Tag Archives: Workplace

Ergonomics, Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

HAZARDS ARE LURKING EVERYWHERE!

We recently published an article regarding how to perform a job hazard analysis in the workplace.  There are hazards everywhere, in the workplace, home, school, businesses, just about anywhere you happen to go in everyday life. 

Have you ever noticed something in a store  that shouldn’t be there?  While  checking out of the grocery store, I noticed there were wires everywhere, around the area that customers had to pay out and pick up their sacks to leave.  They were installing new computers, but there must have been another way to put those wires where customers were not at risk.

Another example, a small local chain discount store had become extremely unorganized.  Seems that several employees had quit, and there were not enough employees to stock incoming merchandise, until it got to the point that it became dangerous to even try to find what you were looking for.  The risk of falling over something in the aisles was  bad enough that persons quit going into the store.  The local fire marshall warned the store to get it straightened out in a certain amount of time, or he would be shutting the door because the business had become a fire hazard.  Bringing in employees from area stores to help get everything stocked and neat again resulted from his visit.

Depending on the type of work we do, there are hazards in most all places of employment.  Biological Hazards can be extremely dangerous if the right safety precautions are not taken.  This includes anything that can be passed from one person to another.  Contagious biological hazards are flu, hepatitis, or HIV.  Mold and chemicals are also biological hazards. 

Fire Hazards in the workplace are one of the major causes of lost work time.  Work may be shut down because of fire damage to the building.  Employees should conduct fire drills often, and be trained in fire safety: where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them.  Exit routes should be clearly posted and never blocked.  Lives can be lost in fires, so this is a very serious concern.

Electrical Hazards are dangerous both at work and at home.  Never overload an electrical socket or extension cord.  Check all cords to ensure there are no frays that could start a fire. 

Slips, Trips, and Falls.  These are hazards that could happen anywhere.  In the home, stairs should be well lighted, and both in the home and workplace, good housekeeping is a must.  Clutter or other things out of place can cause someone to trip over them.  Wiring from computers stretched out in the office are a cause of falls.  Trips and falls can result in sprained muscles or worst case scenario, broken bones.  Falls from high places are always a threat to those who must work on ladders or six feet or more off the ground.  This is when fall protection is required.

Lifting Improperly.  How many times have you been told to bend at the knees when lifting a heavy object, only to bend over and use your back?  If you think that the load is too much for you, ask for help.  Four hands work much better than two in many cases.  Wearing a back brace offers some extra back support, and makes one aware of the weight they are lifting, but can’t prevent an injury if the load is too heavy.

Noise Hazards.  If you work in a place where you and your co-workers have to yell at each other, you need hearing protection.  Businesses such as manufacturing, airports (those working near the planes), around racecars and other loud machinery, need to protect their hearing.  Once hearing is damaged, it can’t be fixed.  Rather than have to wear a hearing aid, why not start off with hearing protection at the beginning of your career?  And for parents, encourage your kids to keep their music at a normal level.  When you can hear their music through their earplugs, it’s time to turn it down, and save their hearing.

Let’s help protect our coworkers and others when we notice something that could cause someone to get hurt.  Report any hazards at work; also, report hazards that you see in a store where you are shopping.   You could save someone from injury, and also save a company from a lawsuit.

General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection

WHAT IS NOISE-INDUCED HEARING LOSS? (GUEST POST)

The occurrence of noise induced hearing loss is on the increase in the Western world, including Australia.  This increase is generally occurring from exposure to long periods of loud noises, and in some instances short loud noises such as an explosion.  While there are treatment options available, prevention is better than cure.  In order to prevent noise induced hearing loss, it must first be understood how it actually occurs.

How the human ear works

Every day we experience a large range of sounds via sound waves through our ears.  The Middle Ear amplifies the sound and hairs in the inner ear convert the sound waves into electrical signals so that our brains can understand what it is that we are hearing.  All pretty amazing when you think about it.

How does noise induced hearing loss occur?

While most noises we hear throughout the day are at safe levels, if we are exposed to an exceptionally loud sound (such as standing next to fireworks when they go off) or we are exposed to a loud sound for a prolonged period of time (for example working in a mechanical shop) then we can damage the hairs that convert sound in our inner ear.  This causes noise induced hearing loss.

Tips to avoid hearing damage in the workplace

First of all, it is necessary to understand what is meant by the term ‘too loud’. Any noise from 85 dB up can cause hearing loss. To put this figure into perspective, a lawn mower is between 85 and 90 dB. The louder the noise is,  the more quickly the hearing loss will occur. So follow these steps to protect your hearing.

  • Take note of how long you have been exposed to loud noise and try and have a break of 15 minutes or so to give your ears a rest.
  • Avoid noisy situations. If you have to  raise your voice to be heard then it is likely you are in a situation that is hazardous for your hearing.
  • If you can’t avoid a noisy situation, protect your hearing with either foam ear plugs or head phones.
  • If you regularly attend concerts, it may be worth investing in some custom fit musician ear plugs. Always avoid standing directly in front of speakers or amplifiers.
  • Have your hearing tested every two years particularly if you have noticed a change in your hearing. Your clinician will be able to give you further advice about protecting your hearing. 

When does noise induced hearing loss occur?

There are several ways that noise induced hearing loss can occur:

  • Prolonged exposure to noise:  If you are exposed to noise about 85 decibels for a prolonged period of time, then you can start damaging your hearing.
  • Short bursts of sounds:  Sounds above 120 decibels in short bursts can also cause hearing damage.

What are the symptoms?

Immediately after exposure to loud noise you may hear a ringing in your ears and have trouble hearing other people talk.  The length of time this lasts depends on how loud the noise you were exposed to was, and the length of period exposed.  Temporary hearing loss can also occur and for between 16 and 48 hours after an exposure to loud noise (eg., a rock concert).   Temporary hearing loss generally doesn’t have any long term effects.

The longer term symptoms of noise induced hearing loss can be difficult to diagnose at first.  The person may not notice slight changes in their hearing until it reaches a level that is unacceptable to them.  It is for this reason that regular hearing checks are needed. 

What are the treatment options?

As a first step you should make an appointment with a hearing centre.  After your assessment your audiologist will be able to discuss possible treatment options such as avoiding prolonged exposure to loud or the use of hearing aids.  Hearing aids can be very effective for noise induced hearing loss.

Noise induced hearing loss is a condition that is increasing in society.  As cities develop there are more and more opportunities for loud noises, and more chances of being exposed to loud noises for a prolonged period of time.  Both of these can cause noise induced hearing loss.

If you are experiencing noise induced hearing loss – or think you are – then it is imperative that you make an appointment to visit an audiologist to test your hearing today.  The sooner you address the problem the more opportunities you will have to limit the damage and improve your hearing.

BIO – Tanya Wilson

Tanya has over 7 years’ experience working in the hearing healthcare sector and writes hearing health care articles for Connect HearingAustralia.

Tanya’s hearing expertise enables her to focus on a range of hearing topics, including tackling common hearing issues, treatment options and new hearing technology.

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

MORE ELECTRICAL SAFETY IN THE WORKPLACE TIPS (GUEST POST)

 We all use electricity on a daily basis; it’s become a necessary part of everyday life. However we must remember the dangers of electricity as it can kill or severely injure a person or cause damage to properties. This could be from contact with an electrical current causing shock or burns, faults which could cause a fire or an explosion where electricity could be the source. Electrical hazards are estimated to cause around 300 deaths and 4000 injuries in US workplaces each year. It should not be forgotten about or underestimated. 

Electrical safety in the workplace is vital as we use electricity in in every job we do, from typing on our computers to boiling the kettle. It is something that all business owners and managers should be conscious of and in order to reduce the risk of accidents with electricity, it’s important to take some precautions. 

Electrical equipment should be tested on a regular basis. This could be checking them yourself or using PAT testing services, which is completed through visual checks and electronic tests to ensure safety is maintained. If you already suspect that something is faulty then take it out of use as soon as possible to prevent any hazards. 

Where equipment is being used every day, this is most important. Computers and tills are used in the workplace constantly and therefore pose a safety threat if not maintained. Kettles, ovens and food processors are used in cafes and restaurants but also in offices. As they are used so frequently in these environments, appliances need to be fit for use. A switch could be provided near each piece of equipment in order to cut off power in an emergency. When in a factory, electricity is heavily relied on and can be the most dangerous if anything goes wrong. The right safety measures need to be in place so this does not happen. 

Signs should be present to alert workers to electricity dangers. Low voltage cables are still hazardous and should be clearly marked to avoid anyone touching them. 

Employees need to have proper training to ensure that they can carry out tasks safely. Accidents can always potentially happen, but as an employer you need to keep your workers as safe as possible, otherwise if anything was to happen then legal action could be taken. If you are a business owner then it is your responsibility to make sure your employees are working in a safe environment, ultimately this should be paramount to your company policy.

The correct PPE should be furnished by the employer, protective gear that meets the needs of the workers.  Dielectric glasses, proper gloves, and hardhats that do not conduct electricity should be worn. 

Bio 

David Quarmby is an expert in electrical compliance and testing for businesses and is part of the ElectricalCerts group.

General Safety Issues

WHAT’S THE REAL COST OF HEALTH AND SAFETY? (GUEST POST)

The Easy Part of Induction
When many people hear the phrase ‘health and safety’ in a workplace context, they batter their lids and yawn as if they know it all; as if it is a case of mollycoddling and obvious things that only a complete idiot wouldn’t know. To those starting a new job, the first day nerves are often qualmed when they undergo this section of orientation, as aspects are often already known or simple common sense. It’s a different case if you’re working with machinery or new equipment of some kind as there is a very real danger there, but in some cases this is unclear. Unfortunately, many people see the healthy and safety talk of their job as a way to make that first apprehensive day go that little bit quicker, or a rehash of what they were told on their first day. However, this is the wrong view to take, especially on behalf of the employer.

Should I Bother?
If you are business-owner, you probably have a hundred and one things on your mind day-to-day, mainly concerning ensuring a high standard of service or product that you deal in for your customers. It’s not a case of being money-hungry at all; staff have to be paid, overheads taken care of and everything else to ensure smooth sailing. And while there is no doubt that you do care about the wellbeing of your staff on a professional level (and often on a personal one too), the idea of spending a whole afternoon in a conference room can seem a little like a second priority when it doesn’t directly link to sales or conversions. As stated, sometimes the necessity for such training is unclear, like in a white-collar office; but when you look closely, there are many, many aspects needing attention, such as the consumption of food and drink near electric equipment.

An Investment or Insurance
Consider Health and Safety training as an investment, or even a kind of insurance. You most likely have insurance for your premises, so why wouldn’t you for your staff? While the fact you’ve hired them means they are capable and not complete idiots, accidents can happen quite easily, especially in a busy workspace; and when they result in some form of injury (which can affect ability to earn and live), tensions can rise high. Most bosses have a great relationship with their employees and no one likes the idea of that turning sour in the form of a legal dispute. So it makes business-sense to cover yourself, just as you would with insurance; something bad probably won’t happen, but it’s good piece of mind that you’re protected just in case. It makes sense to pay, say, £100 for someone to come in and give a workshop than to pay out thousands or even millions if you are sued.

Other Positives
While it shouldn’t be treated lightly, or like a day off from work, a workshop or meeting about Health and Safety, can be seen as a bonding exercise amongst a workforce. It’s a chance to see each other in a different context rather than speaking about business, and is a pleasant break from the quotidian, or usual business day. Additionally, you’re very likely to learn something that you never knew or took for granted from this professional speaker, or even discover dangerous or libel actions which you routinely perform without realising. However, it should simply be seen as essential in maintaining a fully-functional, professional workplace.

Author Bio:
Paul has worked in various office environments, of varying industries and service and as a result has been exposed to several forms of training when it comes to workplace safety. In his free time, he enjoys documentaries, including those about employer-liability cases where an employer has been reckless, negligent or at fault. Paul has also studied Law at A-Level, which involved study of cases of Negligence.  http://www.flickr.com/photos/kenjonbro/6407005225/sizes/m/

Many companies just don’t take the proper amount of time to thoroughly train their employees on the importance of safety.  It is the employees’ live on the line, and the last line of defense for them is the right kind of PPE safety equipment.  Training on this subject is a very vital part of teaching the types of equipment that are required in their particular job. pb

 

 

General Safety Issues

PREVENTING WORKPLACE VIOLENCE (Guest Post)

 Over the last decade there were more than 7,000 homicides nationwide that occurred in the work place, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most of these homicides involved robberies by an unknown assailant, while 1,000 involved work colleagues. 

CCTV Cameras has become an effective means in the prevention of crime as well as supporting local authorities in identifying assailants. CCTV camera video is often used in the courtroom to assist in the determination that a crime was committed and by whom. 

Traditional robbery, which usually targets convenience stores, banks, etc., has caused an increase in security.  Too, the recession has driven potential thieves to even more desperate measures by targeting business offices. Offices can provide easy access to expensive items like laptops, cell phones and unattended cash. An employee’s sense of safety and security along with a company’s reputation can be destroyed from violence perpetrated by thieves, disgruntled former employees, angry customers and even bitter spouses. To prevent these occurrences, employers are installing CCTV Cameras to deter crime.  CCTV cameras include Bullet Cameras, Dome Cameras, Full Size Cameras and PTZ cameras, which are available with multiple features and are adaptable to any location, both inside and outside the property, in daylight or darkness.  In the event a crime occurs, CCTV cameras can capture the crime and suspects and replay it instantly. 

 Employers and employees working together should develop unified policies and procedures to help make their places of business safer. With everyone being involved and knowing there is a plan in place can in itself be a deterrent to workplace violence.  To start developing a plan of action here are few tips and suggestions to get started: 

  • Create policies and procedures for properly handling an incident and ensure your employees are well trained. If policies exist, review them periodically to ensure they are up to date.
  • Consider hiring a security agency to survey the workplace and identify vulnerabilities.
  • When hiring employees or contractors, complete a full national background check.
  • Install CCTV cameras to monitor and record both inside and outside of the building. It is a valuable tool for helping to identify perpetrators and aid law enforcement agencies before, during, and after a crime has been committed.
  • Implement an access control system and/or a visitor management system. 

Safety tips for employees: 

  • Stay aware of your surroundings.  Take note of unfamiliar people that may be acting suspicious or are without the proper identification, such as a badge or an I.D. card.  Immediately report them to your company’s security department.  Never approach anyone you think may pose a threat.
  • If you feel uncomfortable walking to and from your car, ask for an escort from the building security or a trusted co-worker.
  • Never leave your purse or other valuables in an unlocked drawer in your desk.  A majority of robbery related incidents in the workplace are related to personal theft.
  • Make a request to add CCTV security cameras in common areas that may be off the main path or in isolated areas.
  • Learn what your company’s policies are in the event of an evacuation or lockdown.  Know exactly where to go and what to do. 

The Security Product Depot is an established online provider of physical security products. As an innovative supplier of online security solutions, they are committed to offering the broadest array of CCTV camera systems, door hardware, locks, and safes for securing government, school facilities, commercial businesses and residents.  

Written by Mike Hassebrock from The Security Product Depot

 

 

 

 

 
 
General Safety Issues

RESOLVING CONFLICTS

It’s only natural that there are going to be workplace conflicts, as well as those disagreements at home.  Knowing how to settle them is like fitting all the pieces of the puzzle perfectly.  In the workplace, the supervisor is also the mediator.  Being a good mediator means that he/she can effectively resolve situations where different people with different ways of doing things can lead to personal and professional growth. 

Not taking things personally is very hard when it comes to being critized about your job.  Often times, intense personal animosity can result; that leads to too much downtime, teamwork breaking down, and wasted talent as people lose interest in their job.  It can lead to a downward spiral of negativity and recrimination.  

Suggestions to Mediate and Resolve Conflict:

  • Meet with the antagonists together.
  • Make sure that good relationships are the first priority.
  • Set out the facts.
  • Separate the people from the problems.  Many times one person may not be being difficult, but has real and valid differences with the other person.  Listen first; talk second.
  • By listening carefully you’ll understand why the person is taking his or her position.
  • See if each participant can describe actions they would like to see the other party take.
  • Open up communications.
  • Explore options together; a third resolution may exist and you can reach this point together.

Some of the benefits that a mediator may reap from communication skills are the following:

  • Improved self-knowledge.  Conflict pushes individuals to examine their goals in close detail, helping them understand the things that are most important to them, sharpening their focus, and enhancing their effectiveness.
  • Increased group cohesion: When conflict is resolved effectively, team members can develop stronger mutual respect, and a renewed faith in their ability to work together.
  • Increased understanding: The discussion needed to resolve conflict expands people’s awareness of the situation, giving them an insight into how they can achieve their own goals without undermining those of other people. 

Conflict Mediation in the Home 

Usually, workplaces have mediation processes in place.  It isn’t quite that simple in the home.  Who among us haven’t had differences with our spouses, parents, or children?  If you have such conflicts in your home, try establishing a conflict resolution process, including the location.  The place you choose may play a large part in resolving those problems.  The bedroom should be a safe and loving place in a marriage; therefore, you should never designate your bedroom as the conflict resolution area.  If, on the other hand, you are resolving a disagreement with your child, his/her bedroom is a good idea, as they feel safe in their bedroom and can open up to you better. 

For adults, your living room, dining room, kitchen or other room you are both comfortable in should be the place you sit down and work things out.  Talking things out should not be done while others are in the home.  Find a time when each of you has the opportunity to talk.  Don’t interrupt, but show respect for each other by listening to each point of view, and then do your best to understand and go about acknowledging mistakes that may have been made, and vow to try to rise above that point.  Loving couples have arguments at one time or another; but by talking it out, problems can be resolved without the “cold shoulder” treatment.  You may be surprised by something that has been bothering your spouse that you weren’t even aware of. 

It isn’t always easy to resolve conflicts at home or work – but it is always important to settle disagreements before they spin out of control.  Whether it’s talking things out by two family members, or having a mediator guide two persons to smoother waters at work, the mediator crafts a work environment that enables the success of the people who learn it.  Conflict mediation is an example of “practice makes perfect.”

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues

WORKPLACE EYE WELLNESS MONTH

Each day, about 2,000 U.S. workers sustain job-related eye injuries that require medical treatment, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).  The National Eye Institute estimates that 90% of those workplace eye injuries could be prevented through the use of proper protective eyewear.  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards require employers to see that workers have suitable eye protection.  Yet the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that nearly three out of every five workers injured were not wearing eye protection at the time of the injury, or were wearing the wrong kind of eye protection for the job.

NEI, the AOA Eye Safety Project Team, and safety eyewear manufacturers all say optometrists can play a critical role in bringing proper safety eyewear to workers-particularly the employees of small and medium-size businesses.  While most of the nation’s larger employers have established formal safety eyewear programs for workers, relatively few smaller employers have such programs, the AOA Eye Safety Project Team notes.  To assist AOA members in conducting public education efforts on safety eyewear during Healthy Vision Month (March), and in developing safety eyewear practices, the AOA Eye Safety Project Team has compiled the follow materials:  Eye Safety — You Can Make the Difference – an Optometry: Journal of the American Optometric Association from the AOA Eye Safety Project Team.  Eye Safety is Everyone’s Business – a comprehensive practice management tutorial on the development of a safety eyewear practice, from the Practice Strategies section of Optometry: Journal of the American Optometric Association.  The Importance of Eye Protection for Work and Recreation – a PowerPoint presentation. And, Eye Safety Fact Sheet – a handout for use in presentation to employers, workers or public education efforts.  Please follow the instructions below to protect your workers:

Eye Safety Fact Sheet (Share these with your employees)

  • Approximately 60 percent of workers sustaining eye injuries were not wearing proper protective eyewear, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. “I didn’t think I needed them” should never be the answer as to why safety glasses were not worn.
  • Under the Healthy People 2010 program, the nation’s official public health agenda, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services hopes to cut workplace eye injuries by almost a third over the course of this decade.
  • Industry standards now recognize two classes of industrial safety lenses: traditional basic impact lenses and high impact lenses, shown in ballistic tests to offer improved protection against flying particles. Basic impact protectors can only be worn in situations where known or presumed hazards are low impact in nature. High impact protectors (Z87+) provide protection to hazards of high velocity and/or high mass.
  • Safety eyewear is now available in a variety of new styles and materials that make it more attractive and comfortable to wear.
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards require employers to ensure workers have suitable eye protection.
  • To that end, OSHA requires employers to formally assess workplace eye hazards, select the appropriate type of eyewear to use, train and certify employees in eye protection, and plan for eye emergencies. (See the OSHA Eye and Face Protection eTool, a step-by-step guide to OSHA requirements, hazard assessment and safety eyewear selection at www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/eyeandface/index.html)
  • Workers who wear prescription glasses must also wear required eye protection.
  • Protective eyewear must be properly fitted to be effective. Don’t let lack of comfort be a barrier to full-time safety eyewear use.
  • The American Optometric Association recommends that supervisory officials in the workplace, in schools, and at recreational events should mandate wear of eye protection in all activities in which a risk of eye injury exists.
  • The National Eye Institute (NEI) has dedicated Healthy Eyes Month to workplace eye safety. Now is an appropriate time for employers to ensure that all workers have proper eye protection.

Healthy Eyes are required for a Productive Workforce. 

In a recent article from About.com, we learned that according to the AOA’s American Eye-Q survey, nearly half of all Americans (46 percent) spend five or more hours per day using a computer or a personal digital assistant.  While technology improves work productivity, the prolonged use of electronic devices may lead to problems such as eye strain, headaches, dry eyes, fatigue, blurred vision, and loss of focus.  Here are five steps to vision care, as recommended by the AOA: 

Give It A Rest: Remember the 20-20-20 rule.  At least every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break and look at something 20 feet away.  The survey found that the majority of Americans don’t follow this rule.   

Size Up: Smaller screens on hand-held devices usually favor tiny type that challenges your vision.  Increase the font size so the device can be used at a distance more comfortable for your eyes. 

Sharpen Up: Better resolution offers greater clarity and creates more comfort.  Keep the brightness of the screen at a comfortable intensity, not too bright or too dim. 

Reduce Glare: Try to make sure lighting is not directly behind the head or in front.  Hand-held devices present challenges in various lighting conditions. 

Look Down: It’s easier on the eyes to focus on reading material that is below eye level; therefore, the AOA recommends a computer monitor or hand-held device be positioned slightly below eye level. 

Hopefully, most employers include vision insurance for their employees and dependents in their benefits package.  If this is not the case, vision education and testing should be done.  Day and evening seminars (sponsored by the company) that cover vision information can educate workers on the need for eating proper foods for healthy vision, and changes in vision as people age.  Providing initial vision testing for family members on vision day could be an added perk.  It is important that employers encourage compliance in eye protection. 

Source: AOA; About.com

 

General Safety Issues

IT’S DRUG-FREE WORK WEEK!

This information comes to us straight from the U.S. Department of Labor, and is meant to highlight the benefits that drug-free workplace programs bring to workers, employers, and communities.  This is the time to work toward making every week a drug-free work week.   In the past, we have discussed the effects that workers who abuse drugs or alcohol in the workplace have on their co-workers, and the company that is paying them to work.  By having the workplace drug-free, productivity can be improved and reduce costs.  It will certainly help prevent accidents and make our workplace safer. 

Recent research reveals that many workers need to hear this message again and again.  Seventy-five per cent of the nation’s current illegal drug users are employed—and 3.1 per cent say they have actually used illegal drugs before or during work hours.  Seventy-nine per cent of the nation’s heavy alcohol users are employed—and 7.1 per cent say they have actually consumed alcohol during the workday.  How would you feel if a nurse or physician taking care of you were included in these statistics?  Heavy equipment operators, those who are responsible for the safety of others, such as driving buses, trains, or even airline pilots – we don’t want to dare think that they might be part of these statistics.  Smart business strategies are used by employers who establish drug-free workplace programs to assist their employees from the potentially devastating consequences of worker alcohol and drug abuse.  This week is a good time to reinforce the importance of working drug free in positive, proactive ways. 

Listed are some of the ideas to help companies and communities promote the success of a drug-free workplace program:

  • Implement a Drug-Free Workplace Program.  If your group does not already have one, this is the time to start one.  The first step to implement this is through a written policy.
  • Promote  Drug-Free Work Week.  Be sure all employees have a copy of your policy and remind them that it is all about keeping them safe of the job.
  • Train supervisors.  Company supervisors should be trained to understand their policy on alcohol and drug use; ways to deal with workers who have performance problems related to substance abuse, and how to refer them to available assistance.
  • Remind employees of the availability of EAP or MAP services.  These are Employee or Member Assistance Programs that offer free, confidential services to help all employees resolve personal and workplace problems, such as substance abuse.  If warranted, they also offer confidential substance abuse screenings as well as brief interventions.
  • Educate workers.  Workers must be educated about the nature of alcohol and drug use and its negative impact on workplace safety and productivity. 
  • Offer health screening.  Organizations can use this week to encourage employees to assess their own use of alcohol and drugs and privately determine if they need help to change their behavior.
  • Create a Drug-Free Workplace Display.  This is a good opportunity to freshen up bulletin boards in break areas that employees frequent by posting positive messages aboaut the importance of being drug-free to their safety and that of their coworkers.
  • Allow employees time to volunteer in community drug prevention efforts.  This give employees the chance to show both their own and company commitment to substance abuse prevention both inside and outside the workplace.
  • Review your health insurance policy.  Employees that are struggling with alcohol or drug problems will seek help if this type of treatment is covered.  If it is not, consider discussing the prospect of adding coverage with your insurance carrier.
  • Issue a Drug-Free Work Week press release.  Companies should issue a public announcement to their local media to spread this important message.
  • Distribute a payroll message listing helplines or a reminder about Drug-Free Work Week for employees.  A paycheck is always something that employees pay attention to.  You could include a reminder listing sources of help for ones with any problems, and that each employee is appreciated for working drug-free.

Thanks for the Department of Labor for this information.  It’s sad to say, but almost everyone of us knows someone who has a drug or alcohol problem.  Abusing prescriptions drugs is also not acceptable behavior in the workplace.   Try to spread the message to your friends, coworkers, and community.  If you work with someone that you feels needs help, encourage him/her to seek it.  It’s not only for their good, but the safety and wellness of everyone who works, rides to work, or lives with them.  If you witness a coworker committing an unsafe act, let his supervisor know, for the safety of all.  Stay sober and stay safe.

General Safety Issues

IS THERE CONFLICT IN YOUR WORKPLACE?

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Do you or have you ever worked where there wasn’t some sort of conflict?  First, I looked up the word “conflict” and it has several definitions: dispute, disagreement, clash, difference, argument, quarrel, or discord.  Do any of these fit your workplace?  Face it, we are all human beings, and it just seems to be in our nature to look out for ourselves, many times forgetting to think about the others who come to work every day. 

Workplace conflicts cannot be ignored.  Companies have trained leaders that use their expertise to resolve differences before they grow into something destructive and harmful for their employees.  When there is discord among workers, companies will start seeing more absenteeism, turnover, stress, accidents, lower productivity, and a decrease in employee morale.  Leaders must meet with those in conflict together, not separately.  This gives those involved the opportunity to give their side of the story, as well as listen to the other party.  If it is done separately, stories sometimes have a way of getting stretched a little.  Mediating a conflict is a serious responsibility.  A leader must consider that if conflicts are not resolved, the safety of the employees may be compromised. 

Bullying in the workplace should never be accepted.  Some of the safety factors that are seen where there are conflicts are aggressive behaviors by certain workers, exclusion of  workers, physically abusing or threatening them, yelling at or criticizing an employee, or tampering with equipment.  Supervisors must treat complaints seriously, and not ignoring potential problems. 

Some of the causes of conflict may be the fact that one person’s success in achieving his/her goals for the day depend on another person’s input/output of data that the first person needs. Certain workers are very task-oriented, while others sail right through a project.  We are all different- that’s what makes the world unique.  Some of this “uniqueness” may be at the root of conflict, whether it is intentional or unintentional, such as: differences in gender/background, educational backgrounds, experience, ethnic heritage, or political preferences.  (It seems as though there’s always something to “agree to disagree” on!)  Statistics show that 85% of dismissals in the U.S. are due to personality conflicts. 

Do you have a story?  How do you justify your poor behavior, if that’s the case?  Have you let someone down more than one time, but you reason that it’s because you are overworked?  If a co-worker brings a birthday card to the boss, do you think it’s because he’s buttering up the boss for a promotion; however, if you bring a card to the boss, it’s because you are a warm and caring person.  Re-thinking your story about your differences at work is important because it keeps you from over-reacting to a situation; it opens up an opportunity for healthy discussion, and rather than ambushing other persons with your emotions, you begin to sift “fact”  from “story”.  

Just The Facts: 

Make a list about the conflict you are experiencing with someone.  On the left side of the page, describe incidents that you have been telling or thinking about that person.  Things that have kept going through your mind.  On the right side of the page, list just the facts.  Specific actions and information you have taken and the objective of your desires to resolve the quarrel.  This could open up a healthy conversation with less accusations and improve cooperation with each other.  If you and a co-worker can work out any misunderstandings, you will both get more out of your job, and your company will get more out of you.  Supervisors want to help, so go to them if you can’t take care of it yourself. 

Communication is the key to success in every walk of life – in our work and with our families.  If you are happy at work, you won’t be taking those complaints and worries home with you.  Be assertive, but always respect others.  Share tips with your workers that can help them in their jobs.  Life is too short to carry heavy loads such as resentment, frustration, confusion and anger with us.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues

TWO IMPORTANT SAFETY OBSERVANCES FOR MARCH

Heavy winds began in February, so March is definitely coming in “like a lion,” to be sure!   This means that there will be “no burn bans” and many “red flag days”.  Please be sure to heed all warnings during this season.  To begin our March observances, today’s topics are: “Workplace Eyes Health and Safety Month”, as well as “Save Your Vision Month”.  You know how irritating a grain of sand can be when it gets into your eye, especially if you are wearing contacts!  Don’t take a chance on permanent damage to your eyes because you failed to wear the right eye safety protection. 

Because taking care of your eyes is so important, we want to emphasize the fact that three out of five workers who have experienced eye injuries in the workplace were not wearing eye protection at the time of the accident, or were wearing the wrong kind.  The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that 2,000 workers each day have job-related eye injuries that require medical treatment.  In addition, OSHA reports that thousands are blinded each year from work related injury that could have been prevented.  Read my lips: COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED!  OSHA states that 90% of eye injuries can be prevented through use of proper protective eyewear. 

Knowing exactly what kind of protective eyewear for each particular job is very important.  Here are some clues:

  • For particles, flying objects or dust protection, at least wear safety glasses with side shields.  Many persons have experienced eye injuries because they did not have side shields attached to their safety glasses.
  •  For those who work around chemicals, goggles are best suited.
  •  Persons who are exposed to hazardous radiation (welding, lasers, fiber optics,) require special purpose safety glasses, goggles, face shields, or helmets with special lens shields designed for the task.

Eye injuries most often occur in the manufacturing industry, or to those who are craft workers, mechanics, carpenters, painters, plumbers, and persons who run industrial equipment such as sanders and grinding machines.  The BLS says that in 70% of the accidents, flying particles, falling objects, or sparks striking the eye caused the injury.  Chemicals cause about one/fifth of eye injuries.  In many workers, an estimated three-fifths of articles causing damage to the eyes were smaller than the size of a pinhead. Those in landscaping businesses know how many particles can blow into their eyes when they are operating mowers and other equipment.  As we know, protecting oneself is vital.  Being responsible both at work and home will pay off.  It only takes a minute or two to don a pair of safety glasses or goggles before you start work or go out to work in the yard.

Suggestions to help companies fulfill their obligation to protect their employees from eye injury include:

  • Increase monitoring employees’ compliance in wearing eye protection.
  • Ensure that the safety glasses, goggles, etc. fit comfortably.
  • Furnish stylish safety glasses, (there are many great styles, not the old “Plain Jane” ones.  This will encourage compliance).
  • Tying compliance into each individual’s annual evaluation.
  • Ensure that there are eyewash stations in all areas.
  • Have first aid training programs in order for employees to be familiar with how to help someone with an eye injury or any other type of injury. 

In addition to eye safety issues, the health of our eyes is something we shouldn’t take for granted.  Everyone should have an annual eye examination.  If there is a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration, one should be seen annually by an ophthalmologist.  Experts in nutrition recommend that we have a diet rich in Vitamins C and E.  Eating leafy greens, egg yolks, fish, and other foods containing zinc are things that can contribute to good eye health.  Also, watching ones’ blood pressure is important, because if it is too high, it can hinder blood flow to the eyes.  Some eye professionals recommend eye vitamin supplements to certain patients.  Wearing sunglasses for UV protection is also important for our eye health.  Even children need to wear UV protective sunglasses, because experts say that damage to the eyes begins at a very young age.  

Have you ever turned off all the lights in your house and try to stumble to your bed?  I’m guilty of that, and I run into the wall half the time!  We think we know exactly where everything in our house is, but it’s easy to lose our bearings when we can’t see.  Imagine if you had to do that every day, all day long?  It will make you realize how thankful you are for the vision you were blessed with.  In many circumstances, such as accidents, it is a gift that cannot be replaced.  So why not “open your eyes,” and take the time to wear your protective eyewear, all the time you are working, and when you are doing your chores at home.