Topics

16

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Vehicles and Winter Weather Survival

« on: December 03, 2008, 05:07:21 pm »

Submitted for post by Mr. Breeden

                                       Surviving Winter Weather

Statistics
In a CTRE study, crash rates were calculated for sections of Iowa’s Interstate highways when snowfall exceeded 0.2 inches per hour. The rates were compared to crash rates for the same highway sections (same month, weekday, and time) when the weather was clear. When road surfaces were icy or snowy, or weather conditions were snow or sleet, crash rates were 13 times higher than during clear weather. – Iowa State University, Center for Transportation Research and Education

Introduction
Throughout much of the USA (especially at higher elevations), driving conditions during the winter often include snow, sleet, and ice.  By themselves, these conditions make driving difficult because of reduced visibility, but they also translate to slower traffic, hazardous road conditions (vehicle control), and short tempers from frustrated drivers.
Even if you are in a warmer climate, your drive may be made more difficult by:
Greater rainfall than during other times of the year, shorter daylight hours, more glare during dawn and dusk,
Slippery roads (fallen leaves, road oils, etc.), poor visibility and wind gusts.

This topic offers tips and insights into dealing with wintry conditions.  An easy way to look at surviving winter weather is to break it down to key steps:
1.Prepare your vehicle for the expected weather conditions
2.Plan your trips
3.Modify your driving as needed based on conditions
4.Be ready for emergencies (including the potential to become stranded)

1) Prepare Your Vehicle
Prepare your vehicle for winter.  While winter conditions can vary greatly throughout the USA and Canada, a seasonal check-up of key maintenance items is important:
*Check windshield washer levels, and wiper blade condition – you’ll need both working properly to clear your windshield of rain, slush and accumulating grim or salts thrown up from the road.
*Tire pressure must be monitored – for every 10-degree drop in air temperature; your tires will lose 1-psi of pressure.
*Tire tread depths are also vital – thin treads compromise stopping ability and handling, especially in slush, snow, and rain.
*Your batteries should be in good condition and able to hold a charge – they not only help to start your engine, but you may need that battery power if stranded at night to power emergency lights.
*Your engine’s fluid levels should be confirmed and topped off as needed.
Any erratic behavior by the engine or transmission should be investigated by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. 
In addition to a full maintenance check-up, be sure to follow your company’s procedures for pre-trip inspections – document any problems and get assistance to be sure that your vehicle is ready for the weather conditions you expect to encounter during your trip (even if it is sunny and warm at your location, you may find dramatically different conditions at higher elevations, or at your destination).

2) Plan Your Trips
Take time to become familiar with your planned route and several alternatives in case one route becomes impassible due to traffic conditions, crashes or severe weather.  You can determine traffic, road and weather conditions prior to leaving by using the internet, checking TV or Radio stations, or by calling designated traffic hotlines in your area. 
Many states support “511” phone lines that provide updated traffic and road conditions for their state.  Other hotlines may apply for your destination state and these are published on most state’s web sites or in phone books.

If you anticipate extreme weather (blizzards, etc.), make sure your teammates know your planned route and check in times (so that they can send help if you miss designated check-ins, etc.)

3) Modify Your Driving as Conditions Change
When road conditions are slippery, look farther down the road than normal so that you can anticipate emergencies and avoid the need for sudden maneuvers.  Most skids are caused by last-second stops and turns on slippery pavements.
Be extra cautious with hills.  Slow down as you come to the top of a hill – you may be surprised at the last minute to find a stalled vehicle or other obstacle that was not obvious as you climbed the hill (especially if the obstacle is located just over the crest of the hill in a “blind spot”).  Moving more slowly also helps you to deal with the downgrade side of the hill where loss of traction and gravity are working against you.
When possible, avoid driving through an area where other vehicles have had trouble with the road conditions. The same conditions that caused their trouble may still exist and could create trouble for you, too.
Leave extra space between your vehicle and others.  This anticipates sliding and some loss of control is possible.  Additionally, snow or ice may fly off of vehicles ahead of you causing poor visibility. 
After all precautions are taken and good practices are followed there still will be occasions when conditions become too hazardous to proceed. There may be times when it would be safer to pull off the road at the first safe place, notify your company of the delay and wait until conditions improve before continuing.
 
4) Be Ready for Emergencies (In Case You Become Stranded)
Generally, it is best to stay with your vehicle unless you know exactly where you are, how far it is to possible help, and are certain you will improve your situation.  If you do leave the vehicle, leave a plainly visible note indicating when you left, what direction you were headed (intended destination) and a contact number to call to verify you’ve arrived safely.
To signal for assistance you could light two flares and place one at each end of the vehicle a safe distance away. You could also hang a brightly colored cloth from your antenna.
If you are sure the vehicle's exhaust pipe is not blocked, run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour or so depending upon the amount of fuel available (you may need to follow other guidelines based on the type of vehicle and engine configuration).
Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by bundling up and eating food that you’ve packed for emergencies.  Keep at least one window open slightly. Heavy snow and ice can seal a car shut. 
You should be prepared in case of an emergency situation on the road.  A few items that could be helpful:
*A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod-type jack
*A shovel
*Jumper cables
*A bag of salt (to melt ice) or cat litter (to provide traction in snow)
*Tool kit and fresh First Aid supplies
*Working flashlight and extra batteries
*Reflective triangles and brightly-colored cloth
*Exterior windshield cleaner
*Ice scraper and snow brush
*Wooden stick matches in a waterproof container
*Non-perishable, high-energy foods like unsalted canned nuts, dried fruits, and hard candy.
*Heavy woolen mittens, socks, cap, blankets.

Survive Winter Weather
Prepare for poor weather with maintenance checks
Plan your trip
Slow down on slippery roads & leave extra space between vehicles
Stop and Notify if conditions are too dangerous
Stay with the vehicle, stay warm, make sure you have fresh air (‘crack’ window, clear exhaust pipe)

17

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Ladder Safety

« on: December 01, 2008, 08:40:53 am »

Submitted for post by Mr. Breeden.

Wobbly Ladders Should Be Discarded.

If your life depends on a piece of equipment, you take the time to inspect it before each use, don't you? What if that piece of equipment is a common ladder? Workers who are careful about other hazards sometimes take chances with ladders, not realizing how seriously they could be injured.

Safety incident records include many accounts of workers killed in falls from ladders. Serious head injuries and broken bones are frequent outcomes from a ladder mishap. Many electrocution deaths involve a ladder contacting an electrical line.

Job-constructed ladders, or ladders made on site, are sometimes built in haste and may not be built to acceptable standards. They are often neglected and could cause serious injury if used.

It is important to use only a ladder in perfect condition, and to use it correctly:

*Inspect the ladder before each use. Every component must be in good condition - the rungs, side rails and feet. Every nut, bolt and rivet must be secure.

*If you find defects, remove the ladder from service immediately. Tag it defective so someone else will not use it by mistake. The ladder should be repaired if it is possible to do so properly. If it is not repairable it should be sawed into pieces so it can't be used again.

*Don't try to "make do" with a ladder of the wrong length. The ladder must extend above the top of the roof so you can balance yourself as you step off. A common recommendation is three feet. Check what the recommendations are in your area. You cannot make use of the full length of an extension ladder because the two sections must overlap. This overlapping is dictated by its overall length. Manufacturer's guidelines should be followed.

*Use a ladder of the correct type for the work you are going to do - straight, extension or step ladder. It must be rated for the weight it is going to hold.

*When working from a ladder, be sure to follow your company's fall protection policy. Never over-reach while working from a ladder. A good rule of thumb is to reach no more than an arm's length from the side of the ladder.

*Note the material the ladder is made of. Wood can split and break with age and wear. Metal ladders can buckle under too much weight. Metal ladders must not be used for electrical work. The ladder must be resistant to corrosion from moisture and chemicals present in the work area. Fiberglass is used for many ladder designs.

*Set up the ladder correctly. If the ground surface is uneven, dig a hole for the lower leg rather than resting the high leg on a block. The surface should be solid and stable so the ladder will not slip.

*Use the four to one formula when setting up a ladder. For every four feet the ladder reaches up the wall, it should be one foot away from the wall. So if you have a ladder touching the wall at the 12 foot level, the ladder's feet should be three feet away from the wall. This gives you a safe angle of 75 degrees. If the angle is greater than this, the ladder will not be as strong. If the angle is less than this, the ladder could tip over backwards.

Your life may depend on the condition of the ladder you use. Remember this when you choose a ladder for the job.

18

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Winter Workplace Safety

« on: November 20, 2008, 08:09:59 pm »

                                                            Winter Workplace Safety

Anyone working north of the Florida border is well aware that the winter season is approaching rapidly. With winter, comes snow and ice. Seasonal weather conditions present hazards on and off the job site. If we plan and prepare for these conditions we can prevent injuries that are the result of slips, falls and muscle strain. As we all know, these types of injuries cause unnecessary pain and suffering to injured employees and also affect business performance.
In an effort to prevent injury, we all must plan and take the lead to minimize the effect of the conditions created by winter weather. Listed below are some actions that you can take to prevent unnecessary injury to employees:

�� Review and identify the areas that are subject to icing where our employees park, walk and work. Discuss these affected areas with your Client Representative and come to an agreement as to who is responsible for maintaining the area in a safe condition.


�� Select an acceptable product (sand, salt etc.) for controlling the potential hazards created by weather conditions.


�� Place the de-icing product and tools to spread it in places and containers accessible to employees who may be required to access areas of the site that may not be free of the hazards created by weather conditions.


�� Assign to the proper individuals the responsibility of inspecting and maintaining routinely traveled areas in a safe condition before the start of, during and just before the end of each shift. (Note: The vast majority of the injuries that are the result of falls on icy surfaces occur while walking to and from the parking area.)


�� If a hazardous condition exists in an area for which our Client has accepted responsibility, take corrective action to abate the condition and then address maintenance of the area with your Client Representative.


�� Raise awareness by posting signs and talking about the hazards associated with the weather at daily pre-job briefs and at weekly safety meetings.


�� Remind employees to focus on the subconscious act of walking where hazardous conditions exist on your site. I once heard the advice to “walk like a duck” when the ground is icy, and have never forgotten that tip.

Planning and maintaining a focus on the task at hand will go a long way in preventing injury to employees.

19

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Electric Space Heaters

« on: November 20, 2008, 08:08:06 pm »

                                                               Electric Space Heaters


I’m sure you’ve noticed that the weather is beginning to turn colder as winter draws near. With cooler temperatures outside it becomes more difficult to regulate temperatures inside that suit everyone’s needs.
Just look around the office. How many people have an electric space heater under their desk? How many people use electric or oil portable heaters in various areas of their homes?

Space heaters are responsible for thousands of fires every year, fires that result in death and injury and cost about $50 million in property loss annually. If you use or plan to use a portable space heater at work or at home you need to be aware of the dangers.

When purchasing a heater always look for a nationally recognized testing laboratory seal. These heaters have been tested to meet specific safety standards, and manufacturers are required to provide use and care information to the consumer.
Purchase a heater with a guard around the heating element. A wire grill or other protection is essential for keeping fingers or fabrics from touching the heating element. Always read and follow the instructions for operation and maintenance.
It is best to use heaters that have an adjustable thermostat and that have anti-tipping devices. These devices will turn the heater off if a tip over is detected.

Always place your heater a minimum of 18” from all combustible materials. Yes, the walls of the cubicles are made of combustible material. Prior to leaving the office at the end of the day, ensure that your space heater is turned off. I also recommend unplugging it if you will be out of the office for any extended period of time, such as over the weekend or when traveling.

20

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Sleep Deprivation

« on: October 18, 2008, 06:36:16 am »

                                                  Sleep Deprivation

Did you know?
More than 25% of the U.S. population report occasionally not getting enough sleep, while nearly 10% experience chronic insomnia.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

 
While we often consider sleep to be a passive activity, sufficient sleep is increasingly being recognized as an essential aspect of health promotion and chronic disease prevention in the public health community.

Insufficient sleep is associated with the onset of a number of chronic diseases and conditions--like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression--and serves as a key component in their management and outcome.

Sleep deprivation has also been blamed for vehicle- and machinery-related accidents, causing substantial injury and disability each year.  In essence, drowsy driving can be as dangerous and preventable as driving while intoxicated.

So, how many hours of sleep does each person need?  According to experts, there is no magic number. 
 
Not only do different age groups need different amounts of sleep, but sleep needs are also individual.  Just like any other characteristics you're born with, the amount of sleep you need to function best may be different for you than for someone who is of the same age and gender.  While you may be at your absolute best after sleeping seven hours a night, someone else may clearly need nine hours to lead a happy and productive life.

Below are a few tips that can help you achieve sleep and the benefits it provides.

• Maintain a regular bed and wake time schedule.
• Establish a regular, relaxing bedtime routine, such as soaking in a hot bath or hot tub, and then reading a book or listening to soothing music.
• Create a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, quiet and comfortable.
• Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillows.
• Finish eating at least two to three hours before your regular bedtime.
• Exercise regularly, completing your workout at least a few hours before bedtime.
• Avoid caffeine (e.g., coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate) close to bedtime.  It can keep you awake.
• Avoid nicotine (e.g., cigarettes, tobacco products).  When used close to bedtime, it can lead to poor sleep.
• Avoid alcohol close to bedtime.

(NOTE: These tips are intended for typical adults, but not necessarily for children or persons experiencing medical problems.  If you have difficulty sleeping, try logging your concerns in a sleep diary and speaking with your doctor.)
 

21

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Fire Safety Awareness

« on: October 18, 2008, 06:28:36 am »

                                                      Fire Safety Awareness


According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading causes of home fires are cooking, heating, electrical and smoking materials. Cooking fires continues to be the number one cause of home fires. In 2005, cooking fires accounted for 146,400 reported fires, 480 civilian deaths, 4,690 civilian injuries and $876 million in direct property damage.

The months of January and December are the peak months for home fires and home fire fatalities. Greater than 50% of home fire deaths occur between the hours of 11 pm and 7 am, yet only 20% of home fires actually occur during these hours.
What can you do to protect yourself and your family? The answer is simple and it is the same message that you have heard year after year – first, invest in smoke detectors for every level of your home. Once you have smoke detectors in place the maintenance of them is very simple, yet many people die every year because they fail to properly maintain their smoke detectors. It is this simple:
Put fresh batteries in your detectors twice per year – a good rule of thumb is to do this when you change your clocks between standard time and daylight savings time.
Test your detectors every month. This involves two easy steps – depress the test button and verify that the alarm activates.

Another method of reducing your chance of dying in a house fire is to have a home fire escape plan and practice it. This is especially important if you have small children in the home. You should identify two exits from every room, where possible and locate a central meeting place that is outside and away from the structure. Teach your children to exit quickly and meet at that central meeting place.


You should never re-enter your home – for any reason – once you have exited during a fire emergency. This is another cause of fire deaths and it typically involves people returning to the home to rescue pets. Very often the pet will find a way to get out and the would-be rescuer is overcome by smoke.
With the start of the fall season, many areas of the country will start to experience shorter days and cooler nights. It won’t be long before it is time to crank up the heater. With this thought in mind, have you had your furnace cleaned and inspected for this winter? How about your chimney? For those who have a fireplace and like to burn for additional heat or just for the ambiance, it is important to ensure that your chimney is clean and free from obstructions. Chimney fires can quickly rage out of control and very often end up spreading through interior walls and attics.
Another hazard to the winter heating season is the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning. Newer homes with energy efficient windows and doors are typically sealed tight and allow very little draft. If your fossil fuel furnace malfunctions or hasn’t been properly maintained carbon monoxide will accumulate in the home and cause you and your family to become ill and/or die.

The best methods of preventing carbon monoxide poisoning are, again, have your furnace properly cleaned and serviced and invest in a carbon monoxide detector. The detector should be placed on the first living level of the home and mounted on the wall lower than you breathing zone. This will ensure that concentrations of carbon monoxide are detected and the alarm sounds before the concentration is great enough to cause illness. If your detector alarms, exit the home immediately and call the fire department. Don’t try to diagnose the problem yourself and stay out of the house until the fire department tells you it’s safe to re-enter.

Do not attempt to ventilate the home before you leave. If the carbon monoxide leak is very slow this will make it more difficult for the fire department to determine where the leak is originating from and how bad it is. This may also clear the home, temporarily, of the hazard leading to a false sense of security and tempt you to re-enter prematurely.

22

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Protecting Workers in Hot Environments

« on: August 27, 2008, 07:50:26 pm »

Submitted by Mr. Breeden

                                     PROTECTING WORKERS IN HOT ENVIRONMENTS

Many workers spend some part of their working day in a hot environment. Workers in foundries, laundries, construction projects, and bakeries -- to name a few industries -- often face hot conditions which pose special hazards to safety and health.

                                            HEAT STRESS CAUSES BODY REACTIONS

 Four environmental factors affect the amount of stress a worker faces in a hot work area: temperature, humidity, radiant heat (such as from the sun or a furnace) and air velocity. Perhaps most important to the level of stress an individual faces are personal characteristics such as age, weight, fitness, medical condition and acclimatization to the heat.
The body reacts to high external temperature by circulating blood to the skin which increases skin temperature and allows the body to give off its excess heat through the skin. However, if the muscles are being used for physical labor, less blood is available to flow to the skin and release the heat.
 Sweating is another means the body uses to maintain a stable internal body temperature in the face of heat. However, sweating is effective only if the humidity level is low enough to permit evaporation and if the fluids and salts lost are adequately replaced.
Of course there are many steps a person might choose to take to reduce the risk of heat stress, such as moving to a cooler place, reducing the work pace or load, or removing or loosening some clothing.
 But the body cannot dispose of excess heat, it will store it. When this happens, the body's core temperature rises and the heart rate increases. As the body continues to store heat, the individual begins to lose concentration and has difficulty focusing on a task, may become irritable or sick and often loses the desire to drink. The next stage is most often fainting and death is possible if the person is not removed from the heat stress.

HEAT DISORDERS
 Heat stroke, the most serious health problem for workers in hot environments, is caused by the failure of the body's internal mechanism to regulate its core temperature. Sweating stops and the body can no longer rid itself of excess heat. Signs include (1) mental confusion, delirium, loss of consciousness, convulsions or coma; (2) a body temperature of 106 degrees F or higher; and (3) hot dry skin which may be red, mottled, or bluish.  Victims of heat stroke will die unless treated promptly. While awaiting medical help, the victim must be removed to a cool area and his or her clothing soaked with cool water. He or she should be fanned vigorously to increase cooling. Prompt first aid can prevent permanent injury to the brain and other vital organs.
 Heat exhaustion results from loss of fluid through sweating when a worker has failed to drink enough fluids or take in enough salt or both. The worker with heat exhaustion still sweats but experiences extreme weakness or fatigue, giddiness, nausea, or headache. The skin is clammy and moist, the complexion pale or flushed, and the body temperature normal or slightly higher. Treatment is usually simple: the victim should rest in a cool place and drink an electrolyte solution (a beverage used by athletes to quickly restore potassium, calcium, and magnesium salts). Severe cases involving victims who vomit or lose consciousness may require longer treatment under medical supervision.
Heat cramps, painful spasms of the muscles, are caused when workers drink large quantities of water but fail to replace their bodies' salt loss. Tired muscles -- those used for performing the work -- are usually the ones most susceptible to cramps. Cramps may occur during or after working hours and may be relieved by taking liquids by mouth or saline solutions intravenously for quicker relief, if medically determined to be required.
Fainting (heat syncope) may be a problem for the worker unacclimatized to a hot environment who simply stands still in the heat. Victims usually recover quickly after a brief period of lying down. Moving around, rather than standing still, will usually reduce the possibility of fainting.
Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, may occur in hot and humid environments where sweat is not easily removed from the surface of the skin by evaporation. When extensive or complicated by infection, heat rash can be so uncomfortable that it inhibits sleep and impedes a worker's performance or even results in temporary total disability. It can be prevented by resting in a cool place and allowing the skin to dry.

PREVENTING HEAT STRESS
Most heat-related health problems can be prevented or the risk of developing them reduced. Following a few basic precautions should lessen heat stress.

1. A variety of engineering controls including general ventilation and spot cooling by local exhaust ventilation at points of high heat production may be helpful. Shielding is required as protection from radiant heat sources. Evaporative cooling and mechanical refrigeration are other ways to reduce heat. Cooling fans can also reduce heat in hot conditions. Eliminating steam leaks will also help. Equipment modifications, the use of power tools to reduce manual labor and personal cooling devices or protective clothing are other ways to reduce the hazards of heat exposure for workers.

2. Work practices such as providing plenty of drinking water -- as much as a quart per worker per hour -- at the workplace can help reduce the risk of heat disorders. Training first aid workers to recognize and treat heat stress disorders and making the names of trained staff known to all workers is essential. Employers should also consider an individual worker's physical condition when determining his or her fitness for working in hot environments. Older workers, obese workers and personnel on some types of medication are at greater risk.

3. Alternating work and rest periods with longer rest periods in a cool area can help workers avoid heat stress. If possible, heavy work should be scheduled during the cooler parts of the day and appropriate protective clothing provided. Supervisors should be trained to detect early signs of heat stress and should permit workers to interrupt their work if they are extremely uncomfortable.

4. Acclimatization to the heat through short exposures followed by longer periods of work in the hot environment can reduce heat stress. New employees and workers returning from an absence of two weeks or more should have 5-day period of acclimatization. This period should begin with 50 percent of the normal workload and time exposure the first day and gradually building up to 100 percent on the fifth day.

5. Employee education is vital so that workers are aware of the need to replace fluids and salt lost through sweat and can recognize dehydration, exhaustion, fainting, heat cramps, salt deficiency, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke as heat disorders. Workers should also be informed of the importance of daily weighing before and after work to avoid dehydration.

23

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Common Sense at Work

« on: August 27, 2008, 07:47:21 pm »

Submitted by Kentucky Steve.

                                          COMMON SENSE & ACCIDENT PREVENTION!

 Generally speaking, we are not born with common sense; we acquire it throughout life. Actually, common sense is really common experience--we learn about life from others' experiences as well as our own. Awareness of your environment, self-preservation and concern for your fellow workers are all factors in good common sense. Contrary to popular opinion, all workers can prevent themselves from getting hurt. The easy way to avoid pain is to observe how others have taken risks and been injured, rather than learning the hard way--from your own injury. That's common sense!
 The experts say at least 80% of industrial accidents are caused by unsafe acts on the part of employees--and not by unsafe conditions. Although employers are required by law to provide a safe and healthful workplace, it is up to you to be aware of your work environment and follow safe work practices. By avoiding unsafe acts and practicing common sense, your work will go smoother, with less chance for accidents.

Statistically, most accidents are caused by unsafe acts, including:

Being In A Hurry - Sometimes there is more concern for completing a job quickly instead of safely. Take time to do a good job and a safe job.

Taking Chances - Daring behavior or blatant disregard for safe work practices can put the whole work team at risk. Follow all company safety rules and watch out for your fellow employees. Horseplay is neverTaking never appropriate on the job and can lead to disciplinary action.

Being Preoccupied - Daydreaming, drifting off at work, thinking about the weekend and not paying attention to your work can get you seriously hurt or even killed. Focus on the work you are paid to do. If your mind is troubled or distracted, you're at risk for an accident.

Having A Negative Attitude - Being angry or in a bad mood can lead to severe accidents because anger nearly always rules over caution. Flying off the handle at work is potentially dangerous. Keep your bad moods in check, or more than one person may be hurt. Remember to stay cool and in charge of your emotions.

Failing To Look For Hidden Hazards - At many job-sites, work conditions are constantly changing. Sometimes new, unexpected hazards develop. Always be alert for changes in the environment. Hidden hazards include spilled liquids that could cause slips and falls; out-of-place objects that can be tripped over; unmarked floor openings one could step into; low overhead pipes that could mean a head injury; and other workers who don't see you enter their hazardous work area.

Remember to stay alert for hazards, so you won't become one more accident statistic: You can do a quality job without rushing. Maintain a positive attitude and keep your mind on your work.

This is just common sense--something smart workers use!

24

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Safety Glasses

« on: August 02, 2008, 03:35:41 pm »

                                                   How Much is $3.00 Worth to You?

How much is walking through the park, seeing all of Mother Nature in its bountiful glories of spring worth? How about the sight of your son or daughter getting married? What about watching the excitement of your children or grandchildren on Christmas morning? Or even seeing your new born child or grand child for the very first time? Can you put a price tag on being able to see such events? How about $3.00? No, you say! Well, that is exactly how much you are saying your sight is not worth, every time you do not wear your safety glasses!
Safety glasses, those $3.00 sight savers, have been used in the construction industry since the 1910's. And, undoubtedly, many workers have escaped serious eye injury because of them. You may personally know some fortunate individuals who saved their sight this way. Unfortunately, there are those that have not.

Let's take a look at a couple:

A carpenter recently asked his insurance company to pay for damage to his glass eye. It had been broken when a nail he was driving flew up and struck it. When asked how he had lost his own eye in the first place, he replied: “The same way, a nail hit it.” A world of darkness awaits this man when a nail strikes his remaining good eye.

A boilermaker recently lost an eye when a fragment of a shattered grinding disc penetrated the inner, non-impact resistant, lens on his welding hood. The employee had been grinding on his weld, with a 6-inch electric hand grinder, when the tool jammed causing the disc to shatter.
 
How many times have you seen a welder complete a weld, just to flip up their lens (or even worse their entire welding hood) and start chipping or grinding? Ever wonder why some companies/locations are now requiring welders to wear safety glasses under their welding hoods?

Still today, some have not grown to appreciate the need for eye protection. You, yourself, may find it difficult to get accustomed to wearing eye protection. But, would getting accustomed to wearing a glass eye or a life without sight be any easier?

25

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Unintentional Poisoning

« on: June 15, 2008, 07:53:00 am »

Submitted by Steve B.

                                                      Unintentional Poisoning

Did you know?
 Among people 35 to 54 years old, unintentional poisoning causes more deaths than motor vehicle crashes.
Source: cdc.gov
 
 Millions of people are unintentionally poisoned every year.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, unintentional poisoning includes the use of drugs or chemicals for recreational purposes in excessive amounts, such as an "overdose."  It also includes the excessive use of drugs or chemicals for nonrecreational purposes, such as by a toddler.

Poisons come in four different forms:

· Solid poisons include medicine, plants, powders (like laundry soap and automatic dishwasher detergent), granular pesticides, and fertilizers.

· Liquid poisons may be thick or thin and include lotion, liquid laundry soap, furniture polish, lighter fluid, and syrup medicines.  Pay special attention to liquids because a large quantity can be swallowed in a short period of time and they are absorbed rapidly.

· Spray poisons include insecticides, spray paint and some cleaning products.  Aerosol sprays may be flammable, explode and cause damage to the heart and lungs if inhaled.

· Invisible poisons include gases or vapors, such as carbon monoxide from hot water heaters and furnaces, exhaust fumes from automobiles, fumes from gas or oil-burning stoves, and industrial pollution in the air.

 

 There are ways to lower the risk of unintentional poisoning at home and at work.  The safety tips below were adapted from the American Association of Poison Control Centers’ poison prevention tips for children and adults.

Drugs and medicines

· Follow directions on the label when you give or take medicines.  Read all warning labels.  Some medicines cannot be taken safely when you take other medicines or drink alcohol.

·  Turn on a light when you give or take medicines at night so that you know you have the correct amount of the right medicine.

· Keep medicines in their original bottles or containers and never share or sell your prescription drugs.
 

Household chemicals and carbon monoxide

· Always read the label before using a product that may be poisonous.

· Keep chemical products in their original bottles or containers.  Do not use food containers such as cups, bottles or jars to store chemical products like cleaning solutions or beauty products. 

· Never mix household products together.  For example, mixing bleach and ammonia can result in toxic gases.

· Wear protective clothing (gloves, long sleeves, long pants, socks, shoes) if you spray pesticides or other chemicals.

· Turn on the fan and open windows when using chemical products such as household cleaners.

 

 Another recommendation is to put the poison control number, 1-800-222-1222, on or near every home telephone and cell phone.  The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Specialists in poison information can provide treatment recommendations for a variety of questions concerning treatments for poisoning, including bites and stings, food poisoning, occupational poisoning, drug overdose, and more.

 Unintentional poisoning can occur at any time.  Ensure you are educated about the risks and take appropriate caution to avoid what could be a deadly situation.
 

26

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Clean Hands and Germs

« on: June 15, 2008, 07:47:37 am »

Submitted for post by Mr. Breeden

                                                    PLEASE, WASH YOUR HANDS!

 Does the name Ignaz Semmelweis sound familiar?? Probably not, but nonetheless we are all in his debt. Dr. Semmelweis was the first to demonstrate over a hundred years ago that routine hand washing can prevent the spread of disease.
Dr. Semmelweis worked in a hospital in Vienna whose maternity patients were dying at such an alarming rate; patients were begging to be sent home. Most of the patients who died were being treated by student physicians who worked on cadavers during an anatomy class before beginning their rounds in the hospital. Because the students didn’t wash their hands between touching the cadavers and the living patients, pathogenic bacteria from the cadavers regularly were transmitted to the mothers via the students’ hands.

 In an experiment considered quaint at best by his colleagues, Dr. Semmelweis insisted that his students wash their hands before treating the mothers and deaths on the maternity ward decreased almost fivefold. This was the beginning of infection control. It was and still is today a landmark achievement not just in hospitals, but in public health, because today the value of hand washing in preventing disease is recognized in the community, in schools, in child care settings, and in eating establishments.

 Specialists cite hand washing as the SINGLE most effective way to prevent the spread of disease. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) cites five common household scenarios in which disease causing germs can be passed by contaminated hands!

Hands to food: Germs are transmitted from unclean hands to food, usually by an infected food preparer that didn’t wash their hands after using the bathroom. The germs are then passed to those who eat the food.

Infected infant to hands to other children: During diaper changing germs are passed from an infant with diarrhea to the hands of a parent; if the parent doesn’t wash their hand immediately before handling another child, the germs that caused the diarrhea are passed to the second child.


Food to hands to food: Germs are transmitted from raw, uncooked foods, such as chicken, to hands; the germs are then transferred to other foods, such as salads. Cooking the raw food kills germs, BUT, the salad remains contaminated.

Nose, mouth, or eyes to hands to others: Germs that cause colds, eye infections, and other illnesses can spread to the hands by sneezing, coughing, or rubbing the eyes and then can be transferred to other family members or co‐workers!!

Food to hands to infants: Germs from uncooked foods are transferred to hands and then to infants. If a parent handling raw chicken, for example, doesn’t wash his hand before tending to an infant, they could transfer germs such as salmonella from the food to the infant.

The CDC recommends vigorous scrubbing with warm, soapy water for at least 15 seconds. When soap and water are not available, liquid hand sanitizers such as Purell is a good substitute. Keep a little bottle in your pocket at all times!
To prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as diarrhea and hepatitis A from spreading from family member to family member and sometimes throughout a community, PLEASE WASH YOUR HANDS before preparing food, after changing a diaper, and after using the bathroom. It will help keep your family and co-workers safe and healthy!

27

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Severe Weather and Tornadoes

« on: May 08, 2008, 07:36:31 pm »

Submitted for post by S. Breeden

                                               Severe Weather and Tornadoes
 

What notification will you receive about the possibility of tornadoes in your part of the country?

*As conditions develop that could lead to severe storms, the National Weather Service will issue severe storm watches. This is the first indication of the potential for severe weather.

*Watches become warnings in most cases because severe weather has already occurred in your area.
 
*Tornado watches are also issued when conditions are favorable.

*A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted by a person, or it has been picked up on radar.

What should you do?

*Severe weather watch – keep alert for changes in the weather. If outdoors, monitor weather service radio for updates. Secure loose objects around your home such as outside furniture or toys. Close windows and doors – it is a fallacy to leave them open thinking they will allow falling pressures to equalize in your home and prevent damage.

*Severe weather warning – be prepared to take cover. If indoors, stay away from windows. Turn off electrical appliances and do not use the telephone – you can be electrocuted if lighting travels through your telephone system. If outdoors, be alert for lighting and winds. Do not seek shelter under trees or in low lying areas where flooding can occur.

*Tornado watch – stay tuned to the weather service for updates. Be prepared to seek shelter if outdoors, or to seek safe haven if indoors. Close all windows and doors securely.
 
*Tornado warning – seek shelter immediately. A small closet away from windows, or under a sturdy doorway, or even in the bathtub with a heavy blanket over you can protect you from flying debris. Go to the lowest safe level of your home and stay away from windows and doors.

28

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Teen Driving

« on: April 24, 2008, 09:36:09 pm »

Submitted for post by Mr. Breeden.

                                             Teen Safety Behind the Wheel

Did you know?Most new drivers crash within the first 10 months of receiving their license.  Source: nationalroadsafety.org

If the question "Can I have the keys to the car?" leaves you fearful, it's no wonder.  Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death for teens in the U.S., taking nearly 6,000 lives and injuring another 300,000 each year.

The primary causes of teenage car crashes include
driving too fast, running off the road, driving in the wrong lane, and driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.

There are a number of things you can do to help prepare-and protect-the teen driver in your life.
 
Communication is key
Make sure they understand the risks and responsibilities of driving.  Be sure to keep the dialogue open before, during and after the licensing process.
 
Set a good example
If your teen driver sees you driving poorly, they're likely to pick up your poor driving habits.  So teach by example by:
 
 *Obeying all traffic laws, especially the speed limit
 *Using a headset or other hands-free device that will enable you to keep both hands on the wheel when talking on your cell phone
 *Refraining from playing with the radio, CD players, MP3 players, electronic organizers or other devices
 *Always wearing your seatbelt 

Don't rush the process.
Not all teens are ready to drive when the law says they can.  Also, just because a teen has his/her permit or license, it doesn't mean the teen is ready for every driving condition, such as rough weather, heavy traffic and night driving.

Formal instruction
Driving lessons are a great way to provide structured, hands-on training.  Not only will driving lessons help prepare a teen for the open road, it may also lead to financial discounts on auto insurance premiums.

In addition, every state has its own variation of a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, which introduces driving privileges in phases.  GDLs may require:
 
 *An extended learner period of supervised driving
 *Required hours of adult supervision during the learner period
 *Restrictions on late-night driving during initial months of licensure
 *Restrictions on transporting teen passengers during initial months of licensure

Limit passengers
According to Mother's Against Drunk Driving (MADD), teen driving crash rates increase by 50% with just one teen passenger in the car, and by 400% with three or more teen passengers.  So to help ensure a teen driver's safety, prohibit or limit non-adult passengers during the first few months of independent driving. 

For more information, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at nhtsa.dot.gov.

29

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Overhead Lift Safety

« on: April 24, 2008, 09:04:24 pm »

Submitted for post by Steve B.

                                               Overhead Lift Safety

In the garage and the workplace there is often a need to conduct elevated work. Safe access to this elevated area can be provided by an assortment of aerial lifts. Some types are: JLG, Snorkel, scissor lifts, articulating boom platforms, etc. Any person using these types of lifts needs to be trained in their use prior to operating the equipment.

When using Aerial lifts the following requirements must be followed:
Conduct a pre-start inspection of the equipment prior to use each day. The user shall be responsible to see that this has occurred.
Ensure all warning placards on the equipment are legible and all personnel are familiar with the operator’s manual.
Ensure malfunctioning lifts are tagged “OUT OF SERVICE” and supervision is promptly notified. Equipment shall not be operated until repaired.

Ensure the controls are plainly marked as to their function.
Use equipment only on level ground.
Do not load platforms/baskets in excess of the design working load.
Use lifts for lifting personnel and small hand tools. Do not use lift in lieu of a crane.
Always be aware of electrical hazards near the work area and of your travel path. Use a spotter when working in close proximity of power lines.

When using an Aerial Lift Personnel Shall:
Not walk under a boom to gain access to the platform.
Not tie the platform off to any structure for any reason.
Stand on the platform floor. Standing or sitting or sitting on the railing is prohibited.
Wear safety harnesses and tie-off to the manufactures provided anchorage point within the platform.
Ensure that a fire extinguisher is available at all times.
Erect barricading or use a flag person when operating in high-traffic areas.
Never attempt to move an aerial lift while the boom/platform is elevated.
Always look in the direction the equipment is moving.

30

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Kitchen Fire Safety Tips

« on: April 24, 2008, 09:01:23 pm »

      Submitted by Mr. Breeden                                        
                                    
                                           Kitchen Fire Safety Tips

Never leave cooking food unattended.

Avoid using counter-top frying units.

Turn the handles of pots and pans toward the back of the stove when cooking. This should prevent accidental spillage of hot food or grease should they get bumped, as well as keep small children from grabbing for them.

Keep shirt sleeves rolled up to avoid dragging them over heat and catching fire.

In cases of small stove-top pan fires, sometimes the fire can be extinguished by covering the pan with its lid or pouring a significant amount of salt on flames.

Store at least one UL listed 1A-10BC fire extinguisher in the kitchen.

Do not store combustible items on or above the stove.

If an appliance has a worn or frayed electric cord, replace the cord or the appliance.