There are multiple safeguards to control any one hazard. Each level of these safeguards serves to protect employees. Some safeguards or controls are more effective than others. The Hierarchy of Hazard Control seeks to protect workers by ranking the ways in which hazards can be controlled, providing employers with a...
Bites and stings are a relatively common occurrence for people who work outdoors and in enclosed environments where bees and wasps, fire ants, insects and arachnids (spiders, scorpions, ticks and mites) feel at home. People with an allergy to stinging insects will want to take extra precautions this time of...
Safe handling and work procedures are crucial for workplaces where individuals use toxic materials. It is vital that people working with hazardous materials such as toxics are properly trained regarding the potential hazards. In General, When Handling Toxic Materials: Use only the smallest amount necessary to do the job; Prevent...
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 1,100 workers in the United States were killed last year by contact with equipment or by being caught in running machinery. Be Alert Working Around or Operating Machinery: The point of operation: This is where the work of the machine takes place....
Working outdoors in hot weather can result in serious illness or even death. Workers exposed to extreme heat may experience symptoms of heat- related illnesses (HRI), such as heat cramps, heat rash, heat exhaustion, fainting, heat stroke, and other symptoms. Heat-related illness is also linked to injuries from falls, equipment...
Lead exposure can happen in any industry. Lead exposure is a serious issue that many workers face every day. Lead exposure can occur during a variety of job activities. Lead is common in a wide range of materials including paints and other coatings, lead mortars, and base metals, which may...
The accumulation of oil-soaked or solvent-soaked rags in the normal daily function of a shop, manufacturing, or construction environment can be a major safety issue. Oil-soaked rags are a spontaneous combustion hazard because as the oil oxidizes, heat is released. If the heat is not dissipated, it can build up...
There are several dangers associated with the use of air tools. First and foremost is the danger of getting hit by one of the tool’s attachments or by some kind of fastener that you are using with the tool. Handling Air Tools Safely: Permit only experienced and trained people to...
Labor-intense activities in hot weather can raise body temperatures beyond the level that normally can be cooled by sweating. Heat illness initially may manifest itself as heat rash or heat cramps but can quickly escalate to heat exhaustion and then heat stroke if simple preventative measures are not followed. Should...
A common hazard that can be overlooked is the trip hazard. While falls are undoubtedly responsible for the majority of the fatalities, trips cause far too many injuries in the workplace. Trip Hazards: There is an endless list of possible trip hazards found in a workplace: Extension cords; Tools, equipment,...