"Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry."

--OSHA.gov

According to the last data available (2013), there were 796 total fatalities in the construction industry. Let's round that off to 800, for the ease of digesting the numbers. Out of that number of fatalities, 294 were fall fatalities. Let's round that to 300 (again for ease of use in digestion of the numbers). So that gives us 300 fall fatalities out of 800 fatalities (within the construction industry), which means 3 out of every 8 deaths were from falls! Not only is that unfortunate due to it meaning 37% of the deaths in the construction industry are from falls alone, but also because those deaths are preventable. Yes, one could argue that ALL falls and fall injuries (including deaths) are preventable!

OSHA has provided us three simple steps to preventing more falls, fall injuries, and fall fatalities, you may have heard them before:

• Plan

• Provide

• Train

To Prevent Employees from Being Injured from Falls, Employers Must:

• Guard every floor hole into which a worker can accidentally walk (using a railing and toe-board or a floor hole cover).

• Provide a guard rail and toe-board around every elevated open sided platform, floor or runway.

• Regardless of height, if a worker can fall into or onto dangerous machines or equipment (such as a vat or acid or a conveyor belt) employers must provide guardrails and toe-boards to prevent workers from falling and getting injured.

• Other means of fall protection that may be required on certain jobs include safety and harness and line, safety nets, stair railings and hand rails.

Getting to a 'Competent Person Status' is easy! STS has both a fall protection awareness level and a competent person level training course available!

The duties and responsibilities of the competent person for fall protection include:

• Immediate supervision, implementation and monitoring of the fall protection program.
• Preparation and implementation of:
• Fall protection and prevention plans
• Fall arrest rescue plans and procedures
• Identify hazardous and dangerous conditions in the workplace and take prompt corrective measures to correct them.
• Conduct fall hazard survey and prepare survey and assessment report.
• Inspection and installation of approved fall protection systems.
• Compliance with fall protection and prevention plans and fall arrest rescue plans.
• Ensure end users/authorized persons working at heights and using fall protection equipment are adequately trained.
• Supervise the selection, installation, and inspection of non-certified anchorages.
• Supervise the installation, use, and inspection of certified anchorages, under the direction of the qualified person for fall protection.
• Have knowledge and understanding of fall protection systems and equipment.
• Conduct inspection and accident investigations.
• Have full responsibility and authority to implement the fall protection.

If you have yet to see our previous article on heart disease and how it is killing millions every year, read it here. I wanted to close out February with an additional article covering ways to reduce your risk as well as provide assistance to those who have previously experienced heart issues.

Now that we know how serious it is to be preventative about heart disease, and why we should stay vigilant about avoid certain things if we have previous issues, did you know that there are certain foods & food ingredients that influence heart behaviors? For example, hydrogenated oils are believed to be not good for the heart. These are generally found in chips, crackers, store bought pastries (things like doughnuts, muffins, etc.), and other baked foods. These hydrogenated oils increase cholesterol in the body which in turn, increases risk of heart attack. If you have already experienced a heart attack, these would be foods to generally avoid in order to remain healthy in the long term.

Meat lovers, bad news. Certain sausages, pastrami, hot dogs, and even smoked turkey can be harmful to heart patients. The reason is the nitrates which can damage blood vessels in the body. These can cause hardening and narrowing of the arteries, and this is what causes heart strokes and serious heart problems.

The jury is still (in my opinion) on diet sodas. Some studies will claim that they may increase heart attack risk, and others claim it does not. To be safe, you may choose to drink fresh, squeezed juice, lemon water, (iced) tea or certain health drinks (learn to read labels!).

Red meat has many health benefits, however due to its saturated fat content, can be something to limit for those who have already undergone heart treatment. Studies show that women especially are more prone to heart attacks due to a high consumption of red meats. Think about instead filling the gap with more white meat or fish. Beans, legumes, non-fat dairy, tofu, and nuts are other good choices to help keep you sated in lieu of too much red meat.

Also, pre-packed foods such as canned spaghetti, soups, and frozen dinners can contain high amounts of sodium used to enhance flavor and taste. This are things a person with an unhealthy heart should really never eat. Too much sodium damages the blood vessels and may increase the chance of heart attacks. Replace eating these items with homemade soups, and of course fresh vegetables and fruits are a great alternative.

It should be stated that as individuals, we may handle these things differently from one another. What works for one, may not another, and vice versa. This makes it very important to use this information as a guideline as opposed to written rule, and it is recommended you get in touch with a physician, health professional, or your healthcare provider to suggest an appropriate diet.

In addition to certain foods, there are a number of ways to lower the risk of a heart attack or a stroke. Those individuals with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, or diabetes are at an increased chance for heart attack or stroke. These are some ways to lower that risk.

The first thing is probably the most obvious, exercise! Simply doing a moderate and reasonable each day is a helpful, preventative measure and can lower risk by 30%-50%! By moderate amount, think 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Those last two days? Strength train! It may sound difficult, but you only require 30 minutes a day. Two 15 minute walks? One light half hour jog? A few simple sets on a pair of dumbells? All within the realm of reality in a given day and will help with not only preventative heart measures, but reasonable weight loss as well. In fact, if overweight or obese, just losing 5-10% of your weight improves cholesterol levels and lowers blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

130,000 Americans die every year because they don't take their heart medicine the way the doctor told them.

Take you heart medicine the way it prescribed. If you or an individual you know need help, determine what keeps you (or them) from taking it such as side effects, cost, or simply forgetfulness, and ask your doctor for help.

5 Things You Need to Know About Heart Disease

1. Following a good, healthy diet can lower heart disease risk by 25% 
2. Moderate alcohol consumption helps the heart.
3. Eating chocolate more than once a week lowers the risk of heart disease by almost 40% and of diabetes or stroke by about 30%
4. Smoking drastically increases your risk of heart attack and stroke (even secondhand can hurt*)
5. Getting your teeth cleaned every 6 months may lower your risk of heart attack by 24% and of stroke by 13%**

*: Every year about 46,000 people die from heart disease related to their exposure to 2nd hand smoke.

**: Dentists may be able to spot signs of heart disease (such as swollen gums or loose teeth) before you or your doctors notice other symptoms. This allows for faster treatment.

Remember, unusual symptoms such as shortness of breath, changes in heart rhythm, or exhaustion may be signs that you need to talk to your doctor. Don't just hope they just go away, there is a lot a doctor can do for heart problems, but only once they know!

How to Recognize a Medical Emergency

1.) When brain is affected, should be treated as medical emergency.

2.) Weakness, numbness, vision loss on one or both sides of the body, dizziness, confusion, trouble speaking, severe headache, loss of consciousness (fainting/passing out), or seizures

3.) Breathing problems (not after a run; but with "no reason")

4.) Heart problems (some feel like indigestion, others are the worst pain ever)

5.) Be sure to call 911 or go to the emergency room (especially if nothing makes it better; rest, position, or movement). Don't hesistate to call!

Should I Take Aspirin During a Heart Attack?

Aspirin is blood thinner and also helps prevent blood clots from forming. This can be helpful during a heart attack. In fact, research shows that getting an aspirin early in the treatment of a heart attack can significantly improve your chances of survival. It’s important, however, to first call 911, as aspirin won’t treat your heart attack by itself.

NOTE: Taking aspirin isn’t advised during a stroke. Because most strokes are caused by clots (or in some cases, ruptured blood vessels) taking aspirin can make bleeding strokes more severe!

CPR: Are You Prepared?

February is American Heart Month and this year, I wanted to not only bring up awareness of issues surrounding this, but also discuss how to be proactive and how to react to these situations, as some can come abrupt and with little to no warning.

The American Heart Month tradition began in 1964. In a Proclamation by Lyndon B. Johnson, he stated that "it is essential to the health and well-being of our nation that our citizens be made aware of the medical, social, and economic aspects of the problem of cardiovascular diseases, and the measure being taken to combat them."

"I urge the people of the United States to give heed to the nationwide problem of the heart and blood vessel diseases, and to support the programs required to bring about its solution."

In an interest to follow this tradition, I will first and foremost discuss heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrest, as well as decipher the differences between them. As I stated earlier, in addition to bringing up awareness of the two, we will also discuss the symptoms, signs, and how to help others during an incident involving these heart problems.

Well, the difference between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest begins with the human circulatory system. As you are surely aware, the heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to the body via electrical impulses from the brain. This knowledge helps to understand this difference; a heart attack is when the flow of blood to the heart is blocked and sudden cardiac arrest is when the heart stops beating unexpectedly.

Heart Attack - Circulation Problem

Sudden Cardiac Arrest - Electrical Problem

Sudden cardiac arrest and heart attack are, in fact, linked. A heart attack can lead into sudden cardiac arrest, as heart attacks are a common cause. Other heart conditions can also lead to sudden cardiac arrest, including cardiomyopathy or ventricular fibrillation. Remember, time is of the essence, and fast responses mean better survival rates. Knowing the signs and symptoms of these heart issues will help be proactive and ready if and when you find yourself in one of these situations.

Generally, heart attack symptoms start slowly and can gradually continue for hours, days, even weeks, but can also (with less frequency) be both immediate and intense. The heart usually does not stop beating during a heart attack.

• Chest pain

• Radiating pain

• Difficulty breathing

• Stomach pain, nausea, dizziness, cold sweats

• (These are more common in women, but can occur in men as well)

If you are in a situation in which someone around you is experiencing what you believe to be a heart attack, you have about five minutes to call 911 (or other local emergency response number). This is because every minute is important for a heart attack victim. Having emergency services show with an ambulance is one of the best ways to handle the situation, the emergency responders and can give treatment as soon as they arrive, and treatment can continue in the ambulance rather than if you drove them to the hospital yourself.

As opposed to the generally gradual continuance of heart attack symptoms, sudden cardiac arrest occurs suddenly and often without warning. As I stated earlier, this is an electrical malfunction in the heart which causes irregular heartbeats. This malfunction causes the heart to cease pumping blood to the main organs (brain, lungs, etc.). Within seconds, a person can lose their pulse and consciousness. Again, time is of the upmost importance, as there is only a two minute window to treat the victim before death can (and most likely will) occur.

Winter driving can be dangerous, as the winter season brings additional potential hazards not found (as much at least) in other seasons. Generally, when you want to drive somewhere, you simply get into your vehicle and go. In the winter, what might normally be a 5 minute trip, may take double the time (or more!) due to unforeseen circumstances in the weather. Preparation is the key to overcoming these issues. Knowing that we cannot control the weather, or even other drivers on the road, we must plan ahead when braving the roads during winter.

As OSHA puts it, there are “Three P’s” to safe winter driving:

PREPARE for the trip; PROTECT yourself; and PREVENT crashes on the road.

Preparation is, once again, paramount to overcoming winter driving issues. In addition to the freezing (sometimes sub-freezing) temperatures, things like rain or snow quickly make short trips into long “adventures.” There is simply no place for hurriedness while driving in the winter months. But how do you prepare before the trip? Use the information below to help you.

Maintenance of your vehicle

Things to check/do:

• Tires

• Be sure to check the treads of your tires to be sure they are "winter ready." Treads with low or insufficient depth sacrifice your vehicle's traction and mobility. Have a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle, or check regularly somewhere. Also, now is a great time to check your spare.

• Battery

  • Vehicle batteries lose charge as the temperature drops. Sub-zero temperatures can cause batteries to require twice the normal amount of current to start an engine.

• Windows & Lights

  • Between frost, snow, and ice, keeping your windows clear is sometimes a task. Be sure to have good wipers installed and refill your washer fluid regularly. Also, be sure to inspect your vehicle's lights/bulbs for any repairs/replacements needed.

• Fluids

  • Check coolants and oil levels as well, and flush/refill as necessary.

Things suggested to keep in vehicle; for an emergency:

Flashlight
Jumper cables
Sand (for weight; kitty litter also works
Shovel
Snow brush/scraper
Flares (some sort of warning device is handy)
Blanket(s)
For long(er) trips: Also remember food, water, medication, cell phone & charger(s)

Winter Weather Driving Tips

• Allow plenty of time
• Check the weather
• Leave early if necessary
• Familiarize yourself with the maps/directions
• Let someone know your route and arrival time
• Remember to steer into a skid
• Know your brakes;
  • Antilock – Stomp!
  • Non-antilock – Pump!
• Stopping distances are longer on snow and ice (usually double that or more of “normal”, black ice is especially dangerous)
• Don’t idle for a long time with the windows up or in an enclosed space (carbon monoxide can be a factor)
• Keep your car filled with gas during winter!

Prevent crashes

• Be responsible! Never mix drugs and alcohol with driving.
  • If you going out to drink, plan for a sober driver!
• Slow down and increase distances between cars.
  • No one’s time is more important than another’s. Stay a safe distance and decelerate to switch lanes, instead of speeding up to “cut” others off.
• Keep your eyes open for pedestrians walking in the road!
• Avoid fatigue – get plenty of rest before the trip, stop at least three hours, and rotate drivers if possible.

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Looking for OSHA, HAZWOPER, forklift, or other safety training courses? Look no further than STS; where we offer "Real Experience. Real Training. Real Results."

A "confined space" as defined by OSHA, is a space that is large enough so that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work, has limited or restricted means for entry or exit, and is not designed for continuous employee occupancy. Examples include (but are not limited to) boilers, tanks, vessels, stills, silos, mixers, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, vats, and pits.

A permit required confined space is a confined space that requires a special permit to enter. These usually contain (or have the potential to contain) a hazardous atmosphere, an engulfment or entrapment hazard, or physical hazards. If any other serious safety or health hazard are present, it may also be classified as permit-required. Some companies even take a step further than the OSHA requirements and choose to treat every confined space onsite as a permit required confined space and follow all processes and procedures pertaining to those types of entries. 

Confined spaces are considered one of the deadliest places in the workplace because of the potential for danger. Many different types of hazards are found in confined spaces. Atmospheric issues can arise, which aren't always apparent. Oxygen is a basic necessity for life, but if there is too much or too little in a confined space, atmospheres can become deadly. Flammable or toxic gases/vapors are sometimes invisible to smell or see, and without proper equipment you would not be able to tell otherwise. Residue of previous chemicals can be left behind, the configuration of the space, the nature of the work, external hazards, and even outside hazards (animals, insects, noise, etc.) are examples of potential dangers surrounding confined spaces and why they are considered dangerous. Confined spaces are also prone to changes in the level of safety at any given time. Perfectly normal, common work conditions can quickly turn into an IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health) atmosphere with some help from the hazards listed.

Confined Space Hazard Types

• Oxygen Rich

• Example: Oxygen is greater than 23.5%

• Oxygen Deficient

• Example: Oxygen is lesser than 19.5%

• Flammable Vapors/Gases

• Examples: Possible chemical reactions, combustible dust

• Toxic Atmospheres

• Examples: Carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide

• Corrosive Atmospheres

• Examples: Hydrochloric acid, ammonia

• Physical Hazards

• Examples: Ladders, scaffolding, wet surface, poor lighting

• Mechanical Hazards

• Examples: Mixing vessels, falling objects

• Surface Hazards

• Examples: Slips and falls

• Noise Hazards

• Example: Grinding work and loud environments may interfere with communication and delay rescue or emergency services if needed

• Vibration Hazards

• Example: Woodworking tools

• Engulfment Hazards

• Example: Entrapped by contents of a confined space

• Temperature Hazards

• Examples: Heat stroke or heat stress, burns from hot surfaces, and freezing from extremely cold surfaces

• Electrical Hazards

• Example: Hazards from equipment taken into the space

ALWAYS REMEMBER TO LOCK AND TAG OUT EVERYTHING THAT COULD MOVE AND INJURE WORKERS!

Confined Space Rescue

Where a system of entry permits is in place, a rescue plan is required. It will list the personnel and equipment required to be at the worksite before entry is allowed. Special equipment such as tripod hoists, harnesses, and others may be required to extricate a worker from a toxic environment, without unduly endangering rescue personnel.

Whether you are looking for confined space training or rescue, Safety Training Services is here to assist you! Find more information on our confined space training class via our Training Services Page or if you are interested in our Stand-by Rescue Teams, check out our Rescue Services Page for more information!

Safety is a top priority in any industry, and the farming and agriculture industry is no different. Today, we will take a look at how hazardous the industry is and how at risk farmers are for fatal and nonfatal injuries.

Agriculture is one of the most hazardous industries people can work in. Almost 2 million people are directly employed in the agriculture industry so it is certainly an issue that needs to be addressed. Every week there are people injured and even killed in the USA on farms and in agriculture related industries. One stark statistic is that every day approximately 167 agri-workers suffer a lost-work-time injury. Through implementation of safer work practices and measures however, these numbers could be greatly reduced. Education and training is a major element that can assist this.

This infographic (Credit: farmerjournal.ie) covers the area of farm safety and agriculture in the USA and examines some interesting and startling statistics associated with it. It also gives some recommendations on how some of these accidents and fatalities can be avoided in the future.

Do you need to reach something higher than chest/eye level? Do you need a ladder? Do you know how to choose the correct one suited for the task at hand? These preliminary questions were brought up in a previous article I wrote on the subject of ladder safety where I covered some basic information. But seeing as falls from ladders still make up nearly a third of the deaths in the construction industry every year, this article today will cover how to avoid injuries by following some ladder safety tips, ladder "do's & don'ts", and some requirements for training.

Three simple steps to prevent falls:

Plan. Provide. Train.

Deaths resulting from ladder falls are preventable, falls from ladders can be avoided and many lives can be saved each year simply by following safe work practices. Specifically, falls from portable ladders (step, straight, combination and extension) are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries. As said before, these are preventable. A ladder is a tool just like any other, it is made as safe as possible and if used within the scope of its instructions, no harm should befall you. Be sure to take the time to properly understand how to select, set up, and move about on a ladder safely with these safety tips.

• Read and follow all labels or markings found on the ladder.
• Always inspect the ladder prior to using it. 
• If the ladder is damaged, it must be removed from service and tagged until repaired or discarded.
• Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., step ladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position.
• Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it was designed for that purpose.
• If you intend to work on a less than stable and level surface, be sure to  secure the ladder (top or bottom) to prevent displacement.
• The proper angle for setting up a ladder is to place its base a quarter of the working length of the ladder from the wall or other vertical surface.
• Be sure that all locks on an extension ladder are properly engaged.
• The ladder’s load rating includes all of the weight it is supporting.
• This includes yourself and the weight of any tools or equipment.

DO's and DON'Ts of Safe Ladder Use:

DO: Maintain a 3-point contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) when climbing/descending a ladder.

DO: Face the ladder when climbing up or descending.

DO: Keep the body inside the side rails.

DO: Use extra care when getting on or off the ladder at the top or bottom. Avoid tipping the ladder over sideways or causing the ladder base to slide out.

DO: Carry tools in a tool belt or raise tools up using a hand line. Never carry tools in your hands while climbing up/down a ladder.

DO: Extend the top of the ladder three feet above the landing.

DO: Keep ladders free of any slippery materials.

DON'T: Use a ladder on soft ground or unstable footing.

DON'T: Exceed the ladder’s maximum load rating.

DON'T: Tie two ladders together to make them longer.

DON'T: Ignore nearby overhead power lines.

DON'T: Move or shift a ladder with a person or equipment on the ladder.

DON'T: Lean out beyond the ladder’s side rails.

DON'T: Use an extension ladder horizontally like a platform.

DON'T:  Place a ladder on boxes, barrels, or unstable bases.

Check, Maintain and Store Ladders Well

Before using a ladder, check it carefully to ensure there are no visible defects and that it is in good working condition. Check the ladder according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Maintain and store the ladder according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Training Requirements

Employers must train all employees to recognize hazards related to ladders and stairways, and instruct them to minimize these hazards. For example, employers must ensure that  each employee is trained by a competent person in the following areas, as applicable:

• Nature of fall hazards in the work area;
• Correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, and disassembling the fall protection systems to be used;
• Proper construction, use, placement and care in handling of all stairways and ladders; and
• Maximum intended load-carrying capacities of ladders used.

Note: Employers must retrain each employee as necessary to maintain their understanding and knowledge on the safe use and construction of ladders and stairs.

Chances are you don’t work at one of the top ten deadliest jobs, but that doesn’t mean you can brush off safety. Safety in an office setting is just as important as any other environment because the potential for injury can be just as great. Being struck by lightning at your desk may be improbable, but its not impossible. With that being said, lets look at some more common workplace injuries:

Lifting – If lifting isn’t part of your every day job, chances are you’re not going to be thinking of safety when it’s time to move the heavy printer from one room into another. Without proper awareness, you may just grab it and start moving, seriously damaging your back in the process.

Tendon Injury – Most office workers are at their computers for 8 hours a day, sitting in the same position and going through the same motions the entire time. This could cause tendon injury or carpal tunnel syndrome, leaving you unable to do much of anything. Take breaks to prevent muscle tightness. Get up and walk around, and don’t forget to stretch your fingers.

Stress – According to the American Institute of Stress, 80% of workers feel stress on the job. Increased stress leads to health problems and can even cause heart attacks. The NYPD even automatically classifies all employee heart attacks as “work related injuries.”

Toppling Objects – Do you work in a cluttered office? If so, you may be in more danger than you think. Workers will often dangerously overload shelves due to lack of space. It’s only a matter of time before that old fax machine falls off of its overcrowded bookshelf and onto someone’s head.

There are several things you can do to prevent office injuries, many of which are included below in an infographic provided by www.resultsyoudeserve.com. If you are also a fan of the NBC show "The Office", you probably know all about Michael Scott and his hilarious yet sometimes cringeworthy antics. You may also be familiar with the episode 'Safety Training' from season 3. This episode must have been a catalyst for this infographic about real office safety issues that companies everywhere need to be aware of. It’s presented from the perspective of Michael Scott and includes quotes and pictures from the show as well as plenty of educational information about the dangers of the workplace:

Click here for infographic

Infographic Credit: “Michael Scott’s Guide to Surviving Your 9-5” from Katherman Briggs & Greenberg.

Indoor air quality can impact the health, comfort, well-being, and productivity of building occupants, and therefore, is a major concern to businesses, managers, and employees.

As Americans we spend up to 90% of our time indoors and many of us spend much, if not most, of our working hours in an office environment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has conducted studies that show how indoor environments sometimes can have levels of pollutants that are actually higher than levels found outside.

Pollutants in our indoor environment can increase the risk of illness. Indoor air pollution is an important environmental health problem, as shown by several scientific studies. And although,  severe indoor air quality problems may not be an issue in most buildings, even well-run buildings can sometimes experience times of poor indoor air quality.

In 1989, the EPA reported that improved indoor air quality can result in higher productivity and fewer lost work days. It is also estimated that poor indoor air may cost the nation tens of billions of dollars each year in lost productivity and medical care.

All of the occupants of a building can have a great influence on indoor air quality. Something as “everyday” as heating food in a microwave or using the photocopier can generate odors and pollutants. Once we understand and are aware of indoor air issues, we can help prevent these problems.

8 ways to improve the indoor air quality in your office: 

Don’t block air vents.

Don’t smoke in building or within 8 feet of any building doorway.

If you have office plants, maintain them.

If you make/see a water spill, clean it up. Water can lead to molds & fungi.

Stay on top of garbage! Dispose of it promptly and regularly.

Don’t leave food out. Store it properly!

Avoid bringing things into the building that has potential to release harmful odors or contaminants.

If you suspect an indoor air quality problem, contact your building manager immediately!