Safety Tips

Flu season can strike a workplace hard. In 2009, the H1N1 influenza virus emerged, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believes the virus is likely to spread again this season in conjunction with the seasonal flu.

Respirators are vital pieces of protective equipment in many workplaces, protecting workers against harmful fumes and contaminants. But respirators cannot do their job effectively if they are not properly fitted.

Whether you work in a factory or an office building, many workers have one thing in common: Getting to and from work involves driving a vehicle. Following these basic safe driving tips from OSHA can help protect workers during what is often the most dangerous part of their workday – the commute.

Because mine dust contains large quantities of silica, baggers have to be certain to limit their exposure to prevent potentially deadly conditions.

Canned air is commonly used in offices to clean dust from equipment such as computers and shredders. These products often are used without incident; however, lack of training in proper use can lead to flash fires and injuries, warns the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

Fall protection is designed to save a worker’s life, but it also can create risks in certain situations. If a worker is suspended for too long, he or she may develop what is known as suspension trauma.

Working on jobsites painted before 1978 can pose risks associated with lead-based paints. Workers need to be aware of safe practices in removing this paint to avoid the health risks that come with lead exposure both during and after work has taken place.

Approximately 50,000 miners rely on self-contained self-rescuers every day, according to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. These devices are vital to protecting the health and safety of mine workers.

Falls, struck-by incidents and overturned machinery are the most common causes of injury and death in forklift operations, according to NIOSH. Many of these deaths and injuries can be prevented by ensuring machine operators are trained and the work area is safe.

A 34-year-old female firefighter was killed after being struck by a pickup truck on an icy interstate. The victim was a seven-year veteran firefighter, working as part of a crew dispatched to an accident.