When dealing with workplace safety, most of us focus on preventing injuries and incidents. However, training in accident prevention as well as emergency situations are both critical parts of an effective safety program. No one wants to think of something bad happening at work, but emergencies in the workplace are...
Each year in the U.S. over 16 million people suffer hand injuries; over 250,000 of those are serious and disabling. The hand is one of the most complex parts of your body. The movement of the tendons, bones, tissues and nerves allows you to grip and do a wide variety...
During renovation and expansion projects, there is frequently a need to cut into concrete, whether to eliminate an existing area or to create a space for pipes or wiring. People who regularly work with concrete and masonry drilling and cutting equipment are at high risk of a wide range of...
Almost everyone has experienced some type of bee or wasp sting in his or her life. For most people stings from these insects does not pose a major issue. However, for others, there can be a severe allergic reaction that is life threatening. Even if you have not experienced a...
When used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, scissor lifts provide a safe and reliable platform for workers to perform job tasks. When not used properly, scissor lifts can present a serious hazard to workers. Scissor lifts are work platforms used to safely move workers vertically and to different locations in...
The Department of Homeland Security defines an active shooter as “an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area.” These incidents usually involve firearms and randomly selected targets or victims. Anyone involved in an incident should call emergency 911 as soon as...
Ticks are small arachnids that bite to fasten themselves onto the skin and feed on blood. Ticks live in the fur and feathers of many animals and birds. There are many kinds of ticks in the United States and they can be found in virtually any area of the country....
Heat stress creates many hazards in the workplace for those employees who have to work in a hot environment. Hot environments can create indirect safety hazards such as causing employees to lose focus on their work task or becoming fatigued. Heat stroke is the most serious of health problems associated...
Nail guns are powerful, easy to operate, and boost productivity for nailing tasks. They are also responsible for an estimated 37,000 emergency room visits each year – 68% of these involve workers and 32% involve consumers. Severe nail gun injuries have led to construction worker deaths. Fortunately, these injuries can...
Venomous snakes found in the United States include rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths/water moccasins, and coral snakes. They can be dangerous to outdoor workers including farmers, foresters, landscapers, groundskeepers, gardeners, painters, roofers, pavers, construction workers, laborers, mechanics, and any other workers who spend time outside. Although rare, some workers with a severe...