Safety Articles

Article by Traiden Global Solutions

We are all familiar with the public service announcements advising us to be prepared for emergencies. Take small steps to increase your disaster preparedness.

First, know your risks at home and at work. What industry do you work in? Are there chemical, fire, or other physical hazards? Where do you live and work and what are the earthquake, flood, wildfire, risks? Knowing your risks helps you identify necessary supplies, equipment, and procedures.

Make your workplace and home safe. Bolt down furniture and equipment. Secure items hung on walls and stored on shelves. Store hazardous chemicals in properly segregated containers. Prevent fires by maintaining good housekeeping.

Get emergency training. Know the procedures for evacuations, spill cleanup, earthquakes, and fire suppression. Be familiar with the alarm systems at work and home (silent, audible, strobes, speakers, etc.). Know where the nearest exits are and use them. Know where you should assemble outside the building to check in.

Make a home emergency plan and discuss with your family. Everyone should know how to communicate and where to meet in a disaster. Make special disaster plans for pets and family members with special needs along with schools and daycare facilities.

Build your disaster kit at home, work, and in the car. Begin with water and food. Add a first aid kit. Consider a radio or phone with phone lists. Add tools such as a flashlight, scissors, and knife. Add necessary medications, eyeglasses, comfortable shoes, warm clothes, and blankets.

Be trained in CPR and First Aid so that you can help others if they are hurt. Know how to use a fire extinguisher safely. Practice and drill emergency procedures so that you will be calm, capable, and prepared when disaster strikes.

For more tips, see the California Office of Emergency Services website at www.caloes.ca.gov.

The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for legal compliance purposes. They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions specifically discussed. We do not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.

Article by Traiden Global Solutions

The Department of Homeland Security defines an active shooter as “an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area.” These incidents usually involve firearms and randomly selected targets or victims. Anyone involved in an incident should call emergency 911 as soon as it is safe to do so. Active shooter events are usually over within 10-15 minutes (sometimes before law enforcement arrives), so know how to respond if the unthinkable happens.

Active shooters may be current or former workers, family or friends of co-workers, or complete strangers. While it is difficult to foresee a stranger’s actions, you can look for characteristics that a person may be planning a shooting incident. Report any of the following observations or uneasy, “gut” reactions to your supervisor, management, and/or human resources:

• Increased use of alcohol, drugs, and absenteeism.
• Decreased hygiene and appearance.
• Depression and/or social withdrawal.
• Disregard for work quality or company policy.
• Mood swings and overly emotional responses.
• Paranoid, suicidal, or doomsday behavior or discussions.
• Increased discussion of violent incidents and weapons/firearms.

Often, the best choice is to evacuate the active shooter area. For evacuations:

• Always know two exits and escape routes in every building you visit.
• Guide others to the escape route and prevent them from entering the shooting zone.
• Exit whether others follow you or not.
• Don’t attempt to move wounded people.
• Keep your hands visible at all times and follow police instructions.

If you can’t escape an active shooter scenario, find a place to hide out.

• Ideally stay in, or find an office with a door that you can lock and/or barricade.
• Stay out of sight of windows.
• Silence your cell phone, turn off radios, TVs, etc. and stay quiet.

If you can’t evacuate or hide, call 911 and talk to the dispatcher or leave the phone line open so they can listen and record events. If possible, describe the location of the shooting, the shooter, and the weapons. Remain calm, listen, and think about your next moves.

Only as a last resort, and if your life is in “imminent danger,” should you take action against the shooter. If you must take action, “aggressively and overwhelmingly” attack the shooter with improvised weapons. Throw things and yell at the shooter. Law enforcement recommends that you “commit to your actions,” so don’t hesitate or stop in mid-action.

When law enforcement arrives at an active shooter scene, their first priority will be to stop the shooter. They will go past wounded victims and may push people down to the ground in order to stop the violence. Listen to officer commands. Keep your hands visible, raised, with fingers spread wide. Don’t shout, grab, point, or make distracting noises during officer response.

Create an emergency action plan to respond to an active shooter.

• Gather emergency responder, hospital, management, and building contact names and phone numbers.
• Discuss how to alert employees about an incident.  Will you use a code word over the public address system, an all-call phone alert, texts, etc.?
• Procure supplies such as exit floor plans, first aid kits, staff rosters, flashlights, communication devices, etc.

Once you have your response procedures in place:

• Create a written plan.
• Train employees on the plan and how to react when gunshots are heard.
• Conduct an emergency drill around an active shooter scenario.
• Evaluate your drill success and adjust your plan and training as needed.

Active shooter situations can be random, with rapid and unpredictable events unfolding.  Thinking about and practicing the proper response now can boost your chance of survival through the event, and in the aftermath.

For more information, response planning guides, and training resources, go to the Department of Homeland Security website on Active Shooter Preparedness.

The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for legal compliance purposes. They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions specifically discussed. We do not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.

Article by Traiden Global Solutions

When contractors perform services at employer worksites, a detailed contract and contractor safety program protects the health and safety of both employees and contractors. The employer and the contractor share an obligation to communicate planned work activities, the hazards involved, and the contracted tasks, as well as the training, tools, and equipment that all employees will need.

Before agreeing to work with a contractor, review the following data that gives insight to their safety culture and performance:

• History of safety and environmental regulation violations.
• Injury and loss history.
• Total Recordable Incident Rate.
• Experience modification rate (ex-mod).
• Job and task hazard analysis procedures and results.
• Written safety programs and policies.

Ensure that you outline requirements in the work contract and in contractor manuals so there is a clearly communicated expectation of workplace safety. Topics to consider include:

• Company and contractor safety responsibility and emergency contact information.
• A description of hazardous areas, equipment, materials, and tasks at the worksite.
• Safety programs that govern the safe work practices for the contracted job.
• Equipment, tools, and supplies that the contractor or the employer need to provide.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required at the worksite and for job tasks.
• Training and certifications that contracted employees need prior to conducting work.
• Reporting requirements and procedures for injuries, illnesses, hazards, and safety concerns.
• The expectation for a drug and alcohol free workplace.

It is important that contractors match or exceed the safety culture and standards of the employer. General safe work practices to emphasize include:

• Lockout/Tagout procedures for equipment on-site.
• A list of permit-required and non-permit-required confined spaces on-site.
• Heat illness prevention procedures.
• Trenching and excavation procedures and the location of utilities.
• A list of chemicals used on-site and access to safety data sheets.
• Areas where fall protection is required.
• Vehicle, driving, and traffic safety rules for the worksite.
• Good housekeeping methods.
• Worksite safety inspection processes and frequency of inspections.
• Worksite security procedures.
• Personal conduct requirements.

Training is important to familiarize employees with how to control job hazards and prevent injuries. Suggested initial and ongoing training topics include:

• A worksite safety orientation including a discussion of the hazards associated with the tasks of the job to be performed.
• The contents of contractor safety manuals.
• Pre-job briefings and shift meetings.
• Safety tailgate topics specific to the worksite and job tasks.
• Trainings that are required to control a hazard, condition, or behavior.

Ensure that you train general contractors on the worksite-specific emergency procedures and equipment. Knowledgeable employees and contractors can cooperate and make fast, quality decisions if they are prepared before an emergency occurs. The following topics and procedures at a minimum should be provided to employees and contractors:

• Fire prevention and evacuation plans.
• Emergency spill response and procedures.
• Exit routes and assembly areas for emergency evacuations.
• The location of emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and rescue equipment.
• Emergency contacts and communication methods.
• Rescue and medical duties for those employees who are to perform them.

Establishing clear expectations, communication, training, and monitoring all help employers and contractors work together to complete their jobs safely while also protecting the safety and health of all affected employees.

12/5/2014

The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for legal compliance purposes. They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions specifically discussed. We do not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.

A heat stress prevention guide may include tips for protecting people from heat-related illnesses, such as knowing the signs and symptoms, staying hydrated, and wearing appropriate clothing.

An OSHA inspection form, also known as an OSHA inspection checklist, is a tool that helps employers and OSHA inspectors evaluate a workplace's safety practices and compliance with OSHA standards.

The OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety Tool is a useful resource for planning outdoor work activities based on how hot it feels throughout the day. It has a real-time heat index and hourly forecasts specific to your location. It also provides occupational safety and health recommendations from OSHA and NIOSH.

Click Here To Learn More & Download The App

Workplace violence is a serious issue that can have significant consequences for individuals and

organizations. Addressing and preventing workplace violence requires a comprehensive approach.

Here are some steps that can be taken:

Assess and Identify Risks:

Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential factors contributing to workplace

violence. This may include evaluating the workplace environment, organizational culture, and

any history of incidents.

Implement a Zero-Tolerance Policy:

Clearly communicate a zero-tolerance policy for workplace violence. Ensure that employees

understand the consequences of engaging in violent behavior and encourage reporting of any

concerning incidents.

Provide Training and Awareness Programs:

Conduct regular training sessions for employees to raise awareness about workplace violence, its

warning signs, and preventive measures.

Educate employees on conflict resolution, stress management, and communication skills to

promote a positive and respectful workplace culture.

Enhance Security Measures:

Implement security measures such as access control systems, surveillance cameras, and panic

buttons to help prevent and respond to incidents.

Ensure that employees feel secure by maintaining well-lit and monitored areas, especially during

late hours.

Promote a Supportive Work Environment:

Foster a culture of respect and inclusion where employees feel valued and supported.

Provide resources for mental health support, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), to

help employees cope with stress and other personal challenges.

Establish Reporting Mechanisms:

Create anonymous reporting mechanisms for employees to report concerns or incidents related to

workplace violence.

Encourage open communication and assure employees that their concerns will be taken seriously

and handled confidentially.

Collaborate with Law Enforcement:

Collaborate with local law enforcement to develop emergency response plans and ensure a

coordinated approach in case of violent incidents.

Regularly Review and Update Policies:

Periodically review and update workplace violence prevention policies to address emerging risks

and incorporate lessons learned from incidents or near-misses.

It's crucial for organizations to take a proactive stance in addressing workplace violence to create a safe and secure environment for employees.

If you live in California, you need to know about this new law SB 553 and what you need as a business owner to protect yourself, Click Here to find out more. 

The SSC Essential Risk Management Guide provides a structured approach to managing risks on job sites through five practical steps. It aims to ensure compliance and enhance safety for workers and bystanders.

Five Practical Steps for Compliance:

1. Identify the Hazards:

• Recognize potential chemical, physical, biological, ergonomic, and psychological risks that could harm workers.

• Conduct routine inspections and maintenance to identify and address hazards promptly.

2. Identify Who Could Be Harmed and How:

• Analyze demographics, roles, and behaviors of employees and bystanders.

• Implement safety protocols to protect these individuals from identified hazards.

3. Evaluate the Risk and Identify Control Measures:

• Assess safety, legal, financial, environmental, productivity, and contractual risks.

• Develop tailored control measures to mitigate identified risks.

4. Training and Implementing Control Measures:

• Appoint a safety manager and conduct regular safety meetings.

• Provide safety training kits and resources to prepare the team effectively.

5. Monitor, Review, and Assess Risks:

• Conduct regular training refreshes, certifications, and performance reviews.

• Continuously monitor and assess risks to maintain safety standards.

For more, please click the following link to download full PDF.

Click Here To Download PDF