Monthly Archives: July 2015

Backing up equipment and vehicles is a challenging and dangerous task that can cause serious injury or even death to workers. Employers and supervisors should provide workers with: Information to recognize hazards Vehicles and equipment that operate properly (horns, four-way flashers, backup alarms, mirrors, sensors and cameras) Training to operate equipment safely Training to inspect their vehicles and surroundings before driving and after breaks to see if the area is clear. To Prevent Runovers, Train Workers to: Keep mirrors and cab windows clean. Roll down windows and open vehicle’s doors to hear shouts. Know the vehicle’s blind spots — mirrors never show the entire view. Have another worker [...]

You are your employer’s most valuable asset! The way that you drive says everything about you and your company. Make a positive statement by following these work-related safe driving practices. Stay Safe Use a seat belt at all times – driver and passenger(s). Be well-rested before driving. Avoid taking medications that make you drowsy. Set a realistic goal for the number of miles that you can drive safely each day. If you are impaired by alcohol or any drug, do not drive. Stay Focused Driving requires your full attention. Avoid distractions, such as adjusting the radio or other controls, eating or [...]

Protecting Workers from Heat Stress Heat Illness Exposure to heat can cause illness and death. The most serious heat illness is heat stroke. Other heat illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash, should also be avoided. There are precautions your employer should take any time temperatures are high and the job involves physical work. Risk Factors for Heat Illness High temperature and humidity, direct sun exposure, no breeze or wind Low liquid intake Heavy physical labor Waterproof clothing No recent exposure to hot workplaces Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion Headache, dizziness, or fainting Weakness and wet skin Irritability [...]

The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires chemical manufacturers, distributors, or importers to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) (formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets or MSDSs) to communicate the hazards of hazardous chemical products. As of June 1, 2015, the HCS will require new SDSs to be in a uniform format, and include the section numbers, the headings, and associated information under the headings below: Section 1, Identification includes product identifier; manufacturer or distributor name, address, phone number; emergency phone number; recommended use; restrictions on use. Section 2, Hazard(s) identification includes all hazards regarding the chemical; required label elements. Section [...]