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2014Ebola workplace safety: 7 prevention steps
OSHA has teamed up with other state health agencies to release recommendations that will help protect workers from Ebola. Workers in certain professions could potentially be exposed to Ebola. These include: ◾healthcare workers ◾emergency responders ◾laboratory staff ◾death care workers ◾airline crews and airport staff, and ◾quarantine operations staff. The safety recommendations urge employers to: ◾Make sure workers who are at risk of Ebola exposure…
17
2014Exits and Exit Routes
An exit is: the part of the exit route that is a way out of the workplace. A workplace must have two or more exit routes, depending on the number of people involved and the layout and size of the work area. These exit routes must be permanent and always unobstructed. The following are safety guidelines for exit and exit route safety: Exit doors must…
10
2014OSHA seeks new approach to hazardous chemicals
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is launching a national dialogue with chemical manufacturers and users on methods to prevent illnesses caused by workplace exposure to hazardous substances, the agency has announced. OSHA Administrator David Michaels unveiled the program in a teleconference Oct. 9. Further details of the program—including a 180-day comment period—will be released in a notice soon to be published in the Federal…
02
2014Proposed Rule : Drug history database for commercial Drivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) wants to make it easier for companies to find out if a commercial driver has past drug or alcohol violations. But the rule includes a requirement for employers as well. The agency issued a proposed rule that would create a “drug and alcohol clearinghouse” for all commercially licensed drivers. Companies would be required to search the online database…
30
2014Workers in the marijuana industry face unique safety concerns
The marijuana industry comes with its own unique set of safety hazards, Washington OSHA Implementing preventative safety measures in this emerging industry will help to combat potential hazards as they arise. OSHA has compiled a series of issues for employees who work with marijuana to look out for. The lists cover all types of jobs, from producers and growers to processors and retailers. Producers and…
29
2014Workplace violence: How do you spot them?
Recently An Oklahoma woman was killed by an ex-coworker who beheaded her with a knife. The attacker came to the workplace with a knife and proceeded to stab and kill the woman. When episodes of violence occur, people often wonder, Could I have done anything to prevent this? Workplace violence is no exception. OSHA says almost two million Americans report being victims of workplace violence…
26
2014How To File A Complaint & Request OSHA inspection
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 gives employees and their representatives the right to file a complaint and request an OSHA inspection of their workplace if they believe there is a serious hazard or their employer is not following OSHA standards. The Act gives complainants the right to request that their names not be revealed to their employers. Complaints from employees and their…
25
2014What Would You Do? Safety Scenario
Here’s a challenging safety scenario you could encounter in your workplace. The company’s production manager has implemented a stretching program, but it’s starting to lead to injuries. Scenario ; A Manager walks into his building, As he walked by the production floor, he saw a bunch of workers lined up while Production Manager led them in stretches. As the workers broke up, the manager calls…
22
2014Hand Tools
Keeping tools in good condition will help keep workers in good condition. Hand and power tools receive a great deal of outside use. It’s important to remember that exposure to heat and other weather elements can affect hand tool safety. Inspect tools before use, a biannual thorough inspection of hand tools is recommended. It’s a good idea to check the safety of tools before it…
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2014Protect your Business by protecting your Employees
Safety and health is important for all business owners. An effective safety and health program can save $4 to $6 for every $1 invested. It’s the right thing to do, and doing it right pays off in lower costs, increased productivity, and higher employee morale. Establishing a safe and healthful working environment requires every employer large and small and every worker to make safety and…