Think Safety

ESFI, LPI Urge Awareness of Lightning Safety

2010-11-11T19:55:00.003-08:00

Lightning strikes the United States as many as 20 million times each year. Because lightning traditionally causes more deaths than tornadoes or hurricanes and occurs when outdoor activity reaches a peak, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) and the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI) are reminding consumers and those who work outdoors of these lightning safety guidelines.

Lack of awareness about what to do during thunderstorms seems to be a factor in many lightning injuries and deaths," noted Michael G. Clendenin, executive director of ESFI.

"lightData from the National Weather Service shows that lightning strikes are fatal in approximately 10 percent of strike victims. Another 70 percent of survivors suffer serious long-term effects.

Outdoors is the most dangerous place to be during a lightning storm. Because lightning can travel sideways for up to 10 miles, blue skies are not a sign of safety. If you hear thunder, take cover. For protection in homes and buildings, consider contracting with an experienced LPI-certified lightning protection specialist to install a lightning protection system, which can intercept lightning strikes and guide the current harmlessly to the ground.

"The LPI certifies individuals through a Master Installer testing program to maximize safety through education," says Bud VanSickle, executive director of the Lightning Protection Institute. "LPI-certified specialists are trained in accordance with national safety standards of LPI, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL)."

ESFI and the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI) recommend following these guidelines to stay safe during electrical storms:

* If outdoors, go inside. Look for a shelter equipped with a lightning protection system.
* Go to a low point. Lightning hits the tallest object. Get down if you are in an exposed area.
* Stay away from trees.
* Avoid metal. Don't hold metal items, including bats, golf clubs, fishing rods, tennis rackets or tools. Avoid clotheslines, poles and fences.
* If you feel a tingling sensation or your hair stands on end, lightning may be about to strike. Crouch down and cover your ears.
* Stay away from water. This includes pools, lakes, puddles and anything damp, such as wet poles or grass.
* Don't stand close to other people. Spread out.
* Once indoors, stay away from windows and doors.
* Do not use corded telephones except for emergencies.
* Unplug electronic equipment before the storm arrives and avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords during storms.
* Avoid contact with plumbing, including sinks, baths and faucets. Do not take baths and showers during electrical storms.
* Don't forget pets during thunderstorms. Doghouses are not lightning-safe. Dogs that are chained can easily fall victim to a lightning strike.

Victims of lightning strikes should be given CPR if necessary, and seek medical attention. For protection in homes and buildings, consider contracting with an experienced LPI-certified lightning protection specialist to install a lightning protection system, which can intercept lightning strikes and guide the current harmlessly to the ground.

LPI recommends contacting local lightning protection specialists for more information; or visit their website at www.lightning.org. For more information on electrical safety, visit ESFI's website at www.electrical-safety.org.

Founded in 1994 through a joint effort between Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is North Americaâ€™s only non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety in the home, school and workplace. ESFI is a 501(c)(3) organization funded by electrical manufacturers and distributors, independent testing laboratories, utilities, safety and consumer groups, and trade and labor associations. ESFI sponsors National Electrical Safety Month each May, and engages in public education campaigns and proactive media relations to help reduce property damage, personal injury and death due to electrical accidents. The Foundation does not engage in code or standard writing or lobbying and does not solicit individuals.

The LPI is a nationwide not-for-profit organization founded in 1955 to promote lightning protection education, awareness and safety. LPI's membership includes architects, engineers, safety directors, scientists, manufacturers and installers who improve safety through lightning protection. LPI recommends contacting local lightning protection specialists for more information; or visit their website at www.lightning.org.

-- Michael Clendenin.
SOURCE HERE

Hypothermia

2009-02-06T01:32:00.002-08:00

• Hypothermia begins when our core body temperature drops below 36 ºC.
• Hypothermia can be life threatening and must always be treated immediately.
Signs & Symptoms :
Mild Hypothermia
Shivering, Loss Of co-ordination, Confusion, Urge To Urinate
Severe Hypothermia
Shivering Ceases, Stumbling, Irrational Behaviour, Slow Irregular Heartbeat.
Do Not
Do Not Leave The Victim Alone.
Do Not Warm Victim With Hot Water
Do Not Give Victim Hot Liquids, Alcohol, Or Anything By Mouth
Do Not Allow The Victim To Move
Do Not Rub Or Manipulate The Extremities.
What to do
Minimise Further Heat Loss
Cover With Coats, Blankets, Survival Bag Etc.
If the victims clothing is wet then carefully remove it first.
Insulate Victim From Cold Floors Surfaces Etc.
If The Victim Is In Danger And Must Be Moved Do So Gently,
Keeping The Victim In A Horizontal Position.
Raise The Alarm - Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Frostbite
Frostbite occurs when the water in our skin tissue crystallizes and freezes causing abnormal function
and sensations.
Your Toes, Nose, Fingers and Ears are
most commonly at risk.
• Signs & Symptoms :
Cold, numb, or painful skin that becomes hard and waxy,
or white, as pain progresses.
Do Not
1. Do Not Rub Affected Area
2. Do Not Break Blisters
3. Do Not Give Victim Stimulants (Alcohol, Coffee, Tobacco)
4. Do Not Leave Victim Alone (Frostbite can lead to Hypothermia !)
5. Do Not Immerse Affected Body Part In Hot Water to re-warm, and Never use radiant heating (e.g. fire, radiators etc.), or dry heating (e.g. warming plate).
What to do
1. Move Victim To A Warm Area & Seek Medical Attention If Available.
2. Wrap Affected Body Part In Warm (37 ºC) Towels, or Put Affected Body Parts In Warm Water (37 ºC) Until Skin Becomes Flushed.
3. Alternatively, Re Warm The Affected Area By Skin - Skin Contact With A Non Injured Area Of The Victim, Or Another Person.
4. After Warming Keep Fingers & Toes Separated with Gauze.
5. Provide Warm / Sweet Fluids If Victim Is Awake
6. If Normal Sensations Have Not Returned Within 30 Mins Seek Immediate Professional Medical Attention.
7. Aftercare :
8. After First Aid Treatment it is advisable to seek Professional Medical attention in all cases.

Welding Explosion—The Case of the Cracked Fuel Tank

2009-02-05T22:09:00.006-08:00

Case Study
Let’s Talk About Welding Hazards
 Welder’s flash
 Exposure to fumes and gases
 Explosions or fires
 Electric shock
 Asphyxiation
Take a Look at the Facts
 Experienced welder
 Assigned to weld crack in empty fuel tank
 Diesel fuel tank had been removed that morning
 Welder did not personally inspect tank before commencing his work
 At 7:30 a.m., welder struck an arc on the tank
 Tank exploded away from welder Fractures to jaw, wrist, and hand
 Hospitalized for 4 days
What Do You Think Went Wrong?
 Why do you think the tank exploded?
 Is it important to inspect fuel tanks before welding?
 Is it important to always clean a tank of fuel and fumes before welding it? Why?
 Who should ensure the tank has been cleaned?
 Do you think “assumptions” or “miscommunication” contributed?
 Does the company need a written procedure?
Let’s Review the Causes
 Fuel tank not cleaned
 Fuel tank removed that morning
 Tank still contained diesel vapors
 Shop foreman did not communicate that tank needed cleaning
 Welder did not personally inspect tank
 Welder not trained to clean tanks first
Safe Welding Practices
 Read and follow your company’s safety policy for welding
 Always wear proper personal protective equipment
 Clear the area of combustible objects
 Inspect your equipment
 Inspect your work before starting
 Clean and flush tanks or drums
Protective Clothing
 Fire-retardant clothing with no cuffs or pockets
 Flameproof skull cap
 Eye and face protection with filter lens
 Fire-resistant gauntlet gloves
 Protective boots
Don’t Let It Happen to You
 Clean fuel tanks or drums
 Allow fuel tank to “breathe”
 Inspect work before starting a job
 Make sure you are trained on the job requirements
 Never assume and always communicate

from OSHA Accident Case Studies.

Working At Height

2009-01-04T19:14:00.005-08:00

Working at height has always been a hazardous business …
Gravity had much the same strength in the 1930’s as it has now …
Then, as now, limbs were just as prone to break in a fall
vital organs to tear and crush …
skulls - to crack …
brains - to splatter …

Dowload Training Material about Working at Height here :
1. HES Leader - Working At Height
2. Working at Height - Corning
3. Work At Height

think safety before drinking hot water

2008-12-27T03:16:00.000-08:00

Be careful when drinking hot tea in the morning and in the afternoon.
The mouth and tongue will be burned when the drink is too hot

Think Safety Before Swimming

2008-12-23T22:48:00.001-08:00

Before Diving , Think :
* Neck and back injuries are common after diving incidents and can result in permanent paralysis.
* One of the major causes of spinal injuries is drinking and diving. Young men are at greatest risk.
* The majority of backyard pools are NOT designed for diving.
* Never dive into above ground pools.
* Think before you dive.
* Ensure water depth is at least 10 feet deep. Remember the depth of lakes or oceans can change due to tides or seasons.
* Ensure water is deep enough for the entire path of the dive, and that no rocks or debris are in the way. The length of a typical dive depends on a variety of factors, such as height of dive and size of diver.
Before Swimming , Think :
* Learn proper swimming and safety techniques.
* Be aware of your limitations. Don’t go beyond your ability.
* When swimming in the ocean, be aware of the tides and currents and keep an eye on the shifting weather patterns.
* Know the signs of hypothermia.
* Supervise children at all times.
* Fence backyard pools and ensure gates have self-locking latches.
* Communicate and post pool rules. Keep emergency equipment and first aid kits close at hand.

Forklif Accident / Blind Spot

2008-12-23T20:59:00.000-08:00

Lesson learned:
1. Stop / parking a vehicle in a safe place
2. Make sure others see you
3. Signalman importance when moving equipment (avoid the blind spot)
4. The importance of a monitor camera (CCTV) as one of the protective system hardware

THINK TOY SAFETY ...

2008-12-14T16:01:00.003-08:00

knowing the nine toy dangers
...When buying toys
Choose toys with care. Keep in mind the child’s age, interests and skill level.
Look for quality design and construction in all toys for all ages.
Make sure that all directions or instructions are clear—to you and, when ppropriate, to the child. Plastic wrappings on toys should be discarded at once before they become deadly playthings.
Be a label reader. Look for and heed age recommendations, such as “Not recommended
for children under three.” Look for other safety labels including: “Flame retardant/Flame resistant” on fabric products and “Washable/hygienic materials” on stuffed toys and doll
...When maintaining toys
Check all toys periodically for breakage and potential hazards. A damaged or dangerous toy should be thrown away or repaired immediately. Edges on wooden toys that might have become sharp or surfaces covered with splinters should be sanded smooth. When repainting toys and toy boxes, avoid using leftover paint, unless
purchased recently, since older paints may contain more lead than new paint, which is regulated by CPSC. Examine all outdoor toys regularly for rust or weak parts that could become hazardous
...When storing toys
Teach children to put their toys safely away on shelves or in a toy chest after playing to prevent trips and falls. Toy boxes, too, should be checked for safety.
Use a toy chest that has a lid that will stay open in any position to which it is raised, and will not fall unexpectedly on a child. For extra safety, be sure there are ventilation holes for fresh air. Watch for sharp edges that could cut and hinges that could pinch or squeeze. See that toys used outdoors are stored after play— rain or dew can rust or damage a variety of toys and toy parts creating hazards.
Sharp Edges
New toys intended for children under eight years of age should, by regulation, be free of sharp glass and metal edges. With use, however, older toys may break, exposing cutting edges.
Small Parts
Older toys can break to reveal parts small enough to be swallowed or to become lodged in a child's windpipe, ears or nose. The law bans small parts in new toys intended for children under three. This includes removable small eyes and noses on stuffed toys and dolls, and small, removable squeakers on squeeze toys.
Loud Noises
Toy caps and some noisemaking guns and other toys can produce sounds at noise levels that can damage hearing. The law requires the following label on boxes of caps producing noise above a certain level: “WARNING— Donot fire closer than one foot to
the ear . Do not use indoors.” Caps producing noise that can injure a child’s hearing are banned.
Cords And Strings
Toys with long strings or cords may be dangerous for infants and very young children.
The cords may become wrapped around an infant’s neck, causing strangulation. Never hang toys with long strings, cords, loops, or ribbons in cribs or playpens where children can become entangled. Remove crib gyms from the crib when the child can pull up on hands and knees; some children have strangled when they fell across crib gyms stretched across the crib.
Sharp Points
Toys which have been broken may have dangerous points or prongs. Stuffed toys may have wires inside the toy which could cut or stab if exposed. A CPSC regulation prohibits sharp points in new toys and other articles intended for use by children under eight years of age.
Propelled Objects
Projectiles— guided missiles and similar flying toys—can be turned into weapons and
can injure eyes in particular. Children should never be permitted to play with adult lawn darts or other hobby or sporting equipment that have sharp points. Arrows or darts used by children should have soft cork tips, rubber suction cups or other protective tips intended to prevent injury. Check to be sure the tips are secure.
Avoid those dart guns or other toys which might be capable of firing articles not intended for use in the toy, such as pencils or nails.
All Toys Are Not For All Children
Keep toys designed for older children out of the hands of little ones. Follow labels that give age recommendations— some toys are recommended for older children because they may be hazardous in the hands of a younger child. Teach older children to help keep their toys away from younger brothers and sisters. Even balloons, when ninflated or broken, can choke or suffocate if young children try to swallow them. More children have suffocated on uninflated balloons and pieces of broken balloons than on any other type of toy.
Electric Toys
Electric toys that are improperly constructed, wired or misused can shock or burn.
Electric toys must meet mandatory requirements for maximum surface temperatures,
electrical construction and prominent warning labels. Electric toys with heating elements are recommended only for children over eight years old. Children should be taught to use electric toys properly, cautiously and under adult supervision.
Infant Toys
Infant toys, such as rattles,squeeze toys, and teethers,should be large enough so that they cannot enter and become lodged in an infant's throat.
OUR RESPONSIBILITY...
Under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act and the Consumer Product Safety Act, the Commission has set safety regulations for certain toys and other children’s articles. Manufacturers must design and manufacture their products to meet these regulations so that hazardous products are not sold.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY...
Protecting children from unsafe toys is the responsibility
of everyone. Careful toy selection and
proper supervision of children at play is still—and
always will be—the best way to protect children
from toy-related injuries.

Think safety when walking

2008-12-12T03:16:00.001-08:00

Recently, a neighbor asked me if I carry identification with me when I run. Because I have a regular running partner, I don't carry identification, but I do carry a cell phone.

But the question got me thinking about safety and reminded me that this is something to always consider. This is of even greater importance now with the time change as people exercising outside before or after work face increasing darkness.

Walking or running outside is one of the best ways to get a lift during the day and maintain health throughout the cold months. However, getting outside in the winter poses some unique challenges for maintaining an exercise program. Before you lace up your sneakers, let's discuss some important tips that can help ensure your safety.

Buddy Up: One of the best ways to increase safety is to find an exercise buddy. This is particularly important if you walk during the early morning or evening hours, when it is dark or if you exercise in rural areas.

Reflective Gear: Wearing reflective gear is essential for safety in the winter months. If you are out during hours of darkness, then you should wear reflective gear that increases your visibility to drivers. Most shoes have reflective materials built into the upper, but these are inadequate by themselves. Reflective vests, cuffs and hats are readily found at most sports or outdoor gear shops. Carrying a flashlight or using a headlamp can also increase visibility to on-coming vehicles.

Driver awareness: When using the roadways, do not assume that drivers see you or will give you the right of way. If there are no sidewalks, you should walk against traffic so that you can be aware of potential danger coming towards you. This is not true, however, for bicyclists who should always travel in the same direction as cars. (Also, by law, cyclists at night must have both a white front lamp and a rear red lamp on their bikes).

Be prepared: During the winter months, it is particularly important to be prepared for the elements. Be sure to dress appropriately for cooler weather. Obviously, if you are venturing into the back country in the winter, this is a matter of survival. But for closer-to-home activities, dressing right can be the difference between enjoyable exercise or a miserable outdoor experience. In order to exercise in icy conditions, consider purchasing ice and snow traction cleats. These anti-slip soles fit on the bottom of most shoes and can help prevent falls.

Communicate: Be sure to tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return. Carrying a cell phone is always a good idea, but it is not a good idea to rely solely on a cell phone as you may not have coverage in the area.

Be aware of your environment: Finally, before heading out, be sure to evaluate the safety of your route and prepare accordingly. Do not wear headphones as they prevent you from hearing oncoming traffic or someone coming up behind you. Being aware of your surroundings is absolutely essential to your safety.

(Jenny Nixon Carter is the executive director of the Rutland Physical Activity Coalition For more information on the coalition visit www.rapac.info)

Think safety when decorating house

2008-12-12T03:10:00.000-08:00

The Glendale Fire Department hopes you all had a happy and safe Thanksgiving Day.

It's the time of year when many of us barely have time to enjoy a cold turkey sandwich before thinking about holiday lights and Christmas trees.
Glendale Fire wants to remind you of the importance of safety as you begin decorating your home.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, on average, Christmas trees are the ignition source of approximately 300 U.S. home fires each year, resulting in 14 fatalities, 21 injuries and $16.8 million in property damage.

The association reports that 44 percent of Christmas tree fires are caused by an electrical problem or malfunction.

Here are some safety tips from the Glendale Fire Department and the NFPA:

• Make sure that electrical cords are in good working order.
• If you put up a real Christmas tree, regularly check for fresh, green needles. Remember to keep your tree watered at all times and make sure it is at least three feet from fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, heating vents and other sources of heat. Don't place the tree where it blocks an exit.
• Ensure outside lights, decorations and extension cords are rated for outside use.
• Carefully inspect each electrical decoration - new or old - before plugging it in.
• Don't use staples or nails to hang light strings.
• Test all smoke alarms.
• Create and practice your home escape plans.

Season's greetings from every member of the Glendale Fire Department.

Firefighter Daniel T. Valenzuela is the public information officer for the Glendale Fire Department. E-mail your questions to him at askafirefighter@glendaleaz.com.