Workplace Safety

Workplace safety improves from watching The Shawshank Redemption? Dr. Timothy Ludwig says we can learn about safety complacency from the movie. A prisoner escapes from prison through a tunnel he took 19 years to dig. Dr. Ludwig has over 25 years experience… …

Actively Caring For People. What? Hear what Behavioral Safety has become. In this podcast, we talk with Dr. E. Scott Geller, a professor at Virginia Tech’s Department of Psychology and a partner at Safety Performance Solutions. Dr. Geller is THE go-to… …

Safety programs work best by consulting workers. EHS expert Lori Siegelman of W&M Environmental tells how to involve employees to build safety programs. Lori says a worker doing a task is the best person to ask about safety for that task.… …

A safety vest that alerts a roadside worker of oncoming vehicles is in the works. Hear about the InZoneAlert safety vest from Virginia Tech’s Tom Martin. In development now, the safety vest senses the accident avoidance signal from modern cars and… …

Behavior observation means workers watch out for each other. Safety expert Marc McClure shatters myths, tells of reducing incidents with his staff by 80 percent. Marc manages 350 people as Divisional Safety Manager at electrical contractor IES Commercial & Industrial in… …

Total Worker Health. Dr. Bud Harris says it's safety goggles and an apple. It's occupational safety and health protection plus workplace health promotion. An out-of-shape worker is more likely to be injured. Dr. Bud urges companies to follow NIOSH’s Total Worker… …

Forklifts vs. pedestrians. Who has to stop? People on foot technically have the right-of-way. But some say powered industrial trucks should hold sway. Safety expert Jonathan Jacobi, of Underwriters Laboratories, tells how some companies ask walking workers to cede their right-of-way… …

HazCom labels and SDSs are confusing - until now. Two OSHA industrial hygienists explain what is happening right now with the Hazard Communication Standard. Hear about HCS 2012 changes in chemical labeling and Safety Data Sheets. OSHA’s Lana Nieves and Sven… …

Front-line workers shouldn’t be fired for blowing the whistle on safety. Their observations need to be taken seriously by managers, says Dr. Sidney Dekker. Employees in the middle of the action know real-world safety, according to Dr. Dekker. As front-line workers,… …

Safety kickoffs can alienate experienced workers. Learn how to bring these staffers into new, safer realms with John Drebinger, Jr., expert safety speaker. John also lists the five reasons to watch out for other people’s safety. In this podcast, Dan Clark… …

Safety kickoffs can have spark and NOT be boring. Hear John Drebinger, Jr., expert safety speaker, give great tips on engaging and informing employees. In a safety kickoff, John suggests visual aids, cartoons and even joke telling to keep workers’ attention.… …

Safety apps picked by safety expert Paul Colangelo. He debuted the 10 best at ASSE’s Safety 2015. Hear Paul offer his thoughts on each, see links to all. Paul reviewed 150 environmental health and safety apps for iOS and Android devices.… …

Buy Quiet - for less occupational noise exposure. Many power tools are designed to be quiet. A NIOSH expert tells how to compare brands with their database. The quietest saw, drill or sander is not always the most expensive. Hear sound… …

OSHA inspections are a breeze if you’re ready. An OSHA Consultation Manager tells how OSHA can help your company be safe and ready for inspection. For FREE. An OSHA consultation visit cannot trigger an OSHA inspection. Consultation and Enforcement divisions operate… …

Counterfeit electrical components can instantly burst into flames. Hear how to identify fake wiring, breakers and switches from Brett Brenner of ESFI. Electricians and contractors may be surprised to hear that parts of the electrical infrastructure they install could be counterfeit.… …

Fall prevention requires employer planning and employee training. Listen to Matt McNicholas of OSHA discuss the annual Construction Fall Safety Stand-Down May 4-15, 2015. Matt says employers need to do three things to keep employees safe from falls: 1. Plan ahead to… …

Fall prevention saves lives. Hear Dr. Christine Branche of NIOSH talk passionately about the annual Construction Fall Safety Stand-Down May 4-15, 2015. Dr. Branche explains that companies are asked to pause work on job sites to review fall prevention with employees.… …

HazCom labeling changes are here. OSHA’s new standards finally match GHS labeling. Expert Chuck Paulausky, CHMM, explains hazard communication labeling. Chuck says the new labels are a big safety improvement from previous systems. He explains the new rules, and their similarities… …

NFPA 70E electrical standards see a major shift in the 2015 edition. Hear Bill Burke of the NFPA explain the change in risk assessment. Bill urges non-electricians to be aware of NFPA 70E. It will help them understand the potential for… …

Electrical safety at work kicks up a notch with strong advice from OSHA trainer Jon Koppari. Hear Jon’s tips for safety managers, owners and workers. In 13 short minutes, Jon covers lockout/tagout; arc flash PPE, arc flash labeling, NFPA 70E regulations… …

Ladder safety increases with tips from expert Dave Francis. 3 points of contact/control, fiberglass vs. wood, correct footwear and more are discussed. Dave Francis works for Little Giant Ladder Systems as their National Safety Director. Dan Clark asks Dave 10 ladder… …

Earthquake safety at work? A quake could happen while employees are on the job. Prep with workplace emergency supplies, equipment and evacuation drills. American Red Cross staffer Melinda Davis says doorway thresholds are unsafe. Previous emergency protocol advised people to stand… …

Unsafe generation. New people entering the workforce, the Millennials, are unskilled and unsafe. Hear safety expert Elaine Cullen explain why it’s not their fault. Elaine co-authored the National Academies of Science study, which partly focused on generational differences in workers. In… …

Safety Management. Has it helped workplace safety improve? Safety management systems expert Maureen Johnson, of IBM, rates 30 years of safety. As the Integrated Health Services Program Manager for IBM, Maureen describes strides made in safety management systems since she entered… …

Safety recognition programs that cost the least work the best. Hear a former OSHA trainer explain how to have a better recognition program inexpensively. Steve Geigle worked for 16 years with OSHA, Oregon. He’s seen safety recognition programs fail miserably. Hear… …

OSHA inspections can create panic in every safety manager. Relax. An OSHA Enforcement Manager responds to 18 questions on inspections, revealing the facts. Gary Beck, Enforcement Manager of Oregon OSHA, explains what any company owner or safety manager should expect during… …

Combustible dust explosions can happen in a confined workspace without notice. Hear dust and flammability expert Dr. Ashok Dastidar discuss a Go/No-Go test, and how to collect a sample of dust in your facility. Fine metal or organic particles can burst… …

High noise levels make you shout to be heard? You’re at high risk for on-the-job injury. Hear about noise-induced hearing loss and accidents. Prof. Tony Leroux of the University of Montréal tells about his group’s recent study on hearing loss and… …

Safety observations can eliminate deadly workplace accidents? Hear how one man hopes to use statistics to stop fatal accidents by the end of the century. In the United States, 4000 to 4500 people die in the workplace every year. Predictive Solutions’… …

Safety observers don’t have to be safety managers. You can count on regular employees to monitor safety. Hear about the research which backs up this claim. Cary Usrey of Predictive Solutions started his career in the U.S. Navy's Nuclear Power Program.… …

  Flame resistant clothing now means comfort. Hear about the new polyester FR fabric, a comfort and safety breakthrough from Bulwark FR Chris Holcombe VP, GM of Bulwark FR, describes their milestone in flame-resistant clothing. Clothing that is NOT hot, heavy, stiff… …

The Safety Iceberg: Just 10% of workplace safety issues are obvious. Hear expert Rosa Carrillo explain why 90% of safety problems lurk below the waterline due to cultural lack of awareness. Ms. Carrillo is a safety consultant, speaker, author and MSOD.… …

Does on-the-job safety improve if managers set a good safety example? Yes! Hear the study results: A leader’s safety behavior affects how subordinates act. The study was conducted by Krista Hoffmeister, a student at Colorado State University. Krista is part of… …

Safety resources for free? Former OSHA inspector, Dave Weber, explains why he offers the goods. Listen, be inspired, and find safety content at no cost. Dave says “My father and my uncle were both seriously hurt in on-the-job accidents…I get a… …

The old suggestion box used to be a fair way for employees to offer ideas at their organization. However, over the years, it's become a rusty, forgotten box with little hope of future use. In this podcast, Rich Kneece of The… …

Starting A Visual Workplace should not mean you’ll get a pink slip because of workplace efficiency. Dr. Gwendolyn Galsworth explains. In this 2nd podcast with Dr. Galsworth, she points out that Visuality will create new efficiencies in the workplace. However, workers… …

Starting A Visual Workplace—improving efficiency with Visuality. Dr. Gwendolyn Galsworth explains better work flow through visual devices. Dr. Galsworth defines the Visual Workplace as “A work environment that is self ordering, self explaining, self regulating and self improving where what is… …

10 Rules For Forklift Safety can keep drivers and pedestrians safe on the job. Some forklift safety tips are obvious, some not-so. New drivers and experienced pros can benefit from this podcast. Brandon Nys interviews Antonio Ferraro, one of the blog… …

Safety Experts Talk is the place where manufacturing and construction experts discuss safety and continuous improvement. Listen to keep workers safe. Welcome to the podcast series. The interviews last up to one hour, and include topics such as 5S, lean, Six… …

Eye and face protection must be worn correctly by the worker and provided by the employer. Hear OSHA’s answers to important questions in this podcast. There are so many workplace hazards affecting eye and face safety. 1. When do companies have to… …

Hot work dehydrates employees. A urine color chart can help workers monitor hydration by checking the shade of yellow. So says government agency NIOSH, the National Institute For Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH has a new study, the first in 30… …

Thermal imaging can make a safer workplace. Add-on thermal imaging devices are available for your smartphone. Soon we’ll see the first smartphone with a built-in thermal camera. Workplace safety and efficiency can increase with thermal imaging: • Electricians can discover electrical shorts… …

Chemical hazards can lurk, unseen. The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) says we should learn from the West Fertilizer Company explosion in Texas. Listen for their study results. The CSB recently released its investigation findings into the 2013 explosion at the… …

Occupational skin disease (OSD) is caused by hazardous agents directly affecting the skin or creeping through it to wreak havoc with other body parts. In this podcast, Dan Clark tells how to prevent occupational skin disease, the 2nd most common type… …

Safety signs help companies be OSHA compliant based on ANSI Z535 safety sign and tag standards. Hear about four categories of workplace safety signs. OSHA adopted sign standards from American National Standards Institute, ANSI. OSHA also incorporates sign requirements from the… …

Portable containers for hazardous chemicals in the workplace can have NO labeling in only two situations, according to OSHA's HazCom 2012 standard. In less than three minutes, Dan Clark explains how a worker may transfer a hazardous chemical from an HCS… …

Carbon monoxide hazards spike in winter when heaters and fuel-gobbling equipment are used indoors. Beware of poisoning from odorless carbon monoxide. Take three minutes to hear this important podcast about the dangers of CO, the invisible toxic gas. Dan Clark spells out… …

Permit-required confined spaces aren’t just sewer pipes. Semi-trailers can be hazardous too. Hear about hazards in three trailer types, empty and loaded. In this 3½ minute podcast, Dan Clark describes OSHA’s standard on PRCS (permit-required confined spaces) for big-rigs. Dan also defines… …

Forklift blind spots are everywhere. Forward, back, left and right. Hear how to avoid collisions and injuries when hauling large loads or driving backward. Sometimes powered industrial trucks, a.k.a. forklifts, have more blind spots than areas of clear vision. A full… …

Storm cleanup done by company employees can cause them injury. Listen for tips on how to protect workers from the four major dangers of storm cleanup. Slips, trips and falls, water hazards, electrical hazards, and debris hazards all need to be… …

PPE vending machines in the workplace can increase safety and lower cost. Hear about the many types of machines and the five arguments for installing one. Personal protective equipment dispensed by machine can be a big benefit for workers. They have… …

First aid kits in the workplace are mandated by OSHA. Hear about the minimum standard changes in 2015 and if a trained person is necessary. If a company’s work location is far from emergency services, OSHA requires that a person be… …

OSHA 300A is a safety form most employers need to display in the workplace by February 1 annually. Hear how to fill out the form and who is exempt. An OSHA 300A form is an employer’s report to employees on recordable… …

Temporary wiring (like an extension cord) gets the thumbs-up from OSHA in just four settings. In only a couple of minutes, Dan Clark lays out the details. In this podcast, hear about OSHA’s temp wiring standard in workplace remodeling, experimentation, holiday… …

Arc blast dangers can be minimized with a Hierarchy Of Controls. Hear the difference between arc flash and arc blast, plus the five methods to prevent them. The surface of the sun is cooler than an arc blast. This explosive electrical… …

Snow safety avoids on-the-job cold stress and slips, trips and falls. Plan ahead for the next flurry with the right PPE, equipment and vehicles. A snowfall adds additional hazards for outdoor workers. In this podcast, hear about the four major cold… …

Ladder safety begins with both the boss and the worker. Hear tips on how they can increase safety on freestanding and self-supporting ladders. Ladder safety rules are important for companies to establish and post. They should provide properly maintained ladders made… …

Trench sloping at a safe angle prevents cave-ins and saves lives. Trench Right is the free mobile app designed to calculate safe slopes in all soil types. Trench collapses needlessly kill workers every year. In this podcast, Dan Clark describes the… …

Safety goals in the workplace can be implemented or refined at year’s end to ensure a safe start to the new year. Hear about five targets of safety growth. Dan Clark says reviewing the current year and looking ahead to expected… …

OSHA Inspection At Santa’s Workshop is a song. It’s a gift to listeners of The Safety Brief podcast and a tip of the hat to OSHA employees. Merry Christmas! Our podcast crew concocted this original piece and you’re welcome to share… …

Arc flash can melt synthetic underwear right to your skin. Wear arc-rated base layers, socks and briefs beneath an arc-rated jacket. An arc-rated coat may seem like an all-protective shield, but don’t be fooled. Thermal hazards are just waiting to overheat… …

Forklift overturns are the leading cause of forklift deaths in the U.S. Hear about six simple ways to dodge overturns by respecting location and equipment. A forklift is a short, squatty vehicle that gets cranky on corners. In this podcast, Dan… …

Respirator fit tests are required by OSHA. But the employer must also do a medical evaluation of an employee before they wear a respirator on the job. A worker does not need to see a doctor, but he or she must… …

Hazardous jobs ranked by the U.S. government are listed in this podcast. Hear if your career placed in the top 10 for 2014, the most recently tabulated year. Commercial fishing, logging, farming and driving - any kind of vehicle work use… …

Turkey fryer disasters can happen in the workplace, not just at home. Hear how a pre-Thanksgiving jobsite cookout torched a house under construction. In this podcast, Dan Clark talks with Tim Schmerber, concrete contractor from Oregon, about a fire started by… …

I2P2 is shorthand for Injury and Illness Prevention Programs. Even though OSHA doesn’t have a standard, they’re still a good idea. Dan Clark explains how to start an I2P2, including mandatory management and worker involvement. Look in the transcript for links to… …

Slips, trips and falls. Who would think they cause 15 percent of on-the-job deaths? Hear about prevention and OSHA’s proposed new walking-working surfaces rule. Good footwear, guardrails and housekeeping are just a few of the tips Dan Clark offers to avoid… …

Scaffolding collapse can be dangerous and expensive. Avoid it with trained personnel and proper equipment. Hear the four elements of constructing scaffolds. Do you need a Competent Person, a Qualified Person or an Engineer? Dan Clark explains the difference between the… …

Oil and gas extraction can knock a worker on his butt. Or much worse. Hear about the on and off-site hazards of this high-risk job and how to avoid them. Vehicle, struck-by and fall accidents are some of the seven hazards… …

Drones in construction can save time surveying and inspecting sites. But contractors should think about drone costs, FAA registration, insurance and more. Hear about six big things to consider before you put down good money for a drone. The biggest issue… …

Whole-body vibration is dangerous for workers, but OSHA has no standard on vibration limitation. Hear what safety managers can do to reduce worker risk. An employee sitting, standing or reclining on a vibrating machine or vehicle is susceptible to WBV, whole-body… …

Pervious concrete is a porous pavement that can quickly drain stormwater, saving lives and property from flash floods. Hear about the latest improvements. For over 30 years, pervious concrete has been made with just aggregate and cement, no sand. The void… …

Workplace amputations are in the spotlight at OSHA. They’ve updated their National Emphasis Program on Amputations. Hear about best practices to avoid them. Some industries have over double the number of amputations compared to industry norms. In this podcast, Dan Clark… …

Power line safety must be checked and double checked when working with lines overhead or underground. Observe the 10 foot Circle Of Safety at any work site. Dan Clark describes the hazards of equipment or vehicles making contact with power lines.… …

Confined spaces need a portable gas monitor if there is a chance of low oxygen, high carbon monoxide, or other hazardous atmospheres. Hear about a bump test. A confined space with a hazard, or potential hazard, is called a permit-required confined… …

Recycling workers have over twice the injury rate of all industry. How and what we recycle can make their job safer. Hear how you can help at work and home. Employees at a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) face conveyor belts full… …

Anti-vibration gloves don’t do much to protect hands and arms from tool and machine shaking. Hear about the initial studies and NIOSH’s recommendations. NIOSH, The National Institute For Occupational Safety And Health, says those purported anti-vibration gloves do a poor job… …

Drive Safely Work Week is all about workers driving to, at and from work. Get the free media tool kit from NETS. Save lives, save injuries October 5-9, 2015 In this podcast, Dan Clark describes and offers links to The Network… …

OSHA Top 10 Violations 2015 are a snapshot of safety in the United States. Employers should use this list as a guide to find hazards in their own workplace. The OSHA Top 10 is the most frequently cited standards after inspections… …

Asbestos fibers can damage lungs years after exposure. Help spread the word about asbestos hazards on Mesothelioma Awareness Day September 26th. Even though it was mostly banned in the 70s, asbestos is still a danger in old buildings and products. Hear about… …

Driverless trucks for highway work zones will soon be tested by Florida and other states. Hear how autonomous trucks using military technology can be safe. Royal Truck And Equipment in Pennsylvania, and partner Micro Systems of Florida, have co-designed a truck… …

Safety data sheet compliance is hard when suppliers don’t update. Hear OSHA experts answer five important questions on SDSs required in Hazard Communication. The SCHC OSHA Alliance hosted OSHA’s Lana Nieves and Sven Rundman of The Directorate of Enforcement Programs in… …

Hazcom label rules are confusing. Get chemical labeling answers direct from OSHA on their Hazard Communication Standard, HCS, implemented June 1st. Hear important information about pictograms, labeling bulk shipping containers, refillable containers, secondary containers and more. In this podcast, we bring you… …

A car wash chemical can burn skin and even be fatal. A new hazard alert warns of handling hydrofluoric acid used to wash cars and trucks in your fleet. Washington state’s Department of Labor and Industries issued a warning in August… …

COPD means lung problems, and not just for smokers. Construction workers breathing vapors, gases, dusts and fumes are at risk. Dr. John Dement has the fix. Dr. Dement, of Duke University, teamed with The Center For Construction Research And Training (CPWR)… …

Pesticide safety needs an uptick! Thousands of people are poisoned every year and many don’t know the cause. Listen to increase your pesticide safety. In this podcast, Dan Clark explains ways for workers—those applying pesticides—to keep themselves safe from the chemicals.… …

A new fatality database can help workers avoid death dangers and help managers predict which jobs generate risk. Hear how most accidents are preventable. The National Council For Occupational Safety And Health created the database. It is compiled by volunteers dedicated… …

Fall protection with personal fall arrest systems in residential construction is no longer a controversy. A new study says a PFAS anchored to wood is safe. Many construction companies have said that personal fall arrest systems aren’t feasible in residential work.… …

Safety glasses that can track eye blinks and tell you when you’re tired? Hear about three smartglasses that keep drivers and heavy equipment operators safe. This wearable technology has the capability of stopping workers from nodding off at critical times during… …

Eyewashes can injure the eyes if the water is allowed to stagnate. OSHA issued a reminder about flushing and cleaning eyewash stations. Listen for details. It seems crazy that eyewashes could HURT the eyes. In this podcast, Dan Clark explains how… …

Earthquake kit sales are up after a published earthquake warning. Employers can plan ahead with kits and employee drills in case disaster strikes at work. An article in The New Yorker about an earthquake risk off the coast of Washington and… …

Wind energy safety is a careful blend of fall protection, electrical hazard awareness and much more. Hear the best practices for working on wind turbines. Working 30 stories up can a challenge for a worker. Add in unpredictable weather, high voltages,… …

Truck underride rules may be expanded by NHTSA. The agency may soon require underride guards on the backs of trucks to save lives in rear-end collisions. Semi-trailers already have underride guards. Single unit trucks, such as dump trucks, are not required… …

Work-related asthma can be stopped dead in its tracks if employers and employees work together. Hear nine ways to prevent this occupational lung disease. Work-related asthma causes difficult breathing. It can happen in any work environment, indoors out out. In this podcast,… …

CONFINED SPACES IN CONSTRUCTION gets a 2 month deferral. OSHA won’t issue citations for violations of its new rule until Oct. 2nd, if there's good faith. Employers get extra time to train employees in confined space hazards and acquire equipment needed… …

Safety apps can help avoid injuries or save a life. Safety expert Paul Colangelo reports about his 10 picks for construction, general industry and more. Paul is ClickSafety’s National Director of Compliance Programs. For over a year, he reviewed 150 safety… …

Safety apps can help prevent worker injuries. Paul Colangelo, a safety expert, describes his 10 favorites. Most are free, some are low cost, all are great. Paul, ClickSafety’s National Director of Compliance Programs, put 150 apps to the test. If you… …

Temp workers have double the accidents and serious injuries compared to permanent employees. Hear a government agency’s solution to this alarming trend. Many more people are taking temporary work, often out of necessity due to the economy. Companies are offering more… …

[resp-player width="50%" mp3=“https://traffic.libsyn.com/thesafetybrief/Hearing_Protection-Muffs_Plugs_And_NRR.mp3"] Hearing protection for workers comes in two varieties, earmuffs and earplugs. Hear selection tips for both, including their Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). In this podcast, Dan Clark outlines the benefits of both muffs and plugs. Dan also explains the NRR,… …

Eye protection should ramp up in summer, when outdoor workers are exposed to more hazards. Hear how cheap sunglasses may actually be ok. In this podcast, Dan Clark says that UVA and UVB protected eyewear does not have to cost a… …

The Halo Light makes sure workers are visible at night. It's not just for highway crews. The light is great anytime workers and vehicles mix in the dark. Hear about the safety advantages of the work light that fits over a… …

Safety Data Sheets must be kept current. Every company with employees exposed to hazardous chemicals is required to keep an SDS on each chemical, says OSHA. OSHA's new Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to follow new guidelines modeled after GHS, the… …

Workplace concussions should not be taken lightly. They’re serious brain injuries which should be reported to management, then reviewed by a doctor. In this podcast, hear how a concussion is not just a brain bruise. Host Dan Clark describes what happens… …

Heat safety is easier with OSHA’s updated smartphone app in your pocket. Their Heat Safety Tool calculates the current heat index—how hot it feels—on your phone. Free. Local temperature and humidity greatly affect workers. High temperatures and humidity can make the… …

Unsafe in construction. One group of young, immigrant workers wins the prize for most at-risk in construction. Hear about the study from NIOSH and ASSE. Hispanic immigrant construction workers under 25, who don’t speak English, and work for small companies, have… …

Work zone safety near live traffic is critical. Hear advice on keeping your workers safe with a traffic control plan, work zone barriers and more. In this podcast, Dan Clark offers eight ways to protect employees near moving vehicles. Dan describes… …

Fall prevention is up to the employer. Hear OSHA’s Matt McNicholas and NIOSH’s Dr. Christine Branche talk about the National Fall Safety Stand-Down. Protecting construction employees from falls is job 1. Contractors and companies are required to provide equipment, training, and… …

OSHA issued a confined spaces in construction rule. It’s about time. After noodling with it for over 20 years, the new standard goes into effect on Aug. 3, 2015. The confined spaces rule for general industry, initiated in 1994, never fully… …

OSHA standards vary state to state. For the first time, a database accurately compares state and federal OSHA laws and regulations. On a website. For free. In additional to federal OSHA standards, 25 states have their own OSHA laws and regulations.… …

Workers’ Memorial Day 2015 should be observed by focusing on workplace illnesses caused by hazardous chemicals. Listen for the reasons. Employers need to take the safety bull by the horns, especially with chemical safety. This Workers' Memorial Day, honoring people killed… …

Workplace violence prevention should be the sober goal of every company. Hear how to keep workers safe from the public, clients and each other. With April designated National Workplace Violence Prevention month, it’s a good time to review precautions needed for… …

Flammable liquids safety can change quickly when workplace temperatures rise. Listen for four ways to avoid flashpoint fires and explosions. Find out the difference between flammable and inflammable. Hear about volatile liquid chemicals, and how their vapors can ignite at a certain… …

Nail gun safety increases with modern, well maintained equipment. Keep nail gunners from getting an injury with these six tips. The right nail gun trigger is just one of the items that will help save workers from a trip to the… …

Extended workdays can be good and bad. Workers enjoy longer weekends. However, workplace safety can decrease when shifts stretch past eight hours. In this podcast, Dan Clark reveals five safety issues with extended workdays. Fatigue is the obvious problem. Extended exposure… …

Texting and driving will get you a ticket in the DOT’s national crackdown April 10-15, 2015. Companies can be fined if workers text and drive on the job. Police across the United States are enforcing Department of Transportation’s first-ever campaign against… …

Ashtray ban in company vehicles? The government recommends it, plus more rules to stop secondhand smoke in the workplace. Listen to hear what NIOSH says. A tobacco-free work environment is the goal of the The National Institute for Occupational Safety and… …

Lifting devices at work can reduce injuries and increase efficiency. Hear four detailed reasons why forklifts, conveyors and hoists are good investments. Workers can avoid sprains, fractures and musculoskeletal injuries if they use lifting devices. Dollies, hand trucks, or wheelbarrows can… …

Who pays for temp PPE? Not the worker. The host employer or the staffing agency are ultimately responsible for keeping temporary workers safe with the right gear. OSHA’s Temporary Worker Initiative clarifies the hot potato of personal protective equipment (PPE) for… …

Diesel exhaust continues to pollute workplaces and kill workers. New research says exposure damages nerves in the lungs. Hear how to slash diesel exhaust. Some types of diesel exhaust contain over 10 times the particles of soot found in gasoline. These… …

Battery myths. Can 9 volt batteries start fires, and how do you avoid them? Can 9 volt batteries fatally shock you? We peel away fiction, reveal the truth. Facilities and vehicles can burn down, all because a 9 volt battery was… …

Incident reporting increases when workers don’t fear losing their jobs. That’s one of six ways to encourage incident reporting, and improve safety. In this podcast, Dan Clark goes into detail about employee fears of reporting accidents and near misses. Trust of… …

Laser safety in the workplace minimizes the risk of eye injuries. Hear about the 7 laser classes, and the precautions required for each. Lasers are common in a worker’s everyday life, on the job and at home. Many lasers are harmless.… …

Rooftop snow removal by workers is so dangerous, OSHA just released a Hazard Alert. Listen for a list of 8 best practices of rooftop snow removal. Winter is still hitting hard, prompting OSHA to warn companies about the perils of working… …

Chemical spill! Stay and clean up, or call 911? Be ready to decide with these 9 steps on evaluating and cleaning up. A toxic chemical spill can happen without warning, requiring fast evaluation and decisions by nearby workers. These 9 steps… …

Permit-required confined spaces, PRCS, are simply confined spaces with an added hazard. But who issues the permit? Listen to hear about the hazards and permits. In this podcast, Dan Clark describes the hazards that can complicate work in a confined space.… …

Compressed air comes out of a nozzle at a bazillion miles an hour! Don’t let this dangerous air pressure hurt you or a co-worker. Listen for 9 safety tips. Pressured air tanks, hoses and nozzles can be a dangerous combination if… …

Silica Dust Hazard Alert out from OSHA and NIOSH about stone countertops. Hear about the new warning for fabrication shops or in-home work. OSHA and NIOSH jointly released a Hazard Alert on Silica Dust Exposure on February 18th, 2015. This notice… …

Table saw safety needs to improve. Thousands of fingers are lost every year in table saw accidents. Better finger saving technology is available, and saw makers should use it. Hear about SawStop, the system that stops a saw blade cold on… …

Counterfeit electrical products, such as circuit breakers and electrical panels, can cause a building to go up in flames. Hear how to spot the counterfeits. Not just consumer products. There are fake electrical products now at the very heart of electrical… …

A hazard control hierarchy is simply the steps a company can take to reduce workplace hazards. Hear how to build a hierarchy of hazard control. PPE is the lowest on your list of worker safeguards. It’s the LAST barrier a worker… …

Avoid the Fatal Four construction dangers. They kill more workers on job sites than any other. Listen and hear how to avoid them. Over 58% of construction fatalities in 2013 resulted from Caught-in/Between accidents; Electrocutions; Struck-By Object accidents; and Falls. In… …

Every worker can benefit from these 6 jobsite posture tips. Learn how avoid stooping, squatting and twisting at the construction site or office. Hear what’s wrong with raising your arms above your head. Hear what’s wrong with conventional hand tools. Hear… …

Trench and excavation hazards are higher than general construction. Cave-ins kill two workers every 30 days. Hear how to keep workers safe in your big digs. In this podcast, Dan Clark describes trenching protective systems, including sloping, benching, shoring, and shielding.… …

Contaminated work clothes should be washed or tossed. Only some can safely be washed at home. Others should be laundered at work, or deemed hazmat! When you drag your dirty carcass home after work, you could be putting family and friends… …

Chemicals that cause hearing loss are called OTOTOXIC substances. Hear how to protect workers from these common industrial chemicals. Loud sounds in the work environment aren’t the only culprit in hearing damage. In this podcast, Dan Clark tackles ototoxic substances, which… …

Fiberglass ladders can be damaged by sunlight, exposing itchy fibers. Eventually, it weakens the ladder, which will need to replaced. In this podcast, Dan Clark talks with ladder expert Dave Francis of Little Giant Ladder Systems. Dave explains the proper care… …

Hot work, such as welding, by storage tanks is obviously dangerous. But even tanks which are seemingly empty or contain normally non-flammable substances are risks for explosions. In this podcast, Dan Clark tells the story of how a storage container of… …

Asbestos dangers are still here, even though the building material was banned, or mostly banned, over three decades ago. Hear this podcast for the hazards and solutions. Asbestos was used in many construction materials up to 1981. It was banned for… …

Lead hazards are still here, even though leaded paint and gasoline were phased out years ago. Listen for current lead hazards, and how to avoid them. In this podcast, Dan Clark tells of the lead hazards in many jobs, including battery… …

Cold stress sneaks up on workers and puts them at risk. Hear about the four main cold stresses in this podcast. Exposure to the cold can bring on frostbite, chilblains, trench foot and hypothermia. Dan Clark gives the symptoms and treatment… …

The deadline for OSHA’s new HazCom labeling standards, based on GHS, is June 1st, 2015. Are you compliant? OSHA has new requirements for labeling chemicals. In this podcast, HazCom industry expert Chuck Paulausky details these new standards, based on the Globally… …

Lone worker safety monitoring is important. Without it, workers on the job—alone—face dangers without help in sight. Employees are often isolated from other people in many jobs. Security guards, maintenance people and overnight convenience store clerks can go for hours without… …

Workplace safety myths are hazardous hogwash. We debunk four common myths about safety. Listen to stay safe! Folklore that “accidents happen” has been proven wrong. But are people naturally accident prone? In this podcast, Dan Clark delves into these topics, and… …

Cement burns and irritations are the #1 occupational skin disease in the U.S. Why is wet cement such a widespread danger? How do workers avoid it? Listen! Cement is in concrete, mortar, tile grout and other common construction materials. And it’s… …

Backover accidents on jobsites can be avoided with modern technology. Listen to this podcast for new and traditional best practices. Too many workers are killed or injured annually in backover accidents. Dan Clark explains how backup cameras and proximity detection systems… …

Demolition safety is more complicated than in standard construction. Old structures can be weak and unpredictable. Listen to hear tips on demolitions. Tearing down an old building requires extra prep and caution. In this podcast, Dan Clark tells of common hazards… …

Brown bag lunch safety can’t be ignored. One in six Americans gets food poisoning every year, so keep your meal chilled. Food can go bad in two hours. In this podcast, Dan Clark gives some obvious and not-so-obvious tips on how… …

Vibration White Finger is an injury from using vibrating tools over extended periods. Also known as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome, it can cause permanent damage. The white fingers name comes from low blood flow due to the collapse of vessels. Nerves and… …

Not wearing a hard hat can kill. A tape measure fell 50 stories. A man, whose hard hat was in his truck, died. This avoidable death happened Monday, November 3rd in New Jersey. We give the painful details, and urge workers… …

Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) are life savers in construction and industry. Hear how to use and maintain them in this podcast. Personal fall arrest systems have three major parts, the anchorage device, body support, and connectors. Dan Clark provides detail… …

Eye injury first aid only happens if your workplace is prepared. Have a first aid kit, and in hazardous areas, an eyewash station. In this podcast, Dan Clark covers first aid for four types of eye injuries: Specks of debris in… …

Eye protection at work could eliminate 90% of eye injuries. Listen to hear how easy it is to protect your eyes on the job. Flying or falling objects account for the lion’s share of eye injuries in the workplace. The sources… …

Indoor air quality hazards are a pain in the brain! In this podcast, learn how to avoid worker headaches by ensuring clean air in the workplace. Hear how employers and building owners need to be aware of dangerous gases and substances… …

Falling safely at work. Practice it. Yes, practice breaking your fall on the job. You can reduce injuries when you really have slips, trips or falls. Sounds odd, doesn’t it? Listen as Dan Clark advises workers to actually develop a technique… …

Hard hat selection and care is critical to safety. It’s your brain. Keep it in a good bucket. Hear about the Types and Classes of safety helmets and hard hats in this podcast. Dan Clark describes Type I and Type II,… …

The NFPA 70E changes for 2015 are substantial. Business owners and safety managers—not just electricians—need to be aware. Hear from the NFPA’s Bill Burke in this podcast. Bill explains the philosophical shift since the 2012 Standard For Electrical Safety In The… …

Fire extinguisher operation is not as easy as point-and-shoot. We explain the types of fires, the types of extinguishers, and how to use them. What’s burning? Is the source wood, gasoline, or electrical? What’s inside the fire extinguisher makes a difference.… …

Forklift violations can be dangerous to workers, and lead to costly OSHA citations. Listen for some of the top forklift safety violations, and how to avoid them. Lack of operator training is the most cited forklift violation. Once trained, a worker… …

Safety gloves and skin protection can help fingers last a lifetime. Hear about many types of work gloves and how to treat your hands in this podcast. Beware of hand dangers in the workplace. Cuts and scrapes are the least of… …

Loading dock safety is difficult to manage because of constantly moving vehicles, people and materials. Listen to this podcast for tips on improving safety at your loading dock. Workers should beware of trucks backing up trailers, forklifts and other powered transport… …

Machine guarding is one of OSHA's top 10 most-cited safety violations. Workers should respect these devices that protect them from moving parts. In this podcast we cover the types of machine guards, including barrier guards, light curtains, and two-handed tripping devices. It… …

Stretch breaks for employees have big benefits. You lose a little production time, but make bigger gains in productivity. Workers doing the same task all day need to occasionally loosen up to prevent stiffness and workplace injuries. Company scheduled stretch breaks… …

Cleaning chemicals can be as dangerous as other workplace chemicals. Be aware of potential health hazards, even with “green” products with less odor. In this podcast, we talk about less toxic fumes of green chemicals used for cleaning, and their harsh… …

FR wear finally has an improvement. Now you can buy lightweight, comfortable, breathable garments made from a new polyester. Flame-resistant clothing has a well-earned reputation for being heavy, hot, and uncomfortable. So much so, workers sometimes don’t wear it. In this podcast, we tell… …

Lockout-tagout (LOTO) is not just for major equipment repairs. Do it for maintenance, cleaning, and even retrieving stuck items, or it could be fatal. In this podcast we discuss the importance of not taking shortcuts. Workers and managers should always “do… …

Ammonia hazards are more common than you think. Many companies use this dangerous substance for refrigeration, and workers need to know the risks. In this podcast, we describe anhydrous ammonia, and how it’s used in breweries, cold storage warehouses, processing milk,… …

WMSD means pain. WMSD means Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorder. We cover WMSD in hands and arms in this podcast. Swinging a hammer all day can give you WMSD. So can using a computer keyboard and mouse. Repetitive motions, awkward postures and using… …

Earthquake at work? If a tremor happens, there's a good chance it will hit when employees are on the job. Learn how to stay safe at work in this podcast. Think about it. Workers don’t have a pantry full of food… …

Available fault current is the maximum current in a short circuit. Electrical service panels must be labeled with the current, and the date it was calculated. If it changes, the label needs to be replaced with the new calculation and… …

Powered industrial trucks, also known as forklifts, need clear labeling to keep operators and pedestrians safe. This podcasts details the three main types of labels, CAUTION, WARNING and DANGER. We also discuss the factory-supplied nameplate, and what’s on it. Good labeling increases… …

Machine safety at work requires constant attention. In our industrial age, there are many moving parts and sharp edges. Listen for tips on machine safety. In this podcast, we review nine rules to keep workers safe around machines. Important issues covered include… …

Cooling shirts are a water cooled PPE for working in heat. They are used by industrial workers, athletes and medical professionals for comfort and to avoid heat illness. The shirts have a system of narrow tubes which circulate cool water through… …

Warehouse traffic can be a safety battle. A battle of people vs. machines. Too often, the machines win. Struck-by accidents in 2012 alone claimed the lives of 199 people on the job. With better planning, those lives could have been saved.… …

N95 respirators are part of a family of respirators which filter airborne hazards. The letter N means the respirator does not filter oil. The 95 indicates the percentage of particulates it can filter. N99 and N100 filters are similar, but remove… …

Exit route violations are very common in OSHA inspections. Make access to unobstructed, well marked workplace exit routes a priority. We detail the finer points of exit routes in this podcast. We discuss the three parts to an exit route: exit… …

OSHA 10 training is a 10 hour course on standards for safety in the workplace. In this podcast, we give an overview of the program. OSHA 10 training courses are offered in four categories. They are specialized for General Industry, Construction,… …

NFPA labels help workers identify hazardous materials. In this podcast, employees can learn how to read the NFPA label, the “Fire Diamond,” to stay safe. The diamond shaped NFPA label has four color quadrants, each designated with a hazard range or… …

Combustible dust is a major workplace danger. If you can write your name in the dust, and it’s combustible dust, you could have a dust explosion. Wood and food processing can create combustible dust. But so can the processing of some… …

Forklift safety starts when the driver understands a forklift is not a car. Many of the basic safety rules apply, such as driving on the right and watching for pedestrians to avoid struck-by accidents. Avoiding distractions such as cell phones… …

Stacking and storing materials on pallets or shelves must be done with a solid plan for warehouse safety. If not, workers could be crushed and pinned or otherwise injured. Collapsing loads can be avoided by observing the weight and height limits… …

Fall protection is critical near ledges, manholes, catwalks, windows and other openings and holes. Falls are one of the leading causes of death and injury in the workplace, and here we give tips on how to avoid them. Good fall protection… …

Fall protection is critical. Falls are the leading cause of death and injury in construction. In residential construction, risks can sometimes be underestimated because heights aren’t as great as in commercial construction. But short falls can be fatal. If a worker will… …

Respirator safety increases if you know the basics. Here we talk about both types, air purifying and atmosphere supplying. Respirators don’t filter out everything. Some are designed for dust, others chemicals, still others for biological agents. Air purifying respirators come in three… …

Hand safety means more that wearing PPE. Even jobs that don’t require gloves can be dangerous for hands. Repetitive motion can affect tendons and joints. Ergonomics can help with the design and arrangement of tools to maximize hand safety. A tool… …

Heat illness will zap you, no matter what the heat source. Indoors, it could be from a furnace. Outdoors, it will probably be from that bigger furnace, the sun. Workers who have not worked in heat before need to acclimatize. Start… …

OSHA teaches hazard identification by engaging employees with their new, game-based Hazard Identification Training Tool. It makes hazard identification interactive. And it's free. There are three game elements: OSHA visual inspection training. You investigate tools or structures to see if… …

Safety apps put important information at your fingertips. A mobile device with a free safety application can be a convenient planning reference, or save precious minutes in an emergency. OSHA Safety gives you the complete text of OSHA regulations for general… …

Owners and managers—the bosses—don’t often like change. Try “continuous improvement” to improve safety and efficiency. Start with no budget, in a small area to prove it and catch their attention. First, learn all you can about efficiency programs such as 5S,… …

Reflective tape gives safety an uptick in the workplace. It’s a long lasting, inexpensive way to visually warn workers of hazards. This type of tape champions safety in dimly lit and dark areas indoors and outdoors. Warehouse floors and walls with… …

Pipe marking can stop injuries. Labels on pipes give visual safety cues to workers on the job. Color codes from ANSI will help employees know what is inside a pipe, and if it is dangerous. The color of the background and… …

OEE losses, the losses in Overall Equipment Effectiveness, can impact safety and cripple work-in-process. Learn here how to save time and money, and keep workers safer. Breakdowns are unsafe, and unproductive. Regular maintenance reduces breakdown frequency. Keep replacement equipment and spare… …

Workplace hazards are sometimes hidden in plain sight. Workers and managers need to be aware of 10 dangerous hotspots in facilities. Fall protection is needed on ledges, stairs and places people may slip and fall. Air quality is often ignored because… …

Chemical safety in the workplace requires solid cooperation between management and employees. Workers must wear the proper PPE, which will vary based on the chemicals being handled. To maintain industrial hygiene, employees must follow procedures for handling chemicals, based on the company’s… …

It’s easy to forget how dangerous tools can be. They’re around every worksite, in constant use. But tool safety is everyone’s responsibility. Training is the first step in tool safety. Employees can’t be expected to know the proper operation of a… …

Lean safety is the result of implementing “lean” methodology. Lean makes businesses less wasteful, more efficient and more profitable. An efficient workplace is a safer workplace. Simultaneous increases in efficiency and safety are seen at a Minnesota factory. The assembly line… …

Safety tape, the floor marking tape, is better than painting lines on a factory floor. Keep workers safe with color coding that lasts a long time. Employees can avoid struck-by accidents if their work area is visually marked. Clean the floors… …

Hazard labels give critical information. Labels are the glue that hold the whole safety system together. From manufacturing to office settings, proper labeling of hazards is important for employee safety, and fit well with 5S, Six Sigma and Lean systems. Hazard labels… …

A fireproof workplace and personal protective equipment are critical for safe welding. Welding is a hot work process due to a gas flame, an electric arc, a laser, or other dangerous heat source. Employees must be properly protected from the high… …

Silica dust is common in worksites, can scar the lungs and cause cancer. Symptoms sometimes don't appear for 10 years. The source of silica dust is the element silicon, which is common in quartz and other rocks. The rocks themselves aren’t… …

An OSHA inspection can happen without notice, but with preparation, facilities can be ready for scrutiny. Prepare the employees so they are used to working while being observed. The safety planning team should know who will meet with the inspector, and… …

Industrial labels are cheaper to make in-house. And quicker. For a manufacturing, in a warehouse, or almost any work site, consider buying a quality industrial label printer. Think about about all the signs a workplace might need: safety signs, 5S and… …

Loud sound in the workplace can sneak up on people causing hearing damage. 60% of workers are exposed to sound so loud, they could suffer occupational hearing loss. Managers and employees should be award of the three kinds of dangerous sounds,… …

Falling object hazards can be hidden in plain sight. They’re a threat in many businesses, not just warehouses or construction. In this Safety Brief, we detail three risk reduction steps to help eliminate injury from falling objects. #1. Operations assessment. Do… …

It’s a myth! It’s a myth that employees are bad at hazard reporting. They are actually good safety observers. Having a diversity of watchful eyes—including regular workers—increases workplace safety. A safety observer program is critical in getting widespread employee involvement to… …

This is a surprise! OSHA does NOT have requirements for safety color coding in the workplace. But ANSI does. The American National Standards Institute suggests labeling areas with seven colors for safety or organizational categories. Use the same color scheme throughout… …

Keep clothing tucked and tight! If not, workers could be pulled into a machine. Baggy pants, neck ties and untied shoe laces are just a few examples of loose clothing hazards in the workplace. Untucked shirts, unzipped jackets and other flapping… …

They are so familiar, workers ignore ladder safety. Misuse accounts for tens of thousands of at-work accidents, and 100 deaths or more annually in the U.S. Here we review the two types of ladders, freestanding and self-supporting, and how employees can… …

One million people have back injuries in the workplace every year, according to OSHA. And most of those injuries are from lifting below the knees or over the shoulders. Storage of materials above 1.5 ft and below 5 ft could… …

People will be safer at work, and companies could have lower insurance premiums if employees know CPR & AED operation. Training is recommended for at least some workers, across all shifts and departments. CPR, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is performed on someone whose… …

It’s a killer you can’t see, taste or smell. Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen due to gas powered tools running in a confined space. But with common sense precautions, workers can stay safe. Carbon monoxide (CO) is the invisible gas given… …

Safety managers, ATTENTION! Check hazards, provide safety training, and ensure proper use of PPE. Safety managers will best succeed by planning ahead for dangers such as fire, chemicals, slips and falls, and other sources of potential on-site injury. Proper safety instruction for… …

This is the story of tragedy that could have been avoided with better safety housekeeping. Here, we detail a fatal accident at a sugar refinery in Wyoming, and review of the OSHA citations. A Gemba walk by managers, or a safety… …

Dan has compiled the 10 most common signage and labeling questions asked about keeping workers safe and avoiding fines. These questions are from a wide range of industries. The answers are a good starting resource for any professional concerned about… …

An eyewash station is something you may need, but hope you will never use. But if there’s an emergency, it’s there to flush out the eyes fast to prevent injury or blindness. If you have hazardous substances, you may be OSHA-required… …

Will universal safety standards cause more problems than they solve? Implementing rules across cultures and languages will have benefits, but also potential issues. GHS, the Globally Harmonized System of labeling hazardous chemicals is one example of standardized visual warnings being adopted… …

Safety recognition programs for employees, implemented correctly, can be successful in reducing injuries and saving money. But, if executed poorly, can do more harm than good. Employees may try to rig the system to get a reward for better safety reports.… …

Helmets, ear protection, eye protection are all important. However, safety managers must ensure foot protection is a priority too. The foot is susceptible to many dangers at a jobsite. OHSA warns of punctures, crushing, sprains, slips, trips and falls. Feet can… …

Increase efficiency by red-tagging items you don’t need immediately. Store them or get rid of them. Red tagging is part of “Sort”, one of the five elements of a Japanese system of streamlining manufacturing called 5S. The five elements of 5S… …

Mining companies and miners must always be involved with mine safety. The past few generations of miners have had many safety improvements, but more are needed. Companies and miners should prevent cave-ins with proper ground control, including pillar design, roof supports… …

Summer brings a new set of workplace hazards. Workers will be affected by heat and humidity, in and out of the sun. Plan ahead in the spring for hot weather supplies and facility adaptation. Ventilation and liquids are important to keep… …

Scaffolding safety is often hard to achieve, due to the structure’s temporary nature. Just like any other work at-height, it is dangerous. But, because it is a temporary structure, more can go wrong with scaffolding. Avoid slip and fall hazards… …

In this podcast, we are going to talk about a less-known fact on construction sites in the United States - “Struck-by Accidents” are the number one cause of injuries at construction sites and the number two leading cause of death.… …

ALL injuries equal, or add up to, a loss of money for every company. And imagine how much money. The U.S. Centers For Disease Control And Prevention says there are 3.6 million work-related injuries treated in emergency rooms each year. These… …

Safety labels from an industrial label maker can help you pass an OSHA inspection, and keep employees safe. An inspection from OSHA could come at any time. Inspections often focus on signs and labeling. Follow along with this short radio-cast from Dan… …

Choosing the right safety label maker for your facility's safety program is an important job. Many safety managers are given the hard task of updating their facility but are given a very limited, if any, budget to do it with. Because… …

Lockout-tagout is the #1 cited violation for general industry by OSHA, but they estimate the lockout-tagout standard prevents 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries annually. LO/TO is being adopted industry-wide and on a global scale as a best practice for increasing… …

[resp-player width="50%" mp3="https://traffic.libsyn.com/thesafetybrief/Safety_Podcast-What_Is_This.mp3] Safety podcast? This is The Safety Brief, dedicated to industrial and construction safety. Episodes are always less than 5 minutes, posted twice weekly (most of the time). OSHA standards. Fall protection. Drones at construction sites. If it deals with… …