1. MYTH: Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice
TRUTH: Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly, especially if it’s a tall pointy isolated object. The Empire State Building used to be used as a lightning laboratory, since it is hit nearly 25 times a year. Places prone to lightning are places to avoid when thunderstorms are nearby!
2. MYTH: If it’s Not Raining, or if Clouds Aren’t Overhead, I’m Safe from Lightning
TRUTH: Lightning often strikes more than three miles from the thunderstorm, far outside the rain or even thunderstorm cloud. ‘Bolts from the Blue’, though infrequent, can strike 10-15 Miles from the thunderstorm. Anvil lightning can strike the ground over 50 Miles from the thunderstorm, under extreme conditions. Lightning in clouds has traveled over 100 miles from the thunderstorm.
3. MYTH: Rubber Tires Protect You from Lightning in a Car by Insulating You from the Ground
TRUTH: Lightning laughs at two inches of rubber! Most cars are reasonably safe from lightning. But it’s the metal roof and metal sides that protect you, not the rubber tires. Thus convertibles, motorcycles, bicycles, open shelled outdoor recreational vehicles, and cars with plastic or fiberglass shells offer no lightning protection. Likewise, farm and construction vehicles with open cockpits offer no lightning protection. But closed cockpits with metal roof and sides are safer than going outside. And don’t even ask about sneakers! •
4. MYTH: A Lightning Victim Is Electrified. If You Touch Them, You’ll be Electrocuted.
TRUTH: The human body doesn’t store electricity. It is perfectly safe to touch a lightning victim to give them first aid. This is the most chilling of lightning myths. Imagine someone dying needlessly, for want of simple CPR or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, when their chance of survival was ~90%!
5. MYTH: If Outside in a Thunderstorm, Go Under a Tree To Stay Dry
TRUTH: Being underneath trees is the second leading activity for lightning casualties – Enough said?!
6. MYTH: I’m in a House, I’m Safe from Lightning
TRUTH: While a house is a good place for lightning safety, just going inside isn’t enough. You must avoid any conducting path leading outside, such as corded telephones, electrical appliances, wires, TV cables, plumbing (including plastic pipes with water in them), metal doors or window frames, etc. Don’t stand near a window to watch the lightning. An inside room is generally best.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Ready for Your Flu Shot
The CDC recommends a flu vaccination annually. This is the most important step in protecting yourself against seasonal flu. Every year, a new vaccine is developed to protect against the 3 main flu viruses researchers believe will be the most common. Vaccination is especially important for people at high risk of serious flu complications, including young children, pregnant women, health care workers, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart and lung disease, and people 65 and older.
The flu vaccine also is very important people who live with or care for people at high risk. This vaccine will not protect against the H1N1 (swine flu) virus. That will require a separate vaccination. Source: CDC
Is it Strep or Just a Sore Throat
Strep throat is caused by steplococal (strep) bacteria that infects your throat and tonsils. There are several different types of strep, some of which can be life-threatening. Here are some signs.symptoms of strep throat:
* A severely sore throat * Swollen tonsils and/or lymph nodes
* Painful swallowing
* A red throat with white or yellow spots
Strep is highly infectious and easily passed from one person to another. Your physician will do an exam and probably a rapid strep test to determine if you have strep throat, If the rapid strep test comes up negative, but your symptoms still appear to be strep, your doctor may grow a culture of the bacteria. If the culture is positive, your doctor will most likely treat it with antibiotics. A sore throat can mimic the signs of strep and have many of the same symptoms. Sore throats are usually caused by a virus and in most cases pose minimal risk.
Viruses are also infectious and can be passed from person to person. Sore throats accompanied by sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose, are usually not strep. Sore throats can generally be treated with over-the-counter medications and home treatments to help ease the discomfort. For a sore throat, sooth your discomfort by increasing fluid intake, gargling with warm salt water, and drinking a mixture of honey and lemon in hot water. Source: WebMD
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VISION – The main business is not to see what lies dimly at a distance but to do what lies clearly at hand. Thomas Carlyle
Cooler Weather Means an Increased Risk of Home Fires Annually, thousands of Americans lose their lives to fires, flames and smoke, according to the NSC. Exposure to fire, flame and smoke is the 6th leading cause of accidental death in the
Installing a smoke alarm is one of the most important things you can do to protect your family. FEMA says a working smoke alarms decreases your chances of dying in a fire by 50%. Test and clean your smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries annually. Replace smoke alarms once every 10 years. A few more tips:
· Keep an eye on the location of portable heaters they start fires
· Keep combustibles a safe distance away from fireplaces
· Do not let candles burn unattended
· Be sure not to overload extension cords
· Buy an extinguisher for the house and keep it charged up
· Make sure heating pads and blankets are in good condition or replace them
Source: National Safety Council
Time again to think about Cold weather Hazards!
-Keep your home Safe.
Portable and fixed space heaters, including wood stoves, cause a disproportionate share of home fire deaths. Keep combustibles away from heat sources. Space heaters are involved in one-quarter of home heating fires, but three-quarters of home heating fire deaths.-Winter clothing poses additional risk.
Coveralls, jackets, gloves can all pose additional hazards. Gloves cause you to lose dexterity and also pose hazards around pinch points. Insulated coveralls can be dangerous if zippers and straps are left undone. Jackets pose similar hazards of getting caught by moving parts if not zipped up.But not wearing additional clothing can result in frost bite, so dress smart and keep extra clothes or blankets in your car.
-Equipment hazards
. Conveyor belts shrink up which can cause more material run off; mobile equipment needs time to warm up; windows and lights can get covered in snow, ice or mud which reduces visibility. Access ladders, stairways and walkways can become very slippery, so use handrails.Use caution when conditions warrant - Better Safe than Sorry!
-Getting to work
. Think SAFETY! Give your car/pickup time to warm up, scrape the windows. Allow extra time for wet/icy conditions and inexperienced drivers…the frequecy of auto accidents increases as the weather deteriorates. If it snows, remove the snow from the vehicle (including the bumper; snow can block head and tail lights). Have you winterized your vehicle yet? Check your antifreeze, tires, wipers, fluids, belts, etc.INSPIRATION - Before you can inspire the emotion, you must be swamped with it yourself. Before you can move their tears, your own must flow. To convince them, you must yourself believe. Winston Churchill
Numbers from the BLS
1.2 million – Number of work-related cases requiring days away from work (lost time) 87 – Percentage of the injuries that occurred during the normal (Mon-Fri) work week66 – Percentage of lost time cases involving men65 – Percentage of total lost time injuries that occurred between 8 am and 4 pm62 – Percentage of the days away from work that were related to back injuries 60 – Percentage of injuries involving workers aged 20-44 40 – Percentage of injuries that were the result of a strain or sprain34 – Percentage of injuries involving the trunk (including the back and shoulders)30 – Percentage of cases involving musculoskeletal disorders20 – Percentage of total lost time injuries that occurred between 4 pm and 12 am 7 – The median number of days missed
Monday, August 24, 2009
Obesity...a Growing Concern!
The number of overweight and obese Americans is GROWING. This is one of the main factor affecting HEALTH CARE! Obsetiy plays a huge role in many health issues like diabetes, hypertension, etc. , and guess what? We CAN control it!!! Obestiy is the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. (second only to smoking) and is now the leading cause of school absenteeism.
Interesting Numbers
33 - Percent of American adults that are obese
60 - Percent increase in adult obesity over the past 20 years
300 - Percent increase in childhood obesity over the past 30 years
10,000 - the number of food ads the average child sees on TV an each year, in America (most for high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sugar meals).
1,000+ and 50 - The number of calories and fat grams in a typical fast food meal.
2000 and 65 - The maximum number of calories fat grams the average adult should eat daily.
300,000+ - Number of obesity-related deaths each year in the U.S. (second only to tobacco)
Source: Downtoearth.com
Wake Up America - We are eating ourselves to death!
In reading the latest edition of ISHN, I found that Trust for America's Health (TFAH) reported that over the past year, adult obesity rates increased in 23 states and did not decrease in a single state. Now I know I have put on a few pounds lately; can’t blame it on my wife washing my clothes in HOT water any longer. Where’d that 10-15 pounds come from? The good life…maybe! The fast paced life…could be! The article went on to say that adult obesity rates exceed 25% in 31 states. A couple quick facts:
The Calorie Breakdown
Food Item/Calories
McDonald’s Lunch Option 1
-Big Mac / 540
-Medium Fries / 380
-And the Medium Coke / 210
-A Large Coke / 310 ……one meal 1,000 calories plus…
-McChicken / 360
Lunch Option 2
-Hamburger / 250
-Small Fry / 230
-Small Shake / 580……….another 1,000
A few Wendy’s Choices
Jr. Hamburger / 230
Spicy Chicken Sandwich / 440
Small Frosty / 310
Baconator / 830
Triple w/everything / 970
No better at Burger King
Whopper Jr. / 370
Whopper / 670
w/cheese / 770
Double Whopper / 1010
The Colonel is not the answer either - some KFC numbers
Chicken Breast / 370
Thigh / 260
Wing / 110 add potatoes, gray and a roll and guess what....you're packin away the calories
Chicken Strips (3) / 310
Popcorn Chicken (Lg.) / 550
Salads w/o dressing / 200-300+
Add dressing another / 200-300+
Subway is your best bet with six 6" subs with 380 calories or less (and no more than 6 grams of fat). Watch some of those breakfast sandwiches though.
WHAT CAN YOU DO? Choose a healthier lifestyle and Start Today!
-Eat LESS! Portion size in this country is out of control… you don’t have to eat everything on your plate, just because the nuns forced you to in grade school.
-Make BETTER CHOICES! Eat more fruit, veggies, nuts, granola, fish, etc.
-EXERCISE! Nasty word I know, but if I can get up at 5:30 am so can you! If nothing else, start out by going for a walk, daily…start slow and stick with it!
-Drink LESS ALCOHOL! You may be getting a lot of your calories out of a can.
-Establish a Routine! Strive to go to bed and get up the same time each day. A good night's sleep in important.
-MORE Water/LESS TV! Drink plenty of water. Most of us think we are hungry when our bodies are just dehydrated. Sitting in front of the boob tube is an easy way to eat, even when you Are Not hungry!!
-One more thing...EAT ONLY WHEN YOU ARE HUNGRY! Ignore those mid-morning and mid-afternoon hunger pains for a couple days and they will go away. Can't do it...then just eat a little something to get you to lunch.
Interesting Numbers
33 - Percent of American adults that are obese
60 - Percent increase in adult obesity over the past 20 years
300 - Percent increase in childhood obesity over the past 30 years
10,000 - the number of food ads the average child sees on TV an each year, in America (most for high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sugar meals).
1,000+ and 50 - The number of calories and fat grams in a typical fast food meal.
2000 and 65 - The maximum number of calories fat grams the average adult should eat daily.
300,000+ - Number of obesity-related deaths each year in the U.S. (second only to tobacco)
Source: Downtoearth.com
Wake Up America - We are eating ourselves to death!
In reading the latest edition of ISHN, I found that Trust for America's Health (TFAH) reported that over the past year, adult obesity rates increased in 23 states and did not decrease in a single state. Now I know I have put on a few pounds lately; can’t blame it on my wife washing my clothes in HOT water any longer. Where’d that 10-15 pounds come from? The good life…maybe! The fast paced life…could be! The article went on to say that adult obesity rates exceed 25% in 31 states. A couple quick facts:
The Calorie Breakdown
Food Item/Calories
McDonald’s Lunch Option 1
-Big Mac / 540
-Medium Fries / 380
-And the Medium Coke / 210
-A Large Coke / 310 ……one meal 1,000 calories plus…
-McChicken / 360
Lunch Option 2
-Hamburger / 250
-Small Fry / 230
-Small Shake / 580……….another 1,000
A few Wendy’s Choices
Jr. Hamburger / 230
Spicy Chicken Sandwich / 440
Small Frosty / 310
Baconator / 830
Triple w/everything / 970
No better at Burger King
Whopper Jr. / 370
Whopper / 670
w/cheese / 770
Double Whopper / 1010
The Colonel is not the answer either - some KFC numbers
Chicken Breast / 370
Thigh / 260
Wing / 110 add potatoes, gray and a roll and guess what....you're packin away the calories
Chicken Strips (3) / 310
Popcorn Chicken (Lg.) / 550
Salads w/o dressing / 200-300+
Add dressing another / 200-300+
Subway is your best bet with six 6" subs with 380 calories or less (and no more than 6 grams of fat). Watch some of those breakfast sandwiches though.
WHAT CAN YOU DO? Choose a healthier lifestyle and Start Today!
-Eat LESS! Portion size in this country is out of control… you don’t have to eat everything on your plate, just because the nuns forced you to in grade school.
-Make BETTER CHOICES! Eat more fruit, veggies, nuts, granola, fish, etc.
-EXERCISE! Nasty word I know, but if I can get up at 5:30 am so can you! If nothing else, start out by going for a walk, daily…start slow and stick with it!
-Drink LESS ALCOHOL! You may be getting a lot of your calories out of a can.
-Establish a Routine! Strive to go to bed and get up the same time each day. A good night's sleep in important.
-MORE Water/LESS TV! Drink plenty of water. Most of us think we are hungry when our bodies are just dehydrated. Sitting in front of the boob tube is an easy way to eat, even when you Are Not hungry!!
-One more thing...EAT ONLY WHEN YOU ARE HUNGRY! Ignore those mid-morning and mid-afternoon hunger pains for a couple days and they will go away. Can't do it...then just eat a little something to get you to lunch.
Safety Tidbits August 24, 2009
The First Labor Day! (from the Library of Congress)
On September 5, 1882, some 10,000 workers assembled in New York City to participate in America's first Labor Day parade. After marching from City Hall, past reviewing stands in Union Square, and then uptown to 42nd Street, the workers and their families gathered in Wendel's Elm Park for a picnic, concert, and speeches. This first Labor Day celebration was eagerly organized and executed by New York’s Central Labor Union, an umbrella group made up of representatives from many local unions. Debate continues to this day as to who originated the idea of a workers' holiday, but it definitely emerged from the ranks of organized labor at a time when they wanted to demonstrate the strength of their burgeoning movement and inspire improvements in their working conditions.
On September 5, 1882, some 10,000 workers assembled in New York City to participate in America's first Labor Day parade. After marching from City Hall, past reviewing stands in Union Square, and then uptown to 42nd Street, the workers and their families gathered in Wendel's Elm Park for a picnic, concert, and speeches. This first Labor Day celebration was eagerly organized and executed by New York’s Central Labor Union, an umbrella group made up of representatives from many local unions. Debate continues to this day as to who originated the idea of a workers' holiday, but it definitely emerged from the ranks of organized labor at a time when they wanted to demonstrate the strength of their burgeoning movement and inspire improvements in their working conditions.
Today in History (from MSNBC.com) - In A.D. 79, long-dormant Mount Vesuvius erupted, burying the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in volcanic ash. An estimated 20,000 people died.
In 1814, British forces invaded Washington, setting fire to the Capitol and the White House, among other buildings.
In 
1932, Amelia Earhart embarked on a 19-hour flight from Los Angeles to Newark, N.J., making her the first woman to fly solo non-stop from coast to coast.
In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Communist Control Act, outlawing the Communist Party in the United States.
In 2006, The International Astronomical Union declared that Pluto was no longer a planet, demoting it to the status of a “dwarf planet.”
Don't Quit!
Safety Matters and we are making a Difference! Don't Quit!
I have talked to some safety professionals who feel we are fighting an uphill battle. They are frustrated because some workers 'just don't get it' and they (the safety people), 'don't know what to do.'
Wish I had the answer...I don't but here are some thoughts:
-Keep fighting the good fight, but don't look at it as a fight! We need to utilize positive reinforcement whenever possible. (My buddy Denny and I have presented our presentation, 'Putting a 'POSITIVE Spin' on Safety! at numerous conferences, and I believe that is the answer.) We can no longer be the cop on the corner -- catching people making mistakes (safety is not about punishing people it is about getting them home Safely). We need to do more coaching, teaching, and mentoring. We also need to get the rest of the management team to assist in this endeavor.
-People want to 'Do the Right Thing'. We all make mistakes, but we must believe that the majority (if not all) of our employees are good people trying to earn a living. They are not coming to work looking to get hurt. When injuries occur, we must not look only at what the worker did or didn't do. We must understand why... you have to look at the management systems to see if there are gaps!
-Set them up for SUCCESS! If you want employees and supervisors to do well, give them the tools they need to be successful. Give team members the training and support they need. Solicit their input and encourage workers to speak up; Get them in the game. Give them the leadership they need.
-Safety Leaders have to use different approaches for different people. Sometimes our approach doesn't produce the results we desire. That is a good time to change your approach. Remember nobody cares how much you know UNTIL they know how much you care!
Two things I do know:
We ARE Making a Difference and We Will Succeed!
Below is a modified version of something I heard a long time ago regarding Success -- (I think it was from Tom Peters.)
SUCCESS!
If you believe in God, you're half way there!
Believe in this Great Country, and you're three quarters!
Believe in yourself and you are there, and you are there as long as you never give up!
"There seemed to be endless obstacles... it seemed that the root cause of them all was fear.” -Joanna Field
Gotta run...someone's knocking at the door... it may be Opportunity!
I have talked to some safety professionals who feel we are fighting an uphill battle. They are frustrated because some workers 'just don't get it' and they (the safety people), 'don't know what to do.'
Wish I had the answer...I don't but here are some thoughts:
-Keep fighting the good fight, but don't look at it as a fight! We need to utilize positive reinforcement whenever possible. (My buddy Denny and I have presented our presentation, 'Putting a 'POSITIVE Spin' on Safety! at numerous conferences, and I believe that is the answer.) We can no longer be the cop on the corner -- catching people making mistakes (safety is not about punishing people it is about getting them home Safely). We need to do more coaching, teaching, and mentoring. We also need to get the rest of the management team to assist in this endeavor.
-People want to 'Do the Right Thing'. We all make mistakes, but we must believe that the majority (if not all) of our employees are good people trying to earn a living. They are not coming to work looking to get hurt. When injuries occur, we must not look only at what the worker did or didn't do. We must understand why... you have to look at the management systems to see if there are gaps!
-Set them up for SUCCESS! If you want employees and supervisors to do well, give them the tools they need to be successful. Give team members the training and support they need. Solicit their input and encourage workers to speak up; Get them in the game. Give them the leadership they need.
-Safety Leaders have to use different approaches for different people. Sometimes our approach doesn't produce the results we desire. That is a good time to change your approach. Remember nobody cares how much you know UNTIL they know how much you care!
Two things I do know:
We ARE Making a Difference and We Will Succeed!
Below is a modified version of something I heard a long time ago regarding Success -- (I think it was from Tom Peters.)
SUCCESS!
If you believe in God, you're half way there!
Believe in this Great Country, and you're three quarters!
Believe in yourself and you are there, and you are there as long as you never give up!
"There seemed to be endless obstacles... it seemed that the root cause of them all was fear.” -Joanna Field
Gotta run...someone's knocking at the door... it may be Opportunity!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
The Trouble with Safety!
FYI, I wrote this after watching co-workers cutting across the parking one afternoon; it seemed almost everyone was too busy to bother using the relative safety of the cross walks. I hope you are not too busy for safety. Every now and then, we all need to remind ourselves to Slow Down and Make Time for Safety!
The Trouble with Safety
By Safety Wayne
The trouble with safety according to me,
It’s just too inconvenient for some folks, you see.
They have things to do and a lot to get done,
So corners… yeah, Sometimes they DO cut some.
Why walk to the corner to cross the street,
Just because the crosswalk is all painted and neat!?
Does it really matter if you cross right here?
No it doesn’t – heck, you've done it for years!
So what is the problem you simply may ask
In taking short cuts while performing a task.
Well…Breaking the rules and taking chances you’ll see,
Keeps getting easier – and that’s a problem for me!
If you take short cuts and get lucky you think you can do it again,
BUT next time you may not be as lucky as you’ve been.
Some will get injured and yes some will die,
Leaving family and friends trying to figure out WHY???
Why would this loved one risk injury and life
Had he forgotten about his children or his wife?
If it happens to you, you’ll have regrets this much is true
But if you’re seriously injured, you may no longer be you.
Work safely for the special people in your life,
Avoid the pain, the rehab, and having to explain it to your wife!
Oh yeah, and watch out for the other guy too,
And if you’re lucky, maybe he'll even watch out for you.
Safety, safety, safety, why can’t you just leave us be?
Because people mistakenly believe ‘Accidents won’t happen to me”.
Accidents and injuries happen when we get in a rush,
and The Trouble with Safety... well I guess its US!
The Trouble with Safety
By Safety Wayne
The trouble with safety according to me,
It’s just too inconvenient for some folks, you see.
They have things to do and a lot to get done,
So corners… yeah, Sometimes they DO cut some.
Why walk to the corner to cross the street,
Just because the crosswalk is all painted and neat!?
Does it really matter if you cross right here?
No it doesn’t – heck, you've done it for years!
So what is the problem you simply may ask
In taking short cuts while performing a task.
Well…Breaking the rules and taking chances you’ll see,
Keeps getting easier – and that’s a problem for me!
If you take short cuts and get lucky you think you can do it again,
BUT next time you may not be as lucky as you’ve been.
Some will get injured and yes some will die,
Leaving family and friends trying to figure out WHY???
Why would this loved one risk injury and life
Had he forgotten about his children or his wife?
If it happens to you, you’ll have regrets this much is true
But if you’re seriously injured, you may no longer be you.
Work safely for the special people in your life,
Avoid the pain, the rehab, and having to explain it to your wife!
Oh yeah, and watch out for the other guy too,
And if you’re lucky, maybe he'll even watch out for you.
Safety, safety, safety, why can’t you just leave us be?
Because people mistakenly believe ‘Accidents won’t happen to me”.
Accidents and injuries happen when we get in a rush,
and The Trouble with Safety... well I guess its US!
Friday, August 21, 2009
A Personal Story
Here is the story of what happened to a friend of mine. We hope others can avoid the suffering Tom and his family went through because of his mistakes.
Safety it Matters to ME!
By Tom R.
There are very few employees out in the work force that have experienced the many things that go through your mind when you fear that death is close. I have been there and would like to share my thoughts and what I learned.
As a Facility Manager of a VPP site, I have always stressed to my employees to take a moment to think about what dangers or risks can be ahead of you when you take on any type of task. I was filling in for one of my employees at a one man facility, loading trucks, watering the roads, etc. By lunch time the daily activities were completed so I decided to move several 40’ sections of conveyor out of the high grass, where they had been stored for several years. We had found use for these conveyor sections at another facility and were preparing them for transport.
I was using a Cat 980C loader with an OSHA-approved sling attached to the bucket for this task; the contour of the area was fairly flat. The process was quit simple; I would drive up to the sections with the bucket in the air, apply the parking brake on the loader, get out and attach a chain on each side of the conveyor. Once back in the loader, pick the sections up and move them to an area where they would be easy to get at. I had moved several sections with no problems.
After lining up the loader to pick the next section, I noticed there was a very small downward slope; I applied the hand brake and got out of the loader to hook the chains to the conveyor as in previous moves. While hooking the chain to the one side I heard the sound of dry grass cracking, and before I could turn to see what the sound was, I was hit in the back with the left front tire of the loader. It pinned me between the tire and the conveyor section. I stood there for several seconds and wondered how this could happen to me; what did I do wrong?
I tried to move, but couldn’t. I was stuck!
(This facility was located in a fairly remote area where there is very little activity). I yelled for help, but every time I did -- the loader pushed tighter, not allowing my lungs to take in any air, by the fourth try I was out of air. I thought to myself is this it…is this the way it will end for me?.
I must have passed out at this time and remember that many different images flashed through my mind while I stood there helpless. Most of these images were things from my past (me growing up; my children when they were young, etc.). Then, all of a sudden, I heard a man yelling several times, ‘where are you?’ I was able to wiggle the lifting chain enough that he had heard it. He asked what he should do, with a whispering voice and some hand signals I got it across to him to get in the loader and pull back the lever located on the left side of the steering column (shift lever). As he did that, I remember falling to the ground and must have passed out again. When I woke up I was laying along side the loader with a man and women kneeling next to me, telling me not to move. Soon the paramedics arrived and transported me to the hospital.
As I look back at this accident there were several amazing things that happened which told me it was not my time to go yet. First of all, the man that came to my aid first, worked at a malting plant several hundred feet away from where the accident happened. Normally he never comes out the back door of the building on his break, but on this day he did, and happened to hear me call for help. Second, the women who had been kneeling at my side worked two blocks away on the third floor of a three story building. Normally she would have the air conditioner running in her office, but because the weather was so nice out, she had shut off her air conditioner and opened her window. Therefore, she also heard my calls for help. And finally, the loader was at a slight angle to the conveyor when it hit me, which meant that the outside of the tire ran up against the conveyor about the same time it pinned me against the conveyor. Had the loader come straight at me it would have cut me it half.
Lessons Learned
Rushing and Complacency played a roll it this accident! This caused me to make some poor choices:
1. MAINTAIN YOUR FOCUS! This was a two-man task that I should not have been doing alone, I knew better, but was so focused on getting the job done I forgot about safety.
2. MIND ON TASK! Things were going so well, I let my guard down and failed to recognize that the loader was parked on a slight slope when I exited the cab. I was focused on getting these last few conveyors moved. Yes, I set the hand brake (as a matter of habit) but never really considered that the loader might actually move!
3. STAY OUT OF THE LINE OF FIRE! I put myself in the line of fire resulting by walking in front of the 980. It would have been just as easy for me to walk around to the other side of the conveyor to hook the chains, thus I would have seen the loader moving towards the conveyor (EYES ON TASK), and been out of the way.
4. A SIMPLE MISTAKE…an assumption was made!
The emergency brake was out of adjustment and failed to keep the machine from rolling. The brake had not been tested for adjustment recently. It was always parked in a level area, and never moved once the brake was applied. This time the machine was parked on a slight slope and it did not hold.
The Take Away
If you get nothing else out of this story, know this: Injuries can happen to anyone, don’t think they can’t happen to you! I spent over 40 years in the construction industry without an injury; the first one darn near killed me. Don’t let it happen to you!
I am very fortunate to be alive, but some of these injuries will affect me for the rest of my life. Let me tell you something, Safety matters to me, and it should matter to YOU!
Safety it Matters to ME!
By Tom R.
There are very few employees out in the work force that have experienced the many things that go through your mind when you fear that death is close. I have been there and would like to share my thoughts and what I learned.
As a Facility Manager of a VPP site, I have always stressed to my employees to take a moment to think about what dangers or risks can be ahead of you when you take on any type of task. I was filling in for one of my employees at a one man facility, loading trucks, watering the roads, etc. By lunch time the daily activities were completed so I decided to move several 40’ sections of conveyor out of the high grass, where they had been stored for several years. We had found use for these conveyor sections at another facility and were preparing them for transport.
I was using a Cat 980C loader with an OSHA-approved sling attached to the bucket for this task; the contour of the area was fairly flat. The process was quit simple; I would drive up to the sections with the bucket in the air, apply the parking brake on the loader, get out and attach a chain on each side of the conveyor. Once back in the loader, pick the sections up and move them to an area where they would be easy to get at. I had moved several sections with no problems.
After lining up the loader to pick the next section, I noticed there was a very small downward slope; I applied the hand brake and got out of the loader to hook the chains to the conveyor as in previous moves. While hooking the chain to the one side I heard the sound of dry grass cracking, and before I could turn to see what the sound was, I was hit in the back with the left front tire of the loader. It pinned me between the tire and the conveyor section. I stood there for several seconds and wondered how this could happen to me; what did I do wrong?
I tried to move, but couldn’t. I was stuck!
(This facility was located in a fairly remote area where there is very little activity). I yelled for help, but every time I did -- the loader pushed tighter, not allowing my lungs to take in any air, by the fourth try I was out of air. I thought to myself is this it…is this the way it will end for me?.
I must have passed out at this time and remember that many different images flashed through my mind while I stood there helpless. Most of these images were things from my past (me growing up; my children when they were young, etc.). Then, all of a sudden, I heard a man yelling several times, ‘where are you?’ I was able to wiggle the lifting chain enough that he had heard it. He asked what he should do, with a whispering voice and some hand signals I got it across to him to get in the loader and pull back the lever located on the left side of the steering column (shift lever). As he did that, I remember falling to the ground and must have passed out again. When I woke up I was laying along side the loader with a man and women kneeling next to me, telling me not to move. Soon the paramedics arrived and transported me to the hospital.
As I look back at this accident there were several amazing things that happened which told me it was not my time to go yet. First of all, the man that came to my aid first, worked at a malting plant several hundred feet away from where the accident happened. Normally he never comes out the back door of the building on his break, but on this day he did, and happened to hear me call for help. Second, the women who had been kneeling at my side worked two blocks away on the third floor of a three story building. Normally she would have the air conditioner running in her office, but because the weather was so nice out, she had shut off her air conditioner and opened her window. Therefore, she also heard my calls for help. And finally, the loader was at a slight angle to the conveyor when it hit me, which meant that the outside of the tire ran up against the conveyor about the same time it pinned me against the conveyor. Had the loader come straight at me it would have cut me it half.
Lessons Learned
Rushing and Complacency played a roll it this accident! This caused me to make some poor choices:
1. MAINTAIN YOUR FOCUS! This was a two-man task that I should not have been doing alone, I knew better, but was so focused on getting the job done I forgot about safety.
2. MIND ON TASK! Things were going so well, I let my guard down and failed to recognize that the loader was parked on a slight slope when I exited the cab. I was focused on getting these last few conveyors moved. Yes, I set the hand brake (as a matter of habit) but never really considered that the loader might actually move!
3. STAY OUT OF THE LINE OF FIRE! I put myself in the line of fire resulting by walking in front of the 980. It would have been just as easy for me to walk around to the other side of the conveyor to hook the chains, thus I would have seen the loader moving towards the conveyor (EYES ON TASK), and been out of the way.
4. A SIMPLE MISTAKE…an assumption was made!
The emergency brake was out of adjustment and failed to keep the machine from rolling. The brake had not been tested for adjustment recently. It was always parked in a level area, and never moved once the brake was applied. This time the machine was parked on a slight slope and it did not hold.
The Take Away
If you get nothing else out of this story, know this: Injuries can happen to anyone, don’t think they can’t happen to you! I spent over 40 years in the construction industry without an injury; the first one darn near killed me. Don’t let it happen to you!
I am very fortunate to be alive, but some of these injuries will affect me for the rest of my life. Let me tell you something, Safety matters to me, and it should matter to YOU!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Avoid Complacency!
This is a modified version of something we received from the folks at FHR (thanks KK)!
One of the most important parts of every task is to Maintain Your Focus! It is not easy to stay focused with all life’s distractions. Here are a few things you can do!
Leave personal issues at home. Allowing personal problems to creep into our work day can cause workers to lose focus! When you are at work FOCUS on WORK. In the car, FOCUS on Driving! Keep your mind on the task you are doing to avoid accidents and injuries.
Communicate with co-workers prior to performing the task. Make sure all affected employees understand the job task. Effective communication between supervisors and workers is a must! Supervisors should ask workers to explain the expectation to ensure everyone is on the same page. Miscommunications and assumptions can lead to accidents and injury, so when you are unsure ASK!
Review JSAs and Safe Work Permits! Make sure all job steps are identified and address each hazard appropriately. Knowing the hazards and taking actions to mitigate each is a great way to avoid a mishap. Remember to be on the lookout for unforeseen hazards and Speak up if a problem is noted!
Check the work area prior to the task! Taking time to walk through the area is just as important as reviewing the job steps and associated permits with the permit writer. Workers must be aware of any conditions that could pose a hazard while the task is performed. Verify the work area is safe; never assume all hazards have been addressed/removed!
Actively participate in the JSA and Safe Work Permit Process. Don’t just depend on other employees -- take an active role in YOUR Safety! Review the steps and know the expectations -- take ownership of the task. Each employee brings a different skill set to the table - share what you know!
Stick to the requirements of the JSA and/or Permit. Field deviations can lead to trouble. Double check the JSA as needed. If the procedure must be changed, Make Time for Safety: review any potential NEW hazard, communicate the changes and get a new permit issued when necessary. Each change can bring new hazards and increase the potential for an injury!
Stay healthy. Eat right, get plenty of sleep and drink only in moderation. If you are sick, don’t come to work. It is difficult to keep your mind focused on your job task if you are not feeling well. Are you taking medication that causes drowsiness - if so you should not be performing safety sensitive tasks.
ASK Questions and OFFER Input! If you are not sure about a particular aspect of your job task, or something just does not feel right, STOP. Contact your supervisor immediately and make sure you feel comfortable before proceeding. And, whenever you see a deficiency or an opportunity to make a positive difference - Speak up! Your input matters!
Keeping your focus is not only a good idea, it is a requirement if we want to get everyone home at the end of their shift! MAKE TIME FOR SAFETY -- it is a Shared Responsibility!
One of the most important parts of every task is to Maintain Your Focus! It is not easy to stay focused with all life’s distractions. Here are a few things you can do!
Leave personal issues at home. Allowing personal problems to creep into our work day can cause workers to lose focus! When you are at work FOCUS on WORK. In the car, FOCUS on Driving! Keep your mind on the task you are doing to avoid accidents and injuries.
Communicate with co-workers prior to performing the task. Make sure all affected employees understand the job task. Effective communication between supervisors and workers is a must! Supervisors should ask workers to explain the expectation to ensure everyone is on the same page. Miscommunications and assumptions can lead to accidents and injury, so when you are unsure ASK!
Review JSAs and Safe Work Permits! Make sure all job steps are identified and address each hazard appropriately. Knowing the hazards and taking actions to mitigate each is a great way to avoid a mishap. Remember to be on the lookout for unforeseen hazards and Speak up if a problem is noted!
Check the work area prior to the task! Taking time to walk through the area is just as important as reviewing the job steps and associated permits with the permit writer. Workers must be aware of any conditions that could pose a hazard while the task is performed. Verify the work area is safe; never assume all hazards have been addressed/removed!
Actively participate in the JSA and Safe Work Permit Process. Don’t just depend on other employees -- take an active role in YOUR Safety! Review the steps and know the expectations -- take ownership of the task. Each employee brings a different skill set to the table - share what you know!
Stick to the requirements of the JSA and/or Permit. Field deviations can lead to trouble. Double check the JSA as needed. If the procedure must be changed, Make Time for Safety: review any potential NEW hazard, communicate the changes and get a new permit issued when necessary. Each change can bring new hazards and increase the potential for an injury!
Stay healthy. Eat right, get plenty of sleep and drink only in moderation. If you are sick, don’t come to work. It is difficult to keep your mind focused on your job task if you are not feeling well. Are you taking medication that causes drowsiness - if so you should not be performing safety sensitive tasks.
ASK Questions and OFFER Input! If you are not sure about a particular aspect of your job task, or something just does not feel right, STOP. Contact your supervisor immediately and make sure you feel comfortable before proceeding. And, whenever you see a deficiency or an opportunity to make a positive difference - Speak up! Your input matters!
Keeping your focus is not only a good idea, it is a requirement if we want to get everyone home at the end of their shift! MAKE TIME FOR SAFETY -- it is a Shared Responsibility!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
MBWA - spend some time out of the office!
Note: We use Safe Work Permits for many tasks (Confined Space Entry, Energized Work, LO/TO, Critical Lifts, and other non-routine tasks) to reduce the potential for injury. But, even if you don't use permits, it pays to spend time in the field.
Think about it! - 'The results you achieve will be in direct proportion to the effort you apply.' -Denis Waitley
Get out among the Team
These days it seems like there is more and more paperwork to do, more phone calls to return, and more emails to write or respond to -- that may never change. But don't forget about the importance of interacting with our employees and contractors. Please continue to have your managers and supervisors field verify Safe Work Permits. There are several good reasons for requiring managers and supervisory personnel to do this, once the task/project has begun. Here are just a few:
-It follows the MBWA (Management by Walking Around) Principle which, among other things, makes the management/supervisory team MORE VISIBLE! Workers (employees and contractors) see you out there and they generally improve their behavior (work habits and safety awareness) because they see the management is watching.
-It Creates Value...by giving the management team a chance to SEE and know what is really going on out there! This first hand knowledge is invaluable. Sometimes assumptions are made (the employee or contractor thinks he/she understands our expectations or we think they do) and that can lead to accidents and injury.
-It Facilitates Compliance. It confirms they get it, when they do. Or helps us identify gaps that need to be filled. In either case, we can use the feedback for continuous improvement.
-It Increases the Knowledge Base of the team, since it creates opportunities for communication with crew members. Effective two-way communication is a great way to discuss ideas (brain storm) for improvement or identify problems so they can be addressed.
-It Builds Trust. Open communications with employees in the field helps to foster trust and team building. Each employee has something to add are we giving them ample opportunity to do so?
-It Shows Respect and can lead to Employee Fulfillment. Employees appreciate it when the management/supervisory team takes an active role. They like to be recognized and appreciated for their talents…having managers see them in the field (in their element) is a form of non-verbal recognition. Taking time to talk to the crew members (asking them specific questions about the task, the equipment, etc.) is a way to demonstrate you recognize them as trained professionals.
-It fosters Individual Accountability and Entrepreneurial Spirit. Once employees perceive you care, they are more likely to take ownership, and accept responsibility for their actions.
So please continue to field verify the permits. Your efforts are much appreciated.
That some achieve great success, is proof to all that others can achieve it as well. -Abraham Lincoln
Think about it! - 'The results you achieve will be in direct proportion to the effort you apply.' -Denis Waitley
Get out among the Team
These days it seems like there is more and more paperwork to do, more phone calls to return, and more emails to write or respond to -- that may never change. But don't forget about the importance of interacting with our employees and contractors. Please continue to have your managers and supervisors field verify Safe Work Permits. There are several good reasons for requiring managers and supervisory personnel to do this, once the task/project has begun. Here are just a few:
-It follows the MBWA (Management by Walking Around) Principle which, among other things, makes the management/supervisory team MORE VISIBLE! Workers (employees and contractors) see you out there and they generally improve their behavior (work habits and safety awareness) because they see the management is watching.
-It Creates Value...by giving the management team a chance to SEE and know what is really going on out there! This first hand knowledge is invaluable. Sometimes assumptions are made (the employee or contractor thinks he/she understands our expectations or we think they do) and that can lead to accidents and injury.
-It Facilitates Compliance. It confirms they get it, when they do. Or helps us identify gaps that need to be filled. In either case, we can use the feedback for continuous improvement.
-It Increases the Knowledge Base of the team, since it creates opportunities for communication with crew members. Effective two-way communication is a great way to discuss ideas (brain storm) for improvement or identify problems so they can be addressed.
-It Builds Trust. Open communications with employees in the field helps to foster trust and team building. Each employee has something to add are we giving them ample opportunity to do so?
-It Shows Respect and can lead to Employee Fulfillment. Employees appreciate it when the management/supervisory team takes an active role. They like to be recognized and appreciated for their talents…having managers see them in the field (in their element) is a form of non-verbal recognition. Taking time to talk to the crew members (asking them specific questions about the task, the equipment, etc.) is a way to demonstrate you recognize them as trained professionals.
-It fosters Individual Accountability and Entrepreneurial Spirit. Once employees perceive you care, they are more likely to take ownership, and accept responsibility for their actions.
So please continue to field verify the permits. Your efforts are much appreciated.
That some achieve great success, is proof to all that others can achieve it as well. -Abraham Lincoln
Thursday, August 6, 2009
What do you really need?
I found this quote in the book Attitudes of Gratitude by M. J. Ryan (This is a great little book)
The grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for. -Joseph Addison
That sounds simple enough and to many of us it means a job; a spouse, significant other or pet; and hopes of retirement. Now isn't that why we should ALL be working safely!?
THINK ABOUT IT!!!
-Get injured, off the job, and you could lose your job (if you are unable to work for an extended period)
-Get injured, at work and you could lose a portion of your income (possibly for a long time) if the injuries are serious. And, you could face disciplinary actions too - if you did something stupid (like cut corners, took an unnecessary risk, chose not to wear the proper PPE)
-Get injured and your family (loved ones and/or pets) suffer in a whole host of ways -- reduced income means fewer options for the family (less toys, less entertainment, less fun, more disappointment). You laying around in a hospital or on the couch is a major downer for the family (it cramps their style). Often times, the injured person gets angry and blames those closest to him/her. That strains relationships!
-Get injured and you can see many of your hopes and dreams diminish.
A loader operator I used to work with fell out of his tree stand while deer hunting one year. He was off work for over a year. Doing what he loved (without tying off) cost him most of his savings, caused him to delay his retirement plans and damn near killed him.
So what CAN You Do to avoid injuries on and off the job? Here are a few tips:
-Get a good night's sleep and go to work each morning prepared to do the job. Show up ready to work!
-Develop a gameplan and follow it. Communicate the plan to all affected persons.
Co-workers need to communicate effectively. Assuming can lead to accidents and injuries.
-Conduct a Job Safety Analysis. It's true, the risk increases when performing non-routine tasks, But, complacency can lead to injury when we get too comfortable doing our routine tasks - So follow sound safety practices always and Avoid cutting corners!
-Check yourself and each other (you and your co-workers should function as a team). Have each other's back!
-Be prepared! Make sure that everyone has the proper tools, information and PPE. Is everybody wearing their PPE properly and does each team member understand the gameplan.
-Focus on the task you are doing when you are doing it - Be in the game, Mentally!
That goes for driving, too. Focus on driving when you are on the road (to work, home, or anywhere) - When you drive - Just Drive! YOU can't focus on driving and talking on the cell phone at the same time. If you have to take the call - PULL OVER!
-Be aware of body positioning. It is important to lift and bend properly to avoid injury, but don't stop there. Be consciously aware of you surroundings and Stay out of the Line of Fire! Every year, people suffer serious injury or death because they got caught between, crushed by, or pulled into some machine or equipment.
Choose to Make time for Safety! Consider it a wise investment in your future! Life is for living fully and that means avoiding injury!
The grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for. -Joseph Addison
That sounds simple enough and to many of us it means a job; a spouse, significant other or pet; and hopes of retirement. Now isn't that why we should ALL be working safely!?
THINK ABOUT IT!!!
-Get injured, off the job, and you could lose your job (if you are unable to work for an extended period)
-Get injured, at work and you could lose a portion of your income (possibly for a long time) if the injuries are serious. And, you could face disciplinary actions too - if you did something stupid (like cut corners, took an unnecessary risk, chose not to wear the proper PPE)
-Get injured and your family (loved ones and/or pets) suffer in a whole host of ways -- reduced income means fewer options for the family (less toys, less entertainment, less fun, more disappointment). You laying around in a hospital or on the couch is a major downer for the family (it cramps their style). Often times, the injured person gets angry and blames those closest to him/her. That strains relationships!
-Get injured and you can see many of your hopes and dreams diminish.
A loader operator I used to work with fell out of his tree stand while deer hunting one year. He was off work for over a year. Doing what he loved (without tying off) cost him most of his savings, caused him to delay his retirement plans and damn near killed him.
So what CAN You Do to avoid injuries on and off the job? Here are a few tips:
-Get a good night's sleep and go to work each morning prepared to do the job. Show up ready to work!
-Develop a gameplan and follow it. Communicate the plan to all affected persons.
Co-workers need to communicate effectively. Assuming can lead to accidents and injuries.
-Conduct a Job Safety Analysis. It's true, the risk increases when performing non-routine tasks, But, complacency can lead to injury when we get too comfortable doing our routine tasks - So follow sound safety practices always and Avoid cutting corners!
-Check yourself and each other (you and your co-workers should function as a team). Have each other's back!
-Be prepared! Make sure that everyone has the proper tools, information and PPE. Is everybody wearing their PPE properly and does each team member understand the gameplan.
-Focus on the task you are doing when you are doing it - Be in the game, Mentally!
That goes for driving, too. Focus on driving when you are on the road (to work, home, or anywhere) - When you drive - Just Drive! YOU can't focus on driving and talking on the cell phone at the same time. If you have to take the call - PULL OVER!
-Be aware of body positioning. It is important to lift and bend properly to avoid injury, but don't stop there. Be consciously aware of you surroundings and Stay out of the Line of Fire! Every year, people suffer serious injury or death because they got caught between, crushed by, or pulled into some machine or equipment.
Choose to Make time for Safety! Consider it a wise investment in your future! Life is for living fully and that means avoiding injury!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Coming Back
I will be working on keeping this site updated. Here are just a few tidbits
Safety is all about change - Embrace it!
Take care of your co-workers!
Work safely -- your family is expecting you home at the end of your shift!
FOCUS on the Task at hand
Beware of those 4 critial mental states that lead to trouble...
Rushing
Frustration
Fatigue
Complacency
There is a great difference between worry and concern. A worried person sees a problem, a concerned person solves it. -Harold Stephens
Rambling Thoughts...
-Life is Good...and Attitude makes all the difference!
-Be a leader...we need more of them.
-Learn something new every day, Every Day!
-Read a good book and then give it to a friend.
-Enjoy nature and learn to relax.
-Call an old friend
-Write a letter to someone...if you still can
Safety is all about change - Embrace it!
Take care of your co-workers!
Work safely -- your family is expecting you home at the end of your shift!
FOCUS on the Task at hand
Beware of those 4 critial mental states that lead to trouble...
Rushing
Frustration
Fatigue
Complacency
There is a great difference between worry and concern. A worried person sees a problem, a concerned person solves it. -Harold Stephens
Rambling Thoughts...
-Life is Good...and Attitude makes all the difference!
-Be a leader...we need more of them.
-Learn something new every day, Every Day!
-Read a good book and then give it to a friend.
-Enjoy nature and learn to relax.
-Call an old friend
-Write a letter to someone...if you still can
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Make better Choices
Safety Topic of the Week - Make better Choices
Make Safety Personal! Accept responsibility for your actions and choices. Every action, every decision you make has consequences. Make better choices. Everybody’s luck runs out, eventually!
STOP taking chances! STOP cutting corners!
Make Time for Safety…You’re Worth It!
You owe your family and co-workers that much!
Chance
By Safety Wayne
I took Chance to work today…
His friends are all injured or dead
When I asked him why he cut corners
‘Cause safety is for fools’, he said
He seemed nice enough, but he’s tricky
And can cost you dearly in the end
One thing I know for certain…
This Chance guy is not your friend
We were working on a belt conveyor
But the tool we needed was back in the shop.
I was going to run and fetch it until Chance said…
‘We’ll never get done if you have to stop’.
‘Grab the pry bar and I’ll give it a whack
It’s OK we’ll just force that darn thing back!’
Well, the bar moved as that old hammer struck
I found out listening to Chance was relying on Luck.
Now my hand is all swollen and awfully sore too
I hope something like this never happens to you
Yeah, I took Chance to work today
And luckily I’m not dead!
Tomorrow I’m going to Play it Smart
I think I’ll take Safety instead!
Work Smart...Work Safe!
Make Safety Personal! Accept responsibility for your actions and choices. Every action, every decision you make has consequences. Make better choices. Everybody’s luck runs out, eventually!
STOP taking chances! STOP cutting corners!
Make Time for Safety…You’re Worth It!
You owe your family and co-workers that much!
Chance
By Safety Wayne
I took Chance to work today…
His friends are all injured or dead
When I asked him why he cut corners
‘Cause safety is for fools’, he said
He seemed nice enough, but he’s tricky
And can cost you dearly in the end
One thing I know for certain…
This Chance guy is not your friend
We were working on a belt conveyor
But the tool we needed was back in the shop.
I was going to run and fetch it until Chance said…
‘We’ll never get done if you have to stop’.
‘Grab the pry bar and I’ll give it a whack
It’s OK we’ll just force that darn thing back!’
Well, the bar moved as that old hammer struck
I found out listening to Chance was relying on Luck.
Now my hand is all swollen and awfully sore too
I hope something like this never happens to you
Yeah, I took Chance to work today
And luckily I’m not dead!
Tomorrow I’m going to Play it Smart
I think I’ll take Safety instead!
Work Smart...Work Safe!
3/2/09
Safety Tidbits - Did you know…
More than 70% of substance abusers are gainfully employed.
40% of all automobile accidents involve alcohol or drug use.
60% of all boating accidents involve drugs or alcohol abuse.
Check out those government websites
Lots of new stuff posted at MSHA.gov (e.g., meet the new Secretary of Labor - Hilda Solis, POV screening criteria, hazard alerts, and more) - If you haven’t visited the site lately you’ll see some changes. The OSHA.gov site has been updated as well – lots of good info (e.g., 2008 enforcement activity, planned public hearing on the new crane/derrick standard, ‘quick takes’ and more).
Sign, sign everywhere a SIGN
Do you take the time to read the signs (on the job or on the road)? Many people don’t!
Ignoring a sign can get you in trouble whether it is a stop sign or a dual hearing protection sign. The signs are there to Protect YOU!
Read and Heed the signs!
Report signage that is no longer legible!
Remember: You are the one MOST RESPONSIBLE for YOUR Safety!
March is Save Your Vision Month
When was your last eye exam? If you can’t remember then it is time to get one. Eye exams can detect vision deficiencies and eye disease. Some eye diseases can cause eye damage including vision loss without any warning signs.
For example, Glaucoma develops gradually and painlessly without symptoms. Vision loss may have already become permanent Before You Know it! Routine eye exams can also detect other health problems (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, etc.) that manifest themselves in the eyes.
The American Optometric Association recommends adults have an eye exam once every two or three years from ages 18 – 40; once every year or two from 41 – 60 years; and annually for those over the age of 60 to keep your eyes healthy. American Optometric Assn.
And…WEAR that Eye Protection along with the rest of your PPE!!!
Quote of the Week
The manager accepts the status quo; the leader challenges it. -Warren Bennis
Manager or Leader, the choice is yours…
Never compromise Safety…Step Up!
More than 70% of substance abusers are gainfully employed.
40% of all automobile accidents involve alcohol or drug use.
60% of all boating accidents involve drugs or alcohol abuse.
Check out those government websites
Lots of new stuff posted at MSHA.gov (e.g., meet the new Secretary of Labor - Hilda Solis, POV screening criteria, hazard alerts, and more) - If you haven’t visited the site lately you’ll see some changes. The OSHA.gov site has been updated as well – lots of good info (e.g., 2008 enforcement activity, planned public hearing on the new crane/derrick standard, ‘quick takes’ and more).
Sign, sign everywhere a SIGN
Do you take the time to read the signs (on the job or on the road)? Many people don’t!
Ignoring a sign can get you in trouble whether it is a stop sign or a dual hearing protection sign. The signs are there to Protect YOU!
Read and Heed the signs!
Report signage that is no longer legible!
Remember: You are the one MOST RESPONSIBLE for YOUR Safety!
March is Save Your Vision Month
When was your last eye exam? If you can’t remember then it is time to get one. Eye exams can detect vision deficiencies and eye disease. Some eye diseases can cause eye damage including vision loss without any warning signs.
For example, Glaucoma develops gradually and painlessly without symptoms. Vision loss may have already become permanent Before You Know it! Routine eye exams can also detect other health problems (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, etc.) that manifest themselves in the eyes.
The American Optometric Association recommends adults have an eye exam once every two or three years from ages 18 – 40; once every year or two from 41 – 60 years; and annually for those over the age of 60 to keep your eyes healthy. American Optometric Assn.
And…WEAR that Eye Protection along with the rest of your PPE!!!
Quote of the Week
The manager a
ccepts the status quo; the leader challenges it. -Warren BennisManager or Leader, the choice is yours…
Never compromise Safety…Step Up!
Do you see what I see?
Safety Tidbits – Thousands of work-related eye injuries occur every day in the U.S (more than 2000, daily). Ten to twenty percent of these injuries result in temporary or permanent blindness. WHY? Workers not wearing PPE; not using PPE properly; or taking risks they don’t need to take. The cost to U.S. companies is over $350 million; but the cost to the injured could be a Lifetime of DARKNESS!
Work Smart/Work Safe! -Source: Prevent Blindness America
Typical excuses:
‘These safety glasses are a waste; they’re always fogging up?’
‘Goggles are too hot!’
‘It’ll just take a second to tack this down – I don’t need a welding hood for that.’
‘It’s dark in here and I can’t see with my safety glasses on.’
‘It’s a cutting torch…safety glasses are good enough for cutting these bolts off.’
‘You don’t need safety glasses with a face shield.’
Off the job excuses…
‘I’m just trimming weeds!’
‘I’ve never warn safety glasses fixing fence before.’
‘Safety glasses... for woodwork? Come on!’ ‘
Wear your PPE (all of it!); Inspect it Daily; Store it Properly! Make sure you have what you need to do the job safely. Do you see what I see? Eyes…they’re worth hanging on to.
The world is a beautiful place… I just spent 6 hours on the Pacific Coast Highway, BEAUTIFUL! I love this country…there is so much to SEE! Wear your safety glasses/goggles/face shield, etc. and SEE the FUTURE!
The rest of the story (with apologies to the late Paul Harvey)…of the 2,000 plus eye injuries that occur every day (three quarters of a million Eye Injuries annually) 90%...ninety percent could be prevented with the proper PPE. The Choice is yours… Choose wisely.
And Watch out for co-workers too! Speak Up when you see someone committing an unsafe act. Make it a Safe Day!
Work Smart/Work Safe! -Source: Prevent Blindness America
Typical excuses:
‘These safety glasses are a waste; they’re always fogging up?’
‘Goggles are too hot!’
‘It’ll just take a second to tack this down – I don’t need a welding hood for that.’
‘It’s dark in here and I can’t see with my safety glasses on.’
‘It’s a cutting torch…safety glasses are good enough for cutting these bolts off.’
‘You don’t need safety glasses with a face shield.’
Off the job excuses…
‘I’m just trimming weeds!’
‘I’ve never warn safety glasses fixing fence before.’
‘Safety glasses... for woodwork? Come on!’ ‘
Wear your PPE (all of it!); Inspect it Daily; Store it Properly! Make sure you have what you need to do the job safely. Do you see what I see? Eyes…they’re worth hanging on to.
The world is a beautiful place… I just spent 6 hours on the Pacific Coast Highway, BEAUTIFUL! I love this country…there is so much to SEE! Wear your safety glasses/goggles/face shield, etc. and SEE the FUTURE!
The rest of the story (with apologies to the late Paul Harvey)…of the 2,000 plus eye injuries that occur every day (three quarters of a million Eye Injuries annually) 90%...ninety percent could be prevented with the proper PPE. The Choice is yours… Choose wisely.
And Watch out for co-workers too! Speak Up when you see someone committing an unsafe act. Make it a Safe Day!
2/23/09
Safety Tidbits
Watch out for the Winter Blues
Are you one of the many people who start to feel depressed in the fall and continue to feel dark and dreary until the spring? Scientists call severe winter depression Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Light and temperature play a significant role in SAD. Daylight prompts the brain to release chemicals that spark feelings of energy.
Approximately 5% of the population struggles with this disorder (their mood grows gloomier as the day gets shorter). Here are some tips for overcoming the winter blues:
-Get outside and get as much sunshine as possible. SAD sufferers claim exposure to the early morning light is best but any exposure should help.
-Keep the drapes/curtains/shade in your office and house/apartment open during daylight hours.
-Sit near windows if possible, and look outside periodically.
-On cloudy days, turn on bright lights.
-Get out of the house and see family or friends.
-Stay active, exercise…keep moving. Source: American Institute of Preventive Medicine
West Virginia Mining
Coal was first discovered in what is now West Virginia in 1742 by John Peter Salley in what is now Boone County.
Coal occurs in 53 of West Virginia's 55 Counties - only Jefferson and Hardy in the eastern panhandle have no coal.
Forty-three counties have reserves of minable (economic) coal.
There are 117 named coal seams in West Virginia.
Sixty-five seams are considered minable.
In 2006 coal was produced from 54 different seams inWest Virginia.
The Pittsburgh coal seam accounted for nearly 34 million tons of production in 2006.
West Virginia has 4% of all coal reserves. Source: wvminesafety.org/wvcoalfacts.htm
Did you know...
You know Electricity is Dangerous! Did you know that everyday in the United States there are:
8,000 Electrical Injuries3,600 Permanently Disabling20 Work related injuries every day
Well Arc Flash Hazards are dangerous too - In general, arc flash incidents are highly unlikely on systems operating at less than 240 volts phase to phase.120 volts does not provide sufficient energy to cause an arc flash hazard. Some 480V electrical services have enough capacity to cause an arc flash hazard.
Arc Flash Hazards can seriously injure or kill people on and off the job
Arc Flash is a serious issue that poses a risk to each of us
Respect electricity, wear the proper PPE.
Don’t Gamble with Your Life!
Quote of the Week:
There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure. -Colin Powell
Watch out for the Winter Blues
Are you one of the many people who start to feel depressed in the fall and continue to feel dark and dreary until the spring? Scientists call severe winter depression Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Light and temperature play a significant role in SAD. Daylight prompts the brain to release chemicals that spark feelings of energy.
Approximately 5% of the population struggles with this disorder (their mood grows gloomier as the day gets shorter). Here are some tips for overcoming the winter blues:
-Get outside and get as much sunshine as possible. SAD sufferers claim exposure to the early morning light is best but any exposure should help.
-Keep the drapes/curtains/shade in your office and house/apartment open during daylight hours.
-Sit near windows if possible, and look outside periodically.
-On cloudy days, turn on bright lights.
-Get out of the house and see family or friends.
-Stay active, exercise…keep moving. Source: American Institute of Preventive Medicine
West Virginia Mining
Coal was first discovered in what is now West Virginia in 1742 by John Peter Salley in what is now Boone County.
Coal occurs in 53 of West Virginia's 55 Counties - only Jefferson and Hardy in the eastern panhandle have no coal.
Forty-three counties have reserves of minable (economic) coal.
There are 117 named coal seams in West Virginia.
Sixty-five seams are considered minable.
In 2006 coal was produced from 54 different seams inWest Virginia.
The Pittsburgh coal seam accounted for nearly 34 million tons of production in 2006.
West Virginia has 4% of all coal reserves. Source: wvminesafety.org/wvcoalfacts.htm
Did you know...
You know Electricity is Dangerous! Did you know that everyday in the United States there are:
8,000 Electrical Injuries3,600 Permanently Disabling20 Work related injuries every day
Well Arc Flash Hazards are dangerous too - In general, arc flash incidents are highly unlikely on systems operating at less than 240 volts phase to phase.120 volts does not provide sufficient energy to cause an arc flash hazard. Some 480V electrical services have enough capacity to cause an arc flash hazard.
Arc Flash Hazards can seriously injure or kill people on and off the job
Arc Flash is a serious issue that poses a risk to each of us
Respect electr
icity, wear the proper PPE.Don’t Gamble with Your Life!
Quote of the Week:
There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure. -Colin Powell
Friday, February 6, 2009
Safety - Off the Job!
Week 6 Health and Safety Tip
Don’t think you can let your guard down just because you punched out. Safety issues are a 24/7 Concern - Keep Your Guard Up.
In fact, studies have shown that you are more likely to get injured off the job. Approximately 70 percent of all deaths and more than 55 percent of all injuries happen away from work. Home-related accidents account for an estimated 20,000 deaths and 25 million injuries annually.
-Do you follow proper safety procedures at home?
-Are you using the proper tools and equipment?
-Do you wear PPE at home? You only have two eyes – wear those safety glasses (and your other PPE too!
Physical/emotional suffering causes immeasurable grief to loved ones
Grief often leads to anger, blame and stress which can wreck a marriage
Your family needs you to stay healthy, so work safely on and off the job.
Motor vehicle accidents are a major cause of the accidents and injuries. Too many people are trying to multi-task while driving; many drivers are fatigued; some drivers are under the influence. Driving is serious business and you should drive defensively. Bottom Line: When you drive – Just Drive! Teach your children to take the responsibility of driving seriously and Never, Never Drink and Drive!
Around the house falls are the number 1 cause of injury and death. Use fall protection, buy or rent a good ladder when you need one; if you have small kids put up the kiddie gates and Keep an Eye on Them – They are what’s important! Fires are also a concern – are your smoke detectors (and carbon monoxide detectors) working. Have kids – have a fire drill and an escape plan.
Have a pool (or five gallon buckets around) beware of drowning concerns. Poisoning (chemicals, cleaners, medications) is another concern with small kids in the house. Make sure babysitters stay off the cell and focus on watching your children when you are away!
Safety is a way of life – Take control of your life; be a Safety Leader 24/7
Don’t think you can let your guard down just because you punched out. Safety issues are a 24/7 Concern - Keep Your Guard Up.
In fact, studies have shown that you are more likely to get injured off the job. Approximately 70 percent of all deaths and more than 55 percent of all injuries happen away from work. Home-related accidents account for an estimated 20,000 deaths and 25 million injuries annually.
-Do you follow proper safety procedures at home?
-Are you using the proper tools and equipment?
-Do you wear PPE at home? You only have two eyes – wear those safety glasses (and your other PPE too!
Physical/emotional suffering causes immeasurable grief to loved ones
Grief often leads to anger, blame and stress which can wreck a marriage
Your family needs you to stay healthy, so work safely on and off the job.
Motor vehicle accidents are a major cause of the accidents and injuries. Too many people are trying to multi-task while driving; many drivers are fatigued; some drivers are under the influence. Driving is serious business and you should drive defensively. Bottom Line: When you drive – Just Drive! Teach your children to take the responsibility of driving seriously and Never, Never Drink and Drive!
Around the house falls are the number 1 cause of injury and death. Use fall protection, buy or rent a good ladder when you need one; if you have small kids put up the kiddie gates and Keep an Eye on Them – They are what’s important! Fires are also a concern – are your smoke detectors (and carbon monoxide detectors) working. Have kids – have a fire drill and an escape plan.
Have a pool (or five gallon buckets around) beware of drowning concerns. Poisoning (chemicals, cleaners, medications) is another concern with small kids in the house. Make sure babysitters stay off the cell and focus on watching your children when you are away!
Safety is a way of life – Take control of your life; be a Safety Leader 24/7
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Safety Tidbits 2-9-09
Save a Buck or Two
Here are a few tips that can save you a little money: Every little bit helps.
Change your furnace filter or save even more…
Check the seals around doors and windows and
Turn the thermostat down a degree or two and shave 10% off your heating bill
Make sure the tires on your car are properly inflated and change the air filter...
Oh and driving a few mph slower saves gas, too!
Carpooling/Ride sharing can save you even more.
Order water instead of coffee or a soda when eating out…
Pack your lunch and save even more.
If everyone in the family has a cell phone-consider eliminating the land line.
Check out the movie selection at your local library instead of renting…
And check out a book while you're there -- rather than buying one.
Eat a healthy breakfast and fill a travel mug with coffee from home
…instead of buying coffee every morning
Look for deals and learn to say ‘NO!’
Getting ahead in a difficult profession requires avid faith in oneself. That is why some people with mediocre talent, but with great inner drive, go much further than people with vastly superior talent. -Sophia Loren
Are you focused?
Many employees are stressed because of the current economic situation. People are thinking about their own situation and what will happen if they get laid off. Some have spouses who are now out of work; many are falling behind on bills…they are not focused on the task at hand and that can lead to accidents and injuries. Daily tailgate meetings can help employees get their minds back on the job. With Eyes and Mind on Task, workers are aware of their surrounding and better able to Stay out of the Line of Fire. If your company has an Employee Assistance Program, make sure your employees are aware of it.
Build on your Successes
Every day without an injury or accident is a success. It starts when each employee makes a commitment to safety. We must all choose to make safety a core personal value. It cannot simply be a priority – we all know priorities change. Doing the right thing is not always easy but it is Always Right. Challenge yourself to Stand Up and Speak Out for Safety whenever you see a safety concern. Finding a deficiency or witnessing an unsafe act is your OPPORTUNITY to make a positive impact in somebody’s life. Like the folks at Nike say, ‘Just Do It!’
Quote of the Week
Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. -Abraham Lincoln
Here are a few tips that can save you a little money: Every little bit helps.
Change your furnace filter or save even more…
Check the seals around doors and windows and
Turn the thermostat down a degree or two and shave 10% off your heating bill
Make sure the tires on your car are properly inflated and change the air filter...
Oh and driving a few mph slower saves gas, too!
Carpooling/Ride sharing can save you even more.
Order water instead of coffee or a soda when eating out…
Pack your lunch and save even more.
If everyone in the family has a cell phone-consider eliminating the land line.
Check out the movie selection at your local library instead of renting…
And check out a book while you're there -- rather than buying one.
Eat a healthy breakfast and fill a travel mug with coffee from home
…instead of buying coffee every morning
Look for deals and learn to say ‘NO!’
Getting ahead in a difficult profession requires avid faith in oneself. That is why some people with mediocre talent, but with great inner drive, go much further than people with vastly superior talent. -Sophia Loren
Are you focused?
Many employees are stressed because of the current economic situation. People are thinking about their own situation and what will happen if they get laid off. Some have spouses who are now out of work; many are falling behind on bills…they are not focused on the task at hand and that can lead to accidents and injuries. Daily tailgate meetings can help employees get their minds back on the job. With Eyes and Mind on Task, workers are aware of their surrounding and better able to Stay out of the Line of Fire. If your company has an Employee Assistance Program, make sure your employees are aware of it.
Build on your Successes
Every day without an injury or accident is a success. It starts when each employee makes a commitment to safety. We must all choose to make safety a core personal value. It cannot simply be a priority – we all know priorities change. Doing the right thing is not always easy but it is Always Right. Challenge yourself to Stand Up and Speak Out for Safety whenever you see a safety concern. Finding a deficiency or witnessing an unsafe act is your OPPORTUNITY to make a positive impact in somebody’s life. Like the folks at Nike say, ‘Just Do It!’
Quote of the Week
Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. -Abraham Lincoln
Monday, January 5, 2009
Multi-tasking can be dangerous and more
Who you gonna CALL?
Recent reports suggest that people using a cell phone are 4 times more likely to have an accident. OK...so what about these teens that actually text while driving? Bottom Line: If you aren't driving DEFENSIVELY, you may be in trouble! Wake up America! TEXTING WHILE DRIVING...you may not live to fight another day!
Drive...JUST DRIVE, Please!
Now to the rest of you...listen up! Eating in your car while rolling down the highway at 70 mph is not the smartest thing you've done. Putting on make-up or reading the paper is also stupid...wake up people. Too many Highway Patrol Officers are getting killed by inattentive drivers. Too often while arresting someone for a moving violation an officer of the law loses his/her life to another driver who swerves out of control. I know, I damn near killed an S.D. Highway Patrolman while reaching for a water bottle on the floor of the passenger side. He was not too happy with me! Thank God I noticed I was vearing in a nick of time.
Break-in Tip
Economy is depressed -- Burglaries are on the rise! No Kidding? Access is usually gained through an open window, unlocked door, or an unlocked first floor window. Now is a good time to lock the place up (even while you are at home)! Many druggies don't care if the home is occupied or not...they are just thinking about the next high.
Recent reports suggest that people using a cell phone are 4 times more likely to have an accident. OK...so what about these teens that actually text while driving? Bottom Line: If you aren't driving DEFENSIVELY, you may be in trouble! Wake up America! TEXTING WHILE DRIVING...you may not live to fight another day!
Drive...JUST DRIVE, Please!
Now to the rest of you...listen up! Eating in your car while rolling down the highway at 70 mph is not the smartest thing you've done. Putting on make-up or reading the paper is also stupid...wake up people. Too many Highway Patrol Officers are getting killed by inattentive drivers. Too often while arresting someone for a moving violation an officer of the law loses his/her life to another driver who swerves out of control. I know, I damn near killed an S.D. Highway Patrolman while reaching for a water bottle on the floor of the passenger side. He was not too happy with me! Thank God I noticed I was vearing in a nick of time.
Break-in Tip
Economy is depressed -- Burglaries are on the rise! No Kidding? Access is usually gained through an open window, unlocked door, or an unlocked first floor window. Now is a good time to lock the place up (even while you are at home)! Many druggies don't care if the home is occupied or not...they are just thinking about the next high.
2009 – Time for Change
The View from Here…
Forget the Diet – most fail!
Make Healthy Choices and turn them into Healthy Habits!
Fact: Your TV may be Killing You! You have to Move to Lose!
Adults need Physical Exercise 3-5 times a week – There is no other way!
30 minutes 3 times a week will do it. Turn off the TV for a couple hours a week and take a walk – that would be a great start!
Fact: Portion Size in America is OUT OF CONTROL!
If you eat out…set ¼ - 1/3 of the portion aside and take it home
Sometimes a ½ of the meal served in a restaurant is a FULL Serving.
Fact: Fast Food is killing people! Fast food = Fast Death!
Come on a 400 pound teenager. A HALF TON Dad! Doesn’t anybody eat regular food anymore? High fat, high sodium, high Cholesterol and all this for only $2.99! Go ahead Super-size Me! Fat is the new Thin! WAKE UP AMERICA!!
Fact: We have become a fat, lazy society! I am not criticizing…just stating a fact!
Like most Americans my pants are tight. The good life is taking its toll. 50 years ago it was hard to find a guy is his 40’s packing a lot of extra weight. People were more physically active and didn’t live (or die) on fast food as we are today. Today morbid obesity is all too common.
Choose today to adapt a healthy lifestyle…take responsibility for yourself…It really is up to you. NO, it may not be easy, but it will allow you a better life. Too many people in this country are diabetic because they are overweight. Many more are fighting high blood pressure, high cholesterol and suffering heart attacks and strokes because it is EASY!
Its 2009…Start living RIGHT... forget the diet (the first 3 letters spell DIE – because diets kill people too). Remember if you’re not actively working to stay in shape…your health is deteriorating.
A safe and healthy life begins at home. But to stay SAFE (On or Off the job) don’t forget to:
Keep your Mind ON TASK! – FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS!!!
Stay out of the Line of Fire – (Be aware of the dangers around you; keep track of your other hand; know what your co-workers are doing)
Keep your Eyes on Task!
Maintain Balance, Traction and Grip! – Use handrails; practice 100% Tie off; keep ladders and stairways clean; replace work boots as necessary; use care when mounting and dismounting equipment, etc.
Make it a Great Year --- Safe Production is the key and that BOTH YOU and ME!
Forget the Diet – most fail!
Make Healthy Choices and turn them into Healthy Habits!
Fact: Your TV may be Killing You! You have to Move to Lose!
Adults need Physical Exercise 3-5 times a week – There is no other way!
30 minutes 3 times a week will do it. Turn off the TV for a couple hours a week and take a walk – that would be a great start!
Fact: Portion Size in America is OUT OF CONTROL!
If you eat out…set ¼ - 1/3 of the portion aside and take it home
Sometimes a ½ of the meal served in a restaurant is a FULL Serving.
Fact: Fast Food is killing people! Fast food = Fast Death!
Come on a 400 pound teenager. A HALF TON Dad! Doesn’t anybody eat regular food anymore? High fat, high sodium, high Cholesterol and all this for only $2.99! Go ahead Super-size Me! Fat is the new Thin! WAKE UP AMERICA!!
Fact: We have become a fat, lazy society! I am not criticizing…just stating a fact!
Like most Americans my pants are tight. The good life is taking its toll. 50 years ago it was hard to find a guy is his 40’s packing a lot of extra weight. People were more physically active and didn’t live (or die) on fast food as we are today. Today morbid obesity is all too common.
Choose today to adapt a healthy lifestyle…take responsibility for yourself…It really is up to you. NO, it may not be easy, but it will allow you a better life. Too many people in this country are diabetic because they are overweight. Many more are fighting high blood pressure, high cholesterol and suffering heart attacks and strokes because it is EASY!
Its 2009…Start living RIGHT... forget the diet (the first 3 letters spell DIE – because diets kill people too). Remember if you’re not actively working to stay in shape…your health is deteriorating.
A safe and healthy life begins at home. But to stay SAFE (On or Off the job) don’t forget to:
Keep your Mind ON TASK! – FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS!!!
Stay out of the Line of Fire – (Be aware of the dangers around you; keep track of your other hand; know what your co-workers are doing)
Keep your Eyes on Task!
Maintain Balance, Traction and Grip! – Use handrails; practice 100% Tie off; keep ladders and stairways clean; replace work boots as necessary; use care when mounting and dismounting equipment, etc.
Make it a Great Year --- Safe Production is the key and that BOTH YOU and ME!
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