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CONSTRUCTION SAFETY eNews for –
January
2008 |
Welcome to Occupational Hazards’ new
E-newsletter, Construction Safety
E-News. This newsletter is dedicated to furthering
safety and health in
the construction industry. Each newsletter will feature an
article
written by a construction safety expert – safety
professionals,
trainers, consultants. |
In This
Newsletter:
1. Protecting
Outdoor Employees from Cold Weather
2. OSHA Proposes
$173,000 in Fines against West Haven, Conn., Roofing Contractor
3. CDC: Fatal
Injury Rates Climb after 20-Year Decline
4. Orange, Conn.,
Contractor Hit with Fines for Cave-in Hazards
5. The
Value of Safety Programs
1. Protecting Outdoor Employees from
Cold Weather
As Yankee Clippers and Arctic weather sweep across the country,
areas of the nation - even those that normally never experience extreme
cold and snow - are experiencing the harsh, sometimes damaging effects
of winter. Employees who work outside - such as in construction,
commercial fishing, maritime and agriculture - are especially
vulnerable.
With the cold weather upon us, OSHA is offering advice to employers and
employees to take necessary precautions to prevent and treat
cold-related health problems.
Exposure to freezing and cold temperatures for extended periods of time
may cause serious health problems such as trench foot, frostbite and
hypothermia. In extreme cases, including cold water submersion, exposure
can lead to death. Danger signs include uncontrolled shivering, slurred
speech, clumsy movements, fatigue and confused behavior. If these signs
are observed, call immediately for emergency help.
OSHA's Cold Stress Card provides a reference guide and recommendations
to combat and prevent many cold weather-related illnesses and injuries.
Available in English and Spanish, this laminated card is free to
employers, employees and the public. Tips on how to protect employees
include:
- Recognize the environmental and workplace conditions that may be
dangerous.
- Learn the signs and symptoms of cold-induced illnesses and injuries
and what to do to help employees.
- Train employees about cold-induced illnesses and injuries.
- Encourage employees to wear proper clothing for cold, wet and windy
conditions, including layers that can be adjusted to changing
conditions.
- Be sure that employees in extremely cold conditions take frequent,
short breaks in warm dry shelters to allow their bodies to warm up.
- Try to schedule work for the warmest part of the day.
- Avoid exhaustion or fatigue because energy is needed to keep muscles
warm.
- Use the buddy system: Work in pairs so that one employee can
recognize danger signs.
- Eat warm, high-calorie foods such as hot pasta dishes.
- Remember that employees increase their risks when they take certain
medications, are in poor physical condition or suffer from illnesses
such as diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular disease.
- Drink warm, sweet beverages (sugar water, sports-type drinks) and
avoid drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas or hot chocolate) or
alcohol.
Carl Heinlein, CSP, OHST, is a safety consultant with American
Contractors Insurance Group Inc. He said his group has been stressing
the importance of hydration to its members.
"People forget the importance of hydration," says Heinlein. "We
encourage employees to wear protective clothing - hats, gloves, boots -
but we forget to push hydration. They dehydrate wearing all those extra
layers of clothing."
Heinlein also cautions employers and supervisors to warn employees about
the impact of energy drinks. "They can contain a lot of caffeine," he
says. "You get hyped up, but then you crash." Tired employees run a
greater risk of experiencing injuries, so stick to non-caffeinated
beverages or just plan water, Heinlein adds.
For free copies of OSHA's Cold Stress Card in English or Spanish, go to
OSHA's Web site, www.osha.gov">www.osha.gov, or call
(202) 693-1888.
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4. Orange, Conn., Contractor Hit with Fines
for Cave-in Hazards
An unprotected trench and other hazards at a Walgreens construction
site in New Haven, Conn., have resulted in OSHA proposing a total of
$74,600 in fines against an Orange, Conn., contractor. Louis Gherlone
Excavating Inc. was cited for a total of 11 willful, repeat and serious
violations of safety standards at a sewer line installation site.
>> More
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5. The Value of Safety Programs
The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE), along with more
than 25 OSHA Alliance Program participants, will demonstrate during the
North American Occupational Safety and Health (NAOSH) week in May that
workplace safety not only saves lives, but also is a good business
strategy.
>> More
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New Products!
Glove Guard LP has added High Vis Yellow & Lime Green to its
Glove Guard® and Utility Guard™ product lines and added High
Vis Yellow, Orange and Green to its Soft Pouch line. They have also
added a Black 3x5" Open Mesh to their Utility Bag line. www.gloveguard.com
Ninja Flex®--N9680 Latex Coated Palm and
Fingertips
A 15 gauge 100% nylon shell with a crinkle latex coating providing
superb flexibility, elasticity, and durability. Excellent for dry grip
applications. Component materials comply with all relevant federal
regulations for food contact. Call 800-955-6887 or visit
www.mcrsafetyinfo.com for additional information. Enter advertising
code "OHCE7".
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