Tag Archives: Safety

General Safety Issues

CANDLE SAFETY VIEWS

Candles sales in the United States amount to an estimated $2 billion annually.  This doesn’t include the accessories that go with them.  Candles are found in 7 out of 10 households.  Did you know that more than one billion pounds of wax are used each year to produce candles in America?  Thirty-five per cent of annual sales of candles are during the Christmas holiday.  The glow of candles gives a beautiful ambiance to any room in the house.  However, fires from candles can bring about serious damage and risks to all.

One-half of home candle fires start because they have been placed too close to combustible material.  The majority of candle fires are because of human error and negligence.  There are more than 15,000 residential fires in the U.S. annually that are caused by careless use of candles.  Candles left burning in the bedroom are where the majority of fires begin.  According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the hours between Midnight and 6 a.m. account for one-half of all deaths resulting from candle fires.

A common-sense approach to the use of candles in your home is the best.  With that in mind, here are some tips:

  • Each time you burn candles, trim the wicks ¼” before you burn them.
  • Never leave burning candles unattended; keep them within your sight.
  • Don’t burn them all the way down.
  • Keep candles away from children or pets.
  • Always use candleholders.
  • Place them in a well-ventilated room, and on a stable surface.
  • Avoid vents, drafts, and air currents.
  • When putting the candle out, be sure it is completely out.

One last grim reminder:  December is the peak month for fires that are started by candles.

The top five most dangerous days for fires from candles are, in order:

(1) Christmas Day,

(2) Christmas Eve,

3) New Year’s Day,

(4) New Year’s Eve, and

(5) Halloween.

There’s nothing more beautiful than candles to give your home that perfect atmosphere.  They also present fragrance to the environment, which adds to a festive mood.  We certainly don’t want to rain on your holiday parade, and encourage you to decorate anytime with your favorite types of candles.  Just exercise the same caution that you would with any open flame.

Sources:
U.S. Fire Administration
National Candle Association

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

IS IT ALREADY DECEMBER?

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

Notable days in December are:

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

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

December is also National Month of:

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

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

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

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

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

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There are various opinions about the origin of this holiday, which is celebrated by the United States and Canada.   Some facts we have found are that the first Thanksgiving was celebrated in Texas, by the Spanish explorer, Francisco Vasquez de Coronado in 1541.  Pilgrims gathered in 1621 to celebrate a successful harvest.  In the United States, in 1939, the fourth Thursday in November was named as the official holiday.  The second Monday in October is Canada’s national Thanksgiving holiday.  There are probably many other theories about when and how the holiday began, but the main theme of today’s article is to have a Happy and Safe one!

This is the time of year when folks become rushed, getting ready for the big day!  The most dangerous and deadly time of the year is from now through the end of the year, according to traffic statistics.  Drunk drivers, drivers and passengers who are not wearing seatbelts, and those simply in a big hurry, account for accidents that can cause not-so-happy memories for all involved.  Even if you are going to save lots of money getting to that “Black Friday” sale the day after Thanksgiving, consider the consequences and slow down!

Here’s a few basic, common sense hints to make your holiday feast successful:

  • In planning your meal, keep in mind those who might have food allergies.
  • Childproof your home.
  • Prepare the meal safely; use protective gloves when handling hot dishes.
  • If you choose a fresh turkey, do not purchase it until 1-2 days before you plan to cook it.
  • Thaw your frozen bird in the refrigerator 24 hrs per each 5 lbs.
  • Lest you forget to thaw the turkey, you may thaw it in the microwave if it isn’t too big; be sure to use the power level for thawing, and cook immediately once it is thawed.
  • Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking.
  • Use the refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days.
  • Keep Fido or Tabby safe this Thanksgiving; a little turkey meat won’t hurt, but don’t give them bones from the bird, as they can splinter and be dangerous.  Foods that are spiced with garlic, etc., are not meant for animals.  Your beloved pets will be just as happy with their regular diet.

We hope that each and every one will travel safely, not eat too much, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

HOW ABOUT A PAT ON THE BACK?

Everyone deserves a pat on the back at one time or another.  If you brag on a child for good behavior or good grades, chances are he will continue working hard for your praise, or even a little reward!  Many times a few kind words will go a long way.  When I worked for an oilfield construction company, our customers would let me know whether or not our crews had done a good job for them.  I always made it a point to pass that information on- first, to the boss, and then, to the workers.  They deserved to know each time they had pleased the customer.

Safety awards are excellent motivational tools that reward workers for consistently performing their jobs safely.  Companies should include their workers in the planning of their safety program. After all, they are the ones that know the hazards they encounter every day.

Frequent repetition of safety goals as outlined will bring good results.  Posters placed in common places also serve as great safety reminders.  Depending on the size of the company, it should be determined exactly what the choices of the awards will be, such as pizza parties, gift certificates, discounts for certain products, first aid kits, etc.

It’s been said that 93% of all accidents happen because people were not paying attention to what they were doing while they were doing it!  Workers must be trained to be constantly aware of risks they may experience, and focus on doing their job safely.  Proper training and accountability are important characteristics of a good safety plan.  Wellness initiatives could also be worked into a safety awards program.  Individual recognition plays a valuable roll, as well.  If your company has a newsletter, feature pictures of those who were shown appreciation; if not, put their picture in the newspaper.  This would be a way of acknowledging  that your company appreciates those employees who act responsibly.

Promoting daily safety goals will produce long-term safety awareness.  Work safely, and give your co-workers words of praise when they play by the rules.  That way, everyone’s a winner!

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

ALWAYS BE ON THE ALERT!

Earlier this year, we featured Safety Advice for Women of all Ages.  We feel it would be helpful to review this information and add these good suggestions, as well:

  • If a thief wants your wallet or purse, do not hand it to him; throw it away.  Hopefully, he will be more interested it that and will go for it, so you can make your break.
  • Do not sit in your car working on your checkbook or making a list, as you may be vulnerable to some predator who is watching you.
  • When you get into your car, lock your doors and drive away.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings.
  • Do not be tricked into helping someone.  There are many professional criminals who will play on your sympathies.
  • Your elbow is the strongest point on your body; use it if you need to.
  • There are many scams that are done outside your house; if you hear unusual noises, call for help, but do not go outside to investigate.
  • God forbid, but if you are ever put into a car trunk, kick out the taillights and wave like crazy, so someone will see you!

These warnings apply to men and children, as well as women.  It seems as though women and children are the most likely targets for predators.  We all should be vigilant and watch for each other.  There are many protective devices adults can carry, such as pepper spray or mace.  In this crazy world of ours, we just can’t be too careful!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

NATIONAL FIRE PREVENTION WEEK, 2009

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National Fire Prevention Month, which officially began in 1922, in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, has been the longest public safety and health campaign in United States history.  The National Fire Protection Association has designated the week of October 4 – 10, 2009, as National Fire Prevention Week, with its focus on burn awareness and prevention, as well as keeping homes safe from fires.  This year’s theme is “Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned!”

Here are some facts from the NFPA regarding home fires in 2008 in the United States:

  • There were 386,500 home fires, resulting in 2,755 deaths.
  • Fire departments responded to home fires every 81 seconds.
  • The kitchen is the leading area of origin for home fires.
  • Unattended cooking is one of the main causes.
  • Bedrooms and family/living rooms are the area of origin in home fires that result in death.
  • Smoking materials cause 1 in 4 fire deaths in the U.S.
  • One of four victims of fatal smoking-related fires is not the person who started the fire.
  • Furniture, mattresses, or bedding are usually the materials that catch on fire from someone smoking carelessly.
  • Space heaters cause far more fires and loss than central heat; the main reason is there are materials too close to them that can burn.
  • Electrical wiring, switches, outlets, lamps, light fixtures, and lighting equipment are also major causes of home fires.
  • Smoke alarms can cut your chances of dying in half in a reported fire.  It has been found that in more than one-half of responses to house fires, smoke alarms were present, but had no batteries, or had been dismantled because of their noise.
  • Not enough American households have a fire escape plan and practice it.
  • There were 320 deaths and $542 million in property loss last year as a result of intentionally set home structure fires.  One-half of the people arrested for arson were under age 18.

We hope these facts make you a little more aware of the danger and destruction of home fires.

I have seen first hand in our own neighborhood, the result of a person’s smoking and falling asleep: he died, as well as two innocent persons in the home, his wife and grandchild.  Many of the firefighters were young men, and had not had to deal with death from a fire before this happened.  It was a very devastating time for the family, firemen, and community.

Other articles you may wish to review are “Don’t Get Burned”, “Preventing Home Cooking Fires”, and “Fire Extinguishers”, which you may find helpful.

Fall Safety, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

DO Y0U PREACH TO THE CHOIR?

For more than a year now, I have been talking about safety: at home, work, and play.  I have researched all types of accidents and how they might have been avoided.  By writing about safety-related issues, I have prided myself on the things I have learned through research. Preached to my family, from swine flu to staying hydrated while playing sports- my expertise has been offered to anyone who would listen, whether they wanted to or not.

A bad thing happened this week: a friend of mine fell from her back porch, breaking her arm in two places, as well as receiving a black eye and bruised ego.  And what was the first thing I did when I saw her in the E.R? Aside from telling her how sorry I was that this terrible accident happened to her, I advised her to carry her cell phone in her pocket from now on, so she could call for help. (Unable to get up after the fall, she was on the ground for more than an hour before her husband came home and called for an ambulance.)

Later, I began to think: my cell phone is not always in my pocket.  When I am running a short errand, my seat belt sometimes is not buckled up, even though it is the law.  I’m still tempted to talk on the cell phone while driving down the road, but I have realized that it is not the safest thing to do, so I have cut down on those calls.  It’s very tempting to drive through a yellow traffic light, just as it’s changing.  And how many of us haven’t run a stop/yield sign at one time or another?  An added note: (the chief of police in our little town ran a yield sign just yesterday, and almost hit my son’s truck.)

If we all took the time to consider the little chances we take on a daily basis that could result in mishaps, we probably could figure out ways to ensure an accident won’t happen.  Example: my friend will need a rail to hold on to when she enters or leaves her house.  And I bet that rail will be put up when she comes home from the hospital.  She has had a number of surgeries, and if a rail had been there, maybe that fall could have been prevented.

Sometimes in life, we all need a rail or someone to hold on to.  Think about ways that would make your life safer.  We all need to practice what we preach.  I promise I will from now on!

General Safety Issues

SOME NEW LAWS FOR TEXANS

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Effective September 1st, there are new laws for Texans to abide by.  State legislators passed several new laws; therefore, we feel it is our duty as good citizens to pass some of them on to our fellow Texans:

  • Handheld cell phones are prohibited from use while in school zones, unless the vehicle is stopped or the driver is using a hands-free set. Fines will not be imposed until June 1st, 2010.  (Hopefully, this will get drivers used to the law and they will stop using them in school zones.)
  • “Click It or Ticket” starts at a new level Tuesday, when all passengers in the vehicle are required to buckle up, even those in the backseat.
  • Children 8 and younger who are shorter than 4’9” are required to be secured in a booster seat.  The same deadline of June 1 for fines applies to this law.
  • Teen drivers under 18 will be prohibited from using cell phones while driving for the first year of their license.  (Previous law was for 6 months.)
  • Penalties will be increased for misusing parking spaces for handicapped or placards for people with disabilities.
  • All applicants under age 18 must take the driving skills exam to receive a driver’s license.
  • Passengers age 5 and younger are outlawed from riding on a motorcycle except in a sidecar or during an emergency.
  • A minor’s driver’s license will be suspended for failing a breath-or blood-alcohol test while operating a watercraft.
  • The license of someone who drives while intoxicated with a child passenger is automatically suspended.
  • Questions regarding rights and responsibilities in relation to bike safety will be added to the driver’s license exam.
  • Convalescent homes, nursing homes and related institutions are required to have an automated external defibrillator (AED), and personnel trained to use one.
  • Restaurants are required to list food and food-handling activities that involve bare-hand contact and to adopt some contamination control guidelines.

While we chose laws that involve the safety of others, we are hopeful that people are aware of these and many other changes, and will respect and abide by them.

Back Safety, Ergonomics, Eye Protection, Fall Safety, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, High Visibility Safety, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

THE IMPORTANCE OF KNOWING WHAT WENT WRONG

One of the worst things that can happen to any business is for an employee to be injured on the job.  (It goes without saying, that it’s also a very unfortunate event for the employee.) Workers have the right to know exactly what is expected of them in their daily job performance.  They should be informed of any hazards associated with their duties and properly trained before beginning their job, and given the proper personal protective equipment that is required to ensure their safety.

Efficient businesses have policies and procedures, which should include a proper accident investigation and reporting plan.  Prevention, of course, is the key to avoiding accidents, but when they happen, someone must be assigned to be responsible in determining how and why the injury occurred.   Insufficient reporting of work-related accidents will lead to higher costs for employers.  It also must be reported to company management and workers comp providers in an accurate and timely manner.

Lost time accidents are costly to employers.  According to Cal/OSHA, for every dollar a company spends on direct costs of a workers’ injury, more dollars are spent to cover the hidden and indirect costs, such as:

  • Productive time lost by the injured employee;
  • Productive time lost by employees attending the accident victim;
  • Time to hire/retrain employee while victim is off work;
  • Clean up and start up of operations that were interrupted;
  • Paying employee all or part of wages, in addition to compensation;
  • Cost to repair damaged equipment;
  • Higher workers compensation rates;
  • Cost of paperwork involved in reporting accident.

Employers that do not furnish safe and healthful work practices for their workers are gambling with the future of their very own business.  Hazard assessments, risk management, and safety programs are essential for ensuring successful business practices for everyone involved.

Another angle to consider, as well, is that a thorough accident investigation will prove that the injury did occur on the job, and not elsewhere.  History shows that there are people in this world that will take advantage of their employer and sue them for an on-the-job injury that happened somewhere else.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

TAKE A HIKE!

There is still time to make plans for late summer vacations!  While we certainly don’t want to rain on your parade, if hiking or camping is included in your planned activities, here are a few ideas that will help you map out a successful trip:

HIKING or CAMPING:

Whether you are a new or seasoned hiker, it pays to play it safe:

  • Always tell friends or family where you plan to hike/camp.
  • Take plenty of water, snacks and a cell phone.
  • If you are a new hiker, stay in familiar areas; it ‘s too easy to drift into unknown places.
  • In State Parks, check in with Rangers to let them know how long you plan to stay.
  • Don’t mess with wildlife!  Remember, they are wild animals, many protecting their young.
  • If camping is new to you, take shorter trips before embarking on a longer outing.
  • Wear layered clothing, easy to remove/add to be ready for weather changes.
  • Carry lightweight rain jackets.
  • Carry along a First Aid Kit.
  • Add sunscreen to your list, as well as some good safety glasses w/U.V. protection.
  • As the Boy Scouts say,  “Be Prepared!”

Before you check into the great outdoors, be sure you check out all the products you need to stay safe and comfortable.

Source: Safetyissues.com