Chemical Hazards – Chemical Spill Safety Chemical spills can be in the form of liquids, solids such as pellets, or gases or vapors. They can be flammable (quick to burn or explode), corrosive (damaging to human tissue or other materials), or toxic (poisonous to humans and other living things). The...
Chemical Hazards – Working Safely with Lead Lead exposure is a serious issue that many workers face every day. Lead exposure can happen in any industry and during a variety of job activities. Lead is common in a wide range of materials including paints and other coatings, lead mortars, and...
Air Compressors Compressed air is present across just about every industry. Companies are using compressed air for many functions, from running huge equipment to powering simple air tools. Compressed air is a valuable utility and is a safe power source when used properly. As with any other energy-carrying power source,...
Construction – Electrical Safety Electricity is an essential source of energy for most work-related operations. However, fewer sources have a greater potential to cause harm than electricity. Working safely with electricity is possible if you are trained in, understand, and follow certain basic ground rules. It doesn’t take a lot...
Hot Work Hazards Welding is a routine job on many worksites. However, this common task has hazards that can result in serious injury and property damage. Bystanders as well as workers involved directly with welding can be affected. Experts estimate that 6% of all fires on industrial properties are caused...
Hazards of Silica Dust Silica is present in both work and non-work environments and exposure to crystalline silica dust has long been known to cause a disease called “silicosis.” When you inhale crystalline silica the lung tissue reacts by developing fibrous tissue around trapped silica particles. Appropriate Protection:...
Aerial Platform Safety Man-lifts and scissor lifts are two pieces of equipment that many workers can’t imagine working without. This equipment, if used correctly, provides quick and safe access to work areas that at one time could only be reached from scaffolding or a crane’s man-basket. These lifts, collectively called...
Insect Safety As summer approaches, you may notice an increase in the number of insects buzzing around outside. People with an allergy to stinging insects will want to take extra precautions this time of year. Up to 5 percent of Americans are at risk for a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic...
Worksite Safety In the workplace, “good housekeeping” is the term used for keeping the worksite clean, neat, and free of hazards that can cause injury. Housekeeping is a safety concern that is often overlooked or taken for granted. But far too many accidents happen because people don’t keep their work...
Ergonomics Nearly every type of work or occupation has the potential for causing WMSDs. To prevent these injuries, it is important to understand the factors that contribute to them. Ergonomic factors refer to workplace conditions that pose the risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system of the worker. Factors that...