Protecting your hearing is one of the most critical, yet frequently overlooked, aspects of workplace safety. Unlike many physical injuries, noise-induced hearing loss occurs gradually over time. By the time you notice a change in your hearing, the damage is already permanent, because hearing loss is irreversible. The High Cost...
The most common electric shock hazard—ground faults—can cause severe electrical shock or electrocution. In normal conditions, electricity runs in a closed circuit; electricity flows out on the “hot” wire and returns on the “neutral” wire, completing the circuit. A ground fault occurs when the electrical current does not complete its...
Propane is an incredibly efficient and clean-burning fuel, making it an essential energy source on modern jobsites. However, because it is stored under high pressure as a liquefied gas, improper handling can lead to catastrophic workplace accidents, severe freeze burns, or explosions. For industrial workers, forklift operators, and site supervisors,...
In the United States, texting while driving is a major legal violation. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), 49 states, Washington, DC and many US territories have banned texting while driving. Montana is the only state that does not have a statewide ban on texting while driving. Law...
We all love a clean, fresh-smelling home, but many of the commercial products we rely on to eliminate dirt and germs carry hidden risks. Everyday household cleaners contain powerful chemical agents that can cause eye irritation, headaches, severe skin burns, and acute respiratory issues if handled incorrectly. Protecting your household...
Overhead shop cranes move heavy items in manufacturing and production areas. Although shop cranes are useful, “overhead” can sometimes be “out of sight and out of mind” when it comes to safety. Workers need training on crane hazards and operation, and they should never forget the safety hazards moving overhead....
When combustible or non-combustible materials are broken down into fine dusts or powders, they create a fire and explosion hazard affecting many operations and materials: sugar, flour, animal feed, plastics, paper, wood, rubber, furniture, textiles, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, paints and resins, dyes, coal, and metals. Safeguards need to be activated to...
Workers involved in the renovation, repair, tear down, and disposal of damaged or destroyed structures and materials can often encounter materials that contain lead. Repair, renovation, and demolition operations often generate dangerous airborne concentrations of lead, which is a metal that can cause damage to the nervous system, kidneys, blood...
This year, August 10-16 is OSHA’s designated Safe & Sound week. It is a week that spotlights safety and health resources, offers engaging challenges, and encourages development of safety and health programs. OSHA has a website dedicated to this week of awareness and growth opportunity: https://www.osha.gov/safeandsound The website contains fun...
Falls are among the most common causes of serious work-related injuries and deaths. Employers must take measures in their workplaces to prevent employees from falling off overhead platforms, elevated workstations, or into holes in the floor and walls. Falls are the second leading cause of occupational fatalities and disabling injuries...