Every company big or small has to comply with general standards. These cover things like hazardous materials, ventilation, personal protective equipment, fire safety, safety exits, first aid and sanitation
Employers can reduce their insurance premiums and make the workplace a safer place to be by considering the following:
1. The quality of your health and safety risk management system. These should display a positive, proactive approach to managing health and safety. This could immediately affect premiums and also any efforts made can reduce future claims. The long term view will be to improve company performance in this area.
2. Prove that your company meets legislative safety management requirements. Primarily the Heath and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Any other legislation controlling your significant risks should also be reviewed
3. Have an effective policy including a clearly written statement of policy, details of the organisation and arrangements for health and safety. Outlining clear, relevant, health and safety objectives.
4. Organising your health and safety objectives including
- Employee consultation - Good Communication - Allocation of resources - Good controls in place
5. Effective planning based on risk assessments
6. Proactive inspections and accident investigations
7. Reviewing your health and safety systems and arrangements
8. Conducting job analyses leading to developing a training program to inform employees about the causes of work related injuries and how to identify possible scenarios.
9. Before a party or social event, send out an office-wide communications reminding employees not to drink in excess and not to drink and drive. Encourage them to act responsibly and control their own behaviour.
Friday
Tuesday
Accident Investigation Question
I asked the following questions should appear on anaccident investigation report:
1. Did the employee commit an unsafe act? Yes No Explain
2. Was there an unsafe condition contributing to the accident? Yes NoExplain
3. Did the employee violate a safety rule? I received 16 responses.
The opinions varied and were equally divided. Some felt that these expressed an opinion and did not express fact and did not lead to the root cause of the others stated that they could express fact (while answering the questions what happened and why) and cited examples - insubordination, not knowing the rules, deliberate decision to take a short cut, debris on the floor, etc. As to the third question, wasthe rule written/procedural/oral was addressed as germanin. One response cited the labor code in CA which allowed this type of question and kept the answer confidential and away from public scrutiny. My opinion is, after reviewing the responses, they address three criticalelements of the overall investigation - behavioral, environmental, and managerial. When compared against rthe question of "Describe what happened?"they trigger the supervisor who is making the initial report into looking at the overall incident a second time looking for specific causes and therefore have a place on the report. I thank all those who provided input. The input has been shared with my safety committee.
1. Did the employee commit an unsafe act? Yes No Explain
2. Was there an unsafe condition contributing to the accident? Yes NoExplain
3. Did the employee violate a safety rule? I received 16 responses.
The opinions varied and were equally divided. Some felt that these expressed an opinion and did not express fact and did not lead to the root cause of the others stated that they could express fact (while answering the questions what happened and why) and cited examples - insubordination, not knowing the rules, deliberate decision to take a short cut, debris on the floor, etc. As to the third question, wasthe rule written/procedural/oral was addressed as germanin. One response cited the labor code in CA which allowed this type of question and kept the answer confidential and away from public scrutiny. My opinion is, after reviewing the responses, they address three criticalelements of the overall investigation - behavioral, environmental, and managerial. When compared against rthe question of "Describe what happened?"they trigger the supervisor who is making the initial report into looking at the overall incident a second time looking for specific causes and therefore have a place on the report. I thank all those who provided input. The input has been shared with my safety committee.
Contractor Safety
Contractor safety is an area that deserves much attention. My experience as
Safety Coordinator at a Thermal Electric Generation Station taught me that it
is well worth your time and effort to clearly communicate in advance what your
expectations, rules and policies are. We went from doing very little pre-work
with contractors to developing a _Site Orientation_ video that is shown to all
contract employees when they entered our site. In addition to this we wrote
specific contract language addressing certain aspects of our safety policies
depending upon the nature of the work being performed. I worked very closely
with our Contract Department and reviewed bid submissions of the contractors
safety policies, OSHA 200 logs and attended pre-bid meetings.
Depending upon the scope of the work performed and the number of contract
employees we would sometimes require that the contractor supply dedicated
safety people for us to interface with. We went to great effort to maintain a
certain degree of separation in how we addressed safety problems as the jobs
progressed, taking issues to contractor supervision instead of addressing
directly to contractor employees (unless the situation was one of eminent
danger). This was done to avoid the interpretation of directly supervising
the contractors employees and changing the relationship to one of being their
employer. We found that a great number of small contractors had either
inadequate or nonexistent safety policies and again went to great lengths to
avoid training any contractors inanything other than certain procedures that
were necessary to the performance of their jobs (ie. Site Specific Tag Out,
Evacuation, and Emergency Response)
Disclaimer: These opinions are my own and reflect my meager
experience in the vast world of Safety.
Safety Coordinator at a Thermal Electric Generation Station taught me that it
is well worth your time and effort to clearly communicate in advance what your
expectations, rules and policies are. We went from doing very little pre-work
with contractors to developing a _Site Orientation_ video that is shown to all
contract employees when they entered our site. In addition to this we wrote
specific contract language addressing certain aspects of our safety policies
depending upon the nature of the work being performed. I worked very closely
with our Contract Department and reviewed bid submissions of the contractors
safety policies, OSHA 200 logs and attended pre-bid meetings.
Depending upon the scope of the work performed and the number of contract
employees we would sometimes require that the contractor supply dedicated
safety people for us to interface with. We went to great effort to maintain a
certain degree of separation in how we addressed safety problems as the jobs
progressed, taking issues to contractor supervision instead of addressing
directly to contractor employees (unless the situation was one of eminent
danger). This was done to avoid the interpretation of directly supervising
the contractors employees and changing the relationship to one of being their
employer. We found that a great number of small contractors had either
inadequate or nonexistent safety policies and again went to great lengths to
avoid training any contractors inanything other than certain procedures that
were necessary to the performance of their jobs (ie. Site Specific Tag Out,
Evacuation, and Emergency Response)
Disclaimer: These opinions are my own and reflect my meager
experience in the vast world of Safety.
Monday
Smoke Alarms
Battery-powered smoke alarms have been in the market since the 1970's।
An estimated 94% of all USA homes are equipped with at least one detector.
The NFPA (National Fire Protection Assoc.), states that one-half of the people who have died in home fires were those in the 6% that did not have alarms.
In 30% of home fires where smoke detectors were present, they did not work due to dead or missing batteries or the unit had not been properly connected.
Homes that have smoke alarms typically have a death rate that is 40-50% less than the rate of homes without alarms.
Based on the above statistics, it is evident that we should have our homes equipped with smoke alarms.
There are presently two types offered for sale in our markets, the ionization and photoelectric types.
Ionization - a small amount of radioactive material is used to ionize the air in the sensing chamber. This air becomes conductive permitting currents to flow between two charged electrodes, reducing the conductivity to a predetermined level. This sets off the alarm. The advantages of this alarm are the fast response to flaming fires and they are cost efficient. This type is the most common alarm sold.
Photoelectric - consists of a light emitting diode and a light sensitive sensor in the sensing chamber. The presence of suspended smoke in the chamber scatters the light beam. The scattered light is detected and sets off the alarm. This type responds more rapidly to slow-smoldering fires and white or gray smoke.
TIPS FOR INSTALLATION
Install at least one detector on each floor, including the basement and at sleeping area. The NFPA recommends installing smoke alarms inside the room. Smoke alarms are required in all new homes according to the NFPA 72, National fire Alarm Code.
Mount smoke alarms on ceilings or high walls. Remember-smoke rises. Ceiling mounted alarms should be at least 4 inches away from walls.
Wall mounted alarms should be at least 4 inches from the ceiling and not more than 12 inches. On vaulted ceilings, they should be mounted at the highest point of the ceiling.
Don't install smoke alarms near windows, outside doors or A/C ducts where the draft might interfere with their operation.
Don't paint smoke alarms. Paint and other decoration could keep them from working properly.
TIPS FOR MAINTENANCE
Test the alarms at least once each month. Use the test button or an approved smoke substitute. Clean the units in accordance with the Mfg.'s instructions.
Replace the batteries once a year or when the alarm "chirps," warning that the battery is low. A good rule of thumb is to change the batteries when changing your clocks from daylight savings time to standard time in the fall.
Vacuuming or dusting the alarm regularly and following the Mfg.'s instructions will help keep it working properly.
Replace the entire unit (smoke alarm) every 10 years.
Never borrow a battery from a detector for another use.
Make sure everyone can clearly hear and recognize the sound of the smoke detectors. Some studies have shown that children may not wake up to the sound of an alarm. Secure an electrician to interconnect the alarms in each room so that when one sounds, they all sound. .
NFPA recommends that people with hearing impairments should install alarms with strobe lights to warn them of a fire.
When purchasing smoke alarms, be sure that a reputable testing laboratory, such as Underwriters' Laboratory, approves them.
A qualified electrician should install alarms hard-wired to the home's electrical system.
Guard your family from being caught in an unsafe situation!
Install alarms; reduce the chance of harms!!
Excerpts; NASD-NFPA-FACT SHEETS
An estimated 94% of all USA homes are equipped with at least one detector.
The NFPA (National Fire Protection Assoc.), states that one-half of the people who have died in home fires were those in the 6% that did not have alarms.
In 30% of home fires where smoke detectors were present, they did not work due to dead or missing batteries or the unit had not been properly connected.
Homes that have smoke alarms typically have a death rate that is 40-50% less than the rate of homes without alarms.
Based on the above statistics, it is evident that we should have our homes equipped with smoke alarms.
There are presently two types offered for sale in our markets, the ionization and photoelectric types.
Ionization - a small amount of radioactive material is used to ionize the air in the sensing chamber. This air becomes conductive permitting currents to flow between two charged electrodes, reducing the conductivity to a predetermined level. This sets off the alarm. The advantages of this alarm are the fast response to flaming fires and they are cost efficient. This type is the most common alarm sold.
Photoelectric - consists of a light emitting diode and a light sensitive sensor in the sensing chamber. The presence of suspended smoke in the chamber scatters the light beam. The scattered light is detected and sets off the alarm. This type responds more rapidly to slow-smoldering fires and white or gray smoke.
TIPS FOR INSTALLATION
Install at least one detector on each floor, including the basement and at sleeping area. The NFPA recommends installing smoke alarms inside the room. Smoke alarms are required in all new homes according to the NFPA 72, National fire Alarm Code.
Mount smoke alarms on ceilings or high walls. Remember-smoke rises. Ceiling mounted alarms should be at least 4 inches away from walls.
Wall mounted alarms should be at least 4 inches from the ceiling and not more than 12 inches. On vaulted ceilings, they should be mounted at the highest point of the ceiling.
Don't install smoke alarms near windows, outside doors or A/C ducts where the draft might interfere with their operation.
Don't paint smoke alarms. Paint and other decoration could keep them from working properly.
TIPS FOR MAINTENANCE
Test the alarms at least once each month. Use the test button or an approved smoke substitute. Clean the units in accordance with the Mfg.'s instructions.
Replace the batteries once a year or when the alarm "chirps," warning that the battery is low. A good rule of thumb is to change the batteries when changing your clocks from daylight savings time to standard time in the fall.
Vacuuming or dusting the alarm regularly and following the Mfg.'s instructions will help keep it working properly.
Replace the entire unit (smoke alarm) every 10 years.
Never borrow a battery from a detector for another use.
Make sure everyone can clearly hear and recognize the sound of the smoke detectors. Some studies have shown that children may not wake up to the sound of an alarm. Secure an electrician to interconnect the alarms in each room so that when one sounds, they all sound. .
NFPA recommends that people with hearing impairments should install alarms with strobe lights to warn them of a fire.
When purchasing smoke alarms, be sure that a reputable testing laboratory, such as Underwriters' Laboratory, approves them.
A qualified electrician should install alarms hard-wired to the home's electrical system.
Guard your family from being caught in an unsafe situation!
Install alarms; reduce the chance of harms!!
Excerpts; NASD-NFPA-FACT SHEETS
Sunday
Fire Prevention
TIPS FOR FIRE SAFETY
Smoke detectors -- If you do not have them now, purchase them and check them periodically for low or dead batteries. The number needed depends upon the size of your facility.
Fire Extinguishers -- Keep approved fire extinguishers available and make sure that all employees are trained to use them.
Use extension cords only as a temporary move and be sure that they are not overloaded and have frays or naked wires.
Post emergency telephone numbers by phones and acquaint all employees on how to use the
9-1-1 number and 191 for Thailand.
Evacuation plan -- We encourage and recommend in our visits to have an evacuation plan posted by all exits and in your auditorium areas. This is for outside guests or attendees and new employees. Regular employees normally would know their location, but in an emergency, with the possibility of smoke and/or fire, one might get disoriented and the posted plan would be an added assistance to exit.
Exit Routes -- In addition to the Evacuation Plan, we should be familiar with escape routes, especially in the case of facilities located in second floor buildings.
Circuit boxes -- Always keep all circuit boxes open and free of obstructions in front of the doors, in case you should need to cut the power in an emergency.
Panic -- Do not panic, remain as calm as possible.
Head count -- Leave the facility as safely and quickly as possible. When you are clear of the building, get a head count of people to account for all the folks that were in the facility at the outbreak of the fire or emergency.
Smoke detectors -- If you do not have them now, purchase them and check them periodically for low or dead batteries. The number needed depends upon the size of your facility.
Fire Extinguishers -- Keep approved fire extinguishers available and make sure that all employees are trained to use them.
Use extension cords only as a temporary move and be sure that they are not overloaded and have frays or naked wires.
Post emergency telephone numbers by phones and acquaint all employees on how to use the
9-1-1 number and 191 for Thailand.
Evacuation plan -- We encourage and recommend in our visits to have an evacuation plan posted by all exits and in your auditorium areas. This is for outside guests or attendees and new employees. Regular employees normally would know their location, but in an emergency, with the possibility of smoke and/or fire, one might get disoriented and the posted plan would be an added assistance to exit.
Exit Routes -- In addition to the Evacuation Plan, we should be familiar with escape routes, especially in the case of facilities located in second floor buildings.
Circuit boxes -- Always keep all circuit boxes open and free of obstructions in front of the doors, in case you should need to cut the power in an emergency.
Panic -- Do not panic, remain as calm as possible.
Head count -- Leave the facility as safely and quickly as possible. When you are clear of the building, get a head count of people to account for all the folks that were in the facility at the outbreak of the fire or emergency.
Saturday
General Office Safety
General Office Safety
Changes have occurred in many office environment and will continue to change with all the new technology and automated office equipment. As with all new technology, these changes bring on a whole new set of health and safety concerns. The former concerns, such as slippery floors and open file cabinets are still prevalent, but now poorly designed workstations and maladjusted computer stations can cause all types of body pains, eyestrains and tension. The leading types of disabling accidents that occur within the office are the result of falls, strains, exertions, falling objects, striking objects and getting caught in, or between, objects.
FALLS
Falls are the most common office accident, accounting for the greatest number of disabling injuries. The disabling injury rate of falls, among office workers, is 2 to 2.5 times higher than the rate for non-office employees. One of the most common hazards of office falls is tripping over an open desk or file drawer. Other common trip or fall hazards are bending over in an unstable chair and tripping over electric cords and wires. Also, using a chair or a stack of boxes to reach high places instead of a stepladder. Slipping on wet floors results in falls as well. Most of these hazards are preventable. Following is a checklist that can help stop a fall before it happens:
Be sure that pathways are clear before you pass over them.
Close drawers after every use.
Avoid excessive bending, twisting and leaning backward while seated.
Always use a ladder for overhead reaching.
Pick up loose articles that coworkers may leave on the floor.
Report loose carpeting or damaged flooring.
Never carry articles that may block your vision.
Wear stable shoes with non-slip soles.
STRAINS AND OVEREXERTIONS
Typically, most office jobs don't involve lifting large or heavy objects, but it is still important to use the proper lifting techniques. Stacks of files, boxes of computer paper or books can cause a real problem for your back, neck and shoulders.
Improper lifting can result in a back injury very quickly. Fortunately, with exercise, this is no longer a problem. Before you pick up an object, ask yourself if the load is too heavy, how high do I have to lift it and how far do I have to carry it? Don't try to impress folks with your ability to lift objects that are out of your control. Call your supervisor or someone to help.
STRUCK BY OR STRIKING OBJECTS
Striking against objects in an office causes many injuries. Be careful not to bump into doors, desks, file cabinets and open drawers. Watch out for other people while walking and striking open drawers while bending down or rising up.
CAUGHT IN OR BETWEEN OBJECTS
You might get fingers caught in a drawer, door or window, maybe in an office machine or in a manual paper cutter. It pays to be careful and take a little time to avoid these freak accidents.
MATERIAL STORAGE
Always take care in stacking boxes or stacking papers on high shelves and file cabinets. It's easy for them to fall and cause an injury. Try to always keep circuit boxes, walkways, and fire extinguishers free of obstructions that might hinder getting access to, or cause an injury, while moving them for entry or emergency use.
Changes have occurred in many office environment and will continue to change with all the new technology and automated office equipment. As with all new technology, these changes bring on a whole new set of health and safety concerns. The former concerns, such as slippery floors and open file cabinets are still prevalent, but now poorly designed workstations and maladjusted computer stations can cause all types of body pains, eyestrains and tension. The leading types of disabling accidents that occur within the office are the result of falls, strains, exertions, falling objects, striking objects and getting caught in, or between, objects.
FALLS
Falls are the most common office accident, accounting for the greatest number of disabling injuries. The disabling injury rate of falls, among office workers, is 2 to 2.5 times higher than the rate for non-office employees. One of the most common hazards of office falls is tripping over an open desk or file drawer. Other common trip or fall hazards are bending over in an unstable chair and tripping over electric cords and wires. Also, using a chair or a stack of boxes to reach high places instead of a stepladder. Slipping on wet floors results in falls as well. Most of these hazards are preventable. Following is a checklist that can help stop a fall before it happens:
Be sure that pathways are clear before you pass over them.
Close drawers after every use.
Avoid excessive bending, twisting and leaning backward while seated.
Always use a ladder for overhead reaching.
Pick up loose articles that coworkers may leave on the floor.
Report loose carpeting or damaged flooring.
Never carry articles that may block your vision.
Wear stable shoes with non-slip soles.
STRAINS AND OVEREXERTIONS
Typically, most office jobs don't involve lifting large or heavy objects, but it is still important to use the proper lifting techniques. Stacks of files, boxes of computer paper or books can cause a real problem for your back, neck and shoulders.
Improper lifting can result in a back injury very quickly. Fortunately, with exercise, this is no longer a problem. Before you pick up an object, ask yourself if the load is too heavy, how high do I have to lift it and how far do I have to carry it? Don't try to impress folks with your ability to lift objects that are out of your control. Call your supervisor or someone to help.
STRUCK BY OR STRIKING OBJECTS
Striking against objects in an office causes many injuries. Be careful not to bump into doors, desks, file cabinets and open drawers. Watch out for other people while walking and striking open drawers while bending down or rising up.
CAUGHT IN OR BETWEEN OBJECTS
You might get fingers caught in a drawer, door or window, maybe in an office machine or in a manual paper cutter. It pays to be careful and take a little time to avoid these freak accidents.
MATERIAL STORAGE
Always take care in stacking boxes or stacking papers on high shelves and file cabinets. It's easy for them to fall and cause an injury. Try to always keep circuit boxes, walkways, and fire extinguishers free of obstructions that might hinder getting access to, or cause an injury, while moving them for entry or emergency use.
Fire Extinguisher Use
A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives; but portable extinguishers have limitations. Fires spread and grow rapidly so the number one priority is to get residents or occupants out safely.
SAFETY TIPS
Use a portable fire extinguisher for small fires, like a wastebasket or contained in a small area that isn't spreading, while moving all the people from the area and the area isn't filled with smoke.
Using a fire extinguisher, remember PASS;
P-Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you; and release the locking mechanism.
A-Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
S-Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
S-Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
TYPES OF EXTINGUISHERS
A-Wood, Fabrics, PapersB-Flammable liquids and GasesC-energized Electrical EquipmentD-Combustible metals-Special Extinguishing needs.
For the home or office, purchase a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be use on all types of home or office fires). Make sure it is large enough for the job, but not too large to handle.
Choose an extinguisher that carries the label of an approved outside testing laboratory, like UL (Underwriters Laboratory)
Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher, get familiar with the parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Most local fire departments or fire equipment dealers offer free training for extinguisher use.
Install the extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so that you can make a quick and easy exit, if the fire cannot be controlled.
Know when to get out! Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan; the primary element is to get out safely. Every home and office should have a fire or disaster response plan and working smoking fire alarms.
SAFETY TIPS
Use a portable fire extinguisher for small fires, like a wastebasket or contained in a small area that isn't spreading, while moving all the people from the area and the area isn't filled with smoke.
Using a fire extinguisher, remember PASS;
P-Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you; and release the locking mechanism.
A-Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
S-Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
S-Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
TYPES OF EXTINGUISHERS
A-Wood, Fabrics, PapersB-Flammable liquids and GasesC-energized Electrical EquipmentD-Combustible metals-Special Extinguishing needs.
For the home or office, purchase a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be use on all types of home or office fires). Make sure it is large enough for the job, but not too large to handle.
Choose an extinguisher that carries the label of an approved outside testing laboratory, like UL (Underwriters Laboratory)
Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher, get familiar with the parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Most local fire departments or fire equipment dealers offer free training for extinguisher use.
Install the extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so that you can make a quick and easy exit, if the fire cannot be controlled.
Know when to get out! Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan; the primary element is to get out safely. Every home and office should have a fire or disaster response plan and working smoking fire alarms.
Halloween Safety Precautions
Halloween Safety Precautions
Special Halloween Edition
Halloween is an age-old tradition that we have all enjoyed, regardless of the ages and generations involved. It is especially exciting for younger children as they make their neighborhood tours "trick or treating." The real "TRICK" to Halloween is to have the excitement and keeping it safe for the whole family. The witches and goblins are not the real dangers, but falls and pedestrian/car accidents are the things that we really need to be aware of.
The National Safety Council urges motorist to be especially alert on Halloween and be cognizant of these tips of precaution;
Watch for kids darting out from behind parked cars.
Watch for kids walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
Watch closely when entering driveways and alleys.
Watch for children in dark clothing.
Parents should;
Make sure that children under 12 years old have a responsible adult accompany them on their neighborhood treks.
Plan and discuss the route that they should follow on their trip and stay in familiar areas.
Remind them to only visit well-lighted homes and stay away from darkly lit ones.
Wait until they return home to taste their goodies and let an adult inspect them for foreign objects.
Orient them on the pertinent safety precautions, both pedestrian and traffic rules.
Outfit the youngsters in fire-retardant costumes, making sure the fit is loose to fit over their regular garments, especially in areas that have colder nights. The garments should not be too long so that they may trip or fall.
Place reflective tape on dark costumes, front and back, to enhance their visibility.
For facial designs, use makeup where possible to reduce the chance of a mask obstructing the child's vision.
If masks are chosen, be sure to have them with nose and mouth holes and large eyeholes for increased visibility.
Not allow them to carry sharp instruments as part of their costumes, if so make sure the material is cardboard or soft plastic.
Add a couple of strips of reflective tape to their 'trick or treat' bags for extra safety, if they will be out after dark.
Give them a flashlight for better visibility and it will serve as an extra safety device for others to see them.
Establish a time for their return home, even with the adult chaperone. One never knows what can happen as a pedestrian or maybe having car problems will make the adults at home worry, if they aren't home in a reasonable length of time.
Pin a note on the inside pocket of a garment that they are wearing with an address and telephone number, so that if they get separated, they will have some identification.
TIPS WHILE "TRICK OR TREATING"
Do not enter an apartment or homes without adult supervision.
Walk from dwelling to dwelling, don't run. Use sidewalks, where possible instead of yards where unseen obstacles may cause a trip or fall.
If you have to walk in the streets, walk on the left side, facing the traffic.
Halloween is a special time for all our youngsters, but precautions should be taken to insure their safety. The above tips will help to serve as reminders that might save an accident or a flagrant mishap involving our kids or any kids for that matter.
Special Halloween Edition
Halloween is an age-old tradition that we have all enjoyed, regardless of the ages and generations involved. It is especially exciting for younger children as they make their neighborhood tours "trick or treating." The real "TRICK" to Halloween is to have the excitement and keeping it safe for the whole family. The witches and goblins are not the real dangers, but falls and pedestrian/car accidents are the things that we really need to be aware of.
The National Safety Council urges motorist to be especially alert on Halloween and be cognizant of these tips of precaution;
Watch for kids darting out from behind parked cars.
Watch for kids walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
Watch closely when entering driveways and alleys.
Watch for children in dark clothing.
Parents should;
Make sure that children under 12 years old have a responsible adult accompany them on their neighborhood treks.
Plan and discuss the route that they should follow on their trip and stay in familiar areas.
Remind them to only visit well-lighted homes and stay away from darkly lit ones.
Wait until they return home to taste their goodies and let an adult inspect them for foreign objects.
Orient them on the pertinent safety precautions, both pedestrian and traffic rules.
Outfit the youngsters in fire-retardant costumes, making sure the fit is loose to fit over their regular garments, especially in areas that have colder nights. The garments should not be too long so that they may trip or fall.
Place reflective tape on dark costumes, front and back, to enhance their visibility.
For facial designs, use makeup where possible to reduce the chance of a mask obstructing the child's vision.
If masks are chosen, be sure to have them with nose and mouth holes and large eyeholes for increased visibility.
Not allow them to carry sharp instruments as part of their costumes, if so make sure the material is cardboard or soft plastic.
Add a couple of strips of reflective tape to their 'trick or treat' bags for extra safety, if they will be out after dark.
Give them a flashlight for better visibility and it will serve as an extra safety device for others to see them.
Establish a time for their return home, even with the adult chaperone. One never knows what can happen as a pedestrian or maybe having car problems will make the adults at home worry, if they aren't home in a reasonable length of time.
Pin a note on the inside pocket of a garment that they are wearing with an address and telephone number, so that if they get separated, they will have some identification.
TIPS WHILE "TRICK OR TREATING"
Do not enter an apartment or homes without adult supervision.
Walk from dwelling to dwelling, don't run. Use sidewalks, where possible instead of yards where unseen obstacles may cause a trip or fall.
If you have to walk in the streets, walk on the left side, facing the traffic.
Halloween is a special time for all our youngsters, but precautions should be taken to insure their safety. The above tips will help to serve as reminders that might save an accident or a flagrant mishap involving our kids or any kids for that matter.
Holiday Safety
Holiday Safety
The winter holidays are a time for family and friends to celebrate which means lots of cooking, decorating, and entertaining. It also brings on the risk of fire due to heating equipment.
In 1999, there were 370 Christmas tree fires in U.S. homes, resulting in 5 deaths, 60 injuries and $15.7 million in direct property damage. As stated in an earlier issue of this newsletter, in 1999, candles in U.S. homes caused an estimated 15,040 fires, 102 civilian deaths, 1,473 civilian injuries and $278 million in direct property damage. Fourteen percent of these fires occurred in December, almost twice the 8% monthly average. The N.F.P.A. also states that 11% of these December fires started from a decoration that caught fire.
HOLIDAY DECORATING & LIGHTING
SAFETY TIPS:
Use extra caution when using holiday decorations. Always check the labels and try to purchase flame-resistant, flame-retardant, or non-combustible materials.
Keep candles away from other decorations and don't use candles to decorate the tree.
Purchase lights that are approved by an independent testing laboratory and follow the manufacturer's instruction for installation and maintenance.
Inspect new, old or previously used light strings for damages and check them before putting them on the tree. Be careful not to overload the extension cords.
Always unplug lights before replacing bulbs or fuses.
Don't mount lights in any way that can damage the cord's insulation.
Keep children and pets away from light strings and other electrical decorations.
Turn off all light strings and electrical decorations when leaving the house.
HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING
Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. When cooking for holiday visitors, remember to keep an eye on the stove.
If smokers are involved, provide plenty of large ashtrays and check them frequently. If there are smoldering butts, douse them with water before disposing of them or flush them down a toilet.
After a party, check under the cushions and upholstery and inside the garbage cans for smoldering butts.
Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children. If you have smoking visitors, ask them to keep their smoking materials with them to avoid the chance of a young child getting them.
Test your smoke alarms and let your guests know what your fire evacuation plan is.
Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source. Try to position it close to an outlet to avoid running extension cords across the floor for a long distance. Try to avoid placing it in the way of exits.
Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping its needles. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in the house or garage.
Never use electric lights on a metal tree.
If you purchase an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled fire-retardant and on any tree, you should have a stable stand.
Water live trees daily and try to purchase a live tree that is plenty moist and not dropping needles.
We all know that these tips should be automatically used during the holiday season, but we all have decorated so many years that it becomes rote. This is where a problem can occur. We should all remain cognizant of the potential risk during the holiday season for carelessness and eliminate the chance of spoiling the holidays with an accident.
The winter holidays are a time for family and friends to celebrate which means lots of cooking, decorating, and entertaining. It also brings on the risk of fire due to heating equipment.
In 1999, there were 370 Christmas tree fires in U.S. homes, resulting in 5 deaths, 60 injuries and $15.7 million in direct property damage. As stated in an earlier issue of this newsletter, in 1999, candles in U.S. homes caused an estimated 15,040 fires, 102 civilian deaths, 1,473 civilian injuries and $278 million in direct property damage. Fourteen percent of these fires occurred in December, almost twice the 8% monthly average. The N.F.P.A. also states that 11% of these December fires started from a decoration that caught fire.
HOLIDAY DECORATING & LIGHTING
SAFETY TIPS:
Use extra caution when using holiday decorations. Always check the labels and try to purchase flame-resistant, flame-retardant, or non-combustible materials.
Keep candles away from other decorations and don't use candles to decorate the tree.
Purchase lights that are approved by an independent testing laboratory and follow the manufacturer's instruction for installation and maintenance.
Inspect new, old or previously used light strings for damages and check them before putting them on the tree. Be careful not to overload the extension cords.
Always unplug lights before replacing bulbs or fuses.
Don't mount lights in any way that can damage the cord's insulation.
Keep children and pets away from light strings and other electrical decorations.
Turn off all light strings and electrical decorations when leaving the house.
HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING
Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. When cooking for holiday visitors, remember to keep an eye on the stove.
If smokers are involved, provide plenty of large ashtrays and check them frequently. If there are smoldering butts, douse them with water before disposing of them or flush them down a toilet.
After a party, check under the cushions and upholstery and inside the garbage cans for smoldering butts.
Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children. If you have smoking visitors, ask them to keep their smoking materials with them to avoid the chance of a young child getting them.
Test your smoke alarms and let your guests know what your fire evacuation plan is.
Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source. Try to position it close to an outlet to avoid running extension cords across the floor for a long distance. Try to avoid placing it in the way of exits.
Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping its needles. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in the house or garage.
Never use electric lights on a metal tree.
If you purchase an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled fire-retardant and on any tree, you should have a stable stand.
Water live trees daily and try to purchase a live tree that is plenty moist and not dropping needles.
We all know that these tips should be automatically used during the holiday season, but we all have decorated so many years that it becomes rote. This is where a problem can occur. We should all remain cognizant of the potential risk during the holiday season for carelessness and eliminate the chance of spoiling the holidays with an accident.
Electrical Safety on the Farm
Electrical Safety on the Farm
There are so many things that we take for granted, around the stations and our farms that are involved with electricity. Obviously, electricity is an essential source of energy on our farms. Few resources have a greater potential to cause harm than electricity. Electrical systems will function almost indefinitely if properly installed and not overloaded or physically abused. If there are any doubts about electrical circuits, wiring and equipment on your farm, have a licensed electrician inspect them.
ELECTRICAL PANELS
As we all know, electricity enters the farm through a control panel and a main switch where a person can shut off all the power in an emergency. All panels will have either breakers or fuses.
Always use the correct fuse for the panel. Never use a greater number amp or replace with pennies.
If you have a power stoppage, check the panel. If fuses are used, look for the broken metal strip in the top of the blown fuse. Replace it with another of the correct amperage.
If circuit breakers are used, reset them from on to off.
Check to see why the fuse or circuit blew. It could be frayed wires, overloaded outlets or defective appliances.
Never overload a circuit with high wattage appliances.
Install a lockout switch that can turn off all power from one area. This is important if there is an emergency or when working on the system.
GROUNDING ELECTRICITY
Ground the entire system. Protect ground wires and rods from damage. Ground outlets that are outside or may come in contact with water.
To determine if an outlet is grounded, insert a neon test light into each outlet slot. The screw is grounded if the light glows when the faceplate screw is touched with the other probe.
SHOCKS
If any appliance or device gives the user a tingling shock, turn it off, unplug it and have a qualified person correct the problem. Under certain conditions, the slightest leak can become a fatal shock. Never insert a metal object into an appliance without unplugging it. Check the equipment periodically to spot cracked or worn insulation, loose terminals, corroded wires, defective arts and any other components that might not work correctly. Have these appliances repaired at once by a professional.
OUTLETS AND EXTENSION CORDS
Farmers use outlets and extension cords every day. Make sure all outlets are 3 holes, grounded outlets with faceplates. If water is prevalent, Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters should be installed. Actually outside all outlets should be GFCI's. Extension cords should be used only when necessary and should be kept out of heavy traffic. When finished, roll and hang cords up and do not leave on the floor.
OUTSIDE HAZARDS
Be aware of overhead and underground power lines. Electrocution can occur when objects people are using come in contact with overhead power lines. Keep grain augers, cranes, ladders, and antennas away from power lines. Do not erect fence wire along the same route as overhead lines or where it may spring against a power line.
Downed power lines are extremely dangerous. If you see a downed line, call the utility company and warn others to stay away.
We are good conductors of electricity, particularly if we should be standing in water or on a damp floor. Never touch an electric cord or appliance when your hands are wet or while standing on a wet floor. We should remain conscience of the damage electricity can cause us.
There are so many things that we take for granted, around the stations and our farms that are involved with electricity. Obviously, electricity is an essential source of energy on our farms. Few resources have a greater potential to cause harm than electricity. Electrical systems will function almost indefinitely if properly installed and not overloaded or physically abused. If there are any doubts about electrical circuits, wiring and equipment on your farm, have a licensed electrician inspect them.
ELECTRICAL PANELS
As we all know, electricity enters the farm through a control panel and a main switch where a person can shut off all the power in an emergency. All panels will have either breakers or fuses.
Always use the correct fuse for the panel. Never use a greater number amp or replace with pennies.
If you have a power stoppage, check the panel. If fuses are used, look for the broken metal strip in the top of the blown fuse. Replace it with another of the correct amperage.
If circuit breakers are used, reset them from on to off.
Check to see why the fuse or circuit blew. It could be frayed wires, overloaded outlets or defective appliances.
Never overload a circuit with high wattage appliances.
Install a lockout switch that can turn off all power from one area. This is important if there is an emergency or when working on the system.
GROUNDING ELECTRICITY
Ground the entire system. Protect ground wires and rods from damage. Ground outlets that are outside or may come in contact with water.
To determine if an outlet is grounded, insert a neon test light into each outlet slot. The screw is grounded if the light glows when the faceplate screw is touched with the other probe.
SHOCKS
If any appliance or device gives the user a tingling shock, turn it off, unplug it and have a qualified person correct the problem. Under certain conditions, the slightest leak can become a fatal shock. Never insert a metal object into an appliance without unplugging it. Check the equipment periodically to spot cracked or worn insulation, loose terminals, corroded wires, defective arts and any other components that might not work correctly. Have these appliances repaired at once by a professional.
OUTLETS AND EXTENSION CORDS
Farmers use outlets and extension cords every day. Make sure all outlets are 3 holes, grounded outlets with faceplates. If water is prevalent, Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters should be installed. Actually outside all outlets should be GFCI's. Extension cords should be used only when necessary and should be kept out of heavy traffic. When finished, roll and hang cords up and do not leave on the floor.
OUTSIDE HAZARDS
Be aware of overhead and underground power lines. Electrocution can occur when objects people are using come in contact with overhead power lines. Keep grain augers, cranes, ladders, and antennas away from power lines. Do not erect fence wire along the same route as overhead lines or where it may spring against a power line.
Downed power lines are extremely dangerous. If you see a downed line, call the utility company and warn others to stay away.
We are good conductors of electricity, particularly if we should be standing in water or on a damp floor. Never touch an electric cord or appliance when your hands are wet or while standing on a wet floor. We should remain conscience of the damage electricity can cause us.
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