Kevin Ian Schmidt

HCS Training for Supervisors

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The  Hazard Communication Standard 2012 is now aligned with the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) that provides many benefits, including:

  • Providing a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets;
  • Improving the quality and consistency of hazard information in the workplace;
  • Helping reduce trade barriers;
  • Productivity improvements for American businesses that regularly handle, store, and use classified hazardous chemicals;
  • Providing cost savings for American businesses that periodically update safety data sheets and labels for classified chemicals.

Historical note: The old HCS 1994 gave workers the right to know, but the HCS 2012 gives workers the right to understand: this is a very important change in OSHA’s approach.

OSHA has defined the term “substances” as chemical elements and their compounds in the natural state or obtained by any production process, including any additive necessary to preserve the stability of the product and any impurities deriving from the process used, but excluding any solvent which may be separated without affecting the stability of the substance or changing its composition.

For the purposes of the HCS, a hazardous chemical means any chemical which is classified as a physical hazard or a health hazard, a simple asphyxiant, combustible dust, pyrophoric gas, or hazard not otherwise classified.

Physical hazards – a chemical that is classified as posing one of the following hazardous effects:

  • explosive
  • flammable (gases, aerosols, liquids, or solids)
  • oxidizer (liquid, solid or gas)
  • self-reactive; pyrophoric (liquid or solid)
  • self-heating
  • organic peroxide
  • corrosive to metal
  • gas under pressure or
  • in contact with water emits flammable gas

See Appendix B to 1910.1200 — Physical Hazard Criteria.

Health hazard – a chemical which is classified as posing one of the following hazardous effects:

  • acute toxicity (any route of exposure)
  • skin corrosion or irritation
  • serious eye damage or eye irritation
  • respiratory or skin sensitization
  • germ cell mutagenicity
  • carcinogenicity
  • reproductive toxicity
  • specific target organ toxicity (single or repeated exposure) or
  • aspiration hazard

The criteria for determining whether a chemical is classified as a health hazard are detailed in 1910.1200, Appendix A – Health Hazard Criteria.

HCS 2012 Pictogram Requirements

The HCS 2012 requires GHS pictograms on labels to alert users of the chemical hazards to which they may be exposed. Each pictogram consists of a symbol on a white background framed within a red border and represents a distinct hazard(s). The pictogram on the label is determined by the chemical hazard classification.

While the GHS uses a total of nine pictograms, OSHA will only enforce the use of eight. The environmental pictogram is not mandatory but may be used to provide additional information. Workers may see the ninth symbol on a label because label preparers may choose to add the environment pictogram as supplementary information.

 

Under the HCS 2012, labels on containers shipped from manufacturers or distributors must be labeled, tagged or marked with the following six items:

  1. Product Identifier – This should include the chemical identity of the substance.
  2. Signal word – Signal words used in GHS are “Danger” and “Warning.” Danger is for the more severe hazard categories.
  3. Hazard Statements – This is a phrase assigned to a hazard class and category that describes the nature of the hazards of a hazardous product, and the degree of the hazard.
  4. Pictograms – These include symbols plus other elements, such as a border, background pattern or color that conveys specific information.
  5. Precautionary statements – These are phrases (and/or pictograms) that describe the recommended measures to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous product.
  6. Supplier identification – This contains the name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier of the substance or mixture.

 

The employer must educate and train exposed employees on classified workplace chemicals.

Employees must receive information and training that ensures their awareness of the chemical hazards used in their work area. Employers must provide this information when an employee is initially assigned to a work area where hazardous chemicals are present and before assignments involving new exposure situations.

Check Out: How to Put Together a Workplace Safety Training Workshop

Employees must be informed of:

  • the requirements of the HCS 2012
  • any operations in their work area where hazardous chemicals are present
  • the location and availability of the written hazard communication program (including the required list(s) of hazardous chemicals and SDSs required by the HCS)

To make sure all training requirements are met, it is recommended to review each section of the SDS. Group discussion and examples can be effective training strategies to make the training more interesting to students. Demonstrating and practicing the use of PPE for properly using and cleaning up spills is especially important.

 

GHS Educational Video from MCCS Video on Vimeo.

Employee training must include at least:

  • Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical in the work area.
  • The physical hazard, health hazards, simple asphyxiation, combustible dust, and pyrophoric gas hazards, as well as hazards not otherwise classified, of the chemicals in the work area.
  • The measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards, including specific procedures the employer has implemented to protect employees from exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as appropriate work practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment to be used.
  • The details of the hazard communication program developed by the employer, including an explanation of the labels received on shipped containers and the workplace labeling system used by their employer; the safety data sheet, including the order of information and how employees can obtain and use the appropriate hazard information.

View and download the GHS Training for Supervisors

GHS for Supervisors

How to Read an SDS Sheet

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The Hazard Communication Standard of 2012 requires chemical manufacturers, distributors, or importers to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) (formerly MSDSs or Material Safety Data Sheets) for each hazardous chemical to downstream users to communicate information on these hazards. SDSs are required to be presented in a consistent user-friendly, 16-section format. We will discuss this format in this module.

The SDS includes information such as:

  • the properties of each chemical;
  • the physical, health, and environmental health hazards;
  • protective measures; and
  • safety precautions for handling, storing, and transporting the chemical.

The information contained in the SDS must be in English (although it may be in other languages as well). OSHA requires that SDS preparers provide specific minimum information as detailed in Appendix D of 29 CFR 1910.1200. The SDS preparers may also include additional information in various section(s). Employers must ensure that SDSs are readily accessible to employees.

SDS Form Explained

The HCS 2012 requires new SDSs to be in a uniform format, and include the section numbers, the headings, and associated information under the headings below.

Section 1: Identification – This section identifies the chemical on the SDS as well as the recommended uses. It also provides the essential contact information of the supplier. The required information consists of:

  • Product identifier used on the label and any other common names or synonyms by which the substance is known.
  • Name, address, phone number of the manufacturer, importer, or other responsible party, and emergency phone number.
  • Recommended use of the chemical (e.g., a brief description of what it actually does, such as flame retardant) and any restrictions on use (including recommendations given by the supplier).

Section 2: Hazard(s) Identification – This section identifies the hazards of the chemical presented on the SDS and the appropriate warning information associated with those hazards. The required information consists of:

  • hazard classification of the chemical (e.g., flammable liquid, category 1)
  • signal word, pictograms
  • hazard statement(s), precautionary statement(s)
  • description of any hazards not otherwise classified

Section 3: Composition/Information on Ingredients – This section identifies the ingredient(s) contained in the product indicated on the SDS, including impurities and stabilizing additives. This section includes information on substances, mixtures, and all chemicals where a trade secret is claimed. The required information consists of:

  • Substances – Chemical name; Common name and synonyms; Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number and other unique identifiers; Impurities and stabilizing additives, which are themselves classified and which contribute to the classification of the chemical.
  • Mixtures – Same information required for substances; chemical name and concentration (i.e., exact percentage) of all ingredients which are classified as health hazards and are present above their cut-off/concentration limits or a health risk below the cut-off/concentration limits. The concentration (exact percentages) of each ingredient.
  • Chemicals where a trade secret is claimed – A statement that the specific chemical identity and/or exact percentage (concentration) of composition has been withheld as a trade secret is required.
Check Out: Hazard Communication Standard Training for supervisors

Section 4: First-Aid Measures – This section describes the initial care that should be given by untrained responders to an individual who has been exposed to the chemical. The required information consists of:

  • necessary first-aid instructions by relevant routes of exposure (inhalation, skin and eye contact, and ingestion)
  • description of the most important symptoms or effects, and any symptoms that are acute or delayed
  • recommendations for immediate medical care and special treatment needed, when necessary

Section 5: Fire-Fighting Measures – This section provides recommendations for fighting a fire caused by the chemical. The required information consists of:

  • Recommendations of suitable extinguishing equipment, and information about extinguishing equipment that is not appropriate for a particular situation.
  • Advice on specific hazards that develop from the chemical during the fire, such as any hazardous combustion products created when the chemical burns.
  • Recommendations on special protective equipment or precautions for firefighters.

Section 6: Accidental Release Measures – This section provides recommendations on the appropriate response to spills, leaks, or releases, including containment and cleanup practices to prevent or minimize exposure to people, properties, or the environment. The required information may consist of recommendations for:

  • Use of personal precautions and protective equipment to prevent the contamination of skin, eyes, and clothing.
  • Emergency procedures, including instructions for evacuations, consulting experts when needed, and appropriate protective clothing.
  • Methods and materials used for containment.
  • Cleanup procedures.

Section 7: Handling and Storage – This section provides guidance on the safe handling practices and conditions for safe storage of chemicals. The required information consists of:

  • Precautions for safe handling, including recommendations for handling incompatible chemicals, minimizing the release of the chemical into the environment, and providing advice on general hygiene practices.
  • Recommendations on the conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities. Provide advice on specific storage requirements (e.g., ventilation requirements).

Section 8: Exposure Controls/Personal Protection – This section indicates the exposure limits, engineering controls, and personal protective measures that can be used to minimize worker exposure. The required information consists of:

  • OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs), American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Values (TLVs), and any other exposure limits
  • appropriate engineering controls
  • recommendations for personal protective measures to prevent illness or injury from exposure to chemicals, such as personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • any special requirements for PPE, protective clothing or respirators

Section 9: Physical and Chemical Properties – This section identifies physical and chemical properties associated with the substance or mixture. The minimum required information consists of:

  • Appearance (physical state, color etc.)
  • Upper/Lower flammability or explosive units
  • Odor
  • Vapor pressure
  • Odor threshold
  • Vapor density
  • pH
  • Relative density
  • Melting/freezing point
  • Solubility(ies)
  • Initial boiling point & boiling range
  • Flash point
  • Evaporation rate
  • Flammability (solid, gas)
  • Partition coefficient: noctonol/water
  • Auto-ignition temperature
  • Viscosity

Section 10: Stability and Reactivity – This section describes the reactivity hazards of the chemical and the chemical stability information. This section is broken into three parts: reactivity, chemical stability, and other. The required information consists of:

  • Reactivity – Description of the specific test data for the chemical(s).
  • Chemical stability – Indication of whether the chemical is stable or unstable under normal temperature and conditions. Description of any stabilizers. Indication of any safety issues should the product change in physical appearance.
  • Other – Indication of the possibility of hazardous reactions and conditions under which hazardous reactions may occur. List of all conditions that should be avoided. List of all classes of incompatible materials. List of any known or anticipated hazardous decomposition products.

Section 11: Toxicological Information – This section identifies toxicological and health effects information or indicates that such data are not available. The required information consists of:

  • Information on the likely routes of exposure. The SDS should indicate if the information is unknown.
  • Description of the delayed, immediate, or chronic effects from short- and long-term exposure.
  • The numerical measures of toxicity – the estimated amount of a substance expected to kill 50% of test animals in a single dose (LD50).
  • Description of the symptoms. This description includes the symptoms associated with exposure to the chemical including symptoms from the lowest to the most severe exposure.
  • Indication of whether the chemical is a potential carcinogen.

Sections 12-15 – Note: Since other Agencies regulate this information, OSHA does not enforce Sections 12 through 15.

Section 16: Other Information – This section indicates when the SDS was prepared or when the last known revision was made. The SDS may also state where the changes have been made to the previous version. You may wish to contact the supplier for an explanation of the changes. Other useful information also may be included here.

PPE Explained

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OSHA standards require the use of PPE to reduce employee exposure to hazards when engineering and administrative controls are not feasible or effective in reducing these exposures to acceptable levels. Employers are required to determine if PPE should be used to protect their workers and they must also make sure employees use and maintain PPE in a sanitary and reliable condition.

Employer Responsibilities

In general, employers are responsible for:

  • performing a “hazard assessment” of the workplace to identify and control physical and health hazards;
  • identifying and providing appropriate PPE for employees;
  • training employees in the use and care of the PPE;
  • maintaining and replacing worn or damaged PPE; and
  • periodically reviewing, updating and evaluating the effectiveness of the PPE program

Employee Responsibilities

In general, employees should be:

  • properly wearing PPE,
  • attending training sessions on PPE,
  • caring for, cleaning, and maintaining PPE, and
  • informing a supervisor of the need to repair or replace PPE

Defective or damaged personal protective equipment must not be used. It’s important to inspect PPE regularly, and before each use, to make sure it’s capable of adequately protecting an employee from exposure to hazards. Remember, PPE that is defective is not PPE.

Do employers have to pay for PPE?

With few exceptions, OSHA requires employers to pay for personal protective equipment used to comply with OSHA standards.

Employers cannot require workers to provide their own PPE. Employees who use their own PPE must do so voluntarily. Even if an employee provides his or her own PPE, the employer must still ensure the equipment is adequate to protect the worker from hazards at the workplace.

Employers must pay for the following:

  • metatarsal foot protection
  • rubber boots with steel toes
  • non-prescription eye protection
  • prescription eyewear inserts/lenses for full face respirators
  • goggles and face shields
  • firefighting PPE (helmet, gloves, boots, proximity suits, full gear)
  • hard hats
  • hearing protection
  • welding PPE

Payment Exceptions under the OSHA Rule

Employers are not required to pay for some PPE in certain circumstances:

  • Non-specialty safety-toe protective footwear (including steel-toe shoes or boots) and non-specialty prescription safety eyewear provided that the employer permits such items to be worn off the job site. OSHA based this decision on the fact that this type of equipment is very personal, is often used outside the workplace, and that it is taken by workers from jobsite to jobsite and employer to employer.
  • Everyday clothing, such as long-sleeve shirts, long pants, street shoes, and normal work boots.
  • Ordinary clothing, skin creams, or other items, used solely for protection from weather, such as winter coats, jackets, gloves, parkas, rubber boots, hats, raincoats, ordinary sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Lifting belts because their value in protecting the back is questionable.
  • When the employee has lost or intentionally damaged the PPE and it must be replaced.

How does an employer select PPE?

To help determine the best PPE for the job, conduct a hazard assessment of each employee’s task, the likelihood that the employee would be injured without PPE, and the severity of a potential injury. For example:

The task: A worker uses a plasma cutter to remove the bottom of a 55-gallon drum that contains traces of motor oil. His only PPE is a pair of synthetic gloves. The outcome: The drum explodes and the worker receives severe burns on his face and hands. An effective PPE hazard assessment would produce the following information:

  • Task: Using a plasma cutter.
  • Hazards: The plasma-cutting arc produces hot metal and sparks, especially during the initial piercing of the metal. It also heats the work piece and the cutting torch. Never cut closed or pressurized containers such as tanks or drums, which could explode. Do not cut containers that may have held combustibles or toxic or reactive materials unless they have been cleaned, tested, and declared safe by a qualified person.
  • Likelihood of injury without PPE: High
  • Severity of a potential injury: Life-threatening burns PPE necessary for the task:
    • Body: dry, clean clothing made from tightly woven material such as leather, wool, or heavy denim
    • Eyes and face: safety glasses with side shield or face shield; welding helmet with shaded eye protection for welding tasks
    • Feet: high-top leather shoes or boots
    • Hands: flame-resistant gloves
Check out: PPE Hazard Assessment and Certification

 

Train Employees on PPE Use

The PPE standard mandates the employer must provide “hands-on-how-to” (practice) training to each employee who is required to use Personal Protective Equipment. To meet the minimum training requirements, each employee receiving PPE training must be trained to know at least the following:

  1. when PPE is necessary;
  2. what PPE is necessary;
  3. how to properly don, doff, adjust, and wear PPE;
  4. the limitations of the PPE; and
  5. the proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of the PPE.

So far, we meet minimum OSHA requirements… but one very important element is missing: The PPE standard does not specifically require education on “why” PPE is necessary.

Check Out: The Basics of PPE Training

So, why is this element so important? Because study after study tells us the most common reason employees don’t follow rules in the workplace is because they don’t know why the rules are important.

 

Types of PPE

Protective eye and face devices must comply with ANZI Z87.1, “American National Standard Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection,” and OSHA Standard 1910.133, Eye and Face Protection.

Eye and Face Protection

Glasses

Protective eyeglasses or spectacles are made with safety frames, tempered glass or plastic lenses, temples and side shields which provide eye protection from moderate impact and particles encountered in job tasks such as carpentry, woodworking, grinding, scaling, etc. Safety glasses are also available in prescription form for those persons who need corrective lenses.

Goggles

  • Vinyl-framed goggles of soft pliable body design provide adequate eye protection from many hazards. These goggles are available with clear or tinted lenses, perforated, port vented, or non-vented frames.
  • Single-lens goggles provide similar protection to spectacles and may be worn in combination with spectacles or corrective lenses to ensure protection along with proper vision.
  • Welders goggles provide protection from sparking, scaling, or splashing metals and harmful light rays. Lenses are impact resistant and are available in graduated shades of filtration.
  • Chipper/Grinder goggles provide eye protection from flying particles. The dual protective eye cups house impact resistant clear lenses with individual cover plates.

Face Shields

These normally consist of an adjustable headgear and face shield of tinted/transparent acetate or polycarbonate materials, or wire screen. Face shields are available in various sizes, tensile strength, impact/heat resistance and light ray filtering capacity.

Face shields will be used in operations when the entire face needs protection and should be worn to protect eyes and face against flying particles, metal sparks, and chemical/biological splash.

Welding Shields

These shield assemblies consist of:

  • vulcanized fiber or glass fiber body
  • a ratchet/button type adjustable headgear or cap attachment
  • a filter and cover plate holder

These shields will be provided to protect workers’ eyes and face from infrared and ultraviolet light burns to the retina, flying sparks, metal spatter, and slag chips encountered during:

  • welding;
  • brazing;
  • soldering;
  • resistance welding;
  • bare or shielded electric arc welding;
  • oxyacetylene welding; or
  • cutting operations.

Respiratory Protection

Respiratory Protection is important when employees are exposed to potentially hazardous atmospheres. Respirator use must conform to ANSI/ASSE Z88.2, Practices for Respiratory Protection, and OSHA Standard 1910.134, Respiratory Protection.

Respirator Types

To understand how respirators can be used to protect employees, it is important to understand what a respirator is and what it is not. A respirator protects against respiratory hazards by removing specific air contaminants from the ambient (surrounding) air or by supplying breathable air from a safe source.

  • Air-purifying respirators: Respirators that remove contaminants from the ambient air are called air-purifying respirators. Particulate respirators are a type of air-purifying respirator. The part of a respirator that forms a protective barrier between the user’s respiratory tract and air contaminants is called an inlet covering. Most inlet coverings are classified as either tight-fitting or loose-fitting.
  • Tight-fitting respirator: A tight-fitting respirator has an inlet covering, also called a face piece or mask, designed to form a seal with the face of the wearer. It is available in three types: quarter mask, half mask, and full face piece.
  • Loose-fitting respirator: A loose-fitting respirator has an inlet covering that typically covers the user’s head and may extend over the shoulders. It is designed to form a partial seal with the face. These include loose-fitting face pieces, as well as hoods, helmets, or full suits, all of which cover the head completely.
  • Atmosphere-supplying respirators: Respirators that supply air from a safe source other than the ambient air are called atmosphere-supplying respirators. There are two types of atmosphere-supplying respirators: Supplied-Air Respirators (SARs) and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).

Head Protection

There are primarily two situations when employees must wear protective helmets.

1. Falling Objects

When there is a potential in the workplace for injury to the head from falling objects, the employer must make sure that each affected employee wears a protective helmet.

Some examples of work that might require helmets to protect from falling objects include:

  • working below other workers who are using tools and materials which could fall;
  • working around or under conveyor belts which are carrying parts or materials; and
  • working below machinery or processes which might cause material or objects to fall.

Some examples of occupations for which head protection should be routinely considered are:

  • carpenters
  • electricians
  • linemen
  • mechanics and repairers
  • plumbers and pipe fitters
  • assemblers
  • packers
  • wrappers
  • sawyers
  • welders
  • laborers
  • freight handlers
  • timber cutting and logging
  • stock handlers

Types of Head Protection:

    • Type I: A helmet of Type I is designed to provide protection only to the top of the head. It is not intended to provide impact from side impacts. (This is by far the most commonly used type of hard hat in use.
    • Type II: A helmet of Type II is designed to provide protection against both top and side impacts.
    • Bump Caps: Bump caps/skull guards should be issued and worn for protection against scalp lacerations from contact with sharp objects. However, it’s very important to understand that they must not be worn as substitutes for safety caps/hats because they do not provide protection from impact forces or penetration by falling objects.

Hand Protection

Make sure safety gloves are the correct type for the specific substance.

It’s important that employers select and require employees to use appropriate hand protection when exposed to any of the hazards listed below:

  • hazardous chemicals that can cause burns, rashes, and internal injury;
  • cuts or lacerations;
  • abrasions;
  • punctures;
  • thermal burns; and
  • harmful temperature extremes.

Glove Guidelines

  • Disposable Gloves: Disposable gloves, usually made of light-weight plastic, can help guard against mild irritants.
  • Fabric Gloves: These gloves are made of cotton or fabric blends. They’re generally used to improve grip when handling slippery objects. They also help insulate hands from mild heat or cold.
  • Leather Gloves: These gloves are used to guard against injuries from sparks or scraping against rough surfaces. They are also used in combination with an insulated liner when working with electricity.
  • Metal Mesh Gloves: These gloves are used to protect hands from accidental cuts and scratches. They are used most commonly by persons working with cutting tools or other sharp instruments.
  • Aluminized Gloves: These gloves made of aluminized fabric are designed to insulate hands from intense heat. These gloves are most commonly used by persons working with molten materials.
  • Chemical Resistance Gloves: These gloves may be made of rubber, neoprene, polyvinyl alcohol or vinyl, etc. The gloves protect hands from corrosives, oils, and solvents. When selecting chemical resistance gloves, be sure to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially if the gloved hand will be immersed in the chemical.
CHEMICAL Protection Glove Selection Chart.
Type Advantages Disadvantages Use Against
Natural rubber Low cost, good physical properties, dexterity Poor vs. oils, greases, organics. Frequently imported; may be poor quality Bases, alcohols, dilute water solutions; fair vs. aldehydes, ketones.
Natural rubber blends Low cost, dexterity, better chemical resistance than natural rubber vs. some chemicals Physical properties frequently inferior to natural rubber Same as natural rubber
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) Low cost, very good physical properties, medium cost, medium chemical resistance Plasticizers can be stripped; frequently imported; may be poor quality Strong acids and bases, salts, other water solutions, alcohols
Neoprene Medium cost, medium chemical resistance, medium physical properties N/A Oxidizing acids, anilines, phenol, glycol ethers
Nitrile Low cost, excellent physical properties, dexterity Poor vs. benzene, methylene chloride, trichloroethylene, many ketones Oils, greases, aliphatic chemicals, xylene, perchloroethylene, trichloroethane; fair vs. toluene
Butyl Specialty glove, polar organics Expensive, poor vs. hydrocarbons, chlorinated solvents Glycol ethers, ketones, esters
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) Specialty glove, resists a very broad range of organics, good physical properties Very expensive, water sensitive, poor vs. light alcohols Aliphatics, aromatics, chlorinated solvents, ketones (except acetone), esters, ethers
Fluoro- elastomer (Viton) Specialty glove, organic solvents Extremely expensive, poor physical properties, poor vs. some ketones, esters, amines Aromatics, chlorinated solvents, also aliphatics and alcohols
Norfoil (Silver Shield) Excellent chemical resistance Poor fit, easily punctures, poor grip, stiff Use for Hazmat work

Electrical Protective Gloves

Protector gloves must be worn over insulating gloves. An exception is when using Class 0 gloves, under limited-use conditions, where small equipment and parts manipulation necessitate unusually high finger dexterity. But, it’s important to note that extra care must be taken while visually examining the glove. Also, make sure to avoid handling sharp objects.

Any other class of glove may be used for similar work without protector gloves if the employer can demonstrate that the possibility of physical damage to the gloves is small and if the class of glove is one class higher than that required for the voltage involved. Insulating gloves that have been used without protector gloves may not be used at a higher voltage until they have been tested.

Cut Resistant Gloves

If employees are subject to sharp objects in the workplace, such as metal banding, sheet metal, or even razor blades, it is advised to wear a cut protection glove.

There are many different rating for cut protection gloves, I explain the ratings below:

ANSI cut levels

 

EN 388 Cut levels

The Basics of PPE Training

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In many countries around the world, it is widely recognized that wearing protective equipment in various working environments is essential to protect the health and safety of workers. This is especially true in hazardous environments such as confined spaces, and in certain industries such as the oil and gas, marine, energy and petrochemical industries.

Regardless of the environment however, the benefits of wearing personal protective equipment are the same. Whether the equipment in question is protective clothing or breathing equipment, it plays an essential role in protecting employees from injuries and illnesses.

The type of equipment used in a workplace will all depend on the legislation of the country where the employees work. Some countries have strict regulations that absolutely must always be adhered to to prevent injury and even death.

In the first instance, certain items of apparatus used by employees can prevent both short term and long-term harm to the respiratory system. Breathing equipment is an essential component of this kind of protection.

One example of where this is useful in the short term is in environments which are impossible to breathe in unaided, for example in areas where there is a very limited oxygen supply or the presence of poisonous gases. In these scenarios, breathing equipment is essential for directly protecting workers from immediate harm or loss of life.

Check Out: 10 Reasons Why Safety Training is Often Ineffective

A concrete illustration of this situation is seen with firefighters, who regularly work in extremely dangerous environments where smoke inhalation could cause fatalities in a short period of time. On the other hand, respiratory protective equipment can also help avoid the long-term negative consequences of inhaling certain toxic substances.

In some places, air may be breathable but there may be exposure to gases or fumes that can cause health issues over several months or years. Respiratory protective equipment can also be used when entering environments where the air quality is unknown, offering optimal protection of health in potentially dangerous situations.

Other common types of personal protective equipment include clothing to protect against falling objects and dangerous substances encountering the body. A common example of this type of equipment is the hard hat or helmet, which is worn in a number of different environments where wearers could potentially receive a serious or fatal blow to the head.

Clothing worn on the body can also protect against toxic substances encountering the skin, for example in chemical plants. Whereas a falling object can have immediate consequences for the employee who is not wearing a hard hat, protective clothing can protect against instant harm such as burns and the effects of long-term exposure to harmful substances.

Another sensitive area of the body is the eyes, which must also be protected in various hazardous environments in a vast number of different industries. One example of this is in the manufacturing industry, where sparks, flying particles of various substances and toxic liquids can enter the eyes.

The consequences of all these foreign objects entering the eyes can be severe, therefore equipment such as protective goggles or glasses can be essential in many different environments.

In addition to the examples mentioned above, there are many other types of personal protective equipment that can be used to protect the health and safety of workers in dangerous work environments. To determine which is the most appropriate, companies need to carry out detailed risk assessments before they invest in equipment.

The importance of protective breathing equipment, clothing, and eye protection is essential in preventing employees from encountering a range of toxic materials or life-threatening situations – the right personal protective equipment can, and does, save many, many lives each year.

View and download the Basics of PPE Training below:

 

The Basics of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Training

PPE Hazard Assessment and Certification

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Risk of injury is an inherent part of many workplaces, and sometimes the risks are unknown or unidentified. We can’t eliminate risk entirely but we can reduce the risk and control it using standard procedures and good work practices. Or, we can just accept the risk as a normal part of doing a job. The question becomes “How much risk are you and your employees willing to accept?”

Accepting Risk

Risk is with us every day and on every task. Risk is determined by frequency (how often we’re exposed to it), probability of something bad happening, and the severity of the outcome. We make decisions about accepting risk every day. Another real question is “Do we understand the risk and are we willing to accept it?”.

Acceptance of risk begins at the organizational level and is forced down stream to the local level. Controlling risk is typically a management function and fortunately, there are some good tools available to help understand risk and keep it at an acceptable level. One tool commonly used today is the Job Safety Analysis.

At the lowest management level, risk has to be controlled by the people doing the work and their immediate supervisors. In both the planning and execution of a task, it is essential to make sure that all those who need to be involved are given an adequate opportunity to be involved and are kept informed of developments that might increase the risks and change the measures needed to deal with them.

Evaluating Work Site Hazards

Workers really are very good at spotting hazards, but not as good at mentioning them. Most incident investigations (my opinion) have found that workers in the area knew the hazard existed. Some thought the hazard was normal and some say they just thought the risk was “acceptable”. How do we, as managers, get our employees involved and help reduce risk?

The goal is to establish a common level of risk tolerance among the team members and there are several things that can affect this process. On any job, the judgment and decisions of the supervisory staff and employees are the most critical part of work area risk assessment and communication of local hazards. A good understanding of the nature of the work, the work environment and the health and safety hazards involved is required of the individuals making decisions on the best way to control the hazards.

The fact that each person’s perception of risk and level of risk tolerance is different is one of the things that complicates communication of risk on a construction site. The JSA is a tool used to improve and document the communication process and ensure mutual understanding of risks and controls by all the people involved.

Managing The Risk

A Job Safety Analysis is an important part of the risk management process in heavy industry. As part of the risk management process, the JSA is a management tool used to reduce the level of risk to the lowest possible acceptable level by allowing all members of a team to interact and develop a common understanding of the task, procedures and hazards associated with completing the task. The tool is available, using it for the greatest benefit is another matter.

The good, bad or indifferent perception of the JSA as planning tool by the person completing it has a significant effect on the quality of information on the document and the level of input by workers involved.

How much individuals are trusted and internal power relations can significantly influence the willingness of employees to communicate and control risk. Other personal factors that can influence communication include individual experience, risk assessment and individual perception of a particular risk with respect to other people on the team or in the area.

Other factors that may influence local risk management include the physical environment of the work area, work procedures (safe work practices), tools and resources available to eliminate or reduce the hazard.

A Basic Guide to Conducting a Risk Assessment

One of the best ways to carry out a risk assessment is to use the experience and expertise of a competent person or persons with experience and relevant competency in their field. A competent person does not mean just qualified. It is important that the person or persons have worthwhile experience and an understanding in what they are assessing. To sum this up, a competent person should have knowledge, experience and a relevant qualification. It is important that the person refreshes their knowledge to ensure that it up to date and relevant.

At this point, it must be made clear that it is not the written document that makes a particular task or job safe, but the control measures that are put in place and reviewed on a regular basis. A suitable and sufficient risk assessment should identify the hazards, evaluate risks, determine appropriate measures necessary and ensure that it is appropriate to the nature of the work whilst being valid for a reasonable period of time.

A hazard is something with the potential to cause harm, whereas risk is the likelihood of harm occurring. The principles of a risk assessment follows a systematic process, which should be considered as a 5 step plan

Step one is identifying hazards. This would be anything that has the potential to cause harm. This could include any item, object, chemical, environmental or work process that has the potential to cause harm.

Check Out: How to Conduct a Job Hazard Analysis

Step two is to identify who may actually be harmed. In a risk assessment, everyone who comes into contact either directly or indirectly with the hazard needs to be included in the finished report. This will include employers, employees, visitors, contractors and anyone else that is affected by the hazard or hazards identified.

Step three is for the evaluation of the risk by considering all existing precautions that already in place. This would be a list of anything and everything that is done to prevent something from causing harm.

Step four is the recording of all findings. This step involves a written documentation (If five or more staff are employed) of all the hazards and the attributed risks as well as all the precautions in place.

Check Out: Job Safety Assessment Form

Step five is the reviewing and revision of the risk assessment as and when necessary. A review could take place on a periodic basis, whereas when necessary would involve an introduction of a new work process, new machinery or new environment, or even if a new hazard or risk has been discovered.

A risk assessment should be reviewed and if necessary modified on a regular basis or after any near miss or accident.

It is a requirement to follow a systematic approach to deciding which control measures need or should be implemented. The hierarchy of control which is basically a systematic process to decide which control measures should be implemented

The first step of the hierarchy of control as well as the most important thing is to try and avoid the risk altogether. If the risk can be taken away, there is no reason to continue the hierarchy of control, as there is no risk of injury.

The second step is substitution. Can the task, equipment, or substance be substituted for something less risky, therefore reducing the harm/

The third step of the hierarchy is enclosure, isolation and separation. Can the work process be enclosed so the workers are not affected by the process and not exposed to the risk?

The fourth step would be the introduction of guarding or safety devices. This would protect all relevant people by preventing them access to dangerous areas.

The fifth stage would be the introduction of a safe system of work, in which procedures must be followed and the staff are made fully aware of what these procedures actually are.

Supervision is the sixth stage of the hierarchy of control. This ensures that effective supervision is in place to monitor that procedures are in place and staff do not take unnecessary risks or short cuts

The seventh stage is training. Training should include all management, supervisors and employees that are involved with the task. The training needs to be relevant to the task in order to make it an effective control

The eighth stage would include information. This information is regarding the hazards and risks in the workplace that have been identified and safe systems that should be followed

The last stage should be the introduction of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This is only to be used as a last resort. This is because PPE only protects the wearer from the risk.

It is important to remember that a risk assessment is a systematic process of identifying hazards and risks in the workplace and documenting them. A risk assessment is only a stage in the removal of a hazard and the risk of someone becoming injured or ill at work. A risk assessment is not the last step in regard to health and safety at work, it is a tool to help protect employees, visitors and anyone else affected by the potential hazard as well as the risk.

View the PPE Hazard Assessment Form, then download it below:

 

Certification of Hazard Assessmen PPE workplace specific

Job Hazard Analysis Form

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A Job Safety Analysis form, or sometimes called a Job Hazard Analysis, is a full review of workplace hazards with plans on how to reduce or remove those hazards.

There are 3 steps to conducting a Job Safety Analysis, or JSA, which are as follows:

  • List out the tasks that your team performs on a regular basis.
    This should be more than just reading about the task or watching others perform it. Work with your employees, which means actually perform the task, to draft an exhaustive list of the different tasks that they perform throughout the day.
  • Brainstorm all the common and potential hazards associated with each task.
    Working with your employees again, take each task that had been defined in step 1 and list out all the potential hazards that could be associated with it. This requires again doing the task, and watching employees do the task.
  • Develop a list of recommendations that reduce the risk of each hazard listed in step 2.
    Recommendations can include engineering, administrative and personal protection controls. It’s important to include your team in this process so that they see the value of a JSA, buy into regularly using it, and develop increased recognition of hazards.

Being involved and knowledgeable of the tasks, is important, as sometimes, hazards can be mitigated to the detriment of work, which means employees will not regularly follow the safeguards, which means your employees are no more safe.

 

Reduction of risk is imperative  to a safe workplace.

 

To make best use of this form, ensure that you are fully trained on how to conduct a job hazard analysis first, as conducting one without proper knowledge of the process will be ineffective in the long run.

If you need to implement PPE as part of your workplace hazard mitigation plan from your JHA, then check out our informative post of PPE Selection.

View the Job Safety Analysis Form below, then download it below that:

Job Safety Analysis Form

 

 

How to Conduct a Job Hazard Analysis

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A job hazard analysis is an important tool for identifying hazards in the workplace.

This is not a one and done process, a quality Job-Hazard-Analysis, or JHA, is conducted annually, in addition to whenever job processes or equipment change.

Besides identifying workplace hazards and forming the foundation of mitigating those hazards, a JHA serves as a base point during workplace incident/accident investigations.

Basics of a job hazard analysis

The initial purpose of a JHA is to identify all workplace hazards, this includes looking at work processes, machines around the workplace, and even overhead.

Once you’ve identified workplace hazards, it is time to mitigate them, this is done in 1 of 3 ways:

  • Engineering Controls: This means reworking the workplace layout, build, or adding physical barriers so no matter what, the hazard is completely removed from the work area. This can also be adding machines to do jobs in place of people, like adding an automated box cutting machine so employees can’t cut themselves.
  • Administrative and Workplace Controls: This controls the way people work, through policies, procedures, and workplace safety rules. This is done through requiring safety knives, and teaching employees to cut away from themselves.
  • Personal Protective Equipment: This should be your last choice, because the hazard is still in the workplace, you’re just protecting employees from it. This could be ANSI cut rated gloves for employees that must handle sharp objects.
Check Out: PPE Selection and Usage Guide

A workplace hazard sometimes isn’t simply addressed with 1 control, but may require a 3 tiered approach.

Example: Implementing an automatic box cutting machine, with a lock-out tag-out policy for maintenance on the machine, and requiring employees to wear PPE when the machine isn’t functioning properly.

How to use a job hazard analysis in an investigation

  • When using the JHA for incident/accident investigations, the first thing to check for is, “was the hazard identified”, if it wasn’t, the failure is an insufficiently conducted job hazard analysis.
  • If the hazard was identified, ensure that the safeguards provided were adequate and followed.

The Job Hazard Analysis will help guide your investigation, and help provide solutions to your root cause.


This training, “How to Conduct a Job Hazard Analysis”, will teach you, and your designated employees how to properly conduct a JHA, and mitigate all the identified risks.

I also provide a Job Safety Analysis Form

 

 

PPE Selection and Usage Guide

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PPE is an important component of workplace safety, as no matter how safe you make the workplace with engineering and administrative controls, there will always remain some hazards. Knowing how to pick the right equipment is important, and choosing the wrong equipment can create an unidentified hazard.

After completing your Job Hazard Analysis, and after all engineering and administrative controls are in place, then start consulting these guides to find the optimal PPE for your identified hazards.

No one PPE selection guide is completely comprehensive, so we are offering multiple guides here, plus links to more resources.

 

What is required when your company implements PPE:

  • Only use PPE as a last resort;
  • If PPE is still needed after implementing other controls (and there will be circumstances when it is, eg head protection on most construction sites), you must provide this for your employees free of charge;
  • You must choose the equipment carefully (see selection details below) and ensure employees are trained to use it properly, and know how to detect and report any faults.

Selection of PPE:

  • Who is exposed and to what?
  • How long are they exposed for?
  • How much are they exposed to?
Check Out: PPE Hazard Assessment and Certification

When selecting and using PPE:

  • Choose products which are ANSI marked
  • Choose equipment that suits the user – consider the size, fit and weight of the PPE. If the users help choose it, they will be more likely to use it
  • If more than one item of PPE is worn at the same time, make sure they can be used together, eg wearing safety glasses may disturb the seal of a respirator, causing air leaks
  • Instruct and train people how to use it, eg train people to remove gloves without contaminating their skin. Tell them why it is needed, when to use it and what its limitations are

 

Other advice on PPE

  • Never allow exemptions from wearing PPE for those jobs that ‘only take a few minutes’
  • Check with your supplier on what PPE is appropriate – explain the job to them

Download OSHA’s 3151 PPE guide; it is an exhaustive guide for PPE selection:

 

 

Download this PPE Selection and Usage Guide if you have a need for medical PPE:

 

 

Download the PPE Selection and Use Guide from Duke University, which includes links to Duke University policies for specific safety concerns:

 

 

Download this PPE selection guide from UC Davis, it covers PPE with pictures and hazard mitigation suggestions:

 

 

Download this PPE Selection Guide from the US Department of Homeland Security for Emergency First Responders:

 

Links

Michigan State University EHS Department PPE Guidelines

MTSU’s PPE Selection Guide

Tuft’s University PPE Selection Guide

CDC Guidance for the Selection and Usage of PPE in Healthcare setting

UCLA’s PPE Selection Guide for Hazard Assessments

University South Florida Hazard Control and PPE Selection Guide

CIRSA PPE Guide

RAND Corporation PPE Guide for Emergency Responders

University of Washington Guidelines for PPE

Stony Brook University PPE Guide for laboratory researchers

Montana Tech PPE General Guidelines for Selection and Use

OSHAcademy Course 709 PPE Study Guide for selection and use

Central Michigan University PPE Selection Guide

CDC/NIOSH PPE Guide for hazardous materials Incidents

 

Every Organization Needs a Safety Plan

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While avoiding workplace incidents is always desirable, in today’s world, “lucky” might not be enough. The reality is, in the United States, lawsuits can arise from seemingly unexpected situations. Someone injured at an event hosted by your company, a slip-and-fall in a building you manage – even unintentional accidents can lead to legal action. This is where a written safety plan comes in. It’s not just a document gathering dust on a shelf; it’s your shield against potential liabilities.

Think of it as proactive risk management:

  • Demonstrates Foresight: Having a plan in place shows you’ve proactively identified potential hazards. It proves you’re not simply hoping for the best, but actively taking steps to prevent the worst.
  • Boosts Confidence: Insurance companies and courts take favorably to organizations with documented safety procedures. It suggests a culture of awareness and responsibility, potentially influencing insurance rates and legal outcomes.
  • Educates and Protects: A clearly defined safety plan ensures everyone involved in your event, activity, or workplace understands potential risks and proper safety protocols. This not only protects your organization, but also your participants or employees.
  • Provides a Roadmap: In the unfortunate event of an incident, a written plan serves as a crucial reference point. It can help guide response efforts, demonstrate due diligence, and potentially mitigate legal complications.

Remember, safety is not about luck; it’s about preparation. Investing in a comprehensive safety plan isn’t just a precautionary measure; it’s a wise investment in your organization’s well-being, both financially and ethically. So, ditch the reliance on luck and empower yourself with the proactive protection of a written safety plan. It’s not just good practice, it’s your best defense in a litigious world.

If you do not have a plan, or if you have one that is poorly written or if nobody in your organization knows a plan exists, you are at greater risk of lawsuit or victims being awarded larger settlements in court. In many situations, such as on building sites, safety plans are mandated by the authorities. In any case, having a written safety plan is always a good idea and knowing the laws that pertain to your work location are a must.

Purpose of a Safety Manual

The objectives of a safety plan revolve around two primary aspects: elucidating the roles and responsibilities of both management and employees, encompassing compliance with all pertinent legal regulations; and delineating safety protocols applicable to the specific site, activity, and audience.

In constructing a safety plan, the initial step involves a comprehensive examination of federal and local statutes to ascertain the legal obligations that must be adhered to.

Subsequently, attention should be directed towards the location where activities or business transactions occur. It is imperative to possess knowledge of the whereabouts of an accurate blueprint or map, should it be required by either yourself or authorities. Consider all routine activities transpiring on the site, along with the potential presence of people, vehicles, and machinery, envisioning conceivable accidents. Unless affiliated with Homeland Security or a specialized security firm, planning for unlikely events such as terrorist attacks or aircraft incidents may not be necessary. Rather, the focus should be on addressing the most common emergency situations relevant to the site. If leasing a space for business or events, collaboration with the building owner or management is advisable to review their existing safety plan.

Within any structure, the potential for fire must always be taken into account. Therefore, each safety plan should outline evacuation procedures, encompass a comprehensive map illustrating all exits, and provide guidance on actions to be taken in the event of a fire. Clarifications should be provided regarding the activation of alarms, deployment of overhead sprinklers, and the protocol for notifying the fire department—whether it’s an automatic process through the alarm system or if someone needs to be specifically assigned to make the call. Additionally, considerations such as closing fire doors and a schematic indicating the locations of fire extinguishers, accompanied by instructions on their proper use, should be incorporated into the plan. If different types of fire extinguishers are maintained for various fire categories, the safety plan should elucidate this distinction. Organizations housing chemicals or pressurized containers susceptible to combustion or emitting harmful gases during a fire should also be explicitly identified in the plan.

Another scenario crucial to address in a building safety plan is power outage. In the event of a sudden loss of power, clear guidance is essential. Questions to be answered include whether emergency lights or backup generators will automatically activate or if someone needs to manually initiate them. Confirming the functionality of phones, smoke alarms, and security systems during a power outage is vital. The safety plan should articulate specific actions to take when faced with an abrupt blackout. Additionally, instructions regarding procedures upon power restoration should be included. Considerations such as the startup process for machinery and computers, or the need for a reset, must be addressed. For organizations with mission-critical equipment, especially in fields like healthcare with essential medical devices, outlining measures to ensure their uninterrupted operation during a power outage becomes imperative.

Are you situated in an earthquake zone? If yes, you need to account for that possibility, instructing people to move outside or get under desks and tables if they can’t safely get to doorways. Often earthquakes will cause electrical failures or water and gas leaks, so you need to include instructions on what to do about all those problems, too.

Check Out: Emergency Response Plan Best Practices

Your type of business or activity will determine other potential dangers that you need to address in a safety plan. Do your personnel work with hazardous chemicals? You need to identify each chemical, state the possible hazards and spell out the appropriate precautions for working with it. (The use of hazardous chemicals generally requires retaining SDS sheets that contain all this information.) To learn more about this requirement, check out my post about Hazardous Communication.

Do your employees or volunteers operate potentially dangerous equipment? Your plan should discuss how to turn each piece of equipment on and off and describe any procedures and warnings needed to work safely with it. These two issues are especially important on any construction site, even if it’s only a small remodel job. Other important issues to address in a safety plan are hazards associated with earthmoving, such as ditch cave-ins or accidentally cutting electrical, gas, or water lines. The way that materials are stored can be hazardous, too – each year workers suffer crush injuries or die after being buried under hundreds of pounds of plasterboard or lumber that slid from a stack.

Is vehicle traffic a safety consideration? For those working on construction sites, it certainly can be. How about pedestrians? You need to consider everything you need to do to keep not only your employees safe, but also any passers-by who may wander through a hazardous area.

Construction sites may encounter challenges related to noise hazards and various types of dust. It is crucial to address these concerns in the safety plan to safeguard the well-being of workers. The plan should outline measures to mitigate noise exposure, such as providing ear protection and implementing engineering controls to minimize noisy activities. Additionally, strategies for controlling and minimizing dust, including the use of proper ventilation systems, dust suppression methods, and personal protective equipment, should be detailed in the safety plan. Regular monitoring and assessment of noise levels and dust concentrations can further contribute to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment on construction sites.

In work environments characterized by extreme climates, comprehensive instructions should be included in the safety plan to address the prevention and management of conditions such as hypothermia or heat exhaustion. For cold climates, guidelines may encompass wearing appropriate insulated clothing, taking regular breaks in heated areas, and recognizing early symptoms of hypothermia. In contrast, for hot climates, emphasis may be placed on maintaining hydration, utilizing shaded areas during breaks, and recognizing signs of heat-related stress. The safety plan should also provide details on any specialized equipment or resources available to mitigate the impact of extreme temperatures and ensure the well-being of employees in such challenging conditions. Regular training and awareness programs can further enhance employees’ preparedness and response to these climate-related challenges.

Security is another area nobody likes to think about, but all managers and organizers should. What should happen if an armed intruder comes into your area? Of course, someone should call the police, but are there also doors that need to be locked or checked? Are there places employees should hide? What do you want an employee to do if she discovers an unlocked door or suspects suspicious activity after normal business hours?

Everyone who is routinely present on your site also needs to know what to do in the case of medical emergency. If you have defibrillators available, make sure everyone knows where they are and how to use them. Do you have first aid kits on hand? Be sure your plan specifies their locations, too.

All staff should know the numbers to call in the case of emergency, as well as what to say. Keep in mind that people often cannot think clearly during an emergency. Make sure the emergency number (even if it’s always 9-1-1) and address of your building or site is posted where it can easily be seen (having a quick reference card in every room can help). If there are supervisors or insurance personnel who must be notified, be sure to list their contact information, too.

Creating a safety plan might sound daunting, but you will find all sorts of safety information available on the internet and more in the hands of authorities; you can plug all the appropriate information into your own plan and customize it to fit your situation.

You do not need to figure out how to assemble a safety plan from scratch, either. I have made it available for you to view and download the policy below; all you need to do is fill in the pertinent information for your actual plan.

After meticulously developing your safety manual, it’s crucial not to relegate it to the confines of a cabinet. Actively engage your employees, members, or volunteers by facilitating periodic training sessions. These sessions serve as invaluable opportunities for everyone involved to gain a comprehensive understanding of the safety plan, fostering a culture of collective responsibility.

During these training sessions, participants can delve into the specifics of the safety regulations outlined in the plan. This interactive approach not only imparts knowledge but also allows for the clarification of any queries or concerns. By promoting engagement and comprehension, you empower your team to work cohesively and safely.

Consider incorporating various training methods, such as presentations, hands-on simulations, or Q&A sessions, to cater to diverse learning styles. Reinforce the importance of each individual’s role in upholding safety standards, emphasizing that safety is not just a set of rules but a shared commitment to creating a secure working environment.

Furthermore, encourage open communication channels where employees can provide feedback or suggest improvements to the safety plan. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that the safety measures stay relevant and effective.

In essence, turning your safety plan into an active and ongoing training initiative establishes a robust foundation for a safety-conscious workplace, where everyone plays a vital part in maintaining a secure and healthy environment.

Check out the safety committee books and meeting notes I have available on Amazon

 

Download the Expanded Employee Safety Manual below:

View the Expanded Employee Safety Manual below:

Expanded Employee Safety Manual - Example

Lockout/Tagout Training

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In the comprehensive landscape of a Hazardous Energy Control Program, the significance of lockout/tagout training emerges as a pivotal and non-negotiable component.

A key facet of this training is its mandatory nature for individuals engaged in Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures. This training serves as a crucial investment in ensuring that those involved possess a nuanced understanding of the process while upholding the paramount principle of safety. It goes beyond the procedural aspects, providing an in-depth exploration of all facets related to executing a Lockout/Tagout. This includes a thorough explanation of the diverse energy sources that employees may encounter during the lockout process, fostering a holistic comprehension of potential hazards.

Beyond the training for those directly involved in LOTO, there exists an additional training imperative aimed at employees who will be impacted by Lockout/Tagout measures. These are the “affected employees,” individuals working in areas that are directly influenced by a lockout. The focus of their training extends beyond procedural knowledge; it encompasses a profound understanding of the necessary actions in the event of a shutdown and how to appropriately handle the equipment in their work environment.

This secondary training layer is designed not only for the direct safety of the affected employees but also bears a critical role in ensuring the well-being of those servicing the equipment. Premature release of a lock can have severe consequences, leading to injuries or even fatalities. Thus, instilling a robust understanding of shutdown procedures and equipment handling among affected employees becomes an integral part of a broader safety strategy.

Need a more robust loto program? Check out Lockout-out/Tag-out training expanded

In essence, the training initiatives within the Hazardous Energy Control Program are strategically structured to form a comprehensive safety net. They empower those directly involved in LOTO procedures with the knowledge needed for meticulous execution while extending this understanding to the broader workforce, particularly those working in areas influenced by lockout measures. This dual-layered approach not only meets regulatory requirements but fundamentally prioritizes the safety and well-being of all employees involved in or impacted by Hazardous Energy Control measures.

An important component for a lockout/tagout program is a quality abandoned lock removal process

Explore the critical process of safely removing lockout devices in a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) program. Follow a documented procedure to prevent risks associated with abandoned locks, ensuring employee safety. Learn the Abandoned Lockout Lock Removal Process, approvals needed, and the importance of informing employees. Emphasize safety adherence, OSHA standards, and thorough documentation for a comprehensive lockout/tagout program.

View the Basic Lock-out/Tag-out Training below:

LOTO training

Download the Basic Lock-out/Tag-out Training below:

 

 

View the Affected Employee Training below:

 

Affected employee training loto

Download the Affected Employee Training below:

 

 

View the Affected Employee Training Video below: