiding by the details of their safety policies and procedures.  This is a hard lesson in “crying over spilled oil” instead of “crying over spilled milk.”
Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

HOW SAFE IS YOUR HOME?

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Not only is the month of June National Safety Month, but also National Home Safety Month, as designated by the Home Safety Council.  We know that “a man’s home is his castle,” but how many of us have looked around to see how many hidden dangers are lurking in our castles?
For example:
q Does your family have an evacuation plan in case of fire?
q Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher?
q Do you know how to extinguish a fire on the stove or oven?
q Have you ever left your house with the washer or dryer running?
q Do you leave candles unattended?
q Do you unplug appliances such as toasters, coffee makers, waffle irons, after using them?
q Do your stairs have ample lighting at top and bottom to prevent falls?
q Are there hazards in your house that might injure a child?
q Have you installed electric plug outlets, locks on medicines, and door latches?
q Are emergency numbers such as fire department, police, etc. posted in easy-to-find places?
q Do you have an emergency supply kit that will provide water, non-perishable foods, flashlight, medications, first aid kit, etc. in case of a natural disaster?
q Is your water heater set for 120° F or less?
q Do you check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly?
q Do you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
q When you leave for a period of time, do you make arrangements with friends, family, or neighbors to pick up your mail, papers, etc., in order to not tempt burglars?
q Have you done a check of an elderly friend or parent’s home to make sure there are no fall hazards, and that they have an alert device if they live alone?
q Do you use non-slip mats in the bathtub or shower?
q Do you constantly supervise children in or near water, such as bathtubs or pools?
These are just a few questions that everyone needs to be sure they can answer.  According to the Home Safety Council’s State of Home Safety in AmericaÔ reports, there are more than 21 million medical visits and almost 20,000 deaths that result from home injuries each year.  The Home Safety Council’s goal is to educate and empower families and businesses to take actions that will make homes safe.
We feel sure that we all can look around and see things that we could do to make our homes safer.  Those who work in the yard and gardens need to take precautions when working with machinery.  Wearing eye protection, such as wraparound safety glasses or goggles, and gloves, are necessary to protect our eyes and hands.  By keeping both the inside and outside of our homes safer, we can avoid those medical visits!
Not only is the month of June National Safety Month, but also National Home Safety Month, as designated by the Home Safety Council.  We know that “a man’s home is his castle,” but how many of us have looked around to see how many hidden dangers are lurking in our castles?
For example:
  • Does your family have an evacuation plan in case of fire?
  • Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher?
  • Do you know how to extinguish a fire on the stove or oven?
  • Have you ever left your house with the washer or dryer running?
  • Do you leave candles unattended?
  • Do you unplug appliances such as toasters, coffee makers, waffle irons, after using them?
  • Do your stairs have ample lighting at top and bottom to prevent falls?
  • Are there hazards in your house that might injure a child?
  • Have you installed electric plug outlets, locks on medicines, and door latches?
  • Are emergency numbers such as fire department, police, etc. posted in easy-to-find places?
  • Do you have an emergency supply kit that will provide water, non-perishable foods, flashlight, medications, safety kit, etc. in case of a natural disaster?
  • Is your water heater set for 120° F or less?
  • Do you check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly?
  • Do you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
  • When you leave for a period of time, do you make arrangements with friends, family, or neighbors to pick up your mail, papers, etc., in order to not tempt burglars?
  • Have you done a check of an elderly friend or parent’s home to make sure there are no fall hazards, and that they have an alert device if they live alone?
  • Do you use non-slip mats in the bathtub or shower?
  • Do you constantly supervise children in or near water, such as bathtubs or pools?
These are just a few questions that everyone needs to be sure they can answer.  According to the Home Safety Council’s State of Home Safety in AmericaÔ reports, there are more than 21 million medical visits and almost 20,000 deaths that result from home injuries each year.  The Home Safety Council’s goal is to educate and empower families and businesses to take actions that will make homes safe.
We feel sure that we all can look around and see things that we could do to make our homes safer.  Those who work in the yard and gardens need to take precautions when working with machinery.  Wearing eye protection, such as wraparound safety glasses or goggles, and gloves, are necessary to protect our eyes and hands.  By keeping both the inside and outside of our homes safer, we can avoid those medical visits!
General Safety Issues

ENSURING THAT EVERYONE UNDERSTANDS ABOUT SAFETY!

Safety Meetings and Safety Training are conducted to keep you safe while you earn your pay.  But what if these meetings were presented in a language that you didn’t know?  America has always been known as a Melting Pot, with immigrant workers coming from all over the world.  Many of them are from disadvantaged countries, and work in seasonal jobs such as agriculture.  Others work in construction, mining, and industries with high mortality rates.  Some are machine operators, assemblers, cleaners, and helpers.  Limited English proficiency may be a direct contributor to workplace injuries or fatalities.
OSHA has a history of requiring employers to train their employees in a manner that they understand.  If they don’t speak English, then preparation for their job tasks, as well as safety and health training, is to be conveyed in the language that they understand.  If the employee’s vocabulary is limited, training must account for that limitation.  Simply telling them to read training materials will not satisfy the employer’s obligation.  OSHA also requires employers to verify that employees have acquired the knowledge and skills for which they have been trained; i.e., lockout/tagout, respiratory protection, bloodborne pathogens, etc.
Having worked for an oilfield construction company in West Texas several years ago, I know there were many of our employees that didn’t understand or speak English, and were dependent on their Spanish-speaking supervisors to instruct them.  They worked hard for minimum wage, and did a good job.  But there were injuries, as well.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health shares these examples of how they are working to improve problems that immigrant workers face:
§ The NIOSH Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) program identifies and studies work-related injury deaths, with the goal of identifying effective prevention measures.
§ Through on-site investigations, NIOSH and cooperating states collect detailed circumstances for select incident types, including deaths of Hispanic workers since 2002.
§ Targeted research programs focused on the construction and agricultural sectors, both of which employ a disproportionate share of immigrant workers.
§ An occupational health disparities program, which is conducting research on the causes and prevention of occupational health disparities including those experienced by immigrant workers.
§ A Spanish language website and translation of several NIOSH publications into Spanish.
§ An innovative information and communication effort with the Spanish-language television network Telemundo and other partners, in which construction safety messages were incorporated dramatically into a widely watched prime-time series, and supplemented with a public service announcement and a special website.
Companies and their supervisors are responsible for the safety of all workers, must understand the hazards of their job, as well as the importance of wearing Personal Protective Equipment, and how to take care of it.  If employees see a co-worker that is at risk, regardless of a language barrier, or any other reason, they need to reach out and help.  That way, everyone stays safe!
Sources:
OSHA
NIOSH
Safety Meetings and Safety Training are conducted to keep you safe while you earn your pay.  But what if these meetings were presented in a language that you didn’t know?  America has always been known as a Melting Pot, with immigrant workers coming from all over the world.  Many of them are from disadvantaged countries, and work in seasonal jobs such as agriculture.  Others work in construction, mining, and industries with high mortality rates.  Some are machine operators, assemblers, cleaners, and helpers.  Limited English proficiency may be a direct contributor to workplace injuries or fatalities.
OSHA has a history of requiring employers to train their employees in a manner that they understand.  If they don’t speak English, then preparation for their job tasks, as well as safety and health training, is to be conveyed in the language that they understand.  If the employee’s vocabulary is limited, training must account for that limitation.  Simply telling them to read training materials will not satisfy the employer’s obligation.  OSHA also requires employers to verify that employees have acquired the knowledge and skills for which they have been trained; i.e., lockout/tagout, respiratory protection, bloodborne pathogens, etc.
Having worked for an oilfield construction company in West Texas several years ago, I know there were many of our employees that didn’t understand or speak English, and were dependent on their Spanish-speaking supervisors to instruct them.  They worked hard for minimum wage, and did a good job.  But there were injuries, as well.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health shares these examples of how they are working to improve problems that immigrant workers face:
  • The NIOSH Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) program identifies and studies work-related injury deaths, with the goal of identifying effective prevention measures.
  • Through on-site investigations, NIOSH and cooperating states collect detailed circumstances for select incident types, including deaths of Hispanic workers since 2002.
  • Targeted research programs focused on the construction and agricultural sectors, both of which employ a disproportionate share of immigrant workers.
  • An occupational health disparities program, which is conducting research on the causes and prevention of occupational health disparities including those experienced by immigrant workers.
  • A Spanish language website and translation of several NIOSH publications into Spanish.
  • An innovative information and communication effort with the Spanish-language television network Telemundo and other partners, in which construction safety messages were incorporated dramatically into a widely watched prime-time series, and supplemented with a public service announcement and a special website.
Companies and their supervisors are responsible for the safety of all workers, must understand the hazards of their job, as well as the importance of wearing Personal Protective Equipment, and how to take care of it.  If employees see a co-worker that is at risk, regardless of a language barrier, or any other reason, they need to reach out and help.  That way, everyone stays safe!
Sources:
OSHA
NIOSH