Dear all, Another one from myside — Wear a helmet - No Excuse — Keep on sharing. . .
From United States, Fpo
497From United States, Fpo
Flagging traffic on a highway or on site are just as risky to works theres just more cars and trucks on the road but the Risks are identical in threat nature to the worker
Workers are also struck by equipment operating within the work area. Repairing streets and bridges, cleaning catch basins, and rebuilding manholes are examples of tasks that require workers to share the road with other vehicles.
PREVENTION: A traffic control plan (TCP) must be developed BEFORE the work begins to guide drivers through and around work zones.
A traffic control plan should include:
• Advance warning to drivers of road work ahead,
• Traffic control devices to clearly mark the work zone and channel traffic through it, and
• Returning traffic to normal traffic patterns as quickly, safely and efficiently as possible.
A traffic control plan needs to address these factors:
• Type of roadway (number of lanes, divided or undivided highway, etc.),
• Volume and speed of traffic (the number and speed of cars, trucks, etc.),
• Type of job and how long it will last, and
• Type and number of traffic control signs and devices.
Detours: Closing roads and re-routing traffic away from the maintenance activities puts a safe distance between workers and traffic.
Barriers: Concrete barriers, also called Jersey barriers or K-rails, separate workers from traffic. They are used long-term projects such as during road construction and bridge deck replacement. Concrete barriers are commonly used to temporarily change stretches of 4-lane divided highways into two-lane roads.
Reducing the Speed Of Traffic In Work Zones: Methods to slow traffic in work zones include:
• Driving pilot cars at reduced speeds to slow traffic,
• Portable rumble strips on roadways,
• Portable radar units mounted on construction vehicles,
• Aggressively enforcing speed limits in work zones,
• Doubling the fines and/or points charged against a driver's record for speeding.
Advance Warning Signs: Signs should be located far enough in advance of the work area to allow vehicles to move smoothly and efficiently around work areas. They must clearly inform motorists of approaching activity and guide drivers around or through the activity.
All advance warning signs must be:
• orange background with black lettering or symbols,
• retro-reflective or illuminated if used when it is dark,
• 4 feet by 4 feet if traffic moves at 45 miles per hour (mph) or faster,
• 3 feet by 3 feet if speeds are 40 mph or lower,
• 7 feet above the road surface (measured to the bottom of the sign),
• at least 1 foot above the road surface if the sign is portable,
• less than 50 per cent of the top two rails or not more than 33 per cent of all rails if mounted on a barricade.
Advance warning signs should be placed so as to give motorists enough time to react to the conditions they will find ahead of them. In general, the distance between the first warning sign and the work area should be increased the faster that traffic is moving. The following table includes the recommendations for sign placement found in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which has been issued by the United States Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
MUTCD Recommendations on Sign Spacing for Advance Warning Signs
Type of Roadway Speed Sign A* Sign B** Sign C***
Urban, Low Speed 40 mph or less 100 ft. 100 ft. 100 ft.
Urban, High Speed 45 mph or more 350 ft. 350 ft. 350 ft.
Rural (Secondary) 45 mph or more 500 ft. 500 ft. 500 ft.
Expressway 45 mph or more Expressway 45 mph or more 1,000 ft. 1,600 ft. 2,600 ft. Expressway 45 mph or more 1,000 ft. 1,600 ft. 2,600 ft. Expressway 45 mph or more 1,000 ft. 1,600 ft. 2,600 ft.
(*) Sign A is the warning sign nearest to where traffic lanes narrow or shift.
(**) Sign B is the next sign upstream from where traffic lanes narrow or shift.
(***) Sign C is the first sign (in a three-sign series) that the driver sees in a temporary traffic control zone.
Traffic Control Devices
Cones, drums and barricades, vertical panels, tubular markers and pavement markings are commonly used to alter, or channel the normal traffic flow. They alert drivers of work activities ahead and provide smooth and gradual traffic movement from one lane to another. Cones, drums and other devices must be made of lightweight materials and give way when struck by a vehicle. They must not break apart or be capable of penetrating the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The material used to weigh down devices to prevent them from being easily blown over (ballast) must also be made of materials that will cause only minimal damage to vehicles.
The proper use of cones, drums or other devices requires that:
• The number of feet between traffic control devices in the area where traffic is shifted from one lane to another (transition area) cannot be greater than the miles per hour that traffic is moving. For example, if the speed limit is 45 miles per hour, the devices cannot be more than 45 feet apart.
• The number of feet between devices where the traffic is moving through the work area (activity area) cannot be more than twice the number of miles per hour. For example, if traffic is moving at 45 miles per hour, the devices cannot be more than 90 feet apart.
• Cones left up overnight must be equipped with retro-reflective striping.
• All drums must have retro-reflective striping (day or night). All devices must be properly installed and be inspected regularly to ensure their effectiveness.
• Damaged or very dirty devices must be removed from service.
Traffic cones and tubular markers must:
• Be at least 18 inches in height (tubular markers must be also be at least 2 inches wide).
• Be at least 28 inches in height on roads with speeds of 45mph or greater.
• Be orange in color.
• Have two 3-inch wide, white, retro-reflective bands at the top of the cone and a maximum of 6 inches between the bands.
Vertical panels must:
• Be 8 to 12 inches wide and at least 24 inches in height.
• Have alternating orange and white, retro-reflective stripes at least 4 inches in width. If the panel height is 36 inches or more, the stripes must be at least 6 inches wide.
• Stripes must slope downward at a 45 degree angle in the direction that traffic is moving. Have a minimum of 270 square inches of retro-reflective area facing traffic when used on freeways and expressways.
Drums must:
• Be orange in color.
• Be at least 3 feet high and 18 inches wide.
• Have at least 2 orange and 2 white alternating, retro-reflective stripes. Stripes must be at between 4 inches and 6 inches wide.
• Have closed tops to prevent accumulation of roadwork or other debris.
• Steel drums are prohibited!
Barricades are of three types and they can be portable or fixed:
• Type I: must be at least 3 feet high with one rail 2 feet in length.
• Type II: must be at least 3 feet high with two rails 2 feet in length.
• Type III: must be at least 5 feet high and have three rails that are at least 4 feet long.
The rails on all three types of barricades must be between 8 and 12 inches wide. They may be equipped with warning lights under certain circumstances. Warning lights must be of a steady burn type when used to channel traffic.
The stripes on the rails of a barricade must:
• Have alternating orange and white retro-reflective striping.
• Slope downward at a 45-degree angle in the direction traffic is moving.
• Be a minimum of 4 inches wide. If the rail lengths are 36 inches or greater, the stripes must be a minimum of 6 inches wide.
• Have a minimum of 270 square inches of retro-reflective area facing oncoming traffic when used on freeways.
Pavement Markings
Pavement must be marked in all temporary traffic control zones. Pavement markings include paint, plastics, and temporary raised pavement markers. Markings between opposing lanes of traffic must be yellow and the edges must be white.
From Canada, Calgary
Workers are also struck by equipment operating within the work area. Repairing streets and bridges, cleaning catch basins, and rebuilding manholes are examples of tasks that require workers to share the road with other vehicles.
PREVENTION: A traffic control plan (TCP) must be developed BEFORE the work begins to guide drivers through and around work zones.
A traffic control plan should include:
• Advance warning to drivers of road work ahead,
• Traffic control devices to clearly mark the work zone and channel traffic through it, and
• Returning traffic to normal traffic patterns as quickly, safely and efficiently as possible.
A traffic control plan needs to address these factors:
• Type of roadway (number of lanes, divided or undivided highway, etc.),
• Volume and speed of traffic (the number and speed of cars, trucks, etc.),
• Type of job and how long it will last, and
• Type and number of traffic control signs and devices.
Detours: Closing roads and re-routing traffic away from the maintenance activities puts a safe distance between workers and traffic.
Barriers: Concrete barriers, also called Jersey barriers or K-rails, separate workers from traffic. They are used long-term projects such as during road construction and bridge deck replacement. Concrete barriers are commonly used to temporarily change stretches of 4-lane divided highways into two-lane roads.
Reducing the Speed Of Traffic In Work Zones: Methods to slow traffic in work zones include:
• Driving pilot cars at reduced speeds to slow traffic,
• Portable rumble strips on roadways,
• Portable radar units mounted on construction vehicles,
• Aggressively enforcing speed limits in work zones,
• Doubling the fines and/or points charged against a driver's record for speeding.
Advance Warning Signs: Signs should be located far enough in advance of the work area to allow vehicles to move smoothly and efficiently around work areas. They must clearly inform motorists of approaching activity and guide drivers around or through the activity.
All advance warning signs must be:
• orange background with black lettering or symbols,
• retro-reflective or illuminated if used when it is dark,
• 4 feet by 4 feet if traffic moves at 45 miles per hour (mph) or faster,
• 3 feet by 3 feet if speeds are 40 mph or lower,
• 7 feet above the road surface (measured to the bottom of the sign),
• at least 1 foot above the road surface if the sign is portable,
• less than 50 per cent of the top two rails or not more than 33 per cent of all rails if mounted on a barricade.
Advance warning signs should be placed so as to give motorists enough time to react to the conditions they will find ahead of them. In general, the distance between the first warning sign and the work area should be increased the faster that traffic is moving. The following table includes the recommendations for sign placement found in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which has been issued by the United States Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
MUTCD Recommendations on Sign Spacing for Advance Warning Signs
Type of Roadway Speed Sign A* Sign B** Sign C***
Urban, Low Speed 40 mph or less 100 ft. 100 ft. 100 ft.
Urban, High Speed 45 mph or more 350 ft. 350 ft. 350 ft.
Rural (Secondary) 45 mph or more 500 ft. 500 ft. 500 ft.
Expressway 45 mph or more Expressway 45 mph or more 1,000 ft. 1,600 ft. 2,600 ft. Expressway 45 mph or more 1,000 ft. 1,600 ft. 2,600 ft. Expressway 45 mph or more 1,000 ft. 1,600 ft. 2,600 ft.
(*) Sign A is the warning sign nearest to where traffic lanes narrow or shift.
(**) Sign B is the next sign upstream from where traffic lanes narrow or shift.
(***) Sign C is the first sign (in a three-sign series) that the driver sees in a temporary traffic control zone.
Traffic Control Devices
Cones, drums and barricades, vertical panels, tubular markers and pavement markings are commonly used to alter, or channel the normal traffic flow. They alert drivers of work activities ahead and provide smooth and gradual traffic movement from one lane to another. Cones, drums and other devices must be made of lightweight materials and give way when struck by a vehicle. They must not break apart or be capable of penetrating the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The material used to weigh down devices to prevent them from being easily blown over (ballast) must also be made of materials that will cause only minimal damage to vehicles.
The proper use of cones, drums or other devices requires that:
• The number of feet between traffic control devices in the area where traffic is shifted from one lane to another (transition area) cannot be greater than the miles per hour that traffic is moving. For example, if the speed limit is 45 miles per hour, the devices cannot be more than 45 feet apart.
• The number of feet between devices where the traffic is moving through the work area (activity area) cannot be more than twice the number of miles per hour. For example, if traffic is moving at 45 miles per hour, the devices cannot be more than 90 feet apart.
• Cones left up overnight must be equipped with retro-reflective striping.
• All drums must have retro-reflective striping (day or night). All devices must be properly installed and be inspected regularly to ensure their effectiveness.
• Damaged or very dirty devices must be removed from service.
Traffic cones and tubular markers must:
• Be at least 18 inches in height (tubular markers must be also be at least 2 inches wide).
• Be at least 28 inches in height on roads with speeds of 45mph or greater.
• Be orange in color.
• Have two 3-inch wide, white, retro-reflective bands at the top of the cone and a maximum of 6 inches between the bands.
Vertical panels must:
• Be 8 to 12 inches wide and at least 24 inches in height.
• Have alternating orange and white, retro-reflective stripes at least 4 inches in width. If the panel height is 36 inches or more, the stripes must be at least 6 inches wide.
• Stripes must slope downward at a 45 degree angle in the direction that traffic is moving. Have a minimum of 270 square inches of retro-reflective area facing traffic when used on freeways and expressways.
Drums must:
• Be orange in color.
• Be at least 3 feet high and 18 inches wide.
• Have at least 2 orange and 2 white alternating, retro-reflective stripes. Stripes must be at between 4 inches and 6 inches wide.
• Have closed tops to prevent accumulation of roadwork or other debris.
• Steel drums are prohibited!
Barricades are of three types and they can be portable or fixed:
• Type I: must be at least 3 feet high with one rail 2 feet in length.
• Type II: must be at least 3 feet high with two rails 2 feet in length.
• Type III: must be at least 5 feet high and have three rails that are at least 4 feet long.
The rails on all three types of barricades must be between 8 and 12 inches wide. They may be equipped with warning lights under certain circumstances. Warning lights must be of a steady burn type when used to channel traffic.
The stripes on the rails of a barricade must:
• Have alternating orange and white retro-reflective striping.
• Slope downward at a 45-degree angle in the direction traffic is moving.
• Be a minimum of 4 inches wide. If the rail lengths are 36 inches or greater, the stripes must be a minimum of 6 inches wide.
• Have a minimum of 270 square inches of retro-reflective area facing oncoming traffic when used on freeways.
Pavement Markings
Pavement must be marked in all temporary traffic control zones. Pavement markings include paint, plastics, and temporary raised pavement markers. Markings between opposing lanes of traffic must be yellow and the edges must be white.
From Canada, Calgary
Excavtion is more than a hole in the ground its a grave for a worker if you dont do it right the first time and protect and train those workers
What is trenching and excavation work?
A trench is a narrow channel that is deeper than it is wide. A trench can be up to 15 feet wide. An excavation is any hole or trench that is made by removing earth.
What are the hazards of trenching and excavation work?
Cave-in
The most common serious hazard is a cave-in. Workers can be killed or seriously injured if the sides of a trench or other excavation collapse. Cave-ins are most often caused by:
• Vibration from construction equipment or traffic in the construction area that makes the soil come apart.
• The weight of equipment that is too close to the edge of the trench can cause a collapse. The weight of the earth that has been removed (spoil bank) can also put a dangerous strain on the trench walls.
• Soils that do not hold tightly together are more likely to collapse. For example, sandy soils are not cohesive and can easily slide back into a trench. By contrast, clay usually holds up well.
• Soil that has been dug before is not as stable as earth that has not been previously disturbed. Work on utility lines involves digging previously disturbed soil.
• Water weakens the strength of the trench sides. Rain can also be a hazard by either putting too much weight on the walls or filling the trench with water. Soil that is too dry will crumble easily.
• NOTE: the risk of a cave-in increases if more than one of these conditions is present!
Other Hazards
• Contact with electric, water, sewer, natural gas, or other types of utility lines can cause serious injuries or death from drowning, exposure to chemicals, or electrocution.
• Toxic gases can be released during digging. Trenches should be treated as a confined space and the air should be tested. This is very important for bell-bottom types of excavation.
• Being struck by vehicles when working in or near traffic.
What can be done to protect workers?
• Determine risks before the work begins. A competent person must evaluate the possible dangers before the work begins and until the operation is completed. The person must know the risks posed by the soil that will be disturbed. The operation must be watched at all times because the danger can increase when it rains or other conditions change.
• Use protective systems for any trench or other excavation that is 5 or more feet deep. Excavations that are less than five feet deep may also require a protective system if the competent person on site feels there is a possibility of cave-in. Protective systems include:
o Sloping means the sides of the hole open out from the excavation. The type of soil determines the required angle. Sloping is less practical for deeper digs.
o Benching is similar to sloping with steps cut into sides of the trench.
o Shoring supports the walls of the excavation. Shoring is made up of wales, crossbraces, and uprights. The material can be metal or wood, but plywood and 2'x4's are not adequate shoring materials. The equipment can be hydraulic or pneumatic. Shoring must be installed from the top down and removed from the bottom up.
o Shielding, also called trench boxes or trench shields, are structures that are placed in the excavation to prevent the sides of a trench from caving-in. The worker is only protected while in the "box." Some trench boxes can be moved as the work progresses. Heavy equipment must always be used to place the box or shield in the trench. The shield must extend at least 18 inches from the top of the slope of the trench.
From Canada, Calgary
What is trenching and excavation work?
A trench is a narrow channel that is deeper than it is wide. A trench can be up to 15 feet wide. An excavation is any hole or trench that is made by removing earth.
What are the hazards of trenching and excavation work?
Cave-in
The most common serious hazard is a cave-in. Workers can be killed or seriously injured if the sides of a trench or other excavation collapse. Cave-ins are most often caused by:
• Vibration from construction equipment or traffic in the construction area that makes the soil come apart.
• The weight of equipment that is too close to the edge of the trench can cause a collapse. The weight of the earth that has been removed (spoil bank) can also put a dangerous strain on the trench walls.
• Soils that do not hold tightly together are more likely to collapse. For example, sandy soils are not cohesive and can easily slide back into a trench. By contrast, clay usually holds up well.
• Soil that has been dug before is not as stable as earth that has not been previously disturbed. Work on utility lines involves digging previously disturbed soil.
• Water weakens the strength of the trench sides. Rain can also be a hazard by either putting too much weight on the walls or filling the trench with water. Soil that is too dry will crumble easily.
• NOTE: the risk of a cave-in increases if more than one of these conditions is present!
Other Hazards
• Contact with electric, water, sewer, natural gas, or other types of utility lines can cause serious injuries or death from drowning, exposure to chemicals, or electrocution.
• Toxic gases can be released during digging. Trenches should be treated as a confined space and the air should be tested. This is very important for bell-bottom types of excavation.
• Being struck by vehicles when working in or near traffic.
What can be done to protect workers?
• Determine risks before the work begins. A competent person must evaluate the possible dangers before the work begins and until the operation is completed. The person must know the risks posed by the soil that will be disturbed. The operation must be watched at all times because the danger can increase when it rains or other conditions change.
• Use protective systems for any trench or other excavation that is 5 or more feet deep. Excavations that are less than five feet deep may also require a protective system if the competent person on site feels there is a possibility of cave-in. Protective systems include:
o Sloping means the sides of the hole open out from the excavation. The type of soil determines the required angle. Sloping is less practical for deeper digs.
o Benching is similar to sloping with steps cut into sides of the trench.
o Shoring supports the walls of the excavation. Shoring is made up of wales, crossbraces, and uprights. The material can be metal or wood, but plywood and 2'x4's are not adequate shoring materials. The equipment can be hydraulic or pneumatic. Shoring must be installed from the top down and removed from the bottom up.
o Shielding, also called trench boxes or trench shields, are structures that are placed in the excavation to prevent the sides of a trench from caving-in. The worker is only protected while in the "box." Some trench boxes can be moved as the work progresses. Heavy equipment must always be used to place the box or shield in the trench. The shield must extend at least 18 inches from the top of the slope of the trench.
From Canada, Calgary
Its raining and pouring but my workers are getting sick OH WHY YOU ASK
What are molds?
Molds are a group of plants called fungi that can be found indoors and outdoors. There are tens of thousands or possibly hundreds of thousands of different molds. They grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions. Molds reproduce by creating tiny spores that float through the air. Outdoors, molds break down organic matter such as toppled trees, fallen leaves, and dead animals. They are necessary to produce certain foods and medicines such as cheese and penicillin. Indoors, mold growth can cause health problems.
When are molds a problem?
Mold growth will often occur when there is excessive moisture or water accumulates within a building. There are molds that grow on wood, paper, carpet, and insulation, as well as dust and dirt that gather in moist areas of a building. Problems can arise when mold starts eating away at these materials, affecting their look and smell. They can cause serious harm to the structure of wood-framed buildings.
What are the health effects of molds?
Molds produce allergens that can cause allergic reactions in some people. Reactions can appear right away or develop over time. Allergic responses include asthma and hay fever-type symptoms such as a runny nose and red eyes. Exposure to mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose and throat. Symptoms other than allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold in the indoor environment.
How can mold problems be prevented or corrected?
Moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in construction practices since the 1970s that have resulted in tightly sealed buildings and poor ventilation. While it is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores, minimizing moisture can control indoor mold growth. Sources of moisture include water leaks through roofs and window seals, landscaping, gutters that direct water into or under a building, and space heaters or other appliances that are not equipped with ventilation.
Mold Prevention and Control Measures
The key to preventing and/or controlling the growth of molds is to address moisture problems.
• Repair plumbing, roof, or other leaks as soon as possible.
• Find and correct causes of condensation and wet spots.
• Locate and fix sources of moisture seepage into the building.
• Perform regular inspections and maintenance of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including filter changes.
• Keep HVAC drip pans clean and flowing properly.
• Keep indoor relative humidity below 70% (25 - 60%, if possible) and increase air circulation.
• Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as dryers, to the outside.
• Vent kitchens and bathrooms according to local code requirements.
• Clean and dry wet or damp spots as soon as possible, but no more than 48 hours after they are discovered. Thoroughly clean, dry and/or remove water-damaged materials.
Correcting mold problems
The first step is to find and fix the conditions that lead to mold growth. After assessing the extent of the problem, materials damaged by mold may need to be removed (remediation). Employers must use workers who have been trained for mold remediation or hire a qualified contractor. When selecting a contractor is important to check references and require them to follow the recommendations in the Environmental Protection Agency's publication, "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings" or similar guidelines. The workplan should include steps to carefully contain and remove moldy building materials in a manner that will prevent further contamination, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
From Canada, Calgary
What are molds?
Molds are a group of plants called fungi that can be found indoors and outdoors. There are tens of thousands or possibly hundreds of thousands of different molds. They grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions. Molds reproduce by creating tiny spores that float through the air. Outdoors, molds break down organic matter such as toppled trees, fallen leaves, and dead animals. They are necessary to produce certain foods and medicines such as cheese and penicillin. Indoors, mold growth can cause health problems.
When are molds a problem?
Mold growth will often occur when there is excessive moisture or water accumulates within a building. There are molds that grow on wood, paper, carpet, and insulation, as well as dust and dirt that gather in moist areas of a building. Problems can arise when mold starts eating away at these materials, affecting their look and smell. They can cause serious harm to the structure of wood-framed buildings.
What are the health effects of molds?
Molds produce allergens that can cause allergic reactions in some people. Reactions can appear right away or develop over time. Allergic responses include asthma and hay fever-type symptoms such as a runny nose and red eyes. Exposure to mold can irritate the eyes, skin, nose and throat. Symptoms other than allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold in the indoor environment.
How can mold problems be prevented or corrected?
Moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in construction practices since the 1970s that have resulted in tightly sealed buildings and poor ventilation. While it is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores, minimizing moisture can control indoor mold growth. Sources of moisture include water leaks through roofs and window seals, landscaping, gutters that direct water into or under a building, and space heaters or other appliances that are not equipped with ventilation.
Mold Prevention and Control Measures
The key to preventing and/or controlling the growth of molds is to address moisture problems.
• Repair plumbing, roof, or other leaks as soon as possible.
• Find and correct causes of condensation and wet spots.
• Locate and fix sources of moisture seepage into the building.
• Perform regular inspections and maintenance of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including filter changes.
• Keep HVAC drip pans clean and flowing properly.
• Keep indoor relative humidity below 70% (25 - 60%, if possible) and increase air circulation.
• Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as dryers, to the outside.
• Vent kitchens and bathrooms according to local code requirements.
• Clean and dry wet or damp spots as soon as possible, but no more than 48 hours after they are discovered. Thoroughly clean, dry and/or remove water-damaged materials.
Correcting mold problems
The first step is to find and fix the conditions that lead to mold growth. After assessing the extent of the problem, materials damaged by mold may need to be removed (remediation). Employers must use workers who have been trained for mold remediation or hire a qualified contractor. When selecting a contractor is important to check references and require them to follow the recommendations in the Environmental Protection Agency's publication, "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings" or similar guidelines. The workplan should include steps to carefully contain and remove moldy building materials in a manner that will prevent further contamination, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
From Canada, Calgary
Emergency Plans and how to leave a site are all part of your plan
BUT HAVE YOU EVER DONE THE DRILLS
Emergency Evacuation Plan
• Is there a written evacuation plan for the workplace?
• Have workers been trained on the plan?
• Is there a map posted that shows where the exits are?
• Have there been drills conducted in the last year?
• Are there floor wardens or other persons available to help others in an emergency?
• Are there procedures in place to assist individuals with disabilities leave the workplace?
• After vacating the workplace, is there a specific area where persons are supposed to gather to be accounted for?
• Is the plan reviewed and updated annually?
Alarm and Detection Systems
• Can the alarm system be seen and heard?
• Does the alarm system have more than one signal?
• Do workers know what the different signals mean?
• Have the alarms and detection systems been tested in the last year?
• Does the facility have a sprinkler or other type of fire suppression system? If yes, has the sprinkler system been tested in the last year?
Exits
• Are there at least two exit routes for staff to get out? (Some workplaces will require more than two exits.)
• Are exits clear of clutter?
• Are the exits clearly marked and lit?
• Do workers know where exits are in their work area?
• Is the route to the exit (exit access) at least 28 inches wide and kept clear of debris?
• Are fire doors kept closed?
• Are the exits doors unlocked, or do they automatically unlock when an alarm sounds?
• Do the doors open outward?
• Are the exit doors fitted with panic hardware? If yes, are they working properly?
• Are doors that that cannot be used to leave the facility clearly labeled "Not an Exit" or otherwise marked?
• Are the stairways wide enough to accommodate everyone in the workplace?
• Do the stairs have non-slip treads?
• Do the stairs have handrails?
• Do exits lead to a public way?
Housekeeping
• Is trash collected on a regular basis and placed in sealed containers?
• Is debris kept away from exit routes, exit doors and stairwells?
• Are cleaning materials sealed and stored properly?
• Is there an up to date list of all hazardous chemicals in the workplace?
• Are there Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) available for those chemicals?
From Canada, Calgary
BUT HAVE YOU EVER DONE THE DRILLS
Emergency Evacuation Plan
• Is there a written evacuation plan for the workplace?
• Have workers been trained on the plan?
• Is there a map posted that shows where the exits are?
• Have there been drills conducted in the last year?
• Are there floor wardens or other persons available to help others in an emergency?
• Are there procedures in place to assist individuals with disabilities leave the workplace?
• After vacating the workplace, is there a specific area where persons are supposed to gather to be accounted for?
• Is the plan reviewed and updated annually?
Alarm and Detection Systems
• Can the alarm system be seen and heard?
• Does the alarm system have more than one signal?
• Do workers know what the different signals mean?
• Have the alarms and detection systems been tested in the last year?
• Does the facility have a sprinkler or other type of fire suppression system? If yes, has the sprinkler system been tested in the last year?
Exits
• Are there at least two exit routes for staff to get out? (Some workplaces will require more than two exits.)
• Are exits clear of clutter?
• Are the exits clearly marked and lit?
• Do workers know where exits are in their work area?
• Is the route to the exit (exit access) at least 28 inches wide and kept clear of debris?
• Are fire doors kept closed?
• Are the exits doors unlocked, or do they automatically unlock when an alarm sounds?
• Do the doors open outward?
• Are the exit doors fitted with panic hardware? If yes, are they working properly?
• Are doors that that cannot be used to leave the facility clearly labeled "Not an Exit" or otherwise marked?
• Are the stairways wide enough to accommodate everyone in the workplace?
• Do the stairs have non-slip treads?
• Do the stairs have handrails?
• Do exits lead to a public way?
Housekeeping
• Is trash collected on a regular basis and placed in sealed containers?
• Is debris kept away from exit routes, exit doors and stairwells?
• Are cleaning materials sealed and stored properly?
• Is there an up to date list of all hazardous chemicals in the workplace?
• Are there Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) available for those chemicals?
From Canada, Calgary
Stinky trucks and machines there making your workers ill
The soot consists of very small particles that can be inhaled and deposited in the lungs. Diesel exhaust contains 20-100 times more particles than gasoline exhaust. These particles carry cancer-causing substances known as polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Gases in diesel exhaust, such as nitrous oxide, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde, benzene, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide can also create health problems.
Those most likely to be exposed to diesel exhaust include bridge, tunnel, and loading dock workers, auto mechanics, toll booth collectors, truck and forklift drivers, and people who work near areas where these vehicles are used, stored or maintained.
Health Effects of Diesel Exhaust
Short-Term (Acute) Effects
Workers exposed to high concentrations of diesel exhaust have reported the following short-term health symptoms:
• irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
• lightheadedness
• feeling "high"
• heartburn
• headache
• weakness, numbness, and tingling in extremities
• chest tightness
• wheezing
• vomiting
Long-Term (Chronic) Effects
Although there have been relatively few studies on the long-term health effects of diesel exhaust, the available studies indicate that diesel exhaust can be harmful to your health.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), human and animal studies show that diesel exhaust should be treated as a human carcinogen (cancer-causing substance). These findings are not surprising since several substances in diesel exhaust are known to cause cancer. It may take many years after the first exposure for diesel-related cancer to develop.
Exposure to diesel exhaust in combination with other cancer causing substances may increase your risk of developing lung cancer even more. Other exposures that are known to cause lung cancer include cigarette smoke, welding fumes and asbestos. All of these exposures may interact with diesel exhaust to magnify your risk of lung cancer, and should be kept to a minimum.
Some studies have suggested that workers exposed to diesel exhaust are more likely to have chronic respiratory symptoms (such as persistent cough and mucous), bronchitis, and reduced lung capacity than unexposed workers.
People with preexisting diseases, such as emphysema, asthma, and heart disease, may be more susceptible to the effects of diesel exhaust.
Studies in animals suggest that diesel exhaust may have other effects as well:
• Mice developed skin cancer when extracts of diesel exhaust were applied to their skin.
• Diesel exhaust caused lung injury in exposed laboratory animals.
• Exposure to diesel exhaust reduced animals' resistance to bacterial infection.
• Laboratory animals exposed to high concentrations of diesel gases showed a reduced level of activity and coordination.
In addition, many of the individual components of diesel exhaust are known to be hazardous. For example, nitrogen oxides can damage the lungs, and carbon monoxide can aggravate heart disease and affect coordination.
Control of Diesel Exhaust
Substitution
Where possible, replace diesel engines with propane-burning engines. Propane burns more completely and more cleanly than diesel fuel.
Ventilation
Diesel exhaust in garages, warehouses, or other enclosed areas should be controlled using ventilation.
Local exhaust ventilation is the best way to reduce potential hazards to diesel exhaust. A good ventilation system should include both intake and exhaust fans that remove harmful fumes at their source. Tailpipe or stack exhaust hoses should be provided for any vehicle being run in a maintenance shop.
General ventilation uses roof vents, open doors and windows, roof fans, or floor fans to move air through the work area. This is not as effective as local exhaust ventilation, and may simply spread the fumes around the work area. General ventilation may be helpful, however, when used to supplement local exhaust ventilation.
Isolate the Worker
Another way of controlling diesel exhaust exposures is to isolate the worker from diesel fumes.
• Trucks should have air-conditioned cabs to isolate the driver from fumes (Windows should be rolled up so that fumes do not seep inside).
• Toll booth collectors can be protected from fumes by working in air-conditioned booths.
Safe Work Practices
Following the safe work practices below can also reduce exposure to diesel exhaust:
• Fuel grade 1K should be used instead of Diesel 1. Grade 1K is more expensive but burns more cleanly.
• All diesel equipment should have regular maintenance and frequent tune-ups. The exhaust system should be checked for leaking fumes.
• Vehicles should be fitted with emission control devices (air cleaners), such as collectors, scrubbers, and ceramic particle traps. Air cleaners should be checked regularly and replaced when they get dirty.
• Prolonged idling of machinery should be avoided. A worker should not be in the vehicle when it is idling for a long period.
• Any cracks in the vehicle should be fitted with weather stripping to prevent fumes from seeping in.
• The floor of the vehicle should not have any holes.
Personal Protective Equipment
Respirators are usually the least effective method of controlling exposures, and they should be used only as a last resort. For diesel exhaust, a combination air-purifying respirator that protects against acid gases, organic vapors, and particulates should be used.
It is not enough for your employer to toss you a respirator and tell you to go to work. Respirators must be specific to the hazard, and fitted, cleaned, stored, inspected, and maintained in accordance with OSHA's respirator standard
From Canada, Calgary
The soot consists of very small particles that can be inhaled and deposited in the lungs. Diesel exhaust contains 20-100 times more particles than gasoline exhaust. These particles carry cancer-causing substances known as polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Gases in diesel exhaust, such as nitrous oxide, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde, benzene, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide can also create health problems.
Those most likely to be exposed to diesel exhaust include bridge, tunnel, and loading dock workers, auto mechanics, toll booth collectors, truck and forklift drivers, and people who work near areas where these vehicles are used, stored or maintained.
Health Effects of Diesel Exhaust
Short-Term (Acute) Effects
Workers exposed to high concentrations of diesel exhaust have reported the following short-term health symptoms:
• irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
• lightheadedness
• feeling "high"
• heartburn
• headache
• weakness, numbness, and tingling in extremities
• chest tightness
• wheezing
• vomiting
Long-Term (Chronic) Effects
Although there have been relatively few studies on the long-term health effects of diesel exhaust, the available studies indicate that diesel exhaust can be harmful to your health.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), human and animal studies show that diesel exhaust should be treated as a human carcinogen (cancer-causing substance). These findings are not surprising since several substances in diesel exhaust are known to cause cancer. It may take many years after the first exposure for diesel-related cancer to develop.
Exposure to diesel exhaust in combination with other cancer causing substances may increase your risk of developing lung cancer even more. Other exposures that are known to cause lung cancer include cigarette smoke, welding fumes and asbestos. All of these exposures may interact with diesel exhaust to magnify your risk of lung cancer, and should be kept to a minimum.
Some studies have suggested that workers exposed to diesel exhaust are more likely to have chronic respiratory symptoms (such as persistent cough and mucous), bronchitis, and reduced lung capacity than unexposed workers.
People with preexisting diseases, such as emphysema, asthma, and heart disease, may be more susceptible to the effects of diesel exhaust.
Studies in animals suggest that diesel exhaust may have other effects as well:
• Mice developed skin cancer when extracts of diesel exhaust were applied to their skin.
• Diesel exhaust caused lung injury in exposed laboratory animals.
• Exposure to diesel exhaust reduced animals' resistance to bacterial infection.
• Laboratory animals exposed to high concentrations of diesel gases showed a reduced level of activity and coordination.
In addition, many of the individual components of diesel exhaust are known to be hazardous. For example, nitrogen oxides can damage the lungs, and carbon monoxide can aggravate heart disease and affect coordination.
Control of Diesel Exhaust
Substitution
Where possible, replace diesel engines with propane-burning engines. Propane burns more completely and more cleanly than diesel fuel.
Ventilation
Diesel exhaust in garages, warehouses, or other enclosed areas should be controlled using ventilation.
Local exhaust ventilation is the best way to reduce potential hazards to diesel exhaust. A good ventilation system should include both intake and exhaust fans that remove harmful fumes at their source. Tailpipe or stack exhaust hoses should be provided for any vehicle being run in a maintenance shop.
General ventilation uses roof vents, open doors and windows, roof fans, or floor fans to move air through the work area. This is not as effective as local exhaust ventilation, and may simply spread the fumes around the work area. General ventilation may be helpful, however, when used to supplement local exhaust ventilation.
Isolate the Worker
Another way of controlling diesel exhaust exposures is to isolate the worker from diesel fumes.
• Trucks should have air-conditioned cabs to isolate the driver from fumes (Windows should be rolled up so that fumes do not seep inside).
• Toll booth collectors can be protected from fumes by working in air-conditioned booths.
Safe Work Practices
Following the safe work practices below can also reduce exposure to diesel exhaust:
• Fuel grade 1K should be used instead of Diesel 1. Grade 1K is more expensive but burns more cleanly.
• All diesel equipment should have regular maintenance and frequent tune-ups. The exhaust system should be checked for leaking fumes.
• Vehicles should be fitted with emission control devices (air cleaners), such as collectors, scrubbers, and ceramic particle traps. Air cleaners should be checked regularly and replaced when they get dirty.
• Prolonged idling of machinery should be avoided. A worker should not be in the vehicle when it is idling for a long period.
• Any cracks in the vehicle should be fitted with weather stripping to prevent fumes from seeping in.
• The floor of the vehicle should not have any holes.
Personal Protective Equipment
Respirators are usually the least effective method of controlling exposures, and they should be used only as a last resort. For diesel exhaust, a combination air-purifying respirator that protects against acid gases, organic vapors, and particulates should be used.
It is not enough for your employer to toss you a respirator and tell you to go to work. Respirators must be specific to the hazard, and fitted, cleaned, stored, inspected, and maintained in accordance with OSHA's respirator standard
From Canada, Calgary
OSHA E-Learning around lead and working near smelters
Lead: Secondary Lead Smelter eTool
From Canada, Calgary
Lead: Secondary Lead Smelter eTool
From Canada, Calgary
Chemical risks are every where
Labels under WHMIS or Global Harmanization
Dangerous Goods or HazMat
and fire
Can you read the firre label in the blink of a eye and under stand the risk
Emergency Planning for Chemical Spills - Chemicals in the WorkPlace
From Canada, Calgary
Labels under WHMIS or Global Harmanization
Dangerous Goods or HazMat
and fire
Can you read the firre label in the blink of a eye and under stand the risk
Emergency Planning for Chemical Spills - Chemicals in the WorkPlace
From Canada, Calgary
CHEMICAL REACTIONS
EXOTHERMIC REACTIONS:
When one substance is brought together or mixed with another and the resulting interaction evolves or generates heat, the process is referred to as an exothermic reaction. An exothermic (exo- is a prefix meaning "out of") reaction is one where the energy flows out of the system into the environment. Combustion reactions are exothermic. Some exothermic reactions may require heating just to get started, and will then proceed on their own.
Exothermic reactions pose special hazards whether occurring in the open environment or within a closed container. In the open, the heat evolved will raise the temperature of the reactants, of any products of the reaction, and of surrounding materials. Since several properties of all substances are a function of temperature, such as pressure, the resulting higher temperatures may affect how the materials involved behave in the environment.
Heat will increase the vapor pressures of hazardous materials and the rate at which they vaporize. If very high temperatures are achieved, nearby combustible materials may ignite. Explosive materials, whether they are the reactants of the reaction or just nearby, may explode upon ignition or excessive heating.
Emergency Planning for Chemical Spills - Chemicals in the WorkPlace
and including toxic effects
Emergency Planning for Chemical Spills - Chemicals in the WorkPlace
OTHER TYPES OF TOXIC AGENTS:
• Hepatotoxic agents - materials that cause liver damage.
• Nephrotoxic agents - materials that cause kidney damage.
• Neurotoxic agents - substances that in one way or another impact the nervous system and possibly cause neurological damage.
• Carinogens - substances that may incite or produce cancer within some part of the body.
• Mutagens - can produce changes in the genetic materials of cells.
• Teratogenic - materials may have adverse effects on sperm, eggs, and/or fetal tissue.
• Hematopoietic system (blood) - Some chemicals can effect the blood and the blood forming tissues.
From Canada, Calgary
EXOTHERMIC REACTIONS:
When one substance is brought together or mixed with another and the resulting interaction evolves or generates heat, the process is referred to as an exothermic reaction. An exothermic (exo- is a prefix meaning "out of") reaction is one where the energy flows out of the system into the environment. Combustion reactions are exothermic. Some exothermic reactions may require heating just to get started, and will then proceed on their own.
Exothermic reactions pose special hazards whether occurring in the open environment or within a closed container. In the open, the heat evolved will raise the temperature of the reactants, of any products of the reaction, and of surrounding materials. Since several properties of all substances are a function of temperature, such as pressure, the resulting higher temperatures may affect how the materials involved behave in the environment.
Heat will increase the vapor pressures of hazardous materials and the rate at which they vaporize. If very high temperatures are achieved, nearby combustible materials may ignite. Explosive materials, whether they are the reactants of the reaction or just nearby, may explode upon ignition or excessive heating.
Emergency Planning for Chemical Spills - Chemicals in the WorkPlace
and including toxic effects
Emergency Planning for Chemical Spills - Chemicals in the WorkPlace
OTHER TYPES OF TOXIC AGENTS:
• Hepatotoxic agents - materials that cause liver damage.
• Nephrotoxic agents - materials that cause kidney damage.
• Neurotoxic agents - substances that in one way or another impact the nervous system and possibly cause neurological damage.
• Carinogens - substances that may incite or produce cancer within some part of the body.
• Mutagens - can produce changes in the genetic materials of cells.
• Teratogenic - materials may have adverse effects on sperm, eggs, and/or fetal tissue.
• Hematopoietic system (blood) - Some chemicals can effect the blood and the blood forming tissues.
From Canada, Calgary
Guess what small to use, helps us reach and causes more industrial incidents than cars on the road
Ladders
For you who like the video world
YouTube - Ladder Safety
Ladder Safety Tips Video
Ladder Safety: Cleaning a Pool Screen Enclosure | eHow.co.uk
Trading Spaces: Carpenter Tips: Ladder safety : Video : TLC
YouTube - Ladder Safety
CPWR Don't Fall For It Ladder Safety Video
YouTube - Fun With Ladders
Step Ladder Accident - Some guy is sawing a branch from a
From Canada, Calgary
Ladders
For you who like the video world
YouTube - Ladder Safety
Ladder Safety Tips Video
Ladder Safety: Cleaning a Pool Screen Enclosure | eHow.co.uk
Trading Spaces: Carpenter Tips: Ladder safety : Video : TLC
YouTube - Ladder Safety
CPWR Don't Fall For It Ladder Safety Video
YouTube - Fun With Ladders
Step Ladder Accident - Some guy is sawing a branch from a
From Canada, Calgary
Community Support and Knowledge-base on business, career and organisational prospects and issues - Register and Log In to CiteHR and post your query, download formats and be part of a fostered community of professionals.
10 Steps to Safety Excellence Part 1.pptx
Part-003.jpg