Tips Memilih Safety Shoes

 Cedera kaki bukan hanya mengancam mereka yang bekerja di lokasi konstruksi, pabrik dan lapangan, tetapi dapat mengancam hampir setiap orang yang tidak memperhatikan risiko-risiko yang ada. Penggunaan sepatu keselamatan merupakan salah satu tindakan pencegahan terbaik untuk menghindari kecelakaan kerja, terutama bagi mereka yang terlibat dalam pekerjaan berbahaya. Ketika membeli sepatu keselamatan (safety shoes), pastikan Anda memilih yang sesuai dengan kebutuhan dan standar seperti : 

1. Bagian dalam sepatu keselamatan ( safety shoes) harus pas dari tumit hingga ke ujung jari kaki
2. Pastikan grip sepatu dan sol-nya sangat kuat.
3. Semua bagian dari sepatu keselamatan harus memungkinkan jari-jari kaki  bebas bergerak i: Sepatu yang  terlalu sempit akan menghambat sirkulasi darah dan bisa menyebabkan masalah baru pada seluruh  kaki. 
4. Pastikan ada pengikat di atas sepatu untuk mencegah tergelincir saat beraktivitas:
5. Belilah sepatu dengan hak rendah rendah dan lebar: sepatu bot datar sangat dianjurkan. Hindari sepatu hak tinggi untuk keamanan yang lebih baik sepatu . Sepatu bersol datar dapat memastikan keseimbangan yang sempurna dan mengurangi rasa sakit .

»»  read more

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.

»»  read more

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

»»  read more

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

»»  read more

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.

»»  read more

WD-40 Well, Who Knew...?

I had a neighbor who had bought a new pickup. I got up very early one Sunday morning and saw that someone had spray painted red all around the sides of this beige truck (for some unknown reason). I went over, woke him up, and told him the bad news. He was very upset and was trying to figure out what to do probably nothing until Monday morning, since nothing was open. Another neighbor came out and told him to get his WD-40 and clean it off. It removed the unwanted paint beautifully and did not harm his paint job that was on the truck. I'm impressed! WD-40 who knew Water Displacement #40. The product began from a search for a rust preventative solvent and degreaser to protect missile parts.
WD-40 was created in 1953 by three technicians at the San Diego Rocket Chemical Company. Its name comes from the project that was to find a "water displacement" compound. They were successful with the fortieth formulation, thus WD-40. The Corvair Company bought it in bulk to protect their atlas missile parts. Ken East (one of the original founders) says there is nothing in WD-40 that would hurt you. When you read the "shower door" part, try it. It's the first thing that has ever cleaned that spotty shower door. If yours is plastic, it works just as well as glass. It's a miracle! Then try it on your stovetop. Voila! It's now shinier than it's ever been. You'll be amazed. Here are some of the uses:

1) Protects silver from tarnishing.

2) Removes road tar and grime from cars.

3) Cleans and lubricates guitar strings.

4) Gives floors that 'just-waxed' sheen without making it slippery.

5) Keeps flies off cows.

6) Restores and cleans chalkboards.

7) Removes lipstick stains.

8) Loosens stubborn zippers.

9) Untangles jewelry chains.

10) Removes stains from stainless steel sinks.

11) Removes dirt and grime from the barbecue grill.

12) Keeps ceramic/terra cotta garden pots from oxidizing.

13) Removes tomato stains from clothing.

14) Keeps glass shower doors free of water spots.

15) Camouflages scratches in ceramic and marble floors.

16) Keeps scissors working smoothly.

17) Lubricates noisy door hinges on vehicles and doors in homes

18) It removes black scuff marks from the kitchen floor! Use WD-40 for those nasty tar and scuff marks on flooring. It doesn't seem to harm the finish and you won't have to scrub nearly as hard to get them off. Just remember to open some windows if you have a lot of marks

19) Bug guts will eat away the finish on your car if not removed quickly! Use WD-40!

20) Gives a children's play gym slide a shine for a super fast slide.

21) Lubricates gear shift and mower deck lever for ease of handling on riding mowers.

22) Rids kids rocking chairs and swings of squeaky noises.

23) Lubricates tracks in sticking home windows and makes them easier toopen.

24) Spraying an umbrella stem makes it easier to open and close.

25) Restores and cleans padded leather dashboards in vehicles, as well as vinyl bumpers.

26) Restores and cleans roof racks on vehicles.

27) Lubricates and stops squeaks in electric fans.

28) Lubricates wheel sprockets on tricycles, wagons, and bicycles for easy handling.

29) Lubricates fan belts on washers and dryers and keeps them running smoothly.

30) Keeps rust from forming on saws and saw blades, and other tools.31) Removes splattered grease on stove.

32) Keeps bathroom mirror from fogging.

33) Lubricates prosthetic limbs.

34) Keeps pigeons off the balcony (they hate the smell).

35) Removes all traces of duct tape.

36) Folks even spray it on their arms, hands, and knees to relieve arthritis pain.

37) Florida's favorite use is: "cleans and removes love bugs from grills and bumpers."

38) The favorite use in the state of New York WD-40 protects the Statue of Liberty from the elements.

39) WD-40 attracts fish. Spray a LITTLE on live bait or lures and you will be catching the big one in no time. Also, it's a lot cheaper than the chemical attractants that are made for just that purpose. Keep in mind though, using some chemical laced baits or lures for fishing are not allowed in some states.

40) Use it for fire ant bites. It takes the sting away immediately and stops the itch.

41) WD-40 is great for removing crayon from walls. Spray on the mark and wipe with a clean rag.

42) Also, if you've discovered that your teenage daughter has washed and dried a tube of lipstick with a load of laundry, saturate the lipstick spots with WD-40 and re-wash. Presto! Lipstick is gone!

43) If you sprayed WD-40 on the distributor cap, it would displace the moisture and allow the car to start.

P. S. The basic ingredient is FISH OIL .

»»  read more

Earthquake Emergencies - 21 Tips To Keep In Mind

Earthquakes are one of the most devastating among all natural disasters. A rather disturbing yet unavoidable fact for the mankind is that none of the equipments, science or measurement scales is able to predict the precise way & time of the earthquake.
The only and hence the most effective means to minimize the severe effects of earthquakes amidst the human lives is making adequate preparations for the earthquake emergencies.
In the situation of an earthquake, one feels that the ground is shaking or rolling. In case the earthquake is a very sever one, that is the movements of earth's crust are really violent, one might also hear the ground roaring or rumbling.
These characteristics of an earthquake cause sheer panic among the people. Eventually this jeopardizes one's chance of the survival. Luckily strong & devastating earthquakes do not happen that usually. Even in the locations where there is a minimal chance of earthquakes that is the places & nations that are located near the ring of fire of the earth, it is imperative to have some emergency plans to keep yourself and your family safe.
Here are some tips that might help you getting prepared for the emergencies:
1. Prepare the emergency kits
a. It is very hard to know as to what remains after the earthquakes, so in case you live in an area really prone to the earthquakes, you must keep the emergency kits ready.
b. There must be one kit for everyone in the house.
c. Each emergency kit is your lifeline ensuring your survival after the earthquake.
d. It should contain: i. One gallon water ii. Food supply for at least 3 days iii. Select only non-perishable food iv. The first aid kit
e. Make sure that you regularly change the contents of the kit like food & water. f. Make sure that the food & water in the kit are of good edible quality else they would be of little use only.
2. Know All the Mains of All Your Utilities
a. Earthquakes often lead to fire due to gas leaks & electricity. b. You must know the main switches of all your utilities, so that you may turn them off as & when needed.
3. Inspect the House for Cracks & Fissures
a. Make sure to check your house's condition regularly in order to ensure that it can withstand even all the strong earthquakes. b. Make sure that there are no cracks on the walls & chimney. c. The door frames must be fixed. d. In case you live in some apartment, instantly report the cracks & fissures to the landlord.
4. Have the Evacuation Plan
a. Make sure that you & your family or the office mates have an emergency plan to face the disasters, like fire, earthquakes & floods. b. Every member must be aware of their duties and safety measures in such situations. c. Early preparation would ensure rather more safety of the family. d. Panic & confusion often lead to accidents & injuries.
Tips to face the Earthquake Emergency while it is Overhead
1. Make sure to stay away from the objects that may fall off.
2. Make sure to stay away from the book cases, hanging objects, cabinets, like chandeliers, ceiling fans, etc.
3. It is always advisable to stay laying down under some sturdy tables and / or door frames.
4. Just don't run around.
5. Do not make an attempt to leave the house.
6. Outside the house there are rather dangerous things waiting to injure you, like lamp posts and cars.
7. The emergency kit must be very accessible and ready all the time.
8. If possible, place the emergency kit in some place where everyone in the house or the office would run in to during a quake.
9. Make sure to stay away from your kitchen. This can be the most dangerous spot of the house in case of earthquakes, with the various pots & pans hanging around & drawers full of cutlery & knives.
10. Furthermore, gas leakage in the kitchen can be quite dangerous owing to the fire involved.
After the earthquake
1. Make sure not to light a match and / or the candle immediately after the earth quake. In case the gas there is leaking, it might catch the flame.
2. Switch off the main gas valve before lighting the match or candle.
3. In case you are suspecting gas leakage, open all the windows & evacuate the house immediately.
4. Now, call your gas company, after you have moved away from the spot of gas leakage.
5. Make the call, only when you are out of that spot as the mobile phone usage in the gas can also lead to a flame.
6. Often earthquakes are followed by some aftershocks. Do not put your guards down even though you, your house and the family are all safe.
7. Check the news to get information on the earthquake & other important updates.

By Abhishek Agarwal

»»  read more

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

»»  read more

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

»»  read more

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

»»  read more

How supervisors can boost morale in the workplace

As a supervisor, you want your work atmosphere to stay positive and productive. However, coming up with methods to achieve this isn’t always simple.
But recognize that you set the emotional “tone” of the workplace environment. Those in charge of any group of people have this power. For example, do you remember those childhood car trips when Dad or Mom got cranky? When an adult got frustrated, this mood change could make or break the entire trip!
Your positive approach to things should eventually improve the mood—and therefore the productivity—of everyone in your department. Emotions, like the common cold, are very “catching.”
You can help your employees enjoy their work environment more if you try the following:
- Find ways to honor each individual.

Employees need to feel that they aren’t disappearing into the woodwork. They want to feel that they exist as a person first—an employee second. Ask them to make a list of ways management can help them feel recognized. For example, would they enjoy recognition when they have a special anniversary or birthday?
-Create a career “track” for each employee.

Help every person develop a “vision” of personal success. Create a template for them to use in order to document skills they’ve acquired, skills they want to learn and goals they want to reach.
-Ask for creative input.

In many companies, the “suggestion box” may be the only creative avenue of input some employees will have. Not everyone gets invited to participate in planning sessions.If you ask for suggestions from others, try to incorporate a few ideas—even if you have to fine-tune them a little. Give personal recognition for every person who makes an honest effort to contribute a winning idea.
-Bring their families into the work setting.

Inquire about your employees’ children. Make it a point to ask about a child’s piano recital or ball game. If your department is rather large, you might consider publishing a newsletter to share family-oriented information.
-Give them something to look forward to.

Psychologists say that having something to look forward to relieves stress and creates healthy anticipation of the future. You might, for example, encourage your employees to bring desserts to work the last Friday of each month. Take 30 minutes to eat and chat after 5 p.m. Or, have a lottery drawing for a gourmet dinner once a month..
-Incorporate humor, whenever appropriate.

A work atmosphere that is too straight-laced can dim the creative spirit in employees. Incorporate jokes into your speeches. Throw in a funny story to liven up your daily chats with employees.
-Let your hair down occasionally.

Employees feel more upbeat when they really like their supervisors as people. Well-liked supervisors gain loyalty, too.
As a supervisor, you must create a positive work atmosphere in stages. It’s not a process that unfolds overnight. Implement one or two changes each week and go from there. Employees will feel more upbeat if they sense that management is trying to build a healthy work environment. You’ll know your plan is working when employees start coming to you with their own ideas for healthy change.

HAVE A SAFE AND PROSPEROUS DAY

T.M.KHALEEL BATCHA

DIRECTORINSTITUTE SAFETY MANAGEMENT-CHENNAI( DIVISION OF OSHA INDIA)

»»  read more

8 Ways to Prevent Injuries When Cleaning

There are many ways you or your cleaning workers can become injured on the job. By taking a few precautions and spending time on safety training, you can save your cleaning company money by preventing accidents from happening. Here are a few tips for preventing injuries:
Slips and Falls. Make sure you and your workers wear the proper footwear. Athletic shoes are preferred - never allow open-toed shoes or shoes with slippery soles to be worn on the job.
Ergonomic Injuries. Make sure everyone knows how to lift safely. For example, bend at the knees and not at the waist. Vary the employees' activities to avoid repetitive motions that can cause injuries. If possible, use equipment that is ergonomically designed like back pack vacuums. Before using a back pack vacuum, adjust it for the proper fit.
Equipment Accidents. Train employees on how to use all equipment properly in order to avoid accidents and keep the equipment in good working order. Floor machines like buffers and carpet cleaning equipment can be hard to handle so give employees plenty of practice. Allow only trained employees to use this type of equipment.
Climbing Accidents. Make sure employees use sturdy ladders for climbing. Never use furniture, boxes or wobbly ladders. Never stand on the top rung of the ladder and don't over-reach or lean too far to one side when standing on a ladder.
Cuts or Puncture Wounds. Never push down on trash to compact it as there may be sharp objects that can puncture your hands. Never pick up broken glass with your hands - use a broom and dust pan.
Respiratory Injuries. Avoid using aerosols in your cleaning business, as it's easier to breathe in the fumes from this type of container. Instead use pump sprayers and spray a small amount into your cleaning cloth rather than spraying large amounts onto the surface you're cleaning.
Avoid feather dusting, which makes the dust airborne and increases the risk of inhalation. Rather, use damp dusting methods with microfiber cloths. Also avoid sweeping. Instead, vacuum hard floors with a back pack vacuum and then damp mop the floor with a microfiber flat mop to keep dust from becoming airborne.
Eye and Skin Injuries. Use protective eye glasses when using cleaning chemicals to keep the spray from entering the eyes. Use protective gloves when using cleaning chemicals to prevent them from contacting the skin, causing irritation or burning.
As you can see, these simple precautions can keep you and your employees from becoming injured on the job. By spending a little bit of time on training, you'll save lots of money in escalating costs of worker's compensation insurance and lost time on the job.
Jean Hanson is Co-Founder of MyHouseCleaningBiz.com and TheJanitorialStore.com. Both are online communities for owners of commercial and residential cleaning companies who want to build a more profitable and successful cleaning business.

By Jean Hanson

»»  read more

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)

»»  read more

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

»»  read more

Techniques To Educate Staff About Workplace Safety

Workplace safety is vital to your workforce and to your company. In any company, personnel are your most valuable asset. Workplace safety training is about more than keeping your workers safe, though preventing injury to both your staff and the general public is certainly the major reason for safety training. In nearly every industry, OSHA and other regulatory boards set standards for worker safety that must be met, and records that must be maintained to prove those standards are being met. If your company fails to follow the regulations, you could be hit with huge fines. If one of your workers is injured on the job and your company was out of compliance with any regulations, you may find yourself facing a hefty lawsuit for damages.
Since workplace safety is so vital, training your workers in safety procedures should be one of your company's top priorities. When choosing or designing a workplace safety education program, there are a number of things to take into account.

Reaching All of Your Workers

A great deal of the safety training that your workers need is information based. There are rules, regulations, standards and procedures that they should understand. Getting all that information into their hands can be time consuming. Mandatory meetings can eat into production time, and it can be difficult for your employees to retain when the info is all crammed into a one hour training session.According to the U.S. Department of Education, about 90 million Americans demonstrate low competency in reading, math and basic logic. In addition, there are about 32 million Americans for whom English is a second language. Any time you run a training session, you should simply assume that a percentage of your workers are struggling with understanding what's being read or spoken.Safety training videos are an excellent way to deliver the information that your workers need to know. While you can screen videos for your work crews in in-house meetings, there are ways to make it more convenient for your employees - and help them learn and retain more from what they see.

Make training videos when it's convenient for your workers.

Putting your safety training films and course materials online on a company server lets your workers log on and study at their own pace. That can be a lot easier than trying to gather everyone for screenings while still managing coverage for the floor or work site. Many of the best safety training films are available in a format that can be streamed or downloaded from a central server. Many companies are also turning to iPods, mini DVD players and MP3 players to deliver safety videos and training to their workers.

Use participatory activities to help drive points home.

One environmental plant manager, for instance, used maps of the facility to help his workers understand safety planning. In an in-service training, he handed out maps and asked them to mark various safety hazards on the map in different colors. It helped them to visualize the layout of the plant in relation to safety hazards, and helped him identify gaps in their knowledge.

Train in context.

While safety training videos can be an excellent way to explain important concepts, they work best if you use them in context. Unless a training film has been custom made for your particular company, your workers will get more out of the video if you put it within a framework. If you're showing a video on how to identify asbestos, for example, start with an explanation of how the training applies to their job and why it's important for them to understand it.
Reinforce concepts from safety training films after the video is over.After the video, encourage discussion by asking questions and stepping back to listen to answers. It will help you gauge how well the message was received and give you the opportunity to reinforce important concepts and correct mistaken assumptions.

Seek out safety training grants to help finance your training efforts.

There are safety training grants available through various branches of the federal, state and local governments. Homeland Security grants, for instance, can be used to purchase safety training videos about emergency preparedness, handling hazardous materials and responding to emergencies using the national framework for emergency response. Trade unions may offer grants that will help you purchase materials to teach safety issues appropriate to your field.

Safety training for your workers should be a top priority. These tips can help you design a comprehensive worker safety education program that will keep your workforce safe and your company in compliance with all safety regulations.

About Author:Brian Jenkins is a freelance writer who writes about topics concerning emergency planning, safety preparedness and demonstrations for emergency response such as Safety

»»  read more

The Five Stages Of Risk Assessment

Is risk assessment rocket science? No of course it isn't.Health and safety law requires that you carry out recorded,documented risk assessments for work,jobs,tasks or operations with significant risk, if you have more than five employees. The people involved should be included and their input valued, include,engage,embrace your workforce in the safety culture. The results and any changes required should be cascaded,communicated to everyone in the workforce, do not leave information in a file to rot.I have never done a risk assessment! Of course you have, if you drive a vehicle,car,bike, you perform one at every junction, (I hope), looking both,each ways before driving on, if it is clear to do so. If you cross a street,road,highwayon foot you do the same thing, look both ways before you walk,step out.Risk assessment is 90% common sense, clean up mess,spillages, repair leaks, dont leave draws open for people to walk into. No trailing cables,wires. Specialist information,knowledge of machinery, production,processes or chemicals,products will,may be needed, so make sure you have this advice when you need it.Your business's most valuable asset are employees,staff,workforce, so it makes business sense as well as legal, moral sense to protect them.It is impossible to eliminate all risk and the law would not expect you to, you are required to do what is reasonably practicable. The definition of this is, what an open minded, reasonable person would expect to be in place. Sometimes referred to in legalise The man on the Clapham Omnibus, but you can Google that yourself.The Definition of Risk Assessment A thoughtful,thorough examination of hazards in the workplace and the controls in place to protect people who may visit the workplaceWhat controls are in place? Review and make changes if necessary.Did you know? o 245 people in the UK are killed at work each year not including road related deaths o There are 30,000 work related serious injuries every year, 1 every 17 minutes o 137,000 people in the UK were injured or killed in work related incidents last year o 2 million people in the UK believe their illness to be caused or made worse by work o 25,000 leave work every year never to return o 38.5 million working days are lost in the UK through injury or ill health each year which is a 30 billion annual cost to businesses Did you know? o The average fine for successful prosecution by the HSE was 18,765 in 2004 and this is not covered by insurance!Five Stages of Risk Assessment

Stage 1 Hazard IdentificationPretend you are new and look at everything with a fresh view, is what you record reasonable or should changes be made.Everyone in the workplace will have an opinion, seek them out and evaluate their comments.Manufacturer data sheets are an excellent resource for hazard information on machinery and chemicals. Use them as a reference for your risk assessments.Information that is already in your business's possession may also be useful, like accident and ill health records, they can often identify hazards which are less obvious.Not all hazards are immediately obvious, noise and exposure to dust for instance may not manifest themselves for some years.

Step 2 Who is at risk and how?Compile a list of all persons,individuals who may be at risk then you will be able to manage it. You may need to consider them as groups rather than as individuals.Descriptions of harm are needed, type of injury, e.g. repetitive tasks like on a production line. There are special requirements for some groups of workers like young people, pregnant women, disabled persons.Extra thought will be needed for some hazards workers in particular disciplines such as cleaners, visitors, contractors, maintenance workers etc, may not be in the workplace all the time. Also consider members of the public if they could be hurt by your activities. If you share your workplace, you will need to think about how your work affects others present, as well as how their work affects your staff " talk to them and ask your staff if they can think of anyone you may have missed.

Step 3 Evaluate the risks and decide on precautionsThere are Approved Codes of Practice available from the HSE which are taken to be industry best practice. What are you going to do about the hazards, everything reasonably practicable is the answer.Is what you are doing sufficient? Use the ACOPs to measure your performance.Use the ERICPD acronym to check that you Eliminate, Reduce, Isolate, Control, PPE (personal protective equipment), Discipline of the workforce to work correctly

Step 4 Record your findings and implement themAll findings should be written down, kept simple and not too elaborate. For example 'Tripping over rubbish bins provided', Staff instructed, Housekeeping checks now in place weekly. Welding fume, local exhaust ventilation used and inspected regularlyRisk assessments need to, be sufficient and suitable, they are rarely perfect, but need to evaluate the hazard properly.You need to be able to show o a proper check was made o who might be affected o the significant hazards are controlled o all people potentially involved o precautions are reasonable o staff were involved o the remaining risk is lowDont try to do everything at once. Make a plan of action to deal with the most important things first. Health and safety inspectors acknowledge the efforts of businesses that are clearly trying to make improvements.o Quick fixes o Medium and long term goals o Training

Step 5 Review your risk assessment and update if necessaryReview at least annuallyNothing stays the same o Changes o Improvements o Any near misses or accidents o Ask the workers if everything is OK o If you know there has been a change review immediatelySome frequently asked questions (Courtesy of HSE Web Site)What if the work I do tends to vary a lot, or I (or my employees) move from one site to another?Identify the hazards you can reasonably expect and assess the risks from them.

This general assessment should stand you in good stead for the majority of your work. Where you do take on work or a new site that is different, cover any new or different hazards with a specific assessment. You do not have to start from scratch each time.What if I share a workplace?Tell the other employers and self-employed people there about any risks your work could cause them, and what precautions you are taking. Also, think about the risks to your own workforce from those who share your workplace.Do my employees have responsibilities?Yes. Employees have legal responsibilities to co-operate with their employers efforts to improve health and safety (e.g. they must wear protective equipment when it is provided), and to look out for each other.What if one of my employees circumstances change?Youll need to look again at the risk assessment. You are required to carry out a specific risk assessment for new or expectant mothers, as some tasks (heavy lifting or work with chemicals for example) may not be appropriate. If an employee develops a disability then you are required to make reasonable adjustments. People returning to work following major surgery may also have particular requirements. If you put your mind to it, you can almost always find a way forward that works for you and your employees. What if I have already assessed some of the risks?If, for example, you use hazardous chemicals and you have already assessed the risks to health and the precautions you need to take under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH), you can consider them checked and move on.

By: Sean Fowden

»»  read more

The Importance Of Forklift Safety In The Warehouse

Forklifts are complicated machines that have become a necessary tool for the materials handling industry. As forklifts become more and more prevalent, the need for increased forklift safety grows.Forklift safety is often neglected because once we get behind the wheel, we forget that it is not a toy. This may sound silly, but it's one of the most common mistakes when using a forklift. You don't want one of your workers to injure himself because he was racing forklifts with a co-worker in the warehouse. Not only does this kind of lax mentality about forklift safety put you and your workers at risk, but it also puts your expensive equipment and supplies at risk. From both a liability perspective and a financial perspective, it is advantageous for you to implement forklift safety into your workplace training.

Below is a list of safety precautions that need to be taken when using a forklift. The list is by no means definitive, but it should act as a guide for you to build off of when implementing or reconsidering your forklift safety program.

1. Set Up A Forklift Training ProgramIf you don't have the resources to set up a forklift safety program in-house, make sure to have specialists come in and train your workers. You can also look into having your workers enroll in independent forklift classes. Any of the costs you incur setting up a training program will be worth it in the long run because maintaining a safe, and efficient warehouse is invaluable.

2. Do Not Play With The ForkliftThis can't be overemphasized. As I mention above, one of the fundamental problems teaching forklift safety is changing the mentality of your workers. You must not treat the forklift as a toy.

3. Make Sure Forklift Operator Is Mentally and Physically FitMany forklift accidents occur because the forklift operator was tired or sick. You need to make sure that your forklift operators understand that it is okay to let you know if they feel too sick or too tired to properly operate the forklift. It is not worth it to let someone who isn't mentally or physically fit put himself, your workers, and your company at risk.

4. Keep Your Forklift Properly MaintainedThis is another one that is often overlooked. Make sure to keep tabs on your regular forklift maintenance and repairs. While the repairs will cost you in the short term, they will be well worth it in the long run because it will help keep the forklift running smoothly and keep your warehouse safe.

5. Gather Feedback From Forklift OperatorsMake sure to stay in touch with your forklift operators and listen to their concerns.

They most likely have witnessed some questionable or dangerous warehouse conditions. Even if they haven't, they certainly can still provide valuable input into what needs to be covered in a forklift safety program.

By: Robert Whitley

»»  read more

Obey These Five Safety Tips To Prevent Motorcycle Injury

There is nothing like in this world like riding a motorcycle. You are sitting exposed, atop a roaring chrome monster. There is nothing better. It is no wonder that every year millions of Americans (and people in other countries) hit the roads on their motorcycles, and motorcycle sales have been strong this decade.It an experience that can also easily cost you your life if you are not careful. What follows are five of the most important safety tips to remember when riding a motorcycle so that you and other people on the road stay free from harm.

1. Make sure your tires have enough pressure. The tires should have a recommended pressure imprinted on the side. If your tires have a recommended range of pressure, aim to be on the higher end of the range. Having adequate pressure in your tires gives you better control of your motorcycle. Tire pressure naturally decreases over time, so it is important to do this regularly. The effect of losing tire pressure is exacerbated during wide swings in temperature. So it is extra important to check tire pressure if it was a different season when you last rode.

2. Control your lanes. Since there is often room for a motorcycle and a car, especially in turning lanes, many drivers will put right up next to the bike in the same lane. But this creates a dangerous situation for motorcyclists. Therefore, it is best to position your motorcycle so that there is not room for another vehicle to pull up next to you. When making a right turn from a turning lane, for example, position your bike to the left side of the lane so that another vehicle doesn't attempt to pull right next to you in the same lane.

3. Check that your brake levers work properly. If a lever will squeeze closer than a half-inch to the grip, then your stopping power may be impaired. A lever that moves too far may indicate air in your brake fluid. You should inspect and correct the problem immediately.

4. If you find yourself riding in a situation that requires more concentration, reduce distractions. Any time you are in a situation that requires maximum concentration and focus, whether it is navigating busy city streets or driving during a rain storm, you should minimize any external distractions, such as listening to a radio.

5. Always follow the lead bike in a group ride, and maintain a safe distance. Make sure you have room to maneuver in case something happens in front of you, and do everything you can not to cause trouble behind you.We've just scratched the surface of how to ride a motorcycle safely. If you are just learning to ride, then it is important for you to take a class. But the above tips may be some things you don't always think about when riding. So follow this advice, obey the law, and ride safe.
By: Jerry L. Work

»»  read more