Forklifts: 7 Tips for Keeping Workers Safe

Most workplaces couldn't do without forklifts. But they certainly could do without forklift accidents and the resulting injuries. These tips can help keep both forklift operators and pedestrians safe.
(These tips are provided courtesy of our sister publication, the Cal/OSHA Compliance Advisor)
A truck driver from Iowa delivered new light poles to the football field at Frontier High School in Bakersfield, CA. He was watching another worker unload the poles with a forklift when the load shifted. A pole fell and hit him in the stomach, fatally injuring him.
A farm worker from Kettleman City, CA, walked around behind his forklift only to be crushed against it by another forklift driver who was backing up.
A forklift driver in Arvin, CA, was killed when he walked in front of his forklift and his raised load of carrots fell on him.
These three accounts all tell essentially the same story: If you have forklifts in your workplace, you have a hazard.
The following safety tips can help you address some of the most dangerous circumstances and keep your forklift operators and other workers safe:
Tip 1: No unauthorized operators. Forklift operators must have special training that is specific to both the workplace and the type of forklift they will be operating. Unauthorized workers operating forklifts—such as an employee who jumps on the forklift to move an item "just to help out"—are extremely dangerous to themselves and others. Make sure that all of your workers know that only trained operators can operate forklifts. Also, be sure workers under age 18 know that it is illegal for minors to operate forklifts.

Tip 2: Handle with care. The forklift itself is a hazard, but the load can be, too. Train operators and other workers to stack and secure the load so that it will not shift during transport. When the forklift is in motion, the load should be carried as close to the ground as possible.
Tip 3: Keep clear of the load. A raised load on a forklift is just like any other raised load—a hazard to anyone close enough to be struck by it if it falls. Emphasize to forklift operators and other workers that they have to stay clear of raised loads—not just out from under them but out from in front of them and a clear distance to the side, too. That distance may need to be larger as the load is raised higher.
Tip 4: Use the right forklift. The forklift has to be made for the conditions it will be used in—indoor, outdoor, or both; rough terrain or smooth concrete; or potentially flammable atmospheres. Even the load must be considered when choosing a forklift, such as how much the load weighs and how the load will need to be maneuvered.
Tip 5: Know the territory. Terrain affects forklift balance and handling; for example, even a pothole can be a tip-over hazard under unfortunate circumstances. Forklift operators need to know how to safely navigate up and down slopes and around corners, both with and without a load. If they work outdoors they also need to know how to deal with weather conditions. Workers who will be loading and unloading trucks or railcars need to know how to secure dock plates and bridge plates.

Tip 6: Maintain visibility. The hazard that kills a forklift operator or other worker could be the one he or she never sees coming. Provide clearly visible markings at edges of loading docks and other areas where forklifts could roll off, along with other precautions such as guardrails and chains. Warn drivers that going from bright light to dim light can blind them just long enough for them to strike another object or person, so they need to take special care under these conditions. Don't stack materials at corners in a way that obstructs an operator's visibility, and use mirrors to show both operators and pedestrians what's coming around the corner.
Tip 7: Separate the men from the machines. The combination of forklifts and workers on foot is a deadly one—usually for the worker on foot. As much as possible, create separate aisles for workers on foot and mechanical equipment. Instruct operators to look in the direction of travel at all times and keep a clear view of where they're going.

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Is there a maximum weight a person can lift during their work?

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended) set no specific requirements such as weight limits.
The ergonomic approach shows clearly that such requirements are based on too simple a view of the problem and may lead to incorrect conclusions. Instead, an ergonomic assessment based on a range of relevant factors is used to determine the risk of injury and point the way to remedial action.
The Regulations establish the following clear hierarchy of control measures:
1.Avoid hazardous manual handling operations so far as is reasonably practicable, for example by redesigning the task to avoid moving the load or by automating or mechanising the process.
2.Make a suitable and sufficient assessment of any hazardous manual handling operations that cannot be avoided.
3.Reduce the risk of injury from those operations so far as is reasonably practicable. Where possible, you should provide mechanical assistance, for example a sack trolley or hoist. Where this is not reasonably practicable, look at ways of changing the task, the load and working environment.
Modern medical and scientific opinion accepts the scale of the problem and stresses the importance of an ergonomic approach to remove or reduce the risk of manual handling injury.. Ergonomics is sometimes described as 'fitting the job to the person, rather than the person to the job'. The ergonomic approach looks at manual handling as a whole. It takes into account a range of relevant factors, including the nature of the task, the load, the working environment and individual capability and requires worker participation.
When a more detailed assessment is necessary it should follow the broad structure set out in Schedule 1 to the Regulations. The Schedule lists a number of questions in five categories:
1.the task;
2.the load;
3.the working environment;
4.individual capability (this category is discussed in more detail under regulation 4(3) and its guidance); and
5.other factors, for example use of protective clothing.
Each of these categories may influence the others and none of them can be considered on their own. However, to carry out an assessment in a structured way it is often helpful to begin by breaking the operations down into separate, more manageable items.

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Brakes And Driver Safety

Almost all drivers today have grown up in a car culture. A huge number of adults have their own car or truck that they use on a regular basis. No matter whether you choose an SUV, smaller vehicle or muscle car, driving safely is an area that needs to be given priority.When taking the initial driving test, most know the facts and figures surrounding braking, thinking and overall stopping distances. But out on the highway, after the test has been passed, it is scary how many drivers seem to forget or disregard potentially lifesaving knowledge. Over recent years, car manufacturers have made vast improvements to the quality of brakes, and specialist kinds that further increase performance are widely available to purchase separately. Despite cars being built and modified to improve safety, it is essential that there is an understanding that the overall responsibility for the safety of you, your passengers and other road users, depends on you.
The stopping distances taught to learner drivers are not solely for the inexperienced. They are scientifically proven measurements taught to keep everyone safer on the roads. Your car may have the best brakes money can buy, and this is a great investment – but if you are not concentrating, or are following a vehicle too closely, then they will not enable you to defy the laws of physics. Helping to protect you and your car can be as simple as taking weather conditions, road surfaces and stopping distances into account. When working out braking distances, both the time it takes you to react to a situation and apply your brakes, and how long it will take the car to stop need to be considered. People are often surprised to learn that when driving speed doubles, the braking distance does not – it is a staggering four times as far. For example, if you increase speed from 30mph to 60mph, the braking distance changes from 45 feet to 180 feet. Many older drivers will be familiar with the saying “only a fool breaks the two second rule”. It is generally accepted that under normal driving conditions, the two second gap between your vehicle and the one in front is safe, though some prefer to use a three second gap to be certain. In different weather, different rules apply. In the rain, and when the pavement is wet, this safe distance doubles to four seconds. In snow and ice, and where certain spillages have occurred, it is wise to keep a ten second gap. Many people find it difficult to judge how far behind a vehicle they are in seconds, feet or car lengths – if in doubt; it is better to be cautious and hang further back rather than get too close. Don’t leave it all to your brakes.One situation when a dangerous road surface can take drivers by surprise is the first rain after a dry spell as the pavement is often really slippery. Any water on the road can reduce friction, and in severe cases cause hydroplaning. The best advice is to know yourself – before starting out consider if you are tired, emotional or feeling ill. Know your vehicle – your brakes, tyres and how it handles. And know your stopping distances in all weathers. Drive safe!
By: Andy Freeman

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Three Aspects Of Safety Management Which Every Business Should Introduce

Equipment safety in the workplace is absolutely critical, and never before have equipment management and safety management been given as much attention as today. In part this is due to the increasingly litigation oriented way in which society looks to attribute blame. But viewing this positively, it is clear to see that the end result is that the workplace today is safer, and the hazards either eliminated entirely or managed effectively and safely.But one of the issues still arising within industry and business is that the equipment management system used is fragmented, with very few overall policies or procedures to ensure that tasks, equipment, operations or procedures are checked and monitored for safety and security from beginning to end. The result of this fragmented workplace safety system is that too much faith is placed in the operation as a whole, and it only takes a small, easily overlooked aspect to cause a major accident or injury.
For this reason it is worthwhile re-evaluating the safety systems employed in your business or industry, asking critical questions regarding the effectiveness and thoroughness of the safety management system which is used. If this relies upon handwritten lists, scrappy notes, posters which have been up for so long they have become faded and covered with memos, or even simply verbal instructions and confirmations, then it is almost certainly time to introduce a new safety management system, to ensure the safety of employees first and foremost, but of secondary consideration is the fact that insurance premiums are often reduced for businesses which do employ a recognised, thorough and consistent workplace safety system.There are three aspects of effective safety systems, and these include:- The use of lists or checklists to ensure that procedures are adhered to and do not omit key aspects of any safety checks or procedures which should be applied- The application of high visibility safety tags or labels to make clear whether equipment is safe and ready for use, or whether it has failed safety checks and should be avoided.- Methods to ensure that safety notices, warning labels, security tags and other security signs are fixed firmly, cannot be removed easily and are virtually tamper proof to prevent accidental or deliberate removal.But perhaps one thing stands out from all of these, or rather, should encompass them all, and that is consistency. This is the key to a successful safety management system; if the systems are not consistent, then there is confusion as to which system should be applied to which equipment, when checks should be carried out and whether equipment is safe to use. Any inconsistency will, inevitably, lead to a failure of equipment, a failure to erect or setup the equipment correctly, and ultimately, injury or worse.There are several recommended equipment management systems available, with the 'Good to Go' system one of the more popular available. This incorporates flexibility, durability, and consistency as well as offering both high visibility and the ability to make sure that notices, labels and warnings are tamper proof. One of the huge benefits with such a system is its ease of use, and this is another issue relating to any safety management system you choose to use which should be given consideration.If a safety system is too difficult to use, or to implement, too hard to understand or too confusing in the messages or procedures required, then it will be ignored, or used incorrectly. A problem or hazard which is ignored is just as dangerous as a misunderstood message or procedure, and so when reviewing possible equipment safety systems, make sure that whichever one you choose offers ease of use and flexibility, as well as the other aspects listed above.Once you have identified a suitable safety management system, make sure that all employees and personnel are fully aware of its requirements and any relevant procedures, and offer training where necessary. Hopefully, if you have used a simple and straightforward equipment safety system this shouldn't be a problem, but making sure that it is implemented consistently will be the next challenge in the battle for industrial safety and safety in the workplace.
By: Leonard Peacham

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Safety Information: Things You Have To Know When Handling Nitric Acid

Possibly the most common use of nitric acid is in the production of nitrogen-based fertilizers. The US production per year reaches an approximate total of 11 million tons coming from about 65 manufacturing plants around the country. Meanwhile, in the UK, more than one million ton is produced annually.Nitric acid is a colorless liquid which can become yellowish or reddish over time in storage due to the build up of nitrogen oxides. It is a highly corrosive liquid, a strong oxidizer, a poison and has the capacity to dissolve most metals.

Aside from being a main component in fertilizer production, nitric acid is also a very important component chemical in the manufacture of explosives, dyes, plastics, metallurgy and as a cleaning agent in food, dairy and brewing industries.Nitric acid is such a very important chemical in many industries that although it is considered to be more dangerous than most chemicals in 6 out of 9 in the ranking systems, it is still produced in large volume and many of the people working in trades using nitric acid in its applications are put in occupational hazard. It is therefore important that safety information, proper handling training and other safety procedures are given to these workers.Inhalation of nitric acid vapors may cause difficulty in breathing and, in fatal cases, may lead to pulmonary edema and pneumonia. Irritation of the nose, throat and respiratory tract, coughing and choking can be observed when someone accidentally inhales nitric acid vapors. Ingestion can also be very dangerous because of the corrosive property of nitric acid. It will cause instant burns and pains of the mouth, throat, esophagus and the rest of the gastrointestinal tract.Nitric acid is an irritant and direct eye contact causes severe burns and may even result to permanent eye damage. Direct skin contact, on the other hand, causes pain, redness, and serious skin burns. Concentrated nitric acid solutions turn the skin yellow as a result of a reaction with keratin as well as ugly blisters.Constant and long term exposure to vapors may result to erosion of the teeth and damage to the lungs. However, it is a seldom case that a long term exposure to nitric acid occurs because of the strong corrosive and high reactivity of the chemical. Patients with preexisting health conditions of the skin, eyes and cardiopulmonary system are more susceptible to the effects of the acid as well as exacerbate their conditions.Apart from these health effects, the chemical properties of nitric acid also require special and secure handling to prevent reactions with others chemicals which can result to increase in flammability of combustible materials, fires and explosions. Leakage and spilling can also cause corrosion and other accidents.Knowledge of the possible effects of nitric acid and the awareness of the safety precautions and proper handling should be an integral part of a company’s standard operating procedure and good manufacturing practices.Workers should always wear protective clothing including chemical safety glasses and gloves. Gloves made from polyethylene, neoprene and butyl rubber are appropriate for handling up to 70% concentration of nitric acid solutions. Working area should also have good ventilation, more so when using concentrated form of the acid. Eye wash fountains and quick drench facilities must be within the direct vicinity of the work area.It is the company’s responsibility to provide their workers with the proper protective outfit as well as the technical know-how of handling nitric acid. However, it then becomes the worker’s duty to always follow safety procedures and exercise extreme measures when dealing with hazardous chemicals such as nitric acid.
By: joalesto

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Survey: Majority of Drivers Who Own Cell Phones Use Them despite Risks

Most drivers who own cell phones use them while driving even though almost all of them believe it is dangerous to do so. A quarter of drivers with cell phones sends or receives text messages while driving. Most drivers with cell phones use hand-held rather than hands-free phones although they believe that hands-free phones are safer. Even in states where it is illegal for drivers to use hand-held phones, half of cell phone users do so. This Harris Poll also shows that most drivers who use cell phones believe that using hands-free phones is safer than using hand-held phones, contrary to the evidence of available research that suggests that it is the minds, not the hands, of drivers that are adversely affected by talking on the phone.
These are some of the findings of The Harris Poll®, a new nationwide survey of 2,681 U.S. adults surveyed online between May 11 and 18, 2009 by Harris Interactive®.
A 2003 study by the Harvard Center of Risk Analysis estimated that cell phone use while driving contributed to six percent of crashes, which equated to 636,000 crashes, 330,000 injuries, 12,000 serious injuries and 2,600 deaths each year. The study also put the annual financial toll of cell phone-related crashes at $43 billion.
Key findings in this Harris Poll include:
· 72 percent of those who drive and own cell phones say they use them to talk while they are driving;
· Most of these people (66 percent) say they usually use hand-held rather than hands-free telephones to talk;
· Even in states that have banned the use of hand-held cell phones while driving, half (49 percent) of cell phone users use hand-held, rather than hands-free, phones;
· Only 2 percent of those who use cell phones while driving believe this is not dangerous at all. Most believe it is very dangerous (26 percent), dangerous (24 percent) or somewhat dangerous (33 percent);
· Seventy-one percent of those who use cell phones while driving believes that hands-free cell phones are safer than hand-held phones;
·Younger drivers are more likely than older drivers to talk on the phone while driving. Most (58 percent) “Matures” (people older than Baby Boomers, currently aged 64 or over) who drive and own cell phones say they do not use their cell phones while driving; and,
·A quarter of drivers with cell phones report using them to send or receive text messages while driving.

This is for your information only
Regards

Katari MURTHY

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Ensure The Safety Of Your Staff With Health And Safety Policies

A well structured health and safety procedures plan should cover all premises and activities to ensure the safety and well being of the staff in accordance to their Health and Safety Policies.Health and safety policies and procedures should be produced following a thorough process of premises inspection, assessment of procedures, document audit and the identification of training requirements.

All health and safety policies should include:

* The Health and Safety Policy Statement

* The Management organisation and structure for Health and Safety

* The Health and Safety responsibilities of individuals

* The Health and Safety Rules - the working practices procedures and accompanying guidance expected to be kept by staff, visitors and contractors

* Risk assessment procedures and a set of generic risk assessments

* Accident reporting and disease reporting procedures,

* Occupational Health and First Aid requirements;

* Stress management policy* Additional procedures, for example Fire Risk Assessments, CDM compliance system, Method Statements or Dangerous Goods management system:

* Health and safety documentation will be updated in line with legislation and any changes in your workplace. All policies are backed up with our legal alert service which provides clients with information on complex and rapid changes to legislation, and our 24-hour advice hotline for an immediate response in a crisis situation.The job of a health and safety consultant consists of producing a tailored health and safety policies and health and safety procedures to allow workers get on with their jobs in the safest environment possible.To ensure the above, all working sites need a health and safety site evaluation, the process is not just a policing exercise, but also a great opportunity to increase worker's knowledge towards health and safety.Health and safety consultants should analyze the current health and safety situation by providing an on-the-spot report and be able to identify future issues that might arise.In 1974 the Health and Safety at Work Act (HASAWA) was introduced, since then Employers are legally required to provide written health and safety documentation, this documentation should include:

* Health and Safety Policies and Procedures

* Management Structures and Defined Responsibilities

* Risk, COSHH, Noise, Manual Handling, Fire and Display Screen Assessments

* Recording and reporting procedures as required

* Health and safety documents to reflect changes in your organisation and legislation.All the documentation should be tailored to your companies' needs and satisfy the most stringent legal requirements.health and safety consultants, health and safety policies, health and safety procedures, health and safety
By: SEO Bedford

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Office Safety

Introduction
Usually, when you think about dangerous jobs and job-related accidents and injuries, you think of industrial setting and factories. That's where you see workers wearing hard hats and steel-toed work boots.
But today we're here to talk about a different kind of environment - the office. You may not think of office areas as danger zones, but there are a surprising number of hazards even in this type of setting. In fact, a lot of the safety principles that a pply on the factory floor carry over into the office area.
Identifying Hazards
As with any type of accident prevention program, office safety first requires that we all recognize the hazards that exist.
Electrical hazards, for example, are often easy to spot if you're alert. Extension cords can be a major problem because they can lead to overloaded outlets. If you must use an extension cord, be sure that it's powerful enough to handle the equipment you're plugging in. Also, be sure that it's in good shape and that you don't create another kind of hazard by running the cord under a rug or through a high-traffic area. Some general electrical safety reminders include:
Avoid overloading outlets.
Always match plugs and outlets, making sure to never force a three-prong plug into a two-prong outlet.
Check for worn or frayed cords and have them replaced immediately.
Never place cords near heat or water.
Never use electrical equipment when your hands or the equipment are wet.
Report any potential electrical problems.

Let's move on to slips, trips and falls. The classic tripping hazard in an office is the open bottom file drawer. It sounds so simple, but please keep drawers closed.
Also pay attention to slippery surfaces. This can be a problem in the entrance areas, especially in bad weather when people have tracked in rain or snow. But also be on the lookout for spills and for areas that may have just been mopped or waxed. Another common tripping hazard is loose or torn carpet.
Chairs can be dangerous as well. Be especially careful if you use a chair on wheels. Sitting too far forward can be just as dangerous as leaning too far back.
Back injuries can be a result of a slip or fall, but they also come from improper lifting. Always bend at the knees, not the back. Lift with your legs and don't try to lift more than you can safely handle.
One final area of concern is hazardous chemicals. While this is certainly not a big problem in an office environment, it is still important. We don't have many hazardous chemicals, but you may come in contact with some. (Discuss specific chemical you may have in your work area)
Again, pay attention and read the labels so your are aware of any possible danger.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that good housekeeping can do a lot to keep the office safe. This means, if you drop it, pick it up. If you use it, put it back. Good housekeeping prevents aisles, stairwells, and hallways from getting cluttered. The result? Less chance of a fire and fewer falls, cuts, and bruises.
Finally, let's just use common sense and continue to communicate. If you see a problem, please correct it or report it immediately to someone who can. I know the office is not the most hazardous work environment in the world, but accidents can happen. I just don't want them to happen to you.

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What You Should Know About Gas Masks

It is natural that with the threat of biological or chemical terrorism comes a lot of talk about gas masks. Before making the decision to buy and use a gas mask it is important to understand the technology behind the different types of available equipment. It is also important to understand that a gas mask alone will not give adequate protection from biological or chemical contamination. Even the use of a protective suit will only give some protection from airborne contaminants. The only way to be fully protected is to use a suit that entirely covers the user and seals air tight, which means the use of SCBA gear is required. Unfortunately, this type of gear is very expensive and is not practical for civilian use (see discussion below). You should not expect to be able to stay in an affected area for any period of time without this type of gear.
A Look at the Different Types of Gas Masks
The least effective type of gas mask is known as a half-mask air-purifying respirator. These cover the nose and mouth allowing the user to breathe through the filtration system of the mask. However, many chemical and biological agents use the eyes as an entry point, causing contamination.
A more effective type of mask is known as a full-face air-purifying respirator. These Gas Masks provide a clear face mask or clear eye pieces that protect the eyes, as well as the nose and mouth. The issue with these air-purifying respirators is that they may leak from either a poor fit or from a crack or hole on the mask.
Solving the leak problem is the supplied-air respirator. These use the same sort of filter attached to a battery-operated canister with a fan forcing air through it. The advantage is the positive pressure created by the system ensuring that any leak in the mask releases purified air rather than allowing contaminated air from the environment to enter. This is often the only option for infants and children because their small faces make masks difficult to fit reliably. Anyone considering using this type of gas mask should consider that the constant flow of air through the filter means that the filter needs more frequent replacement. Also consider that if the batteries wear out, the system will no longer operate.
The most effective system is known as an SCBA, or Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. In an SCBA system, the air tank contains high-pressure purified air providing constant positive pressure to the face mask. While providing the best protection, an SCBA system is expensive and impractical for civilian use. The tanks are heavy and bulky and only contain, at best, 60 minutes of air. They may make sense for diving or firefighting, but for civilians or soldiers on the battlefield, an SCBA system is nearly impossible to manage.
How the Filtration Works
Because of the problems with SCBA systems, the respirator you are most likely to use will have a filter that purifies the air you breathe. Air filters can use one (or more) of three techniques of removing poisonous chemicals and deadly bacteria from the air.
Particle filtration is the simplest of the three. Holding a cloth or handkerchief over your mouth to keep from breathing dust is an example of an improvised particulate filter. In a gas mask designed to guard against a biological threat, a very fine particulate filter is useful. An anthrax bacteria or spore might have a minimum size of 1 micron. Most biological particulate filters remove particle sizes as small as 0.3 microns.
A chemical threat requires a different approach due to the fact that chemical mists or vapors are largely immune to particulate filtration. The most common approach with any organic chemical is activated charcoal. Activated charcoal is charcoal that has been treated with oxygen to open up pores between the carbon atoms. These so-called active, or activated, charcoals are widely used to absorb odorous or colored substances from gases or liquids. When certain chemicals, such as paint fumes or nerve toxins like Sarin, pass next to the carbon surface, they attach to the surface and are trapped. Activated charcoal is good at trapping these organic chemicals, but many other chemicals are not attracted to carbon at all and pass right through. This means that an activated-charcoal filter will remove certain impurities, while ignoring others. It also means that once all of the activated charcoals bonding sites are filled, the filter stops working and must be replaced.
The third technique involves destruction by chemical reaction. This technique was adopted in some of the earliest protective equipment. In industrial respirators, you can choose from a variety of filters, depending on the chemical that you need to eliminate. The different filters are color coded by NIOSH standards for things like acids and ammonia. It may be difficult to decide which filtration to use, since in an attack, the chemical used is unknown beforehand.

By R. Reboredo

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Personal Safety and You - Handle Emergencies That Threaten Your Safety

Personal safety is of the utmost importance these days. But all the police and firemen and EMS workers in the world can't be there to protect you 24/7. So taking charge of your own personal safety is the first step to keeping yourself out of danger.
Personal Safety on the Street
• Sling your purse across your body and hold it to your chest so it cannot be snatched.
• If you can't do that, be prepared to let go of your purse immediately if someone grabs it, lest you be pulled to the ground and hurt.
• If someone tries to attack you, shout in a very loud voice "NO!" and then give an order to people nearby so they do not misinterpret your situation. Make it clear you are in danger by shouting "CALL 911!"
• Follow your intuition. If someone is making you nervous, do whatever you can to avoid them.
• If someone is following you, go to the nearest store or other populated place.
• If someone is following you, do not go home, or you'll let the criminal know where you live.
• Don't label your keys with your name or address.
• Do not talk loudly about social or vacation plans because someone could overhear you and know when you'll be away from home.
• Always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
• Carry a personal safety alarm.
• Carry mace or pepper spray to defend yourself against attackers.
Personal Safety at Home
• Keep lights on all doorways.
• Use a home safety alarm system to secure your home against intruders.
• Install motion sensor lights outside your home.
• Keep all doors and windows locked even when you are at home.
• Approach your home with your keys out and ready so you get inside quickly.
• Keys can be used for your defense as well.
• Make sure no one follows you into the garage.
• Close the garage door immediately after pulling inside.
• Keep the door from your garage to your home locked at all times. It is just like any other entryway.
• Never answer the door to an unexpected visitor. Call to them through the doorway to ask for identification.
• Get identification from all cable men or plumbers who may come to your door. If they have none, call the company to confirm their identity.
• Never let a stranger in to make a phone call. Offer to make the call for them.
• Never hide a key under a doormat. Criminals know all the hiding places.
Personal Safety in the Car
• Always be aware of everyone around you in the parking lot.
• Approach your door with your keys out and ready.
• Check the backseat and under the car before getting inside.
• Do not park next to a van, if possible. You can be easily dragged into the side of a van and kidnapped.
• Start your car as soon as you get inside.
• Keep your windows rolled up and doors locked.
• If you are stopped at a stoplight or sign and feel there is a real threat from someone approaching your car, run the light. It is better to get a ticket than to be the victim of a crime.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• If someone tries to get you to pull over, for any reason, do not do so until you are at a populated, well-lit gas station or police station. • Do not pick up hitchhikers.
Personal Safety and Dogs
• Your first instinct will be to run away. DON'T. The dog's chase instinct will kick in, and you know how dogs love to chase things.
• Remain calm and still.
• Let the dog sniff you.
• Do not look directly in the dogs eyes as that is a form of doggie aggression.
• In a calm but firm voice say "No! Go away!"
• If the dog lunges at you, block yourself with your purse, briefcase, or coat in order to distract the dog to give you a chance to break free and escape.
• Back away slowly.
Personal Safety Aids
Vigilance is key, but a few handy weapons are a big help when it comes to personal safety. We sell:
• Pepper Spray
• Canine Repellent
• Personal Safety Alarms
Personal safety is about being alert and having a plan. If you know what to do and what not to do, you will be able to handle emergencies that threaten your personal safety. If nothing else, just follow your instincts when it comes to personal safety. If your gut is telling you something is wrong, you personal safety could be in danger. Listen to your gut. Be smart and be safe.
Ralph Winn has over 35 years of education and experience in the security industry. Are you one of the many Americans who have begun to look into improving their home security? This is an important matter and the Home Security Store offers the best protection against burglary and vandalism.

By Ralph Winn

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Car Fire Extinguisher - A Car Safety Device

Like domestic fires, car fires are considered as one of the most typical causes of damage in property. In the United Kingdom, though car fires are not prominent, the rising number of arson cases has become a point of concern among property owners. Most of the car fires and related cases in the United Kingdom are said to be deliberate, as the cars involved are mostly stolen. Statistically, it is estimated that out of a thousand vehicles, two of them are damaged due to fires and related incidents.
One of the best ways to lessen if not prevent the damages, would be through the use of a car fire extinguisher. If you happen to own a car or drives one on a regular basis, it is best to have a firefighting device in place. Surprisingly, a motor vehicle is considered a fire-magnet, due to the presence of potential risks and dangerous elements. Prime examples of which would be oil and gasoline. In addition, a motor vehicle also consists of combustibles like car upholstery. The car's electrical wiring can also be a cause of car fires, due to possible short circuits. Another point of concern would be fuel leakages, as brought by faulty and defective fuel lines. The car's batteries can also be considered potential hazards, due to probable release of battery acid. And if you are thinking of electric and hybrid cars as fire-proof vehicles, think again. Hybrid and electric cars are also susceptible to risks because of their battery's components. The batteries which are mainly composed of lead-acid or Li-ion, are also susceptible to explosion and leakages.
On the other hand, many cars have built-in features in them, making it less prone to fires and accidents. Safety features like smoke detectors and temperature sensors have been incorporated within these vehicles to ensure safety. However, fire safety devices like a car fire extinguisher also provide additional protection. These types of extinguishers are also considered practical and handy, given the urgency of fires and related incidents. The device does not only guarantee a person with initial protection, but it also lessens eventual damage to property. More so, several car fire cases show that the use of this device actually gives the passengers enough time to get out of the car and head their way toward safety. Besides, most fires initially occur in the engine compartment, therefore the use of extinguisher somewhat increases the passenger's chance to survive if not her chances to seek necessary help.
In times of emergencies like car fires, it is advisable to consider the following procedures and steps. First, if you are driving and your car accidentally caught fire, it is best to pull over, turn off the engine and get out of the vehicle immediately. It is also best to notify authorities at once and call the emergency services for help. Be mindful of the extent and severity of each fire-related situation. Be careful in extinguishing fires as this may lead to further injury if not done properly. Do not try to extinguish a seemingly uncontrollable fire, since such incidents require the assistance and action of professionals and fire authorities. You may also want to take note of possible toxic fumes and emissions, as these often lead to toxic inhalation. In the end, preparedness will always save us from harm, especially if we are armed with proper equipment. It does not only reduce the risks but likewise gains us an advantage, which is to live and be free from fire-related dangers.
Having specialized in the car fire extinguisher trade for over 20 years, Brian now works tirelessly to promote affordable fire safety for home and for business.

By Brian Ayling

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28 Tips For Cycling Safety

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 784 bicyclists were killed in 2005 while riding their bikes. In 2004, there were 725 deaths, and for the four years previous, annual bicycling deaths ranted from 629 to 732 people each year.
Statistics for bicycling injuries are not readily available, since most do not get reported.
Use the Proper Equipment
1. Be sure your bike fits you properly and is adjusted for your size.
2. Equip your bike with safety equipment: a white headlight (preferably one you can set to a flashing mode for use during the daytime to make yourself more visible), reflectors and/or reflective tape or markings, a flashing red rear light (essential for riding at night), a horn or a bell (to give audible signals to let drivers know where you are-or that you're there at all), and mirrors on your handlebars.
3. Each time, before you ride, check to see that tires are properly inflated, that the brakes work, and that nothing is loose on your bike.
Dress For Cycling
4. Always wear a properly fitted bike helmet to protect you in case of a fall or crash. (Consider putting a mirror on your helmet, too.)
5. Wear bright, neon colors and/or reflective clothing-even during the day.
6. At night, wear a reflective jacket or vest or a safety triangle.
Plan Ahead
7. Know the rules of the road and any specific bicycling rules for your area
8. Plan to travel in slow or residential areas when possible to avoid fast-moving downtown traffic.
9. Avoid narrow roads and opt for wide roads where there is more room for bicycles and cars to maneuver if you can.
10. Always stay alert. Don't ride with headphones or an iPod. And NEVER use your cell phone while biking!
11. Never be in a hurry. When you're in a hurry, you can get careless or take unnecessary chances. It also makes it more likely that you could be darting in and out quickly and automobile drivers might not even see you.
When Bicycling
12. Use your headlight-even during the day-so drivers have a better chance of seeing you.
13. Use your mirrors so you know what is going on around you at all times.
14. Ride on the street with other traffic, not on the sidewalk, traveling in the same direction as motor vehicle traffic, not against it.
15. Know-and use-hand signals. Be sure to give plenty of notice in advance of when you are going to make a turn. Then be sure to look over your shoulder to be sure your path is clear before making the actual turn.
16. Be consistent and predictable so motorists know what you are going to do. Drive in a straight line. Don't swerve, weave in and out of traffic or parked cars, or make any erratic or sudden moves.
17. Obey traffic signs, signals, and road markings and yield to pedestrians - just like any other vehicle on the roadway.
18. Use your horn or bell if you will be crossing in front of another vehicle so you give an audible signal-it's more likely to get the other motorists attention.
19. Make eye contact with motorists if possible, so you know that they see you.
Drive Defensively
20. Watch for hazards such as pot holes, puddles, loose gravel, spare car parts, drain grates, rocks, litter or garbage, parked cars opening their doors, pets running loose, and other vehicles.
21. Ride to the left of the parking lane to avoid hitting a car door that opens unexpectedly in front of you.
22. At a red light, stop behind another car. Do not pull up next to the first car at the light where you will be in the blind spot and risk getting hit if the car makes a right turn and the driver doesn't know you're there.
23. When you follow a vehicle that is moving slow, be patient. It may be getting ready to make a turn. Don't try to rush past it or get up beside it in the driver's blind spot.
24. Always look behind you (over your shoulder) before making a turn-for other vehicles, for other bicycles, and for pedestrians.
25. Always look behind you (over your shoulder) before you change your position in the lane of traffic, as a vehicle could be getting ready to come alongside you or pass you.
26. Never swerve in and out of traffic or in and out of the parking lane. Maintain steady placement in your lane.
27. Double check everything! Even if you have the right of way, a car or other vehicle is much larger than a bicycle and for your own safety, you have to be prepared to yield at all times.
28. Always drive, ride, and act as if other drivers can't see you! Put your safety first.
Everyone always says "I know what I need", but there's a cycling bikes out there for every purpose! When considering your new purchase, you should first consider the type of riding you would do and where most of it will be done.

By Vicki Johnston

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Five Frequent Health And Safety Threats In The Work Area

The workplace has several hazards that need to be addressed. This is where risk assessment comes in. The employer has the responsibility of ensuring the safety of the workers. Assessing the potential risks in the workplace, formulating a sound safety policy, and enhancing you and your employees capacity to deal with these risks are just some of the ways of ensuring protection against and avoidance of any untoward incidents.These are the five most common hazards we encounter while in the workplace and what can be done to prevent accidents and other misfortunes.
1. Confined places - A confined space can be defined as an area or workplace which, because of its construction, location or contents or the work activity therein, a hazardous gas, vapour, dust or fume or an oxygen-deficient atmosphere may occur.In occupations which require a person to enter and exit an open or enclosed tank, vat, sewer, pipe, utility vault, and other similar constructions, extra care is needed. A specially designed training course for employees to be more competent and adapted to a confined working environment will significantly reduce any possibility of accidents by training the employees on entry and working in these confined locations.

2. Explosions and fires - There are workplaces, which as a consequence of the nature of the business, are more prone to explosions and fires than other working environments. Therefore a Fire Safety Protocol is of paramount importance. Employer and employee must have adequate knowledge on fire hazards, fire prevention and procedures.There should be basic practical skills in fire safety. Fire protection equipment, signage, and diagrams must be provided, as well as the carrying out of fire drills in the workplace.

3. Noise management - In factories where large machineries are used in the manufacture, noise is but an ordinary feature of the workplace. However, the noise should not exceed the exposure to noise levels that exceed an eight-hour noise equivalent of 85 dB(A) or peak at more than 140 dB(C).A onetime too much exposure to noise can result to a temporary loss of hearing, change in hearing, or a ringing in your ears (or tinnitus). However, if the exposure to loud noises is continuous and unavoidable, it can lead to permanent ear ringing, or worse, hearing loss. Therefore, as much as possible, eliminate or tone down loud noises in the workplace or if the noise can be controlled, the company must provide protective hearing gears to its workers.

4. Occupational Injuries - Every day, many workers suffer from traumatic injuries they acquired from their workplaces. Although, most of these are nonfatal, but some are serious enough that the injury necessitates job transfer, various work restrictions, and some time away from their job.One of these occupational injuries is musculoskeletal injury (MSI). Musculoskeletal injury is described as the “disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and other soft tissues of the body. MSI usually results because of a prolonged repetitive, awkward, or demanding postures and movements which will take its toll on the body.

5. Electrical hazards in the workplace - Whether you are working with electricity (as an electrician, electrical engineer, line men and other professionals) or just an ordinary employee, the likelihood of electrical hazards is not to be disregarded. The down side is that the ordinary employee is unaware of the potential electrical risk present in the environment, unlike the professionals whose specialty is electricity. These are just the most common workplace risks. Each employee must be well aware of the risks his/her job entails. Moreover, it is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that the workplace is as safe as possible for the workers. A sound safety plan must be in place to address the possibilities of occurrence of these workplace hazards. Together, employer and employee can come up with the necessary policies and procedures.

By: joalesto

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Hazard Identification

Hazard Identification is a crucial step in safety management, and is the initial phase of any risk management system an organisation may have. Before an organisation can begin to actively control the risks it faces (in order to reduce the occurrence of accidents) it must first recognise and study the hazards present within its working elements. Proper hazard identification also helps an organisation proactively identify the potential causes of loss, so that the probability of recurrence of unfortunate incidents.
A hazard is any aspect, factor or condition that has the innate potential to cause harm. (to property, processes, people, and the environment). Harm to these entities may include production losses, increased liabilities, payouts, and harmful releases to the environment, chronic and acute ill health, and adverse effects on mental health or property damage.
For ease of identification, hazards are classified based on the severity or magnitude of the potential loss or consequence of an event occurrence. The classification system is simple - They are Class A, Class B, and Class C Hazards .

A Class A (Major) hazard is a condition or practice, which could result in death, permanent disability, loss of a body part, or permanent debilitating occupational illness. In countries with advanced codes of practice on workplace safety, the classified hazard is allocated a financial sum for better identification. E.g. A Class A hazard may be referred to as a practice which may lead to a loss of over £20,000 (In foreign currency as no up-to-date naira equivalents exist).
A Class B hazard is a condition or practice likely to cause serious injury or illness, resulting in temporary disability or property damage that is disruptive not extensive. An example of a Class B hazard is spilled oil on the aisle of a building.
A Class C hazard is a condition or practice likely to cause minor, non-disabling injury or illness, or non-disruptive property damage. An example is the handling of solvents without the use of proper protective gloves or public nuisance caused by offensive odours from substance released.
Hazards are of different types and may fall into any of the following categories found in the workplace:
Chemical Hazards: include acidity, alkalinity, corrosivity, explosivity, flammability, toxicity.
Thermodynamic Hazards: include high pressure, heat, high or low temperature.
Electrical or Electromagnetic Hazards: include high voltage, electric current, and radiation
Mechanical Hazards: include mechanical energy, stresses
Health Hazards: include noise, pollutants, chemicals, temperature extremes, radioactivity,
Hazard Analysis is used by safety-conscious organisations to identify applicable hazards and possible consequences. A hazard analysis involves the identification of adverse occurrences which could lead to the materialisation of a hazard; the analysis of the process which leads to these unwanted events and; the estimation of the extent, magnitude and likelihood of the harmful effects involved.
There are various methods and related tasks employed in the identification of hazards. These methods are very useful to organisations that operate plants or factories that have complex, convoluted processes. They include:
Concept Hazard Analysis (CHA) : This method is used to identify hazards and hazardous conditions. The primary aim is to identify conditions that have been identified as being dangerous from previous incidents. CHA involves a team effort, with team members focusing on the details of a process within the organisation, to stimulate a specific discussion about that process using specially selected keywords that refer to the main hazards presented by the process. CHA is a good method for use in determining the suitability of a plant site, as well as the acceptability of a particular process approach. It has however been found deficient in identify immediate or root causes if incidents.
Preliminary Process Hazard Analysis (PPHA): A hazard identification method for use in technical and specialist industries, it is often used as a follow-up to CHA, to provide additional information on hazards and hazard characteristics of factories and plants. PPHA also helps in the evaluating of emissions, effluents and wastes from plants. The main objective of a PPHA is to duplicate a potential incident scenario, tracing the process down to its immediate cause. The analysis studies the path of a potential incident, evaluating the root cause of each event in the chain leading to the event. The PPHA makes conclusions as to the possible frequency of hazardous incident scenarios and determines the significance to the organisation of each potential incident.
Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOP): This is a formal examination of a plant or factory, used for identifying hazards, process failures and operability problems. The HAZOP technique assesses the consequence of such failures. HAZOP is also a team activity, where a process parameter is combined with selected guide words (such as NO, LESS OF, MORE OF, PART OF) and is used to suggest deviations of processes and their causes. The team goes on to examine these causes of potential deviation in the given processes. HAZOP is the method of hazard analysis most widely used in the process industry. It is recommended for use by legislators, regulators and engineering organisations.
Once identified, there are a number of ways to control hazards. Some of the fundamental ways include:
Safety training: Safety orientation and function-specific training should be provided for new and existing employees, are well as employees moving from one function to another. This gives them a fundamental foundation in working safely and important information on the hazards present in their workplace.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The adorning of PPE during workplace operations is often the cheapest method of controlling occupational hazards, though this method has proved to be far from the best. This is because protective equipment only reduces the effect of hazards if they do occur, and this equipment do not in any way affect the root causes of hazards in the first place. PPE include respirators, Gloves, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, and Protective Footwear.
Change of Process: If certain processes for performing work tasks are considered dangerous, and safer alternatives exist, it is often advised to adopt these new safer processes. An example is replacing potentially harmful solvents with detergents, which have a less hazardous effect on the hands.

HAVE A SAFE AND PROSPEROUS DAY

T.M.KHALEEL BATCHA

DIRECTORINSTITUTE SAFETY MANAGEMENT-CHENNAI( DIVISION OF OSHA INDIA)

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Safe Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids

Flammable and combustible liquids are commonly used in day to day operations at industrial and commercial sites throughout the nation. These liquids present a danger of fire and explosion and their safe handling and storage is imperative. Flammable liquids are volatile and they tend to evaporate readily under normal atmospheric conditions. This evaporation rate increases if the liquids are stored in a warmer area or near a heat source. As the flammable liquid evaporates, vapors may arise which can ignite. The heat of a flame causes an increased generation of vapors, further fueling the flame.
Flashpoint is the minimum temperature at which a liquid gives off enough concentrated vapor to form an ignitable mixture with air immediately above the liquid surface.
Flammable Liquid has a flashpoint below 100° F. It is more dangerous than a Combustible Liquid and it can ignite at room temperature. This is a Class I Liquid.
Combustible Liquid has a flashpoint of 100° F or higher and can pose a serious explosion or fire danger if heated. This is a Class II or Class III Liquid.
Class III A Combustible Liquid has a flashpoint of 140° F or higher.
Class III B Combustible Liquid has a flashpoint of 200° F or above.
OSHA has developed standards for the safe handling and storage of flammable and combustible liquids. There are regulations for the use of storage cabinets as well as structural specifications for these cabinets. These cabinets meet a variety of chemical storage needs. There are:
Flammable Storage Cabinets
Acid and Corrosive Safety Cabinets
Polyethylene Acid And Corrosive Safety Cabinets
High Security Safety Cabinets
Storage Requirements For Flammable and Combustible Liquids
-Incompatible chemicals must be stored separately.
-All containers of flammable liquids must be stored in an approved flammable liquids storage cabinet.
-Flammable and combustible chemicals must be stored in fire resistant cabinets, designated storage rooms or buildings which meet OSHA and NFPA 30 requirements.
-The cabinet must be constructed to limit the internal temperature to not more than 325° F when subjected to a standardized 10 minute fire test.
-During a 10 minute fire test, all joints and seams of the cabinet must remain tight and the door must remain securely closed.
-A maximum of 60 gallons of Class I or Class II Liquids can be stored in a single storage cabinet.
-Up to 120 gallons of Class III liquids can be stored in one storage cabinet.
-The number of storage cabinets in one area must comply with OSHA regulations.
-Storage cabinets must be clearly labeled, "Flammable - No Open Flames - No Smoking - Keep Fire Away".
Spill911.com is a wealth of information about safety in the workplace. Visit us to learn more about safety cabinets. For more information about Industrial

By Andy Clark

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NEBOSH National General Certificate - Exam Hints and Tips

Now you've committed yourself to taking the NEBOSH Certificate, you've probably wondered what you've got yourself into! Hopefully the following hints & tips will help you to get the maximum marks possible.

Tips for the Written Papers

First Things First!
Start by reading the exam paper all the way through. You should find at least one question that you are confident about answering. The pages in your answer book are numbered according to the question you are answering, so it doesn't matter in which order you do the questions, as long as you put your answer on the corresponding page of the answer book. It's a good idea to start with the question you're happiest about, as this gets your brain working and gives you confidence. Work through a couple of 'easier' questions & then tackle some of the harder ones. Just make sure you attempt them all!

Clock Watch!
You must keep your eye on the time. You are allowed 2 hours for each paper.. There are 11 questions on each paper, and you are expected to answer every one. Question 1 is worth 20 marks, and you should allocate about 25 minutes for your answer. Questions 2-11 are worth 8 marks each, and therefore you have to answer 10 questions in 90 minutes. If you allow 8 minutes for each question, you will have a small cushion at the end to check over your paper, or to finish any last bits.

Please remember: -
It is better to provide an answer to every question than to do 9 or 10 of them well!
Statistically, candidates score the most marks for the information they give at the beginning of their answers. You will get very few extra marks for a long, rambling answer.. It's also worth remembering that for any question you fail to attempt, your score will be ZERO!
So, answer every question, even if you're not over-confident. If you have reached the time limit (25 minutes for Q1 & 8 minutes for each of the others) MOVE ON! You do not want to end up wasting time perfecting one answer if it means you run out of time to attempt all the questions.

Answer the Question!
We all know the sorts of questions we would like to be on the paper - trouble is, they're not always there! You need to:

· READ THE QUESTION
Get an idea of what the question is asking. This is especially important on Q1, which is often a part question. It is very easy to start rushing in to the answer, only to find when you get to part (ii) that you're writing similar things. NEBOSH do not ask you to give the same information twice in one question, so if this is happening, you're going wrong.

· READ IT AGAIN, BEFORE YOU START WRITING!
This will give you an idea of the depth of answer required, denoted by the action verb (e.g. outline, describe, state, list etc). It also focuses your mind on actually answering. It is a good idea to highlight the important words in the question, either by underlining them or by using a highlighter pen. Again, this clarifies what you are being asked and allows you to think about what your answer should be. You can’t take your exam paper away with you, but you can highlight things on it.

· Once you've started your answer, check the question to make sure you're answering what you've been asked.
If I had £1 for every student who'd gone off at a tangent in their answer to a NEBOSH question, I'd be a very rich lady!! You will do this at some point, but it's a good idea to make sure it happens in the classroom rather than in the exam! Simply by checking that you are answering the question, whilst you are doing it can save an awful lot of time & heartache. If you check halfway through, it does give you time to salvage something if you've gone wrong. (I’ve done it!).

Question Spotting!
NEBOSH are well aware that students practice answering past questions, and although they do repeat questions, they may not be straight repeats. You may see part of a question that has appeared before, with a different second part. Just be aware that you must read the question thoroughly and keep checking that you’re answering the right question.

Specific Types of Question
Some types of question come up again & again. On the Management paper you are often asked to "Outline the factors to consider when……..". This type of question requires you to think about the situation you have been given, and take an overview. They do not usually ask you to fix it! i.e. you do not have to outline a series of control measures. This is a very common mistake in approaching this type of question.
E.g. If you were asked to outline the factors to consider before forklift trucks are to be introduced to a new warehouse, you would outline factors such as
· The need for separating FLT movements from pedestrians;
· The need for the introduction of speed limits;
· Whether high visibility clothing would be required;
· The condition of the floors and terrain
· The type of FLT to be introduced e.g. the appropriate fuel supply
· The loads to be carried etc.
You should turn this list into an outline by adding the reason for each consideration you mention e.g. The condition of the floors and terrain would be an important consideration, as floors containing potholes or steep slopes can result in overturning of fork lift trucks.
It is tempting to try to fix the situation by giving answers such as: -
When FLTs are to be introduced into the workplace, it is essential that they do not come in to contact with pedestrians. In order to prevent this, dedicated traffic routes should be introduced, with speed limits. Any pedestrians who enter the area in which the FLTs are moving should wear appropriate PPE, such as high-visibility vests. In a warehouse, you should make sure that if the ventilation is poor, the FLTs are battery-powered. The floors should be free from potholes, as this can cause overturning of the FLT……………

These are in fact control measures to reduce the risks from FLTs operating in a new warehouse - but that's not actually what the question asked you for!! If you start doing this, you will get carried away & start answering a different question from the one you’ve been asked – don’t do it!

If you have trouble interpreting "Outline the factors to consider”, substitute “things” for “factors” & it might make the question easier to understand.

Hazards paper questions are usually a bit more straightforward, requiring either hazard identification or control measures or both.
Make sure that you understand the difference between hazard & risk. Some questions may ask you to identify hazards & others will ask for risks. If you get these mixed up, you may not get the marks. Remember that risks are outcomes.

Your answers
There are some basic rules to follow:-
Answer the question you’ve been set!
Don’t write a list if you’re asked for an outline (unless you’re running out of time) – you will loose marks.
If you include training, instruction or information as an answer, say what sort of training, information or instruction is required.
PPE is not sufficient as an answer, even in a list – give some examples of suitable PPE.
Answer the question you’ve been set!
If you’re asked for a list, single words are unlikely to score you marks. It’s not a shopping list - you need enough details to make the examiner understand what your point is.
Use principles to keep you organised. E.g. if you’re asked for controls, work through the Hierarchy of control giving appropriate examples; if you’re asked how you would manage a situation – apply the principles of HSG65 etc.
Answer the question you’ve been set!

Always remember, although Examiners are intelligent, they don’t know you – you have to get your answer down on paper in a way that tells them exactly what you mean.
When you've finished!
You should have a few minutes spare to check through your answers. Yes, I know it's boring, but you may think of something you couldn’t answer earlier, see part of a question you’ve forgotten to answer or see a glaring error. It's easier to pick up the odd extra mark by filling in gaps in questions which require you to list or identify, so if you've missed any out, now's the time to check what you've written and see if you've missed anything obvious.

FAQs
What if I'm running out of time?
If you find yourself with only minutes to spare to the end of the exam, & you still have a question to do, complete it as a list. This at least gives you the chance to get some marks, rather than leaving it blank and scoring zero. The extra marks you pick up here could make the difference between referral/ pass; pass/credit, or even credit/distinction! If you do have some time spare on an outline, describe or explain question, add a reason or an example – it may get you full marks.

How can I improve my chances of passing?
· Revise as you go - you cannot leave it until the last minute, as there is far too much information to take in. Also you need to ensure that you understand what you've been taught/have read. If you are having problems, you will be able to clarify them with your tutor in plenty of time.

· Practice past questions - You can obtain past question papers and Examiners' Reports from the NEBOSH website http://www.nebosh.org/. You should aim to practise answering questions and then check your answer against the Examiners' comments. There are often repeated questions on exams, so having practised a good selection may help with any repeated questions on your exam.

· Don't panic! - Panic will just make it harder to answer the questions. It can be tempting when you read the exam paper to panic if you think you can't do some of the questions. Just breathe deeply, read the question paper again & start with a question you are reasonably happy with.



Tips for the Practical

The Inspection
Get organised! Think of the areas that you need to look at. Put those headings on individual sheets at the start of the exam. There’s no restriction on the number of sheets you use.

Make sure you fill in each column of the observation sheet – don’t leave the risk level or the action required columns blank, as it will reduce your marks.
Don’t mark everything as high risk which needs action immediately – your suggested corrective action needs to be achievable as well as aimed at reducing the risks.
Aim to give a spread of actions to correct problems where possible. Single actions often don’t prevent the problem from recurring, and may need considerable budget. Suggest some intermediate steps to reduce risk progressively with sensible timescales. Ongoing monitoring also signifies that some solutions need checking to maintain their effectiveness.


The Report to Management
This needs to be concise, convincing and it needs to address URGENT issues. Your time is short, so the report also needs to be short.

Use headings and give it a structure. A summary will aid readability and will persuade (or not!) the manager to read the full report.

Pick no more than 5 urgent issues and make sure that for each one, you say:-

What you found (in general terms)
Why it's a problem (what the possible outcomes are)
What legislation is being breached (e.g. contravenes the COSHH Regulations)
What needs to be done (include any statutory requirements e.g. Requirement of Fire legislation that all premises have an emergency plan)
Who needs to do it (e.g. workshop manager)
Timescale (e.g. should be carried out within the next week). Don't forget to include longer-term action where appropriate.
An indication of cost (low, medium, high)

Remember that in general you are asking management to part with money, so you need to convince them that they should! State the likely benefits of implementing your suggested actions e.g. reduces the risk of serious injury to students and the likelihood of enforcement action and civil claims.

Remember to include both breeches of legislation and costs – these are commonly forgotten and there are a total of 10 marks available for them.



GOOD LUCK!

HAVE A SAFE AND PROSPEROUS DAYT.

M.KHALEEL BATCHA

DIRECTOR INSTITUTE SAFETY MANAGEMENT-CHENNAI( DIVISION OF OSHA INDIA)

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE-FACT

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)is an extremely hazardous, toxic compound. It is a color less, flammable gas that can be identified in relatively low concentrations, by a characteristic rotten egg odor. The gas occurs naturally in coal pits, sulfur springs, gas wells, and as a product of decaying sulfur-containing organic matter, particularly under low oxygen conditions. It is therefore commonly encountered in places such as sewers, sewage treatment plants (H2S is often called sewer gas), manure stockpiles, mines, hot springs, and the holds of fishing ships. Industrial sources of hydrogen sulfide include petroleum and natural gas extraction and refining, pulp and paper manufacturing, rayon textile production, leather tanning, chemical manufacturing and waste disposal.

Hydrogen sulfide has a very low odor threshold, with its smell being easily perceptible at concentrations well below 1 part per million (ppm) in air. The odor increases as the gas becomes more concentrated, with the strong rotten egg smell recognisable up to 30 ppm. Above this level, the gas is reported to have a sickeningly sweet odor up to around 100 ppm. However, at concentrations above 100 ppm, a person's ability to detect the gas is affected by rapid temporary paralysis of the olfactory nerves in the nose, leading to a loss of the sense of smell. This means that the gas can be present at dangerously high concentrations, with no perceivable odor. Prolonged exposure to lower concentrations can also result in similar effects of olfactory fatigue. This unusual property of hydrogen sulfide makes it extremely dangerous to rely totally on the sense of smell to warn of the presence of the gas.
Health Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide
H2S is classed as a chemical asphyxiant, similar to carbon monoxide and cyanide gases. It inhibits cellular respiration and uptake of oxygen, causing biochemical suffocation. Typical exposure symptoms include:
L O W
0 - 10 ppm
Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat
M O D
10 - 50 ppm
Headache Dizziness Nausea and vomiting Coughing and breathing difficulty
H IGH
50 - 200 ppm
Severe respratory tract irritation Eye irritation / acute conjunctivitis Shock Convulsions Coma Death in severe cases
Prolonged exposures at lower levels can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, migraine headaches, pulmonary edema, and loss of motor coordination.
Working with Hydrogen Sulfide
Most countries have legal limits in force that govern the maximum allowable levels of exposure to hydrogen sulfide in the working environment. A typical permissible exposure limit in many countries is 10 ppm. While the distinctive odor of H2S is easily detected, its olfactory fatigue effects mean that one cannot rely on the nose as a warning device. The only reliable way to determine exposure levels is to measure the amount in the air. Regular monitoring will help to identify areas and operations likely to exceed permissible exposure limits, and any areas that routinely pose overexposure hazards should be equipped with continuous monitoring systems.

With a vapor density of 1.19, hydrogen sulfide is approximately 20 percent heavier than air, so this invisible gas will collect in depressions in the ground and in confined spaces. The use of direct reading gas detection instrumentation should be required before entering confined spaces such as manholes, tanks, pits, and reaction vessels that could contain an accumulation of H2S gas.
Wherever possible, exposure should be minimised by employing adequate engineering controls and safe working practices. Such methods include ensuring good ventilation and changing work procedures and practices. Where engineering controls cannot adequately control levels of exposure, it may be necessary to supplement them with the use of suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) such as supplied-air respirators. A qualified industrial hygienist or safety professional should be consulted for guidance on the suitability and correct use of respirators.
Should a co-worker ever be overcome by H2S gas, do not attempt a rescue until you are properly protected yourself. The rescuer can very easily get caught out by venturing into a confined space without adequate protection. Remember that at levels above 200 ppm, collapse, coma and death due to respiratory failure can occur within seconds after only a few inhalations so you can be overcome yourself very quickly. Such incidents are sadly all too common and only serve to make the rescue effort twice as difficult.

Khaleel

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WHAT IS SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Effective safety and health management is about knowing how to identify and control hazards and applying key managerial principles so that employees work safety every day they're on the job.

BASIC SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES

* Management commitments

* Training

* Accountability

* Employee involvement

* hazard identification and control

* Accident investigation

* Evaluation

MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT

Safety starts with commitment from the top managers must be committed to safety and health and hold supervisors accountable for enforcing safe practices.Examples that stress management commitments.

# A written safety and health policy that clearly states expectations for supervisors and employees.

# Identification and allocation of resources to achieve safety and health expectations.

# job descriptions that define safety and health responsibility,ensure employees understand that fulfilling those responsibilities is a condition of employment.

#Procedures to evalute's employees' safety performance and methods to correct unsafe work practices.

# A designated competent person to supervise employees.Hold supervisors accountable and responsible for enforcing safety and health rules and safe work practices.

TRAININGE

mployees should have orientation training that covers safety and health policies, safety rules and procedures for responding emergencies.Conduct new employee training before they begin works.train all employees before they are assigned to jobs that expose them to new hazards..A designated qualifies person must train employees at a level appropriate for their skills and in a language they can understand.Employees must be able to demonstrate correctly the safe practices associated with their job before they work alone.
ALL EMPLOYEES MUST KNOW

1.How their assigned jobs safety

2.Safety and health hazards associated with their jobs and how to control the hazard.

3.Specific work procedure and safety requirements at the site.

4.How to use and maintain tools,equipment and machines requirements at site.

5.Safety and health rules that apply their jobs. Keep written records to each employees training that includes the employees name,the training date,the training received and the trainer..

ACCOUNTABILITY

All employees,including supervisors must have a clear understanding of the consequences for failing the perform their safety and health responsibilities.Strengthen accountability by doing the following.

* Develop and enforce a written disciplinary policy that has clear work place safety expectations for all employees.

* Hold supervisors responsible for developing proper attitudes for work place safety and health for enforcing safety and health rules, and for the safety record of those they supervise.

* Include employees safety and health responsibilities in their job descriptions and performance revolutions.Ensure that they understand fulfilling those responsibilities is a condition of employment. EMPLOYEE INVOLVEMENT

Safety cannot be managed effectively unless employees are involved in the day-to-day effort to keep the site safe.One of the best ways to get them involved is by having then attend safety meetings.their suggestion can help determine the resources necessary to achieve safety goals,develop training topics,identify hazards ans assist in programe development such as lockout-tagout procedures.

HAZARD IDENTIFICATION CONTROLCONDUCT A BASELINE SURVEY;

A baseline survey is a through evolution to the site-jobs, work practices,equipment and facilities-that identifies safety and health hazards.A complete survey tells you where the hazards are,what they are and how severe they could be.

PERFORM REGULAR SAFETY INSPECTORS
Baseline surveys are snapshots that tell you where hazards were when you surveyed.Regular inspections tell you whether you've controlled the hazards and help you identify new hazards.develop a procedure to ensure regular inspections.Designate competent persons to conduct the inspections.

WATCH FOR HAZARDS

Watching for hazards is something that every one must do.Examples of what to watch for include;Unsafe work practices,missing equipment guards and poorly maintained or defective equipment.Require employees to report hazards immediatly to some one who has authority to act.

LOOK FOR NEW HAZARD WHENEVER YOU CHANGE EQUIPMENT,MATERIALS,OR WORK PROCESSES.

Asseses hazard that could result from the changes and determine how to control them.If your employees work at multiple sites you may need to do a hazard assesment at each site.Use material safety data sheets to identify chemical hazards.If employees handle hazards chemicals,develop a written hazard-communication plan that identifies the chemicals and describes how employees are informed about chemical hazards.employees must know how to use material safety data sheets(MSDS).A MSDS has detailed information about a hazardous chemical's health effects,physical and chemical characteristics,and safe practices for handling.Prepare a current hazardous chemical inventory list and have current MSDS for each hazardous chemical used.

KNOW WHEN AND HOW TO USR PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Personal protective equipment is another way to control a hazard, but its only a barrier between the hazard and the user.If PPE fails, the user risks exposure.Before you purchase PPE,know the specific hazards it protects and against and be sure that it fits the user.Have an experienced safety professional help you when you're unsure especially when you're selecting chemical-protective clothing or respirators.Always train employes how to wear,use and maintain their equipment before they use it for the first time.

PRACTICE GOOD HOUSE KEEPING
Keep passage ways,store rooms and work areas clean.Keep electical cords away from areas where people could trip ovr them.Keep floors clean and dry,use drains,false floors,platforms or mats in wet areas.

PREPARE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Any place of employment could have an emergency.work related,medical,or environmental.Have well stocked firstaid kits and a procedure for summoning ambulance or paramedic services.A well rehearsed emergency plan can protect lives,equipment and property.Business with more than 10 employees must put them plans in writing.For employees with 10 or fewer employees,the emergency plan does'nt have to be in writing.However employees must understand the plan so,they can respond promptly and appropriately an emergency.

MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT ON SCHEDULE

Preventive maintanance keep equioment running properly,reduces downtime and prevents accidents.Keep maintanace logs that show when the work was done,what was done,and the next schedule maintanance date.remove unsafe machines,tools or equipment from service and always follow manufacturer's maintanance requirements.

ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Almost all acidents are preventable and each one has a cause-por supervision,inadequate training or safety policies.eliminate the cause and accidents can be prevented.Dvelop accident investigation procedure and ensure that the investigation is though andaccurate.get statements from witnesses and other involved in the accident and prepare a report that describes hoe the accident can be prevented from happening again.discuss accident and near miss incidents with employees.

best regardsKHALEEL BATCHA T.Mdirector -coursesINSTITUTE SAFETY MANAGEMENT-CHENNAI(INDIA)(A DIVISION OF OSHA INDIA)

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Boating and Basic Safety Tips

Keep in mind that no matter how much experience and expertise you have on boating, the safety rules should always be reviewed prior to each departure. The captain of the vessel is the one who is responsible for the security and safety of everybody on board. It is also extremely necessary that every person in the boat knows where to find the safety equipments. Orient everybody about how important it is that they know where these tools are located so that everyone can contribute to the safety of each person on board in the event of an emergency.
More than the pleasure and adventure of boating, responsibility also goes hand in hand with these. Therefore, above anything else, knowledge of safety rules and equipments is a must. Here are some boating tips:

1.Check the weather condition prior to going on board.

Television and radio forecasts are good sources of information. If you are noticing dark clouds coming, rough wind changes and a sudden drop in temperature, these are signs that you have to play it safe with the waters.

2.Always have a pre-departure checklist on handy.

This also means being prepared for different possibilities while on board including safety regulations and compliance on when to refuel. Having a checklist on hand ensures you that there are no boating safety rules and precautions had been forgotten. Here are what should be included in the checklist:

a)Weather check

b)Boat is currently registered

c)Boat licensed)Familiarity with where you are goinge)

Check tide and ensure that the ramp is suitable for launchingf)Check for any boat defects and areas that need repairg)Enough fuel for the trip plus reserveh)Food and water for the trip and back plus reservesi)Safety equipments and boat accessories that are all in good working conditionj)Show passengers where safety equipments and boat accessories can be foundk)Include reliable person in boat plan, number of passengers, what emergency beacon you have

3.Prepare safety equipments especially the ones strictly required by the law.

Be sure the check the laws in your local authorities.

Here are some the boating safety equipments that you should keep in your boat:

a)Oars, rope and knife

b)Radio, Mirror, Torch, Flares

c)Boat Hook

d)First Aid Kit

e)Fire Extinguisher

f)Drinking Water, Buoyancy aids and life jackets

g)Bucker or Bailer

h)Chart and compass

i)Anchors chain and rope

j)Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)

4.Operate at a safe speed and observe this at all times.

Be aware of the busy areas and steer clear of huge vessels. Respect navigational aids and buoys which had been placed to ensure boating safety.

5.Designate one person on board who is familiar with all aspects of the boat including handling and operation.

This is just in case the primary navigator gets sick or incapacitated. It is important that somebody has the ability to bring everybody back on shore.

6.Develop and implement a float plan.

Make sure that somebody knows where you are going and how long you will be gone. Inform a family member or a local marina staff. Include the name, phone number and address of the trip leader, type of boat and registration details, number of passengers, what communication tools you have on board and trip details.

By: torcidatg

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