At times, workers may be required to work in hot environments for long periods. When the human body is unable to maintain a normal temperature, heat illnesses can occur and may result in death. It is also important to consider that hot work environments may exist indoors. Working outdoors in...
It used to be thought that only children were exposed to lead poisoning hazards–primarily from eating lead-based paint chips that fall from doors or windows in the home. This is no longer the case. Studies conducted over the past few years now suggest many adults are exposed to lead in...
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...
Air tools are powered by compressed air and include chippers, drills, hammers, sanders, spray guns, air ratchets, grinders, nibblers, needle scalers, and many more. 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...
Millions of U.S. workers are exposed to heat in their workplaces. Although illness from exposure to heat is preventable, every year thousands become sick from occupational heat exposure; and some cases are fatal. Most outdoor fatalities, 50% to 70%, occur in the first few days of working in warm or...
It often seems that attention is focused on unusual hazards with the most severe outcomes, not the more common hazards found in the workplace. A good example of a common hazard that can be overlooked is trip hazards. It is important to give attention to trip hazards in your work...
Each year, millions of workers suffer workplace injuries that could have been prevented. Some of the most common and preventable injuries are cuts and lacerations. Although statistical data differs from study to study, cuts and lacerations often rank as the second or third most frequent workplace injury. Approximately 30 per-cent...
Everyone takes a shortcut at one time or another. You cross the street between intersections instead of using the crosswalk or jump a fence instead of using the gate. But in many cases, a shortcut can involve danger. If you have the habit of taking dangerous shortcuts, BREAK IT!! Employees...
Simply put, an arc flash is a phenomenon where a flashover of electric current leaves its intended path and travels through the air from one conductor to another, or to ground. The results are often violent and when a human is in close proximity to the arc flash, serious injury...
From 2014 to 2017, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) investigated 209 loading dock injuries. Nearly half were fatalities. Loading docks are a hub of activity in manufacturing plants, warehouses, industrial buildings, and distribution centers. In most companies, this is the primary location of movement of product in and...