Chainsaws are efficient and productive portable power tools used in many industries. They are also potentially dangerous if not used correctly and carefully. Proper operation and maintenance greatly reduce the risk for injury when using chainsaws. Any tool powerful enough to slice through wood can do the same to human...
Because batteries contain chemicals, chemical reaction by-products, and an electrical current, they can pose a hazard to workers if not handled properly. Workers that operate, maintain, and recharge batteries should use caution. Battery Charging Dos: Wear gloves and suitable eye protection—preferably goggles or a visor; Wear a plastic apron and...
Hard hats are commonly used in many types of workplaces to protect employees from head trauma caused by falling objects, striking their head against an object, or electrical hazards. With over 100,000 occupational head injuries reported every year, prevention of head injuries is an important factor in every safety program....
Conveyors are used to transport materials horizontally, vertically, at an angle, or around curves. Hazards depend on the type of conveyer, the material conveyed, the location of the conveyor, and how close the conveyer is to workers. Conveyors eliminate or reduce manual material handling tasks, but they introduce amputation hazards...
Corrosive chemicals can burn, irritate, or destructively attack living tissue. When inhaled or ingested, lung and stomach tissues are affected. Materials with corrosive properties can be either acidic (low pH) or basic (high pH). Cleaning compounds may contain acids or bases. Before using a material, always read the Safety Data...
With the average 55-gallon drum weighing between 400-600 lbs., manually transporting, decanting, or otherwise handling drums is not only physically demanding, but a potentially dangerous task for any worker. Risk Factors: At least four serious injuries can occur if a 55 Gallon Drum is not handled safely: Fractures; Lacerations; Hernias;...
H2S is a colorless, flammable, explosive and highly toxic gas. It may have a rotten egg odor, but it can also become odorless because it deadens your sense of smell, and you may not notice it after prolonged or repeated exposure. H2S can be found in many industries, including the...
The best way to prevent workplace fires is to be aware of, and on the lookout for, potential fire hazards. All hazardous situations should be reported to your supervisor. Know the location of fire extinguishers and other emergency equipment that is available to you. During an actual emergency, protect yourself....
Workers may find themselves in a situation that they feel the need to report to OSHA. Maybe their employer has not done anything about a safety violation they pointed out, or maybe a worker was injured on the job, and is being denied workers compensation. Whatever the reason—an unsafe environment,...
Forklifts, or industrial trucks, are useful for lifting and transporting cargo in many environments from manufacturing warehouses to construction sites, and shipping/loading docks. Forklift operators should have training on the forklift they will be using to operate it safety. Operators need awareness of the triangular center of gravity for loads...