mrsoshasafety

Fed OSHA issued its new crane & derrick standard today, July 28, 2010.  On the same day, OSHA held a live chat and discussed these new changes that supersede and replace old crane standard (from 1971).  I know I complain about the things that OSHA does that I don’t like, so to be fair, I appreciate and enjoy these live chats.

 

This standard has some sweeping changes.  However, these changes only affect cranes used in construction or cranes that are used for construction activities.  The rule goes into effect November 8, 2010.  Certain provisions have delayed effective dates from 1 to 4 years.

 

Revisions include:
• Operator certification and qualification requirements.
• Qualification for signal persons are specified.
• Requirement added for the use of qualified rigger when employees are in the fall zone to handle the load and for rigging operations during assembly/disassembly.

• Information exchange requirements between employers are specified regarding ground conditions.
• Pre-erection inspection of tower training.
• Employers must pay for the cost of operator certification for operators who they employ on the effective date of the final rule
• All pole work performed with digger derricks related to power transmission and telecommunications work are excluded and are covered by 1910.269.
• Operator certification test may be administered in a language understood by the operator candidate.
• Employers must comply with local and state licensing laws which will be considered to meet requirements of this final rule.
• Employers must comply with manufactures recommendations for the use of synthetic slings.

If you would like to review the 1070 pages of the crane standard. it's found here

http://www.ofr.gov/OFRUpload/OFRData/2010-17818_PI.pdf

Working in hot weather is hazardous.  Fact:  16 people died from heat stress while building the Hoover Dam. 

 

Heat stress is one of the most serious health hazards facing workers in the Gulf.  The risk from the heat and humidity is exacerbated by the long days worked and the protective equipment required, e.g. chemical resistant Tyvek coveralls, boots and gloves. More than 667 workers have already been treated for heat-related illness, some were very serious.

 

At OSHA's urging, BP has now implemented at all work sites a heat stress management plan that includes a matrix setting out specific work/rest requirements based on the heat, relative humidity, and the protective equipment worn.

 

Administrative or work practice controls of an effective heat program include:

• Acclimatize workers
• Replace fluids
• Reduce the physical demands
• Provide recovery areas
• Reschedule hot jobs
• Monitor workers

OSHA has more information on its website to help companies protect their workers from heat.  Remember, heat is dangerous, simple measures can save lives…be proactive…not reactive.

Crane safety has been in the forefront of the news due to the recent crane accidents in Houston, New York City, Miami, and Las Vegas.

 

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show 72 crane-related fatal occupational injuries in 2006.  These include all fatalities where the source of the injury was a crane, the secondary source of the injury was a crane, or where the worker activity was operating a crane.  Chart shows that 61% of the fatalities were caused when crane came in contact with objects or equipment. 

 

Properly trained operators and a well thought out and implemented crane policy can eliminate most accidents.  AGC of Colorado established a crane task force and published a free downloadable Mobile Crane User Guideline that can asist with your crane program.  Access it here.  
http://tinyurl.com/25q8fvr

The adversarial position that OSHA is taking seems to mirror the Obama stance on business.  Business is bad.  Business owners are evil and only the government can protect us from their evil machinations.

 

OSHA is proposing legislation could put a business owner in prison up to 10 years with a felony conviction  if a worker dies on the job.  This sounds like a good idea on paper, but I think it will be a disaster if implemented.

 

The climate between OSHA and business is now adversarial.  There is no more working together.  If you have a good safety record, you are under reporting and if you have a bad safety record, then you are…well…bad.  An inordinate amount of new laws have been enacted and changed during this president’s administration.  Some of them are good, while some are draconian or ludicrous.

 

Whether you believe illegal aliens should be given immunity or not.  The botton line is they did do something wrong if they entered the country illegally.  Our government turns a blind eye to that, but business owners that are providing employment and a tax base for our communities are now the “bad guys” and have to be punished.

 

The world has gone mad

There is a difference between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest. 

 

A heart attack is caused by a circulation problem, caused when one or more arteries delivering blood ot the heart is blocked.  Oxygen in the blood  cannot reach the heart muscle and the heart muscle becomes damaged.  This damage can lead to trouble with the heart’s electrical system.  This may lead to sudden cardiac arrest.

 

Sudden cardiac arrest is caused by an electrical problem in the heart and results in the heart unable to beat.

 

Every year more than 250,000 Americans die from sudden cardiac arrest.  CPR  or cardiopulmonary  resuscitation is a key to survival. But CPR is more effective when coupled with an automated external defibrillator (AED).  An AED is a portable electronic device that is simple and easy for a non-medical person to use.  The AED talks a person through the process  of applying an electric shock that should start the heart to beat normally when a person suffers fron sudden cardiac arrest.

 

The cost of these devices has come down over the years and AED’s are now available for less than $1000.  As the price is reasonable, we want to encourage businesses, apartment buildings, public buildings, etc. to add AED’s to their first aid program.  The American Heart Association says that at least 20,000 lives could be saved annually with prompt use of AED’s.

 

The key to success is early intervention.  Get First Aid/CPR/AED training today—the life you save may be your loved one.

Heat Kills!  When I think of summer, I smile.  It reminds me of good times, school is out, hanging with friends, Beach Boys music (oops showing my age), freedom and fun.  But when you are working outside, heat is dangerous.

 

With this heat wave, companies and workers must do everything they can to keep safe.

 

Know the signs and symptoms of heat illnesses and what to do in an emergency situation.

 

Know what Federal OSHA  will look for when they come out.  California has an extensive heat regulation and requires companies to have a written program.  See http://tinyurl.com/258fsrt for help in complying with California regulations..

 

Know how to protect yourself while working in heat.

 

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HEAT ILLNESS

 

Heat-related illnesses occur when a body is unable to cool itself.   Older workers, workers in poor physical condition, workers with a poor diet or employees taking certain medications are more at risk.  Some heat-related illnesses are: heat rash, heat cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Heat stroke is the most serious and can result in death. However it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of all heat-related disorders.

 

The following symptoms are commonly associated with the different heat illness medical conditions. Given the variability in recognition and reporting of heat illness symptoms, the information listed below should be used only as a general guideline.

 

Heat Rash (Prickly Heat) - Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating and clogged pores during hot, humid weather. 

 

General Symptoms:

·       Can cover large parts of the body

·       Looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters

·       Often occurs on the neck, chest, groin, under the breasts, or in elbow creases

·       Uncomfortable so it can disrupt sleep and work performance

·       Complicated by infections

 

Workers experiencing heat rash should:

·       Try to work in a cooler, less humid environment when possible.

·       Keep the affected area dry.

·       Dusting powder may be used to increase comfort.

 

Heat Cramps - Heat cramps affect people who sweat a lot during strenuous work activity. Sweating makes the body loose salts and fluids and minerals. If only the fluids are replaced and not the salts and minerals painful muscles cramps may result. 

 

General Symptoms:

·       Painful muscle spasms in the stomach, arms, legs, and other body parts may occur after work or at night.     

 

Workers with heat cramps should:

·       Stop all activity, and sit in a cool place.

·       Drink water.

·       Do not return to strenuous work for a few hours after the cramps

subside because further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

·       Seek medical attention if any of the following apply:

o   The worker has heart problems.

o   The worker is on a low-sodium diet.

o   The cramps do not subside within one hour.

Fainting (Heat Syncope) - Employees who stand for long periods or suddenly get up from a sitting or lying position when working in the heat may experience sudden dizziness and fainting. In both cases, the fainting is caused by a lack of adequate blood supply to the brain. Dehydration and lack of acclimatization to work in warm or hot environments can increase the susceptibility to fainting. Victims normally recover consciousness rapidly after they faint. 

 

General Symptoms:

·       Sudden dizziness

·       Light-headedness

·       Unconsciousness

 

Workers with heat syncope should:

·       Sit or lie down in a cool place when they begin to feel symptoms.

·       Slowly drink water, clear juice, or a sports beverage.

·       If they have or are fainting, call 911, notify their supervisor and make arrangement for transportation to medical facility.

 

Heat Exhaustion - Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of the water and the salt contained in sweat. Older employees or those with high blood pressure are more susceptible to heat exhaustion.  Cool temperature is not a valid indicator of a normal body temperature.  Although the skin feels cool the internal body temperature may be dangerously high and a serious medical condition may exist.

 

General Symptoms:

·       Heavy sweating

·       Painful muscle cramps

·       Extreme weakness and/or fatigue

·       Nausea and/or vomiting

·       Dizziness and/or headache

·       Body temperature normal or slightly high

·       Fainting

·       Pulse fast and weak

·       Breathing fast and shallow

·       Clammy, pale, cool, and/or moist skin

 

Workers with heat exhaustion should:      

·       Move to cool area and replace fluids.

·       If needed, call 9-1-1.

 

Heatstroke - Heatstroke is usually fatal unless emergency medical treatment is provided promptly. 

 

General Symptoms:

·       No sweating because the body cannot release heat or cool    down

·       Mental confusion, delirium, convulsions, dizziness

·       Hot and dry skin (e.g., red, bluish, or mottled)

·       Muscles may twitch uncontrollably

·       Pulse can be rapid and weak

·       Throbbing headache, shallow breathing, seizures and/or fits

·       Unconsciousness and coma

·       Body temperature may range from 102 - 104 °F or higher within 10-15 minutes

 

If the muscles begin to twitch uncontrollably, keep the person from self-injury. Do not place any objects in the mouth.

 

Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until emergency medical treatment is provided to the victim.

 

Workers with heat stroke should:     

·       Get medical help immediately.

·       Move employee to shady area and remove outer clothing.

·       Wet skin and increase air movement around worker.

·       Give fluids to drink.

 

NEVER leave a suspected heat stroke victim alone or let them go home.

 

Always seek medical help.

OSHA has issued its final rule allowing the agency to cite employers on a "per employee basis" for failure to provide/train/wear/use required personal protective equipment. 

"In this rulemakeing, OSHA is amending its standards to add language clarifying that the personal protective equipment (PPE) and training requirements impose a compliance duty to each and every employee covered by the standards and that noncompliance may expose the employer to liability on a per-employee basis."  If you want to read the Final PPE rule in its entirety, go to http://tinyurl.com/23mzlp7

 

To clarify:

 

An employer has 10 employees working in an area where respirators (or hard hats, or gloves, etc.) are required and employer failed to provide ppe.  This would not be 1 violation, but 10 (1 violation for each worker) along with 10 accompanying penalties.

 

In comparison to: 10 employees working in an excavation without shoring, OSHA would write one citation and one penalty.

 

Better to spend a few dollars up front, protect workers and avoid severe penalties for failing to provide PPE.

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The victim was a 40-year-old male forklift truck operator for a food production and distribution company, who worked for the company approximately seven years. The day of the incident he was performing the typical task of moving product to a different row of the warehouse using a forklift truck. During this task, the load of product became caught in the narrow aisles and the victim lowered the load back to the ground. He tilted the mast forward and stood between the mast and the cage looking over the load to see the obstacle that was preventing him from placing the product onthe shelf. His foot caught the lever, which controlled the mast causing it to tilt back toward the cage. He tried to duck out of the way, but was unsuccessful; his head was crushed between the mast and cage.

 

 OSHA extimates that over 1,000,000 million forklifts are used at U.S. workplaces.  Accidents like the one above occur all to often.  OSHA specific training regulations went into effect in December 1999.  These new training regulations save 100 lives a year.

 

Items covered during training are:  keep all body parts in cab and lockout/tagout equipment before working on it.  Following these 2 simple rules would have saved this operator’s life.  Because forklifts are so widely used, operator’s underestimate their dangers and hazards.

 

The standard requires employers to develop and implement a training program based on the general principles of safe truck operation, the types of vehicle(s) being used in the workplace, the hazards of the workplace created by the use of the vehicle(s), and the general safety requirements of the OSHA standard.

 

Trained operators must know how to do the job properly and do it safely as demonstrated by workplace evaluation. Formal (lecture, video, etc.) and practical (demonstration and practical exercises) training must be provided.

 

Employers must also certify that each operator has received the training and evaluate each operator at least once every three years.

 

Prior to operating the truck in the workplace, the employer must evaluate the operator's performance and determine the operator to be competent to operate a powered industrial truck safely.

 

Refresher training is needed whenever an operator demonstrates a deficiency in the safe operation of the truck.

 

Training shall consist of a combination of formal instruction (e.g., lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning, video tape, written material), practical training (demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee), and evaluation of the operator's performance in the workplace.

 

I do a lot of forklift training for my clients and I appreciate the work, but bringing this training in-house is a good move.  It makes since economically and from a safety standpoint.  If you don’t want to take the time to develop your own safety training program, buying a training package makes sense. 

 

Sorry for this cheap shameless plug, but you might want to check us out if you are looking for a train-the-trainer forklift package.  If you want more info, go to http://tinyurl.com/2dt2xkx

The United States and many other countries throughout the world have developed a Globally Harmonized System for the Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). The GHS is the culmination of more than a decade of work. After ten years of technical work and negotiation, a United Nations Economic and Social Council Subcommittee adopted the Globally Harmonized System for Classification and Labeling ("GHS") and recommended that it be disseminated throughout the world.  By promoting common, consistent criteria for classifying chemicals and developing compatible labeling and safety data sheets, the Globally Harmonized System is intended to enhance public health and environmental protection, as well as reduce barriers to trade.

 

The implementation of the GHS can have numerous benefits for governments, business and industry, and public interest and labour groups. Implementing the GHS also provides a number of international benefits.  It is anticipated that application of the GHS will:

·         Enhance the protection of human health and the environment by providing an internationally comprehensible system,

·         Provide a recognized framework to develop regulations for those countries without existing systems,

·         Facilitate international trade in chemicals whose hazards have been identified on an international basis,

·         Reduce the need for testing and evaluation against multiple classification systems.

·         The GHS can also support the implementations of the Millennium Development Goals to “ensure environmental sustainability”.

 

The tangible benefits to governments are:

·         Fewer chemical accidents and incidents,

·         Lower health care costs,

·         Improved protection of workers and the public from chemical hazards,

·         Avoiding duplication of effort in creating national systems,

·         Reduction in the costs of enforcement,

·         Improved reputation on chemical issues, both domestically and internationally.

 

Benefits to business and industry include:

·         A safer work environment and improved relations with employees,

·         An increase in efficiency and reduced costs from compliance with hazard communication regulations,

·         Application of expert systems resulting in maximizing expert resources and minimizing labor and costs,

·         Expanded use of training programs on health and safety,

·         Reduced costs due to fewer accidents and illnesses,

·         Improved corporate image and credibility.

 

Benefits to workers and the public include:

·         Improved safety for workers and others through consistent and simplified communications on chemical hazards and practices to follow for safe handling and use,

·         Greater awareness of hazards, resulting in safer use of chemicals in the workplace and in the home.

 

The purpose of the GHS is to promote common, consistent criteria for classifying chemicals according to their health, physical and environmental hazards, and to encourage the use of compatible hazard labels, material safety data sheets for workers, and other hazard communication information based on the resulting classifications.

 

Now, OSHA is in the process of adopting these requirements for American workplaces.   The standardization will ultimately be good news for all concerned, facilitating improvements to both efficiency and worker safety. However, in the short term, the implementation of the GHS will require changes in all American workplace hazcom and other safety programs-including new labels and MSDS’s.

 

Fed-OSHA announced a proposed rule to revise and remove requirements within OSHA standards that are confusing, outdated, duplicates or inconsistent.  One of the changes is to General Industry Subpart E:  The title of this subpart is “Means of Egress” with a proposed name change to “Exit Routes and Emergency Planning”.  Which is a definite improvement.

 
While this is a simple change, it does provide clarity.  Besides General Industry Standards, Maritime, Construction and Agricultural changes are proposed. 

 

Maybe California should get on board and update their regulations.  In California, regulations allow an employer to notify Cal-OSHA by telephone or telegraph of a serious workplace injury or death, but not by fax or email.

 

This always makes me laugh, does anyone know how to send a telegram?  Are telegrams still around or did they go away with buggy whips?

Family Website:

·                   Keep it anonymous.  Do not give out your last name, city or phone number.

·                   Keep it anonymous.  Do not use your email address if it contains your last name or location.  Obtain an anonymous email address (e.g., yahoo or hotmail) and an adult should check messages.

·                   Be careful with links.  If you link to your church or school, for example, a predator may be able to determine where you live.

·                   Be careful of the pictures you post.  Backgrounds can reveal clues to your location.  Review them carefully before posting.

Internet Safety

·                   Keep computer in the living room or family room—never behind a closed bedroom door.

·                   Don’t use the Internet as a babysitter.  Spend time with your kids while they are online.

·                   If they see something on the Internet that is upsetting, call a parent to take care of it.

·                   Be aware of what they are doing and with whom when they are online.

·                   Make sure your kids are aware of basic Internet safety rules:

·       Never give out personal information.  This includes phone numbers, school name, last name, address, when and where they attend their extracurricular activities.

·       Never meet a cyber friend in person—unless a parent goes with them or they have your permission.

·       If they receive strange or upsetting emails, let parents know right away.

·       Never email pictures to a cyber friend unless they have your permission.

Shown below are tips to make your home safe. 

·                   Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before eating.

·                   Keep kitchen clean and counters disinfected.

·                   Wash off the tops of canned soft drinks and all can before you open them.

·                   Refrigerate and cook meats properly.

·                   If you have small children, lock cabinets that have poisonous substances in them.

·                   Medicine should be kept in containers with child-resistant lids.

·                   If you think your child ate or drank something poisonous, call your local Poison Control Center immediately.

·                   Have a family fire safety route.  Have 2 routes out of every room.

·                   Test smoke alarms and replace batteries every 6 months.

·                   Clean out your filter after every wash.  If you use fabric softener, wash filter periodically.  Clothes dryers cause 14,000 fires every year.

·                   Do not depend on heat producing items to automatically turn off.

·                   Have a fire extinguisher near each exit.

·                   Have chimney cleaned regularly.

·                   Do not plug too many items into the same electric outlet.

·                   Install carbon monoxide detectors.

Dog Safety:

·                   Try not to startle any dog—even your own.

·                   Teach children to leave a dog alone when it is eating, sleeping or chewing on a toy or bone.

·                   Always supervise children when playing with dogs.

·                   Always ask owner if it okay to pet a dog before touching it.

Bike Safety:

·                   Inspect bike before riding.

·                   Wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet.

·                   Adjust bicycle to fit.  Stand over bicycle.  There should be 1-2 inches between you and the top tube (bar) if using a road bike and 3-4 inches on a mountain bike.

·                   Seat should be level and adjusted so there is a slight bend at the knee when leg is fully extended.

·                   Make sure you can be seen.   Wear neon, fluorescent or other bright colors day or night.  Just because you can see a driver doesn’t mean the driver can see you.

·                   Always keep one hand on handlebars to maintain control.  Carry books and other items in a carrier or backpack.

·                   Watch for road hazards.

·                   Avoid riding at night.  Night riding may require reflectors and lights.  Check local regulations.

·                   Go with the flow of traffic.

·                   Obey all traffic laws.

·                   Yield to traffic when appropriate.

·                   Be predictable.  Ride in a straight line, not in and out of cars.

·                   Stay alert—use your eyes and ears.

·                   Look before turning.

·                   Watch for parked cars.  Ride far enough out from the curb to avoid the unexpected from parked cars—doors opening or cars pulling out.

 

The safest place for bike riding is on the street, where bikes are expected to follow the same rules of the road as motorists and ride in the same direction.

 

·                   Children under 10 years old are not mature enough to make decisions necessary to safely ride in the street.

·                   Children under 10 are better off riding on the sidewalk.  When riding on the sidewalk:

·       Watch for vehicles coming out of or turning into driveways.

·       Stop at corners of sidewalks and streets, looking for cars and make sure drivers see you before crossing.

·       Enter a street at a corner and not between parked cars.

·       Be polite and alert pedestrians by saying, “Excuse me” or "Passing on your left”.

Never leave children unattended in or around parked cars.  Some dangers are:

·                   Being inadvertently backed over in a driveway or parking lot.

·                   Being left in a vehicle where temperatures can reach deadly levels in minutes. 

·                   Accidentally knocking the vehicle into gear and setting it into motion.

·                   Strangulation by a power window or sunroof.

·                   Climbing into a truck and getting locked in.

 

Always wear a seatbelt and make sure all passengers buckle up. 

·                   Children should face the rear of the vehicle until they are 20 pounds and 1 year of age.  Children, who weigh 20 pounds before 1 year, should ride in a rear-facing infant seat designed for weights greater than 20 pounds until one year.

·                   Do not put a rear-facing car safety seat in the front passenger seat of any car with a passenger-side front air bag.

·                   Children must ride in a safety seat until they are 4 years old and weigh 40 pounds.

·                   A booster seat can be used when a child has outgrown the safety seat, but is too small to fit properly in a vehicle safety belt.

The safest place for children is in the back seat.

Sometimes when watching the old TV shows “Father Knows Best”, “My Three Sons”, Leave It to Beaver” or even “Brady Bunch”, it’s hard to believe that such a simple easy time existed.  The world is a scarier place today and our children need to learn how to protect themselves.  This training has to start as soon as they are talking in sentences.  Teach your children:

·                   What to do if they become separated from you in a public place.  They should not wander around looking for you.  Have them go to the checkout counter, security office or lost and found quickly and tell them they have lost their parents and need help.  Teach them to go to a low risk adult.  For example, a police officer in uniform or a pregnant woman with children.

·                   That grownups do not need help from a child.  Grownups should not ask a child for directions or help to find a lost puppy.

·                   That they shouldn’t go with someone who tells them their parents need their help or that their parent’s sent them.  They should not go with anyone unless you have given them prior permission.

·                   That if someone on foot or in a car is following them, they should stay away.  Do not get close to any car.

·                   That if someone tries to take them, they should try to get away and yell or scream, “I don’t know this person this is not my mom (or dad)”.

·                   To never leave the yard or go to a friend’s house without your permission.

·                   To take a friend with them—never go places alone.

·                   Not to let people take pictures of them.

·                   That no one should touch them in any area that is covered by a bathing suit and they should not touch anyone in those areas.

·                   That they can say no to someone who makes you feel uncomfortable or scared—even a grownup.

·                   That when home alone and answering the phone, never say that a parent isn’t here. 

·                   To not answer the door, if alone.  Teach them whom to call if they become afraid.

 

What you should do:

·                   Know where your kids are at all times.  Know their friends and what they’re doing.

·                   Know the route your child takes to school.

·                   Know your neighbors.  Teach your children where to go if they feel threatened.

·                   Be aware of changes in your child’s behavior.

·                   Be alert to grownups or teenagers who pay an inordinate amount of attention to your kids.

·                   Be careful when hiring a babysitter or any one else that may have custody of your child.

·                   Know your children’s friends and their parents.  Keep a “friend’s list” that includes phone numbers and addresses.

·                   Teach your children that no one should touch them or interact with them in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable.

·                   Teach your children to trust their feelings and instincts and to come to you if they sense something wrong.

 

Always listen to your children’s fears and be supportive.

Summer time is fun time.  Diving injuries can result in death or serious injury.  While playing in pools, follow these safety rules when diving.

·                   Never dive into above-ground pools.

·                   Never dive from the side of an in-ground pool.

·                   Always dive from the end of the diving board.

·                   Always dive with your hands in front of you and swim quickly away from bottom.

Backyard pools are dangerous.  Statistics from Centers for Disease Control (CDC) show that 1 in 4 fatal drowning accidents involve children 14 or younger.  From 2005 to 2007, there were an average of 283 drowning per year for children 5 and under.

 

For every child that dies, another 4 are taken to the emergency room for submersion-related accidents.  If a child survives, there may be permanent brain damage.

Children should always be supervised around a pool.

·                   Pool should be completely fenced with a self-closing and self-latching gate.  Children should not be able to reach the latch.  Keep doors and windows leading to pool area secure.

·                   Inspect back yard.  Make sure there are no tables or chairs that can be used to climb into the pool area.

·                   Never partially remove a pool cover.  Small children may become trapped underneath it.

·                   Keep toys away from pool.  Toys can fall into pool and a small child may go in after it.

·                   Remove steps to above-ground pool when not in use.

·                   Keep a phone poolside for two reasons.  If the phone rings, children are not left unsupervised when adult goes to answer it and it is close at hand in case of an emergency.

·                   Make sure babysitters are aware of pool hazards for small children and to be continuously supervising to avoid accidents.

·                   Keep rescue equipment by pool.

·                   Learn CPR!

Parents, watch your kids.  We sometimes think they are safe because they are playing in the back yard or at a friend’s house.  Drowning is a more of a reality that an abduction, so never let children swim or play around pools unatteneded.

A common construction hazard is working around high voltage overhead lines.

 

Every year, construction workers are killed or disabled after accidentally coming in contact with the lines.

 

With certain exceptions, work done over live (power on) overhead lines is against the law.  Working within 6 feet of lines carrying between 600 - 50, 000 volts is also prohibited.

 

Do not store tools, machinery, and equipment near live high voltage overhead lines if it is possible for them to come within the minimum clearance of 6 feet when they are being moved or used.

 

When moving boom-type equipment with boom lowered and no load attached, keep the end of the boom at least 6 feet away from high voltage lines.

         

When operating boom-type lifting or hoisting equipment, the minimum clearance between the line and any part of the crane or load is 10 feet when the overhead line is carrying between 600 and 50,000 volts.

 

For lines rated over 50,000 volts, minimum clearance between the lines and any part of the crane or load is 10 feet, plus 0.4 inch for each 1 kV over 50,000 volts, or twice the length of the line insulator,

but never less than 10 feet.

 

A person shall be designated to observe clearance of the equipment and give timely warning for all operations where it is difficult for the operator to maintain the desired clearance by visual means.

         

If you don’t know whether an overhead line is live, assume that it is until whoever owns or operates the line verifies that the power is off.

An estimated 1.3 million employees in construction and general industry face significant asbestos exposure on the job.  Heaviest exposures occur in the construction industry.

 

Asbestos is a widely used, mineral-based material that is resistant to heat and corrosive chemicals.  Asbestos usually appears as a whitish, fibrous material which may release fibers from coarse to silky.  These airborne fibers may be too small to see with the naked eye.

 

Asbestos exposure can cause asbestosis (scarring of the lungs resulting in loss of lung function that often progresses to disability and death), cancer of the lung, esophagus, stomach, colon and rectum.

 

OSHA has established very strict regulations covering asbestos exposure.  This standard sets a maximum exposure limit and includes provision for engineering controls and respirators, protective clothing, exposure monitoring, hygiene facilities and practices, warning signs, labeling, recordkeeping, and medical exams.

 

Workplace exposure to asbestos must be limited to 0.2 fibers per cubic centimeter of air, averaged over an eight-hour work shift.  The short-term or excursion limit is one fiber per cubic centimeter of air averaged over a sampling period of 30 minutes.  In areas where the exposure limits for asbestos exceed the 8-hour or 30-minute values, a regulated area must be established.  Only authorized persons wearing appropriate clothing and respirators can enter a regulated area.   In regulated areas, eating, smoking, drinking, chewing tobacco or gum and applying cosmetics are prohibited.

 

Warning signs must be displayed at each regulated area and must be posted at all approaches to regulated areas.

 

For any employee exposed to airborne concentrations of asbestos exceeding the permissible exposure limit (PEL), the employer must provide and require the use of protection clothing.  This includes coveralls or full-body clothing, head coverings, gloves, and foot coverings.  If the possibility of eye irritation exists, face shield, vented goggles or other appropriate equipment must be provided and worn.  The level of exposure will determine what type of respirator is to be used.

 

Caution labels must be placed on all raw materials, mixtures, scrap, waste, debris and other products containing asbestos fibers. 

 

Construction work involving asbestos is done by workers specifically trained on how to work around asbestos safely.  The main thing we have to remember is that asbestos may be present on the job and we need to stay away from it, unless we have been trained to work with it and all engineering controls, monitoring devices and personal protective devices are in place.

A forklift is designed to pick up and move materials.  The basic lift truck has forks on the front to engage the load.  The lift mechanism lifts the load so that it can be moved and stacked.  Driving a lift truck is not the same as driving an automobile.  Some lift truck operations are similar to driving a car, but a lift truck is a special machine designed to do a special job.  The forklift operator must be trained and authorized to operate the lift truck.  Here are some tips for safe operation of forklifts.

A lift truck is built for only one person—the operator.  Do not travel with people on the forks.

Know your equipment.  Know the operating, inspection and maintenance information in the Operator’s Manual.

Handle loads within the rated capacity as shown on the nameplate.  The capacity represents the maximum load the lift truck is rated to handle.  The operator must determine if the load is within the capacity of the lift truck before the load is handled.
Inspect the lift truck before use and at the beginning of each shift.

Do not lift or hit anything that can fall on the operator or a bystander.

Never allow anyone under or on the forks.

Never put hands, arms, head or legs through the upright or near the carriage or lift chains. 

Keep all body parts inside the operator’s compartment when lift truck is moving.

Lift and lower with the upright vertical or tilted slightly backward from vertical

Do not tilt in either direction anymore than necessary when handling elevated loads.

Always travel with the load as low as possible and tilted back.
For better visibility with large loads, travel with the load trailing, but always look in the direction of travel.

Avoid bumps, holes, slick spots and loose materials that may cause the truck to swerve or tip.

Watch for clearances.

Stunt driving and horseplay is prohibited.

Excessive speed is prohibited.

Be alert for pedestrians.  Do not drive up to anyone standing in front of an object.

Stay away from the edge of the road.

Cross railroad tracks diagonally.

Sound horn when view is obstructed.

 

Do not operate a damaged or defective forklift.  Report damage, install a “Do Not Operate” tag and remove the key from the vehicle. All parts shall be replaced by an equivalent part. Truck shall not be altered by addition or deletion of parts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As many as 16 million employees are exposed to high noise levels at work.  Sound enters the outer part of the ear which is made of cartilage covered by skin.  Sound waves travel down the ear canal.  They cause the eardrum (which is located at the entrance of the middle ear) to vibrate.  The vibrations pass on through the middle ear by causing the small bones to vibrate.  The vibrations move fluid in the cochlea of the inner ear.  The cochlea is the main organ of hearing in the body and contains about 20,000 hair-like cells.  The moving fluid moves or bends these cells which change vibrations into nerve impulses.  The nerve impulses are carried to the brain by the auditory nerve.  This nerve sends the sound signal to the hearing center of the brain.

 

Noise is unwanted or unpleasant sound.  Loud noise causes the hair cells to bend or go flat.  Usually these cells rise back up if the noise goes away.  But constant noise or a sudden loud sound can be so strong that the cells don’t recuperate.  Exposure to long-term noise may result in tinnitus.  This is a roaring, ringing, or whistling sensation in the ear that comes and goes or is constant.

 

To Protect Your Hearing:

·                     Maintain machinery to reduce noise levels.

·                     Know when hearing protection is required and wear hearing protection in loud-noise activities.

·                     Wear assigned hearing protectors.

·                     Don’t wear poor fitting or damaged hearing protectors.

·                     Make sure hands are clean before inserting or putting on hearing protectors.

·                     Don’t wear home made hearing protection.

 

Select the proper ear protection to protect your hearing.  Types of hearing protection include:

 

1.     Earplugs.  These seal the ear canal and may come in standard sizes or individually molded varieties.  Some are disposable while others are reusable.

 

2.   Canal Caps.  These are soft pads on a headband similar to headphones.  They seal the entrance to the ear canal.

 

3.   Earmuffs.  Similar to headphones and provide the greatest protection.

When a new person joins the work team, the work environment changes.  Employees that have been working together for a long time get in a groove.  They know the work style and work attitudes of the members of the team.

 

In the beginning, new employees are eager to do things right.  In fact, during the first six months, an employee is more eager to learn and please than at any other time during his employment. Smart supervisors use this time to instill proper work procedures and safety rules.  This is the time to let new people know the key job procedures.

 

The best way to help a new employee learn the job is by having veteran employees work with the newcomer.  The seasoned worker can show the newcomer how to do the job safely.   Both the supervisor and senior worker should monitor the new worker, continuing to advise and train.

 

A common mistake is overloading new employees with too much information. 

 

Remember they need time to get used to new people, new tasks, and a new schedule.

 

For the first week, keep information general.  That way, there’s a better chance the information will be remembered.  Some general safety rules to be emphasized during the first week are:

 

• Do not do any job, unless you have been trained to do so.
• Do not use any equipment, unless you have been trained to do so.
• Follow all safety rules.
• Be alert to hazards.
• Keep your mind on your job.

Welding, cutting and heating of toxic metals is a dangerous and hazardous job.  Adequate ventilation must be provided to protect the welder and other employees from toxic fumes and gases released during the welding process.  Always wear all required personal protective equipment and follow all safe welding procedures to help eliminate hazards posed by the chemical agents used during welding.  Some of the metals and their hazards used during welding include:

 

Beryllium.  This is sometimes used as an alloying element with copper and other base metals.  Acute exposure to high concentrations can result in chemical pneumonia.  Chronic exposure (long-term) may result in cough, weight loss, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

 

Zinc. This is used in large quantities when manufacturing brass, galvanized metals and other alloys. 

Exposure to zinc fumes during the welding process may cause metal fume fever.  Metal fume fever symptoms are similar to the flu.

 

Iron Oxide.  Iron is the principle alloying substance in the manufacture of steel.  Iron oxide fumes arise during welding not only from the base metal, but also the electrode.  Acute affect results in irritation of nasal passages, throat and lungs.

 

Cadmium.  Frequently used as a rust-preventive coating on steel.  Acute exposure to high levels of cadmium fumes may produce pulmonary edema, severe lung irritation and even death.  Long-term exposure can result in kidney damage or emphysema.  Cadmium is classified as a potential cancer-causing agent.

As part of the Hazard Communication Standard, you need to know about chemical labels.  Labels or other forms of markings must appear on each container of chemicals.  Always read the label on the container before using any products. That way you know what you are using and if it is hazardous.  If you know what to look for, the label will give you a lot of information.  Never used chemicals in an unmarked container.

 

The label will tell you if the chemical is flammable or combustible, explosive, reactive or radioactive.  The label will also identify health hazards.  Information found on labels:

 

·                     The name of the chemical is on the label.  It may have the common name, its scientific name, or both.  It also gives an ingredient list.

·                     The name, address and emergency telephone number of the company that manufactured or imported the chemical.

·                     Some labels may have special words that let you know how dangerous the chemical is.

          1.  Danger - can cause immediate serious injury or death.

          2.  Warning - can cause potentially serious injury or death.

          3.  Caution - can cause potentially moderate injury.

·                     Label may show the physical hazards of the chemical.  This may be shown by a word like “Flammable” or “Explosive” or with a symbol like skull and crossbones.

·                     Label also show health hazards.  Some labels use a color and number system to explain both physical and health hazards:

 

Red means a fire hazard.

Yellow is a reactivity hazard.

Blue is a health hazard.

Number 0 means minimal hazard, 1 is slight and 4 is the highest degree, a severe hazard.

 

·                     Some labels give storage and handling instructions.

·                     Labels show personal protective equipment and emergency situation instructions.

 

Follow these safety tips:

·                     Don’t cover labels so they can’t be read.

·                     Don’t depend on the label alone for protective information, read the MSDS.

·                     Never use a container that doesn’t have a label.

 

Labels are provided to keep you safe.  Read them and use the information.

Fire extinguishers must be placed conspicuously and within easy reach so they can be accessed quickly.  Only try to put out a fire if you can do so without placing your life in danger.  Only try to put out a fire after the fire department has been called.  A small fire can turn into a large fire very quickly.  A few minutes can make a difference.  Before you begin to fight a small fire:

·                     Make sure that everyone has left or is leaving the area.

·                     Make sure the fire department has been called.

·                     Make sure your back is to a safe and unobstructed exit to which the fire will not spread.

 

There are four classes of fires.  All fire extinguishers are labeled, using standard symbols, for the classes of fires on which they can be used.  Most portable fire extinguishers are multi-purpose (ABC) which are appropriate for extinguishing a Class A, B or C fire.  

Class A.  Ordinary combustibles, such as wood, cloth and paper.  It
is very dangerous to use water or an extinguisher labeled only for Class A fires on an electrical fire.

Class B.  Flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil and oil-based paint.

Class C.  Energized electrical equipment, including wiring, fuse boxes,
circuit breakers, machinery and appliances.

Class D.  Combustible metals, such as magnesium or sodium.

 

Depending on the size of the fire, stand about 10 to 20 feet away when using a fire extinguisher.  Portable fire extinguishers discharge faster than most people think, usually within 15 to 30 seconds.  Never rehang a fire extinguisher, even if its been used for only a few seconds.

 

When properly used, a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives.  Portable extinguishers are not designed to fight a large or spreading fire.  Even against small fires, they are useful under certain conditions.

·                   The extinguisher must be rated for the type of fire you are
          fighting.

·                     The extinguisher must be large enough to put out the fire.

·                     The extinguisher must be within easy reach, in working order and fully charged.

 

Follow the four-step PASS procedure when using an extinguisher.

 

PULL the pin:  This unlocks the operating lever usually by a twist-pull action.

AIM low:  Point the nozzle at the base of the fire.

SQUEEZE the lever above the handle:  This discharges the extinguishing agent.

SWEEP from side to side:  Moving carefully toward the fire, keep the extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire and sweep back and forth until the flames appear to be out.  Watch the fire area.  If the fire reignites, repeat the process.

The number one cause of death or injury (whether on or off the job) is motor vehicle accidents.  Driving can present all kinds of hazards, but the greatest potential hazard is the driver.  The following safety tips will help you avoid motor vehicle accidents.

 

1. Check your vehicle frequently.  Be sure that brakes, accelerator, belts, radiator, oil, battery, tires, headlights and brake lights are all in good working condition.
2. Obey the speed limit.
3. Follow traffic rules.
4. Watch out for the other driver.  Stay away from vehicles that swerve in and out of traffic, fail to signal, or are driving very fast or very slow.
5. Road and weather conditions can affect the way you drive.
6. Stay alert and aware while driving. 
7. Always wear seatbelts.
8. Use car phones sparingly or not at all while driving.
9. Keep headlights on low beam during the day.
10. Don’t drink or take drugs.  Some prescription drugs will impair driving ability.
11. Don’t tailgate.  Stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.
12. Pass on the left only.
13. Yield right of way.
14. Don’t overload vehicle.
15. Be especially cautious in heavy traffic.
16. Never pass a stopped school bus.
17. Be a defensive driver.
18. Keep your eyes on the road, your mind on driving, and your hands on the wheel.
19. Keep an eye out for changes in road and traffic conditions, pedestrians, bicycles and animals.

 

More than half of motor vehicle deaths occur after dark.  Here are some night safe driving tips:

 

·                     Let your eyes adjust to the dark when leaving building.

·                     Make sure your headlights are working and turn them on as soon as it starts to get dark.

·                     Keep more of a distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.

·                     Stop and rest if you're tired.  Walk around, get some fresh air.  Have a cup of coffee.

 

To be a good defensive driver, expect the unexpected and the worse from other drivers.

About 90% of all workplace accidents are caused by the unsafe acts of employees.  People can be the biggest hazard on the job.  Careless accidents are caused by:

Complacency
Emotions. 

Tiredness.

Lack of Knowledge.

Reckless Attitude.

 

Have a safe attitude.  A safe attitude means you recognize the risks you face on the job and are planning on what to do to protect yourself and prevent accidents.

·                     Treat job safety as one of your most important job responsibilities.

·                     Keep in mind Murphy’s law that things go wrong and at the worse possible moment.

·                     Remember the Boy Scout motto and “Be Prepared”.  Use your training and knowledge to keep safe.

·                     Develop and always follow safe work habits.

 

Here are a few basic safety principles to help keep you safe and healthy on the job.

 

·                     Plan each job before you start.  Have the tools, personal protective equipment (PPE) and materials you’ll need when you start the job.  Think through the job and know the procedure to follow.

·                     Use safety equipment and information to do the job.  This may include reading the MSDS and/or label and using PPE.

·                     Inspect tools, equipment, and PPE before using.  If they are not in good working order, do not use them. 

·                     Always use the right tool for the job.

·                     Good housekeeping is a key to safety.  Keep your work area free of hazards.

·                     Don’t take shortcuts.  Follow company and manufacturers rules.  Sometimes this may take longer, but the job will be done safely.

·                     Don’t ignore unsafe practices of others.  Unsafe practices may result in injuries to that worker, but others as well.

·                     Don’t let someone else talk you into taking shortcuts and bypassing safety rules.

·                     Be alert.  Pay attention.

·                     No horseplay. 

 

Companies can make rules, but the only person that can really keep you safe on the job is YOU.

Use proper ear protection when exposed to loud noise.  How to select the right hearing protection:

ü What kinds of noise are you exposed to and how loud is it?

ü What is the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of the hearing protection selected?

ü How long will you be exposed to dangerous noise?

 

The following are the different types of hearing protection available.  Never wear home made hearing protection.

 

Earplugs (Inserts)  Some kinds of earplugs are disposable and others reusable.  Disposable earplugs are usually made of waxed cotton, used once, and then thrown away.  Semi-disposable plugs are made of foam and last about a week.  Reusable plugs are either premolded or custom-molded.  Custom-molded are made to the exact fit of the ear.  Insertion Procedure:

 

Formable Plugs.  Slowly roll and compress plug into a thin cylinder.  Pull up and back on ear with other hand then insert compressed plug deep into ear canal.  Hold finger against plug until it begins to expand.

Premolded Plugs.  Reach around back of head and with one hand pull outward and upward on ear while inserting plug with other hand.  Push and twist plug until it fits snugly.

 

Canal Caps (Semi-Inserts)  Canal caps are soft pads on a headband much like headphones.  They are comfortable, cool and easy to put on and off.  They provide less protection than earplugs or earmuffs.  Insertion Procedure:

 

Hold large ends of pads, swivel them to place tips into ear canal openings, then push and wiggle pads into canals until they seal snugly.

 

Earmuffs  Earmuffs help protect against moderate to high-level noise.  Earmuffs must fit tightly over the ears to block noise.   How to use earmuffs:

 

Adjust headband so cushions press equally against both ears.  Pull hair back and away from beneath cushions.  To fit properly, the headband must not be too loose or too tight, cups should fit comfortably and be lightweight.

 

To properly take care of ear protectors:  inspect them before use—do not use them if they are damaged, wash hands before inserting earplugs, make sure you have a good fit and clean ear protectors before putting them away.

 

Always wear hearing protection when in noisy environments.

Most people are familiar with the safe way to lift—bending your knees, hugging the load and letting the strong muscle in your legs do the actual lifting.  While this is the standard way to lift, many times in our day-to-day working environment, this just isn’t practical.  Here are some tips when lifting awkward loads.

 

Overhead Loads. 

If you have to lift an object that’s above shoulder-level, use a stepstool or ladder to avoid over-reaching.  Test the weight of the load before removing it.  If it is within a weight capacity that you can safely lift, slide it toward you and hug it close to your body as you descent.  If possible, hand it down to a coworker.

 

Odd-Sized Loads.

Long objects that are relatively light can be awkward to lift and carry.  When lifting and carrying pipes, lumber, or other long, light loads, don’t hug the load close to your body.  Support it on your shoulder, keeping the front end higher than the rear.

 

Some over-sized loads may be light enough to carry, but can block your vision.  In this case, use mechanical means or request help from a coworker.

 

If the load is long or heavy enough to require two people, each of you should lift it on the same side and keep the object level.  Keep in step while walking.

 

Reaching Into a Bin.

The standard lift is impossible when trying to lift into a bin, container or other storage area.  To lift in this situation, stand with your feet at shoulder distance apart, slightly bend your knees and start to squat, bending at your hips not your waist (similar to movement made when sitting in a chair).  Slide the load as close to your bo

Skin diseases are the most common on-the-job illness.  Irritant contact dermatitis remains the most common occupational skin disease.  It is usually associated with toxic reactions to chemicals used in the workplace.  Another area of concern to OSHA is dermal protection associated with sun exposure causing skin cancer.

 

One of the best ways to protect your 2,800 square inches of skin is to keep it covered up.

 

General Hazards:

 

¨    Dermatitis is the name for rashes, itching, swelling and other irritations that develop from exposure to substances.

¨    Sensitization is allergy-like reactions, including rashes, that may be experienced whenever in the vicinity of a chemical following frequent or long exposure.

¨    Skin can be burned by a flame, hot surface, electrical exposure or exposure to a corrosive substance.

¨    Cuts, bruises, and other wounds can let bacteria in to the skin and lead to infections.

 

Skin protection tips:

 

¨    Use the least hazardous substance that will do the job.

¨    Keep chemical containers closed when not in use.

¨    Follow MSDS handling instructions.

¨    Bandage any small scrapes or cuts before putting on gloves or protective clothing.

¨    Wash promptly and thoroughly after working with hazardous substances.

¨    Don’t clean hands with solvents or industrial detergents.

¨    Apply barrier skin creams and lotions to clean, non-irritated skin before starting job.

¨    Wash and dry skin thoroughly at the end of work.

¨    Wear sun block when working outside.

 

First Aid for Skin Problems:

 

¨    Chemical Exposure.  Wash the exposed skin thoroughly with lots of soap and water for at least 15 minutes.  If your clothing was exposed to the hazardous substance, try to remove it while wearing gloves.

¨    Minor Burn.  Rinse in cold water and put on a sterile bandage. 

¨    Skin cut.  Wash with soap and water and cover with a sterile bandage.

OSHA requires that personal protective equipment:

ü      Protects each employee from the identified hazards.

ü      Is of safe design and construction.

ü      Is sanitary and reliable.

ü      Provides each employee with a good fit.

ü      Provides more than the minimum required protection.

ü      Protects against multiple hazards when necessary.

ü      Meets American National Standards Institute (ANSI)

     standards.

 

PPE fits well when it:

          1.       Provides you with the protection you need.

          2.      Is comfortable enough to allow you to move and

                    perform your job.

 

PPE is designed to protect you while providing the greatest possible comfort.  It can seem heavy or awkward.  The best way to get used to PPE is to practice wearing it.

 

Inspect PPE before every use.  Don’t use PPE that is defective or damaged in any way.

 

Caring for PPE includes the following:

ü      Always check PPE for damage after you use it.

ü      Clean PPE before putting it way.

ü      Dispose of single-use or damaged PPE properly.

ü      Store PPE appropriately.

 

Your responsibility to keep yourself safe while wearing PPE include the following:

ü Learn when to use PPE.

ü Know how to use PPE correctly.

ü Use the correct PPE whenever the job requires it to be worn.

ü Maintain PPE.

 

Each piece of PPE is designed to protect against particular hazards.  Make sure you always wear the appropriate PPE to protect you from the hazards you are exposed to on the job.

 

Accidents are investigated to find out why and how they happened—not to fix blame.  Once we know how and why an accident occurred, we can develop ways to prevent this type of accident from occurring in the future.  Therefore, accident investigation is one of the best ways to prevent future accidents.  We also investigate near-misses.  Near-misses are warnings that help us identify problems so we can avoid accidents.

 

Employee cooperation is required.  Employees must:

·       Always report any accidents or near-miss immediately so we can investigate the situation.

·       Cooperate with all investigations.

 

Again, investigate an accident to prevent it from happening in the future, not to assign blame.  Employee cooperation can make a big difference in providing a safe workplace.

 

Accidents should be investigated immediately when the facts are fresh in everyone’s mind.  An accident investigation includes the following:

ü What happened?

ü When did it happen?

ü Where did it happen?

ü How did it happen?

ü Why did it happen?

ü Who was involved?

 

And most importantly, how can we prevent it from happening again?

 

If an accident occurs, the first thing to do is make sure that any injured worker receives needed medical treatment.  If the accident involves a spill or leak, it has to be stopped.  But other than this, we try to keep the accident scene untouched until accident investigation is completed.  During the accident investigation, we try to obtain answers to our questions of who, what, when, where, how, and why.  To answer these questions, may require the help of persons involved and any witnesses to the incident. 

 

Get eyewitness reports immediately in order to obtain immediate impressions of what happened.  As time passes, a witness may confuse the current incident with something that happened in the past or become confused by what other people say.

 

Everyone’s help is needed, not only to investigate accidents, but also to take the corrective actions that will prevent future accidents.

Lead is not only a hazard to employees, but also to their families.  Nearly 1 million workers are exposed to lead in almost 4.3 million construction projects.  Exposure to lead may be present in these types of construction jobs:

 

ü Building demolition, renovation and remodeling.

ü Plumbing and electrical work.

ü Water line repair and removal.

ü Air conditioning/heating repair and installation.

ü Bridge construction, renovation, repair and demolition.

 

Lead enters the body through the lungs while inhaling and through the mouth while swallowing.  Lead is absorbed slowly into the bloodstream. 

 

Chronic lead effects.  Buildup of lead over a long period of time.  Medical problems include:  anemia, disorders of kidneys, liver, lungs, reproductive and other organs, digestive problems and problems with central nervous system.  Symptoms include:  chronic fatigue, joint and muscle pain, insomnia or loss of appetite.

 

Acute lead effects.  This is caused by short-term exposure to very high lead concentrations and is more rare.  Medical problems include:  brain damage, severe anemia, respiratory failure, paralysis and even death.  Symptoms include:  severe weakness or fatigue, pain or burning in stomach or mouth, nausea or metallic taste in the mouth.

 

Safety Steps

ü Ask if you think you might be exposed to lead on the job.

ü Replace leaded products with lead-free products.

ü Wear PPE.

ü Practice good personal hygiene — wash hands, face or take shower before changing into street clothes.

ü Practice good housekeeping.  Keep area free of lead dust.  Properly dispose of waste and other materials containing lead.

ü Follow safe job procedures.

 

Let your employer know, if you experience the symptoms of lead exposure.  Lead poisoning can be confused with other common illnesses.  Only a physician can determine if the symptoms are those of lead poisoning.

 

Following these safety tips, will help you setup your ladder safely.

Straight & Extension Ladders

 

·                     Watch for overhead obstructions and power lines.

·                     Never use a ladder in a strong wind.

·                     A ladder should not be placed in front of a door  (especially one that opens toward you) unless the door  is locked, blocked or guarded.

·                     When you use a ladder to reach a roof, make sure the ladder extends at least 3 feet (about 3 rungs) beyond the roof edge.

·                     Before positioning the ladder, check for insect or bird nests under the eaves; the top of a ladder is no place to discover a wasp nest.

·                     Keep the area around the ladder base free of clutter.

·                     Rest the ladder base on a solid, level surface.  Large flat wooden boards can be used to level the surface on uneven ground or to keep it from sinking into soft ground.

·                     To position the ladder properly, make sure the ladder is about 1 foot away from the vertical support for every 4 feet of ladder height between the base support and the top support.  This will produce an angle of about 75 degrees.

·                     When using an extension ladder, raise it to its desired height, being sure the locks engage properly on both sides of  the ladder.

·                     If possible, secure the ladder.  Tie a straight ladder as close as you can to the upper support point.

 

Stepladder

·                     Many of the safety tips for straight and extension ladders also apply to stepladders.

·                     Erect a stepladder on a flat, level surface.  Do not place it on a table or any similar platform for added height.

·                     Never use a stepladder as a straight ladder.

·                     Before climbing a stepladder, make sure the legs are fully extended and the spreader locked.

 

Ladder Inspection

 

·                     Are the steps firmly anchored to the side rails.

·                     Are the steps and other surfaces free of oil, grease, water, paint or dirt.

·                     Are the rungs, rails, braces, ropes, uprights or siderails loose or damaged.

·                     Are there knots or decayed areas on a wooden ladder.

·                     If the ladder has been dropped, inspect it thoroughly before using again.

·                     Tag and remove damaged ladders for repair or replacement.

 

The National Safety Council reported that in a recent year, there were 530,000 disabling hand and finger injuries.  Hand injuries usually fall into two categories:

 

·       Cuts, punctures, broken bones or amputation - these are traumatic injuries.

·       Skin diseases or burns - these are contact injuries.

 

Gloves are one of the best ways to protect your hands from injuries.  Do not wear gloves while working with moving machinery.  Be sure gloves fit snugly and comfortably.  Wear the right type of glove to protect against specific hazards.  Wearing the wrong glove will not protect you. 

 

ü Wear insulated gloves to protect against heat and cold.

ü Wear special insulated gloves when working around electricity.

ü Wear metal mesh or other cut-resistant gloves when handling sharp objects.

ü Wear leather gloves when working around rough surfaces.

ü Wear fabric gloves when handling slippery objects.

ü Wear neoprene or nitrile rubber gloves are needed to work with corrosives.

 

Basic safety precautions to protect your hands:

 

ü Follow manufacturer’s and company’s policy when using tools and equipment.

ü Feed materials into moving machinery with a push stick, not your hands.

ü Keep hands away from moving machine parts.

ü Always cut away from your body.

ü Use brushes, not hands, to sweep up metal or wood chips.

ü Store tools so no sharp edges are exposed.

ü Check materials for sharp edges, burrs or splinters, before handling them.

ü Know how hot or cold an object is before handling it.

ü Lift an object keeping hands away from pinch points.

ü Put materials down carefully so you don’t smash your fingers.

ü Hand tools to coworkers, handle first, do not throw tools.

ü Keep fingers on the sides, not top or bottom, when you’re stacking materials.