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 Aerial Work Platforms,...
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that often goes undetected, striking victims caught off guard or in their sleep. More than 400 people in the U.S. die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 20,000 visit the emergency...
Burn injuries are common both at home and in the workplace. The American Burn Association states that there are over 40,000 hospitalizations each year due to burns. Types of Burns: Thermal – Thermal burns are what most people think of first when burns are mentioned. These burns occur due to...
Batteries are used to power our automobiles, trucks, tractors, and construction or power equipment. There are different types of batteries such as lead-acid batteries, gel cells, and lead-calcium batteries. Most batteries contain sulfuric acid and lead. Because batteries contain chemicals, chemical reaction by-products, and an electrical current they can pose...
Many companies consider lifting and rigging work tasks to be high hazard. There are a lot of hazards that accompany lifting any loads with cranes or equipment. It is important to not only understand proper rigging techniques, but also the hazards that accompany this type of work task. Annually about...
Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless, flammable, extremely hazardous gas with a “rotten egg” smell. It occurs naturally in crude petroleum and natural gas and can be produced by the breakdown of organic matter and human/animal wastes (e.g., sewage). It is heavier than air and can collect in low-lying and enclosed,...
Companies that hold general housekeeping of work areas to a high standard usually have a better safety culture than those companies that do not. Housekeeping is an important part of a robust safety program. Poor housekeeping promotes inefficiency and leads to injuries and property loss. Housekeeping is everyone’s job –...
How many times have you tripped over something you did not see or turn around and get startled because someone was in your area of whom you were not aware? It happens to many of us often. Depending on what is preoccupying our minds, our emotions, the distractions around us,...
Skid steering loaders are a common piece of heavy equipment found on many jobsites. They are capable of being equipped with a multitude of implements operated from the host machine’s hydraulic system. Skid steer loaders are small, powerful machines that may be operated safely by following the general safety requirements...
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 controls outlines the controls used to mitigate a hazard from most effective to least effective. The Hierarchy of Hazard Control...