Every year, dozens of workers die and thousands more become ill while working in extreme heat or humid conditions. More than 40 percent of heat-related worker deaths occur in the construction industry, but workers in every field are susceptible.
There are a range of heat illnesses and they can affect anyone, regardless of age, or physical condition. Learn valuable tips on how to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses.
For many small businesses, establishing an injury and illness prevention program may seem daunting. Yet simple, low-cost approaches have been shown to be effective in small businesses. Read more about some simple steps you can take to get started.
OSHA requires that every forklift operator be trained and certified to operate the powered industrial truck in the workplace, and that the operator’s performance be evaluated under the provisions of 1910.178(l)(3) every three years.
Check out some basic tips to stay safe while operating forklifts.
National Safety Month, observed annually in June, focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road and in our homes and communities.
The last Friday in May is National Heat Awareness Day – an event established to encourage employers and workers to recognize the warning signs for heat illness and keep workers safe.
Under OSHA law, employers are responsible for providing workplaces free of known safety hazards. This includes protecting workers from extreme heat.
Fatigue in the workplace decreases performance and increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and loss of life. Fatigue can be the result of insufficient sleep, prolonged physical or mental activity, and/or disruption of sleep because of irregular shift work.
By taking some easy steps towards managing fatigue in the workplace – employers can save millions and even improve the quality of life for all employees.
Summer outdoor workers are exposed to dangerous weather hazards – extreme heat and sun exposure. Understanding the risks, prevention, and signs and symptoms can help workers stay safe while working in hot outdoor environments.
Workers who work in hot environments indoors or outdoors, or even those engaged in strenuous physical activities, may be at risk for heat stress.
The different types of heat illness include: heat exhaustion, heat syncope, heat cramps, heat rashes, and heat stroke. Heat can also increase workers’ risk of injuries, as it may result in sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, dizziness, and may reduce brain function responsible for reasoning ability, creating additional hazards.
Falls are the most common causes of serious work related injuries and deaths. Every year, hundreds of construction workers are killed on the job and more than a third die from falls, the number one cause of accidental deaths in the industry.
National Fall Prevention Safety Stand-Down Week is the time to raise fall hazard awareness and that every injury or death from a fall is preventable with proper training and the use of appropriate fall protection.
On April 28, communities, labor organizations, and workers observe Workers Memorial Day to remember those who have suffered and died on the job and to renew the fight for safe jobs. Take a moment this week to honor their and their families’ sacrifice. Think about safety on the job and work safely and smart.