These MSHA-required records must be maintained by mine operators. Just a reminder, when your friendly MSHA inspector stops by...this is what he or she will be looking for...
-Comprehensive Part 46 Training Program (update annually)
-Part 62 - Hearing Conservation Program and annual training records (must cover all 7 points listed in 62.180)
-Written HazCom (Hazardous Communication) Program
-Miners’ Representative (and contact information) - 40.3 Post it!
-MSHA 2000-7 Legal ID (Update as needed) – 41.12
-MSHA 7000-1: Accident Reports (MSHA Reportables – each one must be investigated)
-MSHA 7000-2: Quarterly Employment Reports
-Supervisors’ Daily Workplace Exams - 56.18002
-Mobile Equipment Inspections - 56.14100
-Firefighting equipment inspection records - 56.4201 (If contract company is used they need written documentation of inspections)
-Continuity and resistance of electrical equipment grounding test records (56.12028) (Due 12 months following last inspection)
-Pressure Vessel Inspections - 56.13012 (Varies by State; MSHA enforces the State regulations)
-Current First aid Records – Documentation for currently trained individuals capable of providing first-aid assistance on all shifts when hazardous work is being conducted - 56.18010
-Independent Contractor Register - List of Contractors working on site with contact information (and MSHA ID if they have one) - 45.4
-If applicable, Respirator Protection Program and respirator fit-testing records requested during MSHA health sampling activities of employees (determines penalty if there is an over-exposure to surveyed contaminants).
MSHA EFS may be able to help you get your plan into compliance. Small mines personnel can help the small mines group (companies with less than 5 employees) and in special circumstances they may be able to assist contractors with their plans if the mine operator requests such assistance in writing.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Tidbits – 12/26/07
Go ahead…saddle up
“Courage is being scared to death - but saddling up anyway.”
--John Wayne
Ladder Safety Tips
Ladder use leads to approximately 25,000 on-the-job injuries every year and accounts for 25% of all falls in the home (where 1,200 people suffer serious injury every year). Remind workers to inspect ladders before using them (at home or on the job), regardless of which ladder they choose for the task they perform. Tell workers to check:
-The shoes – all of them! Workers should avoid leather soles because they're often slippery and unsafe. And try to keep their shoes free of mud, grease, oil and snow. If working with electrical equipment, make sure there are no nails or screws lodged in the soles of their shoes. Then check the ladders' shoes. Ladders should have non-skid safety feet and be in satisfactory condition. Warn workers not to use a ladder whose safety feet are loose or worn.
-Inspect the whole ladder, including the side rails for flaws and cracks, and the rungs for looseness.
-Check for sharp edges on side rails or rungs. These can usually be filed down. But if extensive repairs are required, they should always be done by a qualified service person.
-Check pulleys and extension locks on extension ladders to ensure that they're functional and in proper working order. Ropes should be replaced if they show signs of aging or wear.
-Watch for dents, rust or corrosion. Some chemical compounds such as potassium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid and ammonia are known to corrode and weaken aluminum over time.
-Anything loose? Look for loose rivets and fastenings and other signs that the ladder needs replacing.
-Don't skimp! Buy a quality ladder to start with and maintain it!
For what its worth
"If you refuse to be made straight when you are green, you will not be made straight when you are dry." --African Proverb
Say What?
-30% of all fatal crashes are a result of a driver traveling at an excessive speed and account for an average 1,000 American deaths, every month.
-26% of drivers, in a recent poll, said they run red lights "daily." Use caution at those intersections!
-(At least) 6% of all US car accidents are directly attributed to drivers talking on their cell phone, according to a recent Harvard study.
-11 miles the approximate distance you would have to run to burn off the calories from a fast food meal of a cheeseburger, medium fries, and medium soda. Source: Pryor Creek Recreation Center.
-20.9% of the U.S. adult population (persons 18 and older) consider themselves smokers. In 1965 the number was more 42.4%.
Quote of the week “The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.” --Chinese Proverb
“Courage is being scared to death - but saddling up anyway.”
--John Wayne
Ladder Safety Tips
Ladder use leads to approximately 25,000 on-the-job injuries every year and accounts for 25% of all falls in the home (where 1,200 people suffer serious injury every year). Remind workers to inspect ladders before using them (at home or on the job), regardless of which ladder they choose for the task they perform. Tell workers to check:
-The shoes – all of them! Workers should avoid leather soles because they're often slippery and unsafe. And try to keep their shoes free of mud, grease, oil and snow. If working with electrical equipment, make sure there are no nails or screws lodged in the soles of their shoes. Then check the ladders' shoes. Ladders should have non-skid safety feet and be in satisfactory condition. Warn workers not to use a ladder whose safety feet are loose or worn.
-Inspect the whole ladder, including the side rails for flaws and cracks, and the rungs for looseness.
-Check for sharp edges on side rails or rungs. These can usually be filed down. But if extensive repairs are required, they should always be done by a qualified service person.
-Check pulleys and extension locks on extension ladders to ensure that they're functional and in proper working order. Ropes should be replaced if they show signs of aging or wear.
-Watch for dents, rust or corrosion. Some chemical compounds such as potassium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid and ammonia are known to corrode and weaken aluminum over time.
-Anything loose? Look for loose rivets and fastenings and other signs that the ladder needs replacing.
-Don't skimp! Buy a quality ladder to start with and maintain it!
For what its worth
"If you refuse to be made straight when you are green, you will not be made straight when you are dry." --African Proverb
Say What?
-30% of all fatal crashes are a result of a driver traveling at an excessive speed and account for an average 1,000 American deaths, every month.
-26% of drivers, in a recent poll, said they run red lights "daily." Use caution at those intersections!
-(At least) 6% of all US car accidents are directly attributed to drivers talking on their cell phone, according to a recent Harvard study.
-11 miles the approximate distance you would have to run to burn off the calories from a fast food meal of a cheeseburger, medium fries, and medium soda. Source: Pryor Creek Recreation Center.
-20.9% of the U.S. adult population (persons 18 and older) consider themselves smokers. In 1965 the number was more 42.4%.
Quote of the week “The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.” --Chinese Proverb
Tip 52 - Raise the bar in '08
If you always do what you've always done...you'll always get what you've always got!
Ghandi says, "you must be the change you wish to see in the world."
The mining fatality count y-t-d is 63 (31 Metal/Non-metal and 32 Coal). Let's hope those numbers don't climb any higher. I find these numbers disturbing and you should too! What happened, why have we plateaued? We have made little or no progress over the last five years.
Let's Review
1907 was the worst year ever for coal mining in the U.S. with 3,242 deaths. That year, America's worst mine explosion ever killed 358 people near Monongah, WV. Total deaths in all types of U.S. mining, which had averaged 1,500 or more during earlier decades, decreased on average during the 1990's.
The metal and nonmetal mining death rate per 200,000 employee hours averaged .02 for the 1995-99 period, compared to average yearly rates about seven times higher in the 1930s and three times as high in the 1950s. The year 2004 was the safest year in modern mining history, with a total of 55 coal and metal and nonmetal mining fatalities. There were 57 mining fatalities in 2005.
There was an all-time low 22 coal mining fatalities in 2005 and the all-time low for metal/nonmetal mining was 26 in 2003. There were 35 metal/nonmetal mining fatalities in 2005. In 2006 there were 26 fatalities in metal/non-metal and 47 more in coal.
Its time to 'Raise the bar!' If we truly want things to change we have to do more than hope, and it is time we raise the bar. We can all do a better job when it comes to safety and it starts with each of us. Supervisors, managers and lead men must 'walk the walk' we have to lead by example or nothing will ever change. Union officers and safety committee members can also make a huge impact. These individuals must 'help carry the safety torch!' Others are watching and waiting for your leadership. Every employee on site should be focused on getting their job done without getting themselves hurt. We must also focus on our co-workers and keeping them safe (anybody can have an off day -- don't you want the back up?).
Production IS Important! Yes, production is important -- without it we would all be looking for work, but at what cost? We should all be focused on SAFE PRODUCTION! Cutting corners is not an option just because a piece of equipment is down...if fact that is when we should really be focused on safety. Serious injuries most often occur during non-routine tasks. The four critical states are Fatigue, Frustration, Rushing and Complaceny all of which can be a factor during an unplanned outage. Let's remember that...Safety Always!!! Because nobody should have to die earning a living.
Let's make the committment to reduce accidents, injuries, and citations in the New Year! WE can do better...it really is up to you!
Ghandi says, "you must be the change you wish to see in the world."
The mining fatality count y-t-d is 63 (31 Metal/Non-metal and 32 Coal). Let's hope those numbers don't climb any higher. I find these numbers disturbing and you should too! What happened, why have we plateaued? We have made little or no progress over the last five years.
Let's Review
1907 was the worst year ever for coal mining in the U.S. with 3,242 deaths. That year, America's worst mine explosion ever killed 358 people near Monongah, WV. Total deaths in all types of U.S. mining, which had averaged 1,500 or more during earlier decades, decreased on average during the 1990's.
The metal and nonmetal mining death rate per 200,000 employee hours averaged .02 for the 1995-99 period, compared to average yearly rates about seven times higher in the 1930s and three times as high in the 1950s. The year 2004 was the safest year in modern mining history, with a total of 55 coal and metal and nonmetal mining fatalities. There were 57 mining fatalities in 2005.
There was an all-time low 22 coal mining fatalities in 2005 and the all-time low for metal/nonmetal mining was 26 in 2003. There were 35 metal/nonmetal mining fatalities in 2005. In 2006 there were 26 fatalities in metal/non-metal and 47 more in coal.
Its time to 'Raise the bar!' If we truly want things to change we have to do more than hope, and it is time we raise the bar. We can all do a better job when it comes to safety and it starts with each of us. Supervisors, managers and lead men must 'walk the walk' we have to lead by example or nothing will ever change. Union officers and safety committee members can also make a huge impact. These individuals must 'help carry the safety torch!' Others are watching and waiting for your leadership. Every employee on site should be focused on getting their job done without getting themselves hurt. We must also focus on our co-workers and keeping them safe (anybody can have an off day -- don't you want the back up?).
Production IS Important! Yes, production is important -- without it we would all be looking for work, but at what cost? We should all be focused on SAFE PRODUCTION! Cutting corners is not an option just because a piece of equipment is down...if fact that is when we should really be focused on safety. Serious injuries most often occur during non-routine tasks. The four critical states are Fatigue, Frustration, Rushing and Complaceny all of which can be a factor during an unplanned outage. Let's remember that...Safety Always!!! Because nobody should have to die earning a living.
Let's make the committment to reduce accidents, injuries, and citations in the New Year! WE can do better...it really is up to you!
Monday, December 17, 2007
Tidbits – 12/17/07
Protect Yourself
The threat of Identify theft is growing...what can you do to protect yourself? Here are a few tips from Readers Digest...
-Have all mail sent to a P.O. box instead of your home (especially if you have a rural address and an empty home during the day)
-Add spyware protection to your home computer and keep it current. Free software is available from a variety of sources (e.g. http://lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware).
-Buy a shredder and shred all documents (especially credit card billing statements, etc.) before throwing the information out.
-Opt out of unsolicited credit card offers by calling 888-567-8688.
-Do not open email from people you do not know.
-Use different passwords for your online accounts and don't make them too easy to figure out.
The threat of Identify theft is growing...what can you do to protect yourself? Here are a few tips from Readers Digest...
-Have all mail sent to a P.O. box instead of your home (especially if you have a rural address and an empty home during the day)
-Add spyware protection to your home computer and keep it current. Free software is available from a variety of sources (e.g. http://lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware).
-Buy a shredder and shred all documents (especially credit card billing statements, etc.) before throwing the information out.
-Opt out of unsolicited credit card offers by calling 888-567-8688.
-Do not open email from people you do not know.
-Use different passwords for your online accounts and don't make them too easy to figure out.
Words of Wisdom
"Time is the coin of your life. It is the only coin you have, and only you can determine how it will be spent. Be careful lest you let other people spend it for you." Carl Sandburg
"Time is the coin of your life. It is the only coin you have, and only you can determine how it will be spent. Be careful lest you let other people spend it for you." Carl Sandburg
Beware of the Bully
In a recent survey more than half of those surveyed said they have suffered or witnessed bullying on the job.
-Most bullies are bosses (72%)
-Most targets are non-supervisory workers (55%)
-In 80% of the cases the bullying is legal.
-40% of those bullied found work elsewhere meaning that companies can end up losing many talented workers due to the inappropriate actions of a manager.
In a recent survey more than half of those surveyed said they have suffered or witnessed bullying on the job.
-Most bullies are bosses (72%)
-Most targets are non-supervisory workers (55%)
-In 80% of the cases the bullying is legal.
-40% of those bullied found work elsewhere meaning that companies can end up losing many talented workers due to the inappropriate actions of a manager.
When you make a stand, don’t stand still too long!
"Stoop and you'll be stepped on; stand tall and you'll be shot at."
Traveling Tidbits
-Traveling for the holidays – Be Careful! Most fatal accidents occur on Saturdays between 12 and 3am. Pull over when you start feeling drowsy and live.
-Motor vehicle accidents are the largest single cause of accidental deaths both on and off the job. Approximately 42,821 people die in crashes annually.
-Daytime running lights are a low-cost method to reduce crashes.
-Keep your eyes on the road and if you are driving somewhere for the holidays remember to take along an emergency kit.
-Remember to wear your hat when it’s cold out - you lose about half to three-fourths of your body heat through your head. So pack some winter caps (extra gloves, jackets, etc.) in the trunk before hitting the road.
-Motor vehicle accidents are the largest single cause of accidental deaths both on and off the job. Approximately 42,821 people die in crashes annually.
-Daytime running lights are a low-cost method to reduce crashes.
-Keep your eyes on the road and if you are driving somewhere for the holidays remember to take along an emergency kit.
-Remember to wear your hat when it’s cold out - you lose about half to three-fourths of your body heat through your head. So pack some winter caps (extra gloves, jackets, etc.) in the trunk before hitting the road.
Quote of the Week: "You must give some time to your fellow men. Even if it's a little thing, do something for others - something for which you get no pay but the privilege of doing it." --Albert Schweitzer
Week 51 - Tips to Live by
(I believe this came from an old Take Two Program -- I made a few modifications. )
Set your Own Standards. Don’t be influenced by others around you who are negative. If you fail to wear safety glasses because others don’t, remember the blindness you may suffer will be yours alone to live with.
Operate Equipment only if Qualified. Your supervisor may not realize you have never done the job before. Let him know if this is the case, so the necessary training can be provided.
Respect Machinery. If you put something in a machine’s way, it will crush it, pinch it or cut it. Make sure all guards are in place and remember to de-energize the power first before placing your hands in a point of operation.
Use your own Initiative for Safety Protection. You are in the best position to see problems when they arise. Ask for the personal protective equipment or additional guidance you need.
Ask Questions. If you are uncertain, ask. Do not accept answers that contain, “I think, I assume, I guess”.
Use Care and Caution when Lifting. Most muscle and spinal injuries are from overstraining. Know your limits and do not attempt to exceed them. The few minutes it takes to get help can save you from a serious back injury.
Keep up with the Housekeeping. Disorganized work areas are the breeding grounds for accidents and you are not the only one at risk.
Wear Proper and Sensible Work Clothes. Wear sturdy and appropriate footwear and replace boots/shoes as needed. Avoid loose clothing, dangling jewelry and be sure that long hair is tied back and cannot become entangled in any machinery.
Use Good Hygiene Practices. Avoid touching eyes, face and mouth with gloves or hands that are dirty. Wash up before breaks and at the end of your shift to reduce the potential for exposure.
Be a Positive Part of Safety Efforts. Willingly accept and follow safety rules. Then encourage others to do so. Your attitude can play a major role in the prevention of accidents and injuries.
Life is short enough...why take needless chances? Work safely today to see tomorrow!
Set your Own Standards. Don’t be influenced by others around you who are negative. If you fail to wear safety glasses because others don’t, remember the blindness you may suffer will be yours alone to live with.
Operate Equipment only if Qualified. Your supervisor may not realize you have never done the job before. Let him know if this is the case, so the necessary training can be provided.
Respect Machinery. If you put something in a machine’s way, it will crush it, pinch it or cut it. Make sure all guards are in place and remember to de-energize the power first before placing your hands in a point of operation.
Use your own Initiative for Safety Protection. You are in the best position to see problems when they arise. Ask for the personal protective equipment or additional guidance you need.
Ask Questions. If you are uncertain, ask. Do not accept answers that contain, “I think, I assume, I guess”.
Use Care and Caution when Lifting. Most muscle and spinal injuries are from overstraining. Know your limits and do not attempt to exceed them. The few minutes it takes to get help can save you from a serious back injury.
Keep up with the Housekeeping. Disorganized work areas are the breeding grounds for accidents and you are not the only one at risk.
Wear Proper and Sensible Work Clothes. Wear sturdy and appropriate footwear and replace boots/shoes as needed. Avoid loose clothing, dangling jewelry and be sure that long hair is tied back and cannot become entangled in any machinery.
Use Good Hygiene Practices. Avoid touching eyes, face and mouth with gloves or hands that are dirty. Wash up before breaks and at the end of your shift to reduce the potential for exposure.
Be a Positive Part of Safety Efforts. Willingly accept and follow safety rules. Then encourage others to do so. Your attitude can play a major role in the prevention of accidents and injuries.
Life is short enough...why take needless chances? Work safely today to see tomorrow!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Tidbits 12/10/07
Holiday Parties, Alcohol and Eating
Drink Responsibly at holiday gatherings. Traffic accidents and deaths increase dramatically during the holiday season because of alcohol consumption. Remember the one-one rule -- one drink per hour. It takes your body about one hour to rid itself of each half ounce of alcohol. Overeating tends to make people drowsy…be careful about getting on the road after a big holiday meal.
It’s up to you
“Whether you find satisfaction in life depends not on your tale of years, but on your will.” –Michel Eyquem de Montaigne
FYI
-Check those ladders at home and on the job. The rate of ladder-related injuries has been on the rise for the last decade. Follow proper safety procedures.
-Hearing loss can occur quickly if you are exposed to noise levels above 100 dB…many mower, snow blowers and power tools fall into this category.
-According to a recent study, Thursday is the most dangerous day of the work week with over 20% of workplace injuries occurring on Thursdays.
The number of workplace fatalities is falling but the number of non-English speaking Hispanics killed on the job is increasing. Source: Safety Alert for Supervisors
Listen to this!
“Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd have preferred to talk.” --Doug Larson
Hearing Loss…A growing concern
More and more people are experiencing trouble with their hearing. According to a recent survey, more than half of U.S. baby boomers have already experienced hearing loss. Many with a loss refuse to deal with the problem and this can affect workplace performance. Almost 60% of those with a severe loss are not wearing hearing aids and many more have not even had a hearing test. The future doesn’t look any brighter as younger generations have higher rates of exposure to excessive noise thanks to louder car stereos, I-pods, MP3 players, etc. Talk to your children today about the dangers of using these devices with the sound cranked up. Source: Safety Alert for Supervisors.
Bet You Didn’t Know
-More than 90% of flowers have an unpleasant scent or no scent at all.
-The largest snowflake on record measured eight inches in width.
-About 21 pounds of milk are required to make one pound of butter.
-About 50% of the world's fresh water supply is found in the Great Lakes.
-Clans of long ago that wanted to get rid of their unwanted people without killing them use to burn their houses down - hence the expression "to get fired."
Quote of the Week: “To sin by silence when they should protest makes cowards of men.” --Abraham Lincoln
Drink Responsibly at holiday gatherings. Traffic accidents and deaths increase dramatically during the holiday season because of alcohol consumption. Remember the one-one rule -- one drink per hour. It takes your body about one hour to rid itself of each half ounce of alcohol. Overeating tends to make people drowsy…be careful about getting on the road after a big holiday meal.
It’s up to you
“Whether you find satisfaction in life depends not on your tale of years, but on your will.” –Michel Eyquem de Montaigne
FYI
-Check those ladders at home and on the job. The rate of ladder-related injuries has been on the rise for the last decade. Follow proper safety procedures.
-Hearing loss can occur quickly if you are exposed to noise levels above 100 dB…many mower, snow blowers and power tools fall into this category.
-According to a recent study, Thursday is the most dangerous day of the work week with over 20% of workplace injuries occurring on Thursdays.
The number of workplace fatalities is falling but the number of non-English speaking Hispanics killed on the job is increasing. Source: Safety Alert for Supervisors
Listen to this!
“Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd have preferred to talk.” --Doug Larson
Hearing Loss…A growing concern
More and more people are experiencing trouble with their hearing. According to a recent survey, more than half of U.S. baby boomers have already experienced hearing loss. Many with a loss refuse to deal with the problem and this can affect workplace performance. Almost 60% of those with a severe loss are not wearing hearing aids and many more have not even had a hearing test. The future doesn’t look any brighter as younger generations have higher rates of exposure to excessive noise thanks to louder car stereos, I-pods, MP3 players, etc. Talk to your children today about the dangers of using these devices with the sound cranked up. Source: Safety Alert for Supervisors.
Bet You Didn’t Know
-More than 90% of flowers have an unpleasant scent or no scent at all.
-The largest snowflake on record measured eight inches in width.
-About 21 pounds of milk are required to make one pound of butter.
-About 50% of the world's fresh water supply is found in the Great Lakes.
-Clans of long ago that wanted to get rid of their unwanted people without killing them use to burn their houses down - hence the expression "to get fired."
Quote of the Week: “To sin by silence when they should protest makes cowards of men.” --Abraham Lincoln
Tip 50 – Thank a Vet...
...and Exercise your Freedom!
Friday was December 7th – Pearl Harbor Day! The Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor is what got the U.S. into World War II. Over 2,400 Americans died that day (see photos below). Many more young men and women have died to give us our freedom. So the next time you pass an elderly Vet with his Unit emblazoned on his cap, or see a soldier in an airport or at the mall, take a minute and say THANKS! Remember these heroes and don’t forget the soldiers that serve today.
You have the Freedom to Focus – Keep Eyes and Mind on Task! Distractions are a major cause of injury, be cautious when you are distracted and you could prevent an injury.
You have the Right to Proper PPE - Check your Safety Equipment (each time you use it). It only takes a few minutes to see whether it is good to use or needs replacement. You don’t want to find out too late that it won’t perform as expected!
You have the Right to Think Safety – Remember: Machines do not have Brains! You have to use your own and sometimes you have to think for your co-workers too, their mind(s) may not be on task.
You have the Right to a Safe Workplace and the Freedom to Conduct Inspections! Be sure to conduct quality work area and equipment inspections and report deficiencies immediately. If you can eliminate the hazard then do so, if not – be sure to warn others!
You have the Freedom to Communicate – Please Do So! Miscommunications can lead to mishaps and injury. Talk to your co-workers and others in your work area. Keep others up to date when plans change.
You have the Freedom to Work Safely – Avoid Short cuts! Nobody should have to die or suffer injury while trying to make a living. Work safely and watch out for your co-workers too – you are your brother’s keeper!
"Bite off more than you can chew, then chew it. Plan more than you can do, then do it." Anonymous
"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome." Anne Bradstreet
"The way to procure insults is to submit to them: a man meets with no more respect than he exacts." William Hazlitt
Get a handle on Safety...It's your grip on Life!
Friday was December 7th – Pearl Harbor Day! The Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor is what got the U.S. into World War II. Over 2,400 Americans died that day (see photos below). Many more young men and women have died to give us our freedom. So the next time you pass an elderly Vet with his Unit emblazoned on his cap, or see a soldier in an airport or at the mall, take a minute and say THANKS! Remember these heroes and don’t forget the soldiers that serve today.
You have the Freedom to Focus – Keep Eyes and Mind on Task! Distractions are a major cause of injury, be cautious when you are distracted and you could prevent an injury.
You have the Right to Proper PPE - Check your Safety Equipment (each time you use it). It only takes a few minutes to see whether it is good to use or needs replacement. You don’t want to find out too late that it won’t perform as expected!
You have the Right to Think Safety – Remember: Machines do not have Brains! You have to use your own and sometimes you have to think for your co-workers too, their mind(s) may not be on task.
You have the Right to a Safe Workplace and the Freedom to Conduct Inspections! Be sure to conduct quality work area and equipment inspections and report deficiencies immediately. If you can eliminate the hazard then do so, if not – be sure to warn others!
You have the Freedom to Communicate – Please Do So! Miscommunications can lead to mishaps and injury. Talk to your co-workers and others in your work area. Keep others up to date when plans change.
You have the Freedom to Work Safely – Avoid Short cuts! Nobody should have to die or suffer injury while trying to make a living. Work safely and watch out for your co-workers too – you are your brother’s keeper!
"Bite off more than you can chew, then chew it. Plan more than you can do, then do it." Anonymous
"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome." Anne Bradstreet
"The way to procure insults is to submit to them: a man meets with no more respect than he exacts." William Hazlitt
Get a handle on Safety...It's your grip on Life!
Professionalism
One of the presentations at this year’s MSHA TRAM was on Professionalism. One must remember the importance of maintaining a professional image no matter what it is we do. For safety professionals this is extremely important. We must be careful not to compromise our reputation and should always lead from the front. Safety professionals are constantly talking the safety talk and it is vital that we ‘walk the walk’. A couple other key pointers are listed below.
Recognize all workers as professionals. Treat everyone you work with as an equal; each employee possesses a skill that they have been hired to perform. Recognizing employees and contractors as the professionals they are will give them cause to treat you the same way.
Respect those with whom you work. Remember to be courteous to both employees and contractors. This will give people a reason to ‘work with you’ and they will be more apt to reply positively than if you disrespect them.
Be kind. Sometimes people forget to use the proper PPE or follow the proper procedure because their mind was not on task. Give them a friendly reminder and make sure they understand the risk.
Don’t intimidate but EDUCATE. You won’t make any points by embarrassing someone. If a mistake is made, or a point not clear explain the WHY. Once people know why they have to do something they are more likely to comply and they will appreciate you taking the time to explain the point to them.
Maintain your focus. Remember everyone is trying to get through the day without an injury. People take chances because they do not see or understand the risk. People are not coming to work to get hurt…they are on our side. But it is up to the safety professional to keep everyone pulling in the same direction. Maintaining a positive attitude and working with people is the best way to achieve our goal.
Safety is the key that unlocks the door of success!
Recognize all workers as professionals. Treat everyone you work with as an equal; each employee possesses a skill that they have been hired to perform. Recognizing employees and contractors as the professionals they are will give them cause to treat you the same way.
Respect those with whom you work. Remember to be courteous to both employees and contractors. This will give people a reason to ‘work with you’ and they will be more apt to reply positively than if you disrespect them.
Be kind. Sometimes people forget to use the proper PPE or follow the proper procedure because their mind was not on task. Give them a friendly reminder and make sure they understand the risk.
Don’t intimidate but EDUCATE. You won’t make any points by embarrassing someone. If a mistake is made, or a point not clear explain the WHY. Once people know why they have to do something they are more likely to comply and they will appreciate you taking the time to explain the point to them.
Maintain your focus. Remember everyone is trying to get through the day without an injury. People take chances because they do not see or understand the risk. People are not coming to work to get hurt…they are on our side. But it is up to the safety professional to keep everyone pulling in the same direction. Maintaining a positive attitude and working with people is the best way to achieve our goal.
Safety is the key that unlocks the door of success!
Monday, December 3, 2007
Tidbits – 12/03/07
Four things to remember to reduce injury (from SafeStart)
-Keep your Eyes on Task
-Keep your Mind on Task
-Keep hands, feet, and other body parts out of the Line of Fire
-Maintain your Balance Traction and Grip by using 3-points of contact.
Make time for the family!
“All children wear the sign ‘I want to be important NOW’, and many of our problems with them arise because nobody reads the sign.” --Dan Pursuit
Arrive Alive – Don’t Drink and Drive
Christmas is coming! Remember to Drink Responsibly at holiday gatherings; if you’re driving, don’t drink at all. Traffic accidents and deaths increase dramatically during the holiday season because of alcohol consumption. Remember the one-one rule -- one drink per hour. Watch out for drivers who may be under the influence, and if you over do it…call a cab.
Did you know…?
-Health care premiums increased 6.9% for companies with 5000 workers or more in 2006. Some smaller companies saw double digit increases.
-Arkansas and Michigan recently joined 19 other states in setting a minimum wage above the federal rate of $5.15. Washington rates number 1 with at $7.63.
-Falls from ladders injure more than 20,000 American workers every year.
-Workplace fires kill 200 people each year and injure more than 5000 people, annually. The cost to businesses is over $2.3 Billion a year.
-The largest snowflake on record measured eight inches in width.
70-80% of all hearing loss within the manufacturing industry is caused by compressed air.
-Yellowstone National Park has about 10,000 geysers; more than the rest of the world combined.
-50% of the world's fresh water supply is found in the Great Lakes.
Life…it’s not suppose to be easy
"It is easier to go down a hill than up, but the view is from the top." --Arnold Bennett
BIG TV Alert
66% of U.S. households have three or more television sets. Many are positioned haphazardly leading to more than 7,000 children being treated annually after a TV mishap. Place TVs on a sturdy stand, not on a dresser, bookshelf, or stereo speaker. And one more thing, keep and eye on the kids, especially if you’re not used to having children in your home.
Quote of the Week: "Happiness is giving back a little more than you received. Peace is accepting what has been offered with thanks." --Ralph Arbitelle
-Keep your Eyes on Task
-Keep your Mind on Task
-Keep hands, feet, and other body parts out of the Line of Fire
-Maintain your Balance Traction and Grip by using 3-points of contact.
Make time for the family!
“All children wear the sign ‘I want to be important NOW’, and many of our problems with them arise because nobody reads the sign.” --Dan Pursuit
Arrive Alive – Don’t Drink and Drive
Christmas is coming! Remember to Drink Responsibly at holiday gatherings; if you’re driving, don’t drink at all. Traffic accidents and deaths increase dramatically during the holiday season because of alcohol consumption. Remember the one-one rule -- one drink per hour. Watch out for drivers who may be under the influence, and if you over do it…call a cab.
Did you know…?
-Health care premiums increased 6.9% for companies with 5000 workers or more in 2006. Some smaller companies saw double digit increases.
-Arkansas and Michigan recently joined 19 other states in setting a minimum wage above the federal rate of $5.15. Washington rates number 1 with at $7.63.
-Falls from ladders injure more than 20,000 American workers every year.
-Workplace fires kill 200 people each year and injure more than 5000 people, annually. The cost to businesses is over $2.3 Billion a year.
-The largest snowflake on record measured eight inches in width.
70-80% of all hearing loss within the manufacturing industry is caused by compressed air.
-Yellowstone National Park has about 10,000 geysers; more than the rest of the world combined.
-50% of the world's fresh water supply is found in the Great Lakes.
Life…it’s not suppose to be easy
"It is easier to go down a hill than up, but the view is from the top." --Arnold Bennett
BIG TV Alert
66% of U.S. households have three or more television sets. Many are positioned haphazardly leading to more than 7,000 children being treated annually after a TV mishap. Place TVs on a sturdy stand, not on a dresser, bookshelf, or stereo speaker. And one more thing, keep and eye on the kids, especially if you’re not used to having children in your home.
Quote of the Week: "Happiness is giving back a little more than you received. Peace is accepting what has been offered with thanks." --Ralph Arbitelle
Tip 49 - Gambler – Who me?
Do you ever ‘Play the Lottery?’ Of course you do everyday, right!
Every time you get in you car, cross the street, go to work or the grocery store there is risk involved. Routine tasks like throwing a breaker, driving nails, chopping wood, or putting up Christmas lights can get you hurt especially if your mind and eyes are not on task.
Our choices and our actions can have a huge influence on the risks we face and the eventual outcomes when a chance exposure meets a waiting hazard. The right choices can make all the difference.
Various hobbies can increase the risk factor
Kayaking, skydiving, and other extreme sports involve a lot of risk that can lead to serious injury. Simply taking a motorcycle or four-wheeler for a spin, or stock car racing on Saturday night can also lead to injury. Bicycles and skateboards pose risk for our children as do cars and cell phones.
Many people are ‘tuned out’ now days with MP-3 players and other distractions. Just crossing the street is risky but if you’re jamming to Black Sabbath or Willie Nelson on your iPod or MP-3 player you’re asking for it. Similarly, using power tools or working around the house also poses a certain amount of risk. In fact workers are six times more likely to get hurt at home. And whether on the job or off, the more experienced we become the more chances we are willing to take. Complacency is a key factor in a lot of injuries and the consequences can be fatal. Remember Eyes on Task/Mind on Task.
Daily choices can have a lasting impact
Simply choosing not to Buckle Up can end up being a death sentence. Leaving the confines of the vehicle increases your chance of death by 300%. Choosing not to wear PPE can also have dire consequences. Some say it is a modified version of Russian roulette. You may luck out and avoid injury for years but as time goes by the odds stack up against you. Remember hazards vary; some things (e.g. electricity) can cause harm with one exposure others (e.g. welding fumes) cause serious health problems over time. Be smart reduce your risk, look for ways to reduce the hazard(s) and when you have no other options Wear the proper PPE. Proper inspection, maintenance, and storage of PPE is vital to maximize your protection.
Use the proper tool for the job
Falls are the No. 1 killer in the home! So buy a good industrial ladder (avoid the inexpensive aluminum ones you can get at Wal-Mart – they have a 200 lb. limit). It will cost you a little extra, but so will being laid up at home for 6 weeks when that cheap ladder fails.
Take Workplace Exams and Equipment Inspections seriously
Required inspections are tools to identify hazards and reduce risk so don’t pencil whip them. Conduct thorough exams of your work area and the equipment you operate to uncover hazards before an exposure occurs. Report issues as you find them and get deficiencies corrected in a timely fashion.
Safety...it's your job too!
Every time you get in you car, cross the street, go to work or the grocery store there is risk involved. Routine tasks like throwing a breaker, driving nails, chopping wood, or putting up Christmas lights can get you hurt especially if your mind and eyes are not on task.
Our choices and our actions can have a huge influence on the risks we face and the eventual outcomes when a chance exposure meets a waiting hazard. The right choices can make all the difference.
Various hobbies can increase the risk factor
Kayaking, skydiving, and other extreme sports involve a lot of risk that can lead to serious injury. Simply taking a motorcycle or four-wheeler for a spin, or stock car racing on Saturday night can also lead to injury. Bicycles and skateboards pose risk for our children as do cars and cell phones.
Many people are ‘tuned out’ now days with MP-3 players and other distractions. Just crossing the street is risky but if you’re jamming to Black Sabbath or Willie Nelson on your iPod or MP-3 player you’re asking for it. Similarly, using power tools or working around the house also poses a certain amount of risk. In fact workers are six times more likely to get hurt at home. And whether on the job or off, the more experienced we become the more chances we are willing to take. Complacency is a key factor in a lot of injuries and the consequences can be fatal. Remember Eyes on Task/Mind on Task.
Daily choices can have a lasting impact
Simply choosing not to Buckle Up can end up being a death sentence. Leaving the confines of the vehicle increases your chance of death by 300%. Choosing not to wear PPE can also have dire consequences. Some say it is a modified version of Russian roulette. You may luck out and avoid injury for years but as time goes by the odds stack up against you. Remember hazards vary; some things (e.g. electricity) can cause harm with one exposure others (e.g. welding fumes) cause serious health problems over time. Be smart reduce your risk, look for ways to reduce the hazard(s) and when you have no other options Wear the proper PPE. Proper inspection, maintenance, and storage of PPE is vital to maximize your protection.
Use the proper tool for the job
Falls are the No. 1 killer in the home! So buy a good industrial ladder (avoid the inexpensive aluminum ones you can get at Wal-Mart – they have a 200 lb. limit). It will cost you a little extra, but so will being laid up at home for 6 weeks when that cheap ladder fails.
Take Workplace Exams and Equipment Inspections seriously
Required inspections are tools to identify hazards and reduce risk so don’t pencil whip them. Conduct thorough exams of your work area and the equipment you operate to uncover hazards before an exposure occurs. Report issues as you find them and get deficiencies corrected in a timely fashion.
Safety...it's your job too!
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