Importance of Safety Signage in Pipeline Operations

Pipeline safety signage plays a critical role in the safety measures employed in pipeline operations. They serve as visual guides to pipeline workers, making them aware of potential hazards, reminding them of crucial safety protocols, and providing emergency evacuation routes. Through safety signs, pipeline personnel can recognize the danger zone, taking precautions before initiating any work activity. Effective safety signage can avert incidents, such as explosions and fires, damaging the products being transported, the pipeline infrastructure, and the environment.

Overview of Must-Have Safety Signs for Pipeline Workers

Based on the nature of the hazards present in the pipeline’s physical environment, OSHA demands five must-have safety signs for pipeline workers. These signs include caution signs, no smoking signs, high voltage warning signs, emergency exit signs, and PPE signs. Pipeline workers must pay attention to these warning signs to avert accidents and adhere to the set safety measures.

1. Caution Signage

Caution signs are designed for pipeline workers to be alert to any potential hazards at their specific work area. They come in yellow or orange background and are highlighted in black letters with a hazard symbol on the left side. They warn workers of an unusually specific type of hazard or situation that requires special attention to maintain safety in their work environment. It is essential to have specific caution signs, such as “Watch Your Step,” “Welding In Progress,” and “Slippery Surface.” According to the PHMSA regulations, employers must place caution signs in areas where there is a possibility of tripping, slipping, or falling and other hazardous activities.

2. No Smoking Signage

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that pipeline operators prohibit smoking within a minimum of 50 feet of the pipeline’s operation and maintenance areas. No smoking signs are typically placed in these areas to indicate to workers and visitors where they are prohibited. Smoking near pipelines could trigger explosive accidents, increasing the risk of damaging the pipeline facilities and the surrounding environment. No smoking signs are designed using red and black lettering on a white background to help workers and visitors recognize their purpose. The PHMSA requires that pipeline facilities must have no smoking signs in areas where there is a risk of an ignition source.

3. High-Voltage Warning Signs

Electrical hazards are likely to occur in pipeline environments, with frequent use of electrical equipment. High voltage warning signs are essential for marking areas that pose electrical hazards and reminding workers to take necessary precautions. The warning signs are designed with triangular shapes on a yellow background with black letters. In compliance with OSHA regulations, workers must label the voltage capacity near electrical equipment, transformers, and power stations to reduce the chances of accidental contact with electricity.

4. Emergency Exit Signage

Emergency exits should be strategically located in pipeline facilities to help workers exit the area in case of emergencies. The exit signs come in green and white lettering on a rectangular background with arrows pointing to the emergency exit direction. Employers must provide a possible exit route that allows workers to escape to a safe distance during pipeline fires or leaks.

5. PPE Signage

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential in pipeline operations to minimize injuries caused by falls, slips, or potential exposure to hazardous chemicals. PPE signs indicate appropriate safety clothing, including eye protection, headgear, gloves, and footwear. The PPE signs come in blue, black, and white lettering on a white background to notify workers when PPE is required to initiate work in specific areas.

Protect Your Workers and the Public

Pipeline operators must make sure that each worker adheres to the best safety practices when working in pipeline environments. The must-have safety signs outlined in this blog, from caution signs, high voltage warnings, no smoking signs, PPE signs, and emergency exit signs, are crucial in ensuring the safety of pipeline workers and the community. By having a proper safety signage program in place, pipeline operators can mitigate the risks associated with pipeline operations. We invite you to browse compliancesigns.com for all your safety signage needs, including customized signs tailored to meet your unique preferences.

The post The 5 Must-Have Types of Safety Signage for Pipeline Operations appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

One crucial element that often goes unnoticed but plays a vital role in pipeline safety is safety signage. In this article, we will emphasize the crucial role of pipeline safety signage and discuss best practices for selecting, placing, and maintaining safety signage in pipeline-related projects.

The Significance of Safety Signage

Safety signage serves as a visual communication tool, conveying essential information and warnings in an easily understandable manner. In the context of pipeline safety, it can prevent accidents, reduce risks and ensure regulatory compliance.

Consequences of Neglecting Proper Signage

Neglecting proper safety signage in pipeline-related projects can have severe consequences, both for businesses and the community as a whole.

• Accidents: Inadequate or absent safety signage can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities among employees and the public. Accidental damage to pipelines due to lack of warning signs can result in hazardous leaks and environmental disasters.

• OSHA Compliance Fines: Non-compliance with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations can lead to hefty fines for businesses. The absence of appropriate safety signage is a clear violation of these standards and can result in significant financial penalties.

• Potential Lawsuits: Neglecting proper safety signage can expose businesses to potential lawsuits from injured employees or affected parties. Such legal actions can lead to substantial financial liabilities and damage to a company’s reputation.

Selecting the Right Safety Signage

The first step in enhancing pipeline safety is to choosing the right signage. It’s important to select signs that align with the specific hazards and risks present in your work environment. ComplianceSigns.com offers a comprehensive selection of pipeline safety signs, including:

• Caution – Buried Gas Line Below. These signs are essential for identifying underground gas pipelines to prevent accidental digging or construction over these lines.
• Emergency Shut-Off Valve. These signs are crucial for marking the location of emergency shut-off valves along the pipeline.
• Danger – High-Pressure Gas Line. For areas with high-pressure gas pipelines, these signs serve as an important warning to ensure safety precautions are followed.
• Call Before Digging. For areas around pipelines help prevent unsafe digging.

Selecting the right signs and using appropriate wording and symbols is vital to effective communication, and that’s what your signs need to do, right?

Pipeline and Utility Safety Signs

Placement of Safety Signage

Once you have selected the necessary safety signs, proper placement is key. Signs should be highly visible, easily recognizable, and strategically located in areas where they will be most effective. ComplianceSigns.com provides durable sign materials that withstand various environmental conditions, ensuring longevity and visibility.

For instance, the “Caution – Buried Gas Line Below” sign can be affixed to posts, fences, or buildings near the gas line’s location. Proper placement helps prevent accidental damage to the pipeline during construction or excavation activities.

Maintenance and Compliance

To maintain the effectiveness of safety signage, regular inspections and maintenance are essential. Ensure that signs remain free of damage, graffiti, or obstructions. ComplianceSigns.com signs are designed to withstand outdoor elements and provide long-lasting durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Additionally, staying compliant with industry-specific regulations is crucial. ComplianceSigns.com offers signs that meet industry standards and regulatory requirements, making it easier for businesses to ensure they are following the necessary guidelines.

Prioritizing Safety

It’s no overstatement to say that safety signage plays a vital role in pipeline safety. By selecting the right signs, placing them strategically and maintaining them properly, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and environmental hazards.

At ComplianceSigns.com we can help you with a wide range of safety signage products designed to meet the needs of businesses in various industries. Their dedication to quality and compliance ensures that you can trust their products for enhancing safety in your pipeline-related projects. Make safety signage a priority, and protect your workforce, the public and the environment.

Related Resources:

• Utility work is one of the 10 most dangerous jobs
• 5 safety monitoring tips for heavy equipment
• Create a maintenance schedule for heavy machinery
• Visit the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration site
• Find Pipeline and Utility Signs at ComplianceSigns.com

The post The Role of Safety Signage in Pipeline Safety: Best Practices for Businesses appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

In late March, 2023, in Midland County, Texas, a crude oil pipeline controller altered the receiving tanks at a crude station without first alleviating the pressure, resulting in an elevated pressure situation within an interconnected pipeline. Consequently, a valve along the pipeline was automatically closed, leading to the rupture of a filter pot. While leak detection alarms promptly activated, the pipeline controller persisted in pumping crude oil through the compromised filter for approximately two and a half hours, resulting in the spillage of approximately 402,000 gallons of crude oil. 

That’s over 400,000 gallons of oil spilling into the natural environment. This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the complex network of pipelines that crisscross our world, transferring vital resources from one place to another. But while pipelines are indispensable in facilitating the transportation of oil, gas, water, and other substances, they also come with a range of risks and environmental consequences.

What Are Pipelines, and What Do They Transfer?

Pipelines are a crucial component of our modern infrastructure, serving as arteries that transport various substances across vast distances. They consist of interconnected pipes made from different materials, including steel and plastic, designed to withstand the high pressure required for efficient transfer. Pipelines primarily transport four types of substances:

• Oil and Gas: The most common application of pipelines is in the transportation of crude oil, natural gas, and refined petroleum products. These pipelines traverse continents, ensuring a steady supply of energy resources to power our homes, vehicles, and industries.
• Chemicals: Pipelines also transport chemicals ranging from corrosive acids to volatile gasses, necessitating strict safety measures.
• Slurries: Some pipelines carry solid-liquid mixtures, known as slurries. These can include coal-water slurries or sewage, and they require specialized equipment for efficient transportation.

Types of Accidents and Environmental Effects

Despite their importance, pipelines can experience accidents that result in severe consequences for both the environment and the owning company. Some of the most common types of accidents involving pipelines include:

1. Leaks and Spills: One of the primary concerns with oil and gas pipelines is the occurrence of leaks and spills. These incidents can result from corrosion, equipment failure, or human error. When they happen, they can have devastating environmental effects, contaminating soil, water bodies, and impacting wildlife.
2. Explosions and Fires: Natural gas pipelines are particularly susceptible to explosions and fires. These incidents can result from leaks, faulty equipment, or unauthorized tampering. Such events pose immediate dangers to human lives and can lead to extensive property damage.
3. Pipeline Ruptures: Ruptures can occur due to factors like ground movement, construction activities, or material fatigue. They can release massive quantities of substances, posing risks to communities and ecosystems.
4. Structural Failures: Over time, pipelines may suffer from structural degradation, leading to cracks, holes, or even complete breaches. This can occur due to factors like corrosion, material fatigue, or inadequate maintenance.

The negative environmental effects of these accidents are far-reaching and can include soil, water, and air pollution as well as significant wildlife impact. Some chemicals can even cause major ecosystem disruption that can have cascading effects over years, if not decades on the impacted area. 

Financial Effects for Owning Companies

Pipeline accidents not only have severe environmental consequences but also come with significant financial implications for the owning companies. Four major consequences to consider can include:

1. Cleanup Costs: The immediate cost of responding to and mitigating the impact of an accident can be astronomical. Cleanup efforts may involve hiring specialized teams, equipment, and resources.
2. Legal Liabilities: Companies may face lawsuits from affected individuals, communities, and regulatory authorities seeking compensation for damages, cleanup, and environmental restoration.
3. Reputation Damage: Pipeline accidents can tarnish a company’s reputation, leading to loss of investor confidence, reduced stock value, and difficulty in securing future projects.
4. Regulatory Penalties: Violations of environmental regulations can result in hefty fines and penalties, further straining a company’s finances.

Preventing Pipeline Accidents and the Role of Safety Signs

Prioritizing the prevention of pipeline accidents is crucial, as it serves to safeguard both the environment and the financial interests of the owning companies. Several steps can be taken to enhance pipeline safety.

Firstly, regular inspections and maintenance are essential. By implementing a strong program for inspection and maintenance, potential issues can be identified and addressed before they escalate into critical problems. This involves conducting routine checks, managing corrosion, and upgrading equipment as needed.

Secondly, employee training plays a pivotal role. Providing comprehensive training to all personnel involved in pipeline operations is vital. Such training not only reduces the risk of human error but also enhances safety awareness among the workforce.

Additionally, advanced monitoring systems are instrumental in improving safety. Installing state-of-the-art monitoring systems allows for real-time detection of leaks, pressure fluctuations, and other anomalies. This capability enables a swift response to any emerging issues.

Furthermore, the deployment of safety signs and markings is critical. Safety signs fulfill a vital role in alerting workers, contractors, and the public to potential hazards and safety procedures. By ensuring that proper signage is in place, accidents can be prevented, and awareness of the risks associated with pipelines can be raised.

ComplianceSigns.com: Your Partner in Pipeline Safety

Pipelines are a vital part of our modern world, enabling the efficient transportation of energy resources, water, chemicals, and more. However, they also pose significant risks, as witnessed in recent pipeline accidents that have had devastating environmental and financial consequences. Preventing such accidents requires a commitment to robust safety measures, including regular inspections, employee training, and the use of safety signs and markers.

When it comes to enhancing pipeline safety through safety signs and markings, ComplianceSigns.com is your trusted partner. They offer a wide range of high-quality safety signs, labels, and markers designed to meet industry standards and regulations. Whether you need warning signs for pipeline crossings, hazardous material labels, or instructional signage for workers, ComplianceSigns.com has the products to keep your pipeline operations safe and compliant.

For all your safety signage needs, contact ComplianceSigns.com. Together, we can ensure that pipelines remain a lifeline of resources while minimizing their potential liabilities. Let’s work towards a future where the environment is protected because your pipelines are, too.

The post Pipelines: The Lifeline and Liability of Our Energy Infrastructure appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Would the floor be flooded with cool water, or would a hazardous chemical burst forth? Perhaps a highly flammable gas or liquid would leak out, making its way toward an electrical box across the floor. Unless your pipes are clearly marked, you might not know until it’s too late.

Did you know there are established standards for pipe markings? While OSHA has not created its own standards for pipe markings, it does require your business to maintain a safe work environment. To that end, OSHA recommends following the standards established by ASME.

Is your facility meeting ASME standards? Here’s what you need to know to conduct a pipe marking audit at your facility.

What are ASME Pipe Marking Standards?

The purpose of setting standards for pipe marking is to create some level of consistency. An emergency worker or repair technician should be able to recognize the markings on the pipes in your facility as well as any other building they go to.

To keep it simple, the ASME A13.1 standard has established a color-coding system for pipe markers. While these colors do not tell anyone exactly what is in the pipe, they are broken down into categories to help you understand the nature of the fluid flowing through the pipe. Look for these recommended colors as you conduct your pipe marking audit:

• Black on yellow = Flammable
• White on brown = Combustible
• Black on orange = Toxic or corrosive
• White on red = Fire quenching water or other fire-fighting fluids
• White on green = Any other water
• White on blue = Compressed air
• White on purple = Other
• White on black = Other
• Black on white = Other
• White on gray = Other

While there is some room for flexibility with the “other” label colors, the most dangerous or important categories fall under the first six labels.

Marking Contents and Flow Direction

There are other requirements for pipe marking beyond just following the color scheme. Pipe marking labels and stencils are used to further identify pipe contents and flow direction – and should be part of your pipe marking audit. Each label should also:

• Identify the exact contents of the pipe by using its name, abbreviation, chemical symbol or any combination of those items
• Be sized appropriately according to the size of the pipe
• Include an arrow that shows the direction the pipe contents flow
• Be visible from any direct line of approach
• Be placed 25 to 50 feet apart on straight runs
• Be adjacent to any valves or flanges
• Be present on each side of any wall the pipe goes through
   

The Benefits of Labelling Pipes

You may think that no one in your facility works with the pipes very often, but that’s not a good reason to ignore them. By using a pipe marking system – and conducting pipe marking audits – your company can gain significant benefits with minimal investment. Some potential benefits of a pipe marking system include:

• Improved safety for your employees – Knowing what is in each pipe and which direction it flows can help avoid a tragic mistake.
• Save time for emergency workers – In the event of an emergency, the emergency personnel may need to find water or cut through a pipe for access. Being able to tell at a glance what’s in them can save precious minutes.
• Improved employee efficiency – If your team doesn’t need to go find the building schematics every time they need to deal with a pipe.
• Keep OSHA happy – While OSHA does not require pipe labeling, it does recommend following ASME standards. In the event of an accident, it is always to your company’s benefit to have followed suggested guidelines.

The reality is that pipe marking makes your facility an easier and safer place to work. Shouldn’t that be enough motivation to implement a plan?

Complete a Pipe Marking Audit

Step one to ensuring that your business is up to ASME standards (and thereby OSHA compliant) is to learn those standards. Then, put together a small team from your safety committee (You have one of those, right?) and do a thorough walkthrough of your facility to complete a pipe marking audit. Download our free Pipe-Marking Audit Checklist to guide you through the process.

1. Look at all pipes and valves. Do they follow the proper color code?
2. Try to spot missing, damaged or dirty valve tags. If no one can read them, they’re not doing any good.
3. Look for areas that may need more tags, particularly around valves, flanges, or walls. 
4. Mark down the exact markers, including color, size and name of material that you need, so you can order new labels and get them in place asap.

Compliancesigns.com carries a full selection of pipe markers and valve tags for chemicals, HVAC, ammonia refrigeration and even medical gasses. You can also create pipe markers with custom text, or we can manufacture custom designs if you should need them. 

Your pipes should never be a guessing game. Audit your facility and get those pipes marked!

Pipe Marking Resources:

• Purchase the current A13.1 Scheme for the identification of Piping Systems
• For pipeline safety info, visit the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
• Review our Pipe Marker Labels and Signs Compliance – Resource Bulletin (pdf)
• Download our Pipe-Marking Audit Checklist (pdf)
• Browse Pipe Labels, Markers, Wraps and Flow Arrows at ComplianceSigns.com

The post Pipe Marking Audit: Is Your Pipe Marking Up To ASME Standards? appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Don’t make your jobsites attractive targets. Here are five security tips to prevent jobsite equipment theft and keep your projects going as planned.

Identify Equipment Theft Risks Unique to Your Site

Every construction site has a unique set of risks the manager needs to account for. Specific pieces of equipment or areas of the site might be more vulnerable to theft than others. Evaluate your site and identify these high-risk areas. These items tend to get stolen the most:

• Skid steer loaders
• Wheel loaders
• Backhoe loaders
• Utility vehicles (trucks, ATVs, golf carts, etc.)
• Compressors
• Push/riding mowers
• Tractors

You also have to pay attention to the smaller details. Thieves don’t always target a whole vehicle. Sometimes they’re looking for specific items:

• Tools
• Wheels/tires
• GPS systems
• Gasoline
• Seats
• Tailgates
• Catalytic converters

It’s safe to say all of these items – both big and small – play important roles on your site, so you need to take measures to protect them. The easiest thing to do is create an inventory. Know the exact number of mowers, tractors, and other assets your site has and count them at the beginning and end of every day.

Communicate With Your Team

Get your team involved in security efforts to prevent jobsite equipment theft – and lighten your workload. Tell your trusted employees about the site’s security risks and encourage them to take extra precautions.

On the flip side, you also need to identify untrustworthy employees who might give friends access to the site and its equipment. You can’t fire them based on suspicion, so build rapport with them and monitor their job progress to deter them from making the wrong decision.

Make it clear to your staff that you take safety and security seriously. Post signs with clear images around the site that remind everyone about the consequences of thievery. Hold weekly meetings about safety rules. With enough reinforcement, your team will feel compelled to adopt your safety-first mentality and work with both eyes open at all times.

Illuminate the Site

Darkness is a criminal’s best friend, so naturally, you should eliminate darkness from your jobsite as much as possible to help prevent equipment thefts after hours. Use these security devices to illuminate your site when workers aren’t around:

• Light towers
• Motion-sensor lights
• Floodlights
• Spotlights

Light towers can stay on all night, while the other devices have specialties that will make your security harder to predict. For example, you can adjust the direction of floodlights and spotlights and randomize their timers every day so thieves can’t pinpoint a specific time or place to launch their plans.

Consider adding video cameras and/or security camera signs to deter would-be thieves and prevent jobsite equipment theft. Construction site warning signs that direct visitors to a security office can help control unauthorized people from entering. And Do Not Enter and No Trespassing signs are proven deterrents that prevent people from entering a jobsite.

Lock Down Your Equipment

Every vehicle mentioned earlier should have some sort of security device to lock it in place while not in use. Lockout/tagout procedures can be used to help prevent unauthorized equipment usage for everyone, including workers. You can also protect your equipment with these devices:

• Locks
• Chains
• Steering wheel locks
• Brake/clutch locks
• Wheel clamps
• Immobilizers

These devices will keep your equipment locked in place and stop thieves in their tracks. You should also give each piece of equipment an ID number to make it easier to identify in case a thief manages to steal it.

Use Fleet-Tracking Technologies

If a thief bypasses your security and steals something from your site, tracking technology is the only surefire way to get your equipment back. A fleet-tracking telematics system tells you when and how your equipment gets used, plus the exact longitude and latitude of each device. This system will not only prevent thievery but also discourage unsafe operating habits.

Some systems also have a geofence with virtual GPS boundaries. If a machine exits the boundaries, you get a notification via email or text message and can respond to the problem more quickly.

Secure Your Site to Prevent Equipment Theft

You can’t cover every risk on your construction site, but you can address the most problematic areas, communicate with your employees, and secure your equipment on the site. Thieves will see your well-maintained site and look for an easier target. Go the extra mile to complete these tasks and secure your site’s success.

Construction Site Security Resources:

• Equipment theft trends and information
• Construction site thefts increased during the pandemic
• Construction Safety signs
• Trespassing and Security signs

About the Author:

Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief of Renovated, a web magazine for real estate and construction professionals.

The post Security Tips to Prevent Jobsite Equipment Theft appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

1. Prioritize Health and Fitness

One of the easiest ways to stay safer on the job is practicing good health and fitness habits. Utility workers do a lot of heavy lifting, pushing, pulling and hauling every day, and that strain can take a toll on the body. The back and joints, in particular, are at high risk of injury from manual labor tasks. 

Because of the physical nature of their work, utility workers face a high risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. A simple preventive step that costs nothing and only takes a few minutes is stretching muscles before beginning work. Stretching and strength-training can help reduce the risk of strains. Various stretching tutorials can be found online to prevent cramps and muscle injuries and even improve flexibility. 

It is important to remember that if an injury does occur on the job, including any kind of aching or back pain, getting it checked out by a medical professional promptly is vital. Back injuries can be particularly dangerous, so pay close attention to potential signs of harm.

2. Practice Slip, Trip and Fall Safety

One of the most common causes of injuries for utility and construction workers is slips, trips and falls. Lack of proper fall protection is the most cited OSHA violation. Fall-related injuries impact thousands of workers every year, and most of the time, they can be prevented. Wearing the proper PPE and safety gear on the job is an essential first step. 

Stay aware of the site’s surroundings, as well. There may be fall hazards that are difficult to notice at first. Similarly, it is essential to ensure the work area is clean, since things like loose power cables or miscellaneous tools on the ground can pose tripping and slipping dangers. 

Additionally, before getting started on a project that might pose a risk of falling, make sure to double-check all protective equipment and any climbing or harness gear to ensure it is in good working order. These steps are crucial for utility workers since they are often alone at work sites.

3. Watch the Weather

The weather can have a significant impact on safety for utility workers. Rain creates severe electrical dangers. Intense winds can also increase electrical risks, as well as the potential for falls. 

Winter is arguably the most dangerous season, however. Workers in all outdoor industries, from construction to utilities, prioritize comprehensive preparation for winter weather. This includes safeguarding equipment, preparing the work site and reviewing safety tips. Winter is more dangerous than other seasons because ice and precipitation increase the risks of falling and slipping, as well as the dangers posed by electrical hazards. Cold weather is also hard on the muscles, and prolonged exposure brings health risks. 

4. Emphasize Electrical Safety

Among the most common and severe dangers utility workers face are electrical hazards. Being mindful of them is important in any job, but the risks of injuries are amplified for line employees. Remain cautious of common electrical hazards as well as those specific to certain sites. 

Make sure to wear safety gear when needed, and pay special attention to things like de-energizing or grounding lines. OSHA electrical guidelines strongly advise against tampering with the pins in cable plugs and utilizing extension cords any more than necessary. 

5. Connect With Other Line Workers

Sharing safety tips can be a challenge for utility workers since the field often requires working solo. Make an effort to connect with others in the area. It is a good way to stay informed about what colleagues are doing to stay safe and potentially hear about safety tips for specific sites. 

Keeping in touch with site managers and supervisors is important, as well. Make note of any safety concerns or risks on-site throughout the workday, and take the time to report them. Managers should appreciate the notification since it is in their best interest to look into safety issues. 

Putting Safety First for Utility Workers

Staying safe on the job is a process, one that requires dedication and good habits every day. Utility workers can prevent accidents and injuries by remembering these tips and adding their own. Putting safety first means professionals can work safer, smarter and stronger.

About the Author:
Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief of Renovated, a web magazine for real estate and construction professionals.

The post Essential Safety Tips for Utility Workers appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Safety signs for chemicals, hazardous materials and pipelines are heavily regulated by OSHA. Is your business compliant? Are you sure?

This article shares best practices you should be following consistently in order to keep your employees, customers and visitors safe — not to mention reducing your potential liability.

The problem is, it can be overwhelming just trying to understand all the federal regulations involved so you can acquire the necessary signage. Let’s go over the five different kinds of hazardous material signs you’ll need for a safe and secure workplace.

Need more specific guidance? We’ll also direct you to our web page where you can simply type in a chemical name to find out what specific signage you’re required to have for it.

 1. Chemical Safety

OSHA 1910.1200(a) is intended to ensure all hazards of all chemicals produced are communicated to employees and employers.

Each year, hundreds of workers in private industry die from exposure to harmful environments or substances, including chemicals, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Don’t be a statistic. If your business stores fuel, gases, industrial solvents or any other chemicals, it’s crucial to post easy-to-read signs, symbols, placards and labels that will continuously remind your employees of proper safety procedures.

Also, chemical safety signs can do more than simply identify the substance in question. They can specify dangers related to specific substances to ensure proper use and prevent injuries.

Our wide variety of chemical safety signs can be found here.

2. Fuel Safety Signs and Labels

OSHA 1910.1200(g) requires that hazard classifications be identified and chemicals be labeled according to the GHS standards.

Fuel is perhaps the single most commonly encountered chemical hazard. It’s the lifeblood of countless vehicles and machines. But ironically, it’s so widely used in the workplace that employees can fail to recognize it as a potential danger.

ComplianceSigns.com has virtually any kind of fuel-related signage you could possibly need — whether it’s gas cylinder labels, a fuel sticker for a massive tank, or a diesel fuel label for a single truck.
Our selection of fuel safety signs can be found here.

3. Hazmat Diamond Signs

NFPA 704 is the Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Responders. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has established these simple but strict standards for identifying chemicals and the potential hazards they’re capable of causing.

NFPA 704 diamond placards are designed to inform firefighters and rescue workers of chemical hazards in an area, so they will know if they’ll need particular equipment or if they’ll need to follow special procedures.

That’s why it’s so crucial to follow NFPA signage regulations. In a quickly developing crisis, fire departments and other emergency crews need the information on these diamond labels immediately so they’ll know what precautions to take.

Our selection of NFPA 704 hazmat diamond signs can be found here.

4. Pipeline/Utility Signs

Rules governing pipeline safety are set by the Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and included in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Parts 190-199. Individual states may have additional or more stringent pipeline safety regulations.

There’s an entire underground world of utility lines and pipes that we almost never see with our own eyes. Not knowing their locations can have disastrous consequences, though.

If a crew starts digging, they’re in danger of getting a nasty surprise if an underground utility line or pipe isn’t appropriately marked. Clearly marking them can help avoid excavation accidents that can lead to deaths, injuries, service interruptions, environmental damage and liability.

ComplianceSigns.com has underground cable signs to warn diggers of potentially deadly shocks, pipe markers to help maintenance workers, and gas pipeline labels to prevent explosions. We’ve got signs for marking gas pipelines, water and sewer lines, petroleum pipelines and more.

Our assortment of pipeline and utility signs can be found here.

5. GHS Signs and Labels

OSHA 1910.1200, recently aligned with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), requires that all primary and secondary containers be labeled according to the GHS system.

Is your business involved in manufacturing? If your company makes plastic, polyester, PVC pipes, housewares, antifreeze, auto parts or thousands of other products, then you’re likely dealing with chemical compounds like ethylbenzene, ethylene dichloride, ethylene glycol or methanol.

And if you’ve got chemical compounds like that in-house, then you need the appropriate GHS signage. The GHS is international standard for classifying and labelling hazardous materials and chemicals. Universal warning pictograms are a core element of this system.

Signs and labels with GHS pictogram symbols and HAZCOM signs will help you comply with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard for chemical labeling.

• Use diamond-shaped GHS labels on chemical containers.
• Use GHS signs to alert workers of chemical hazards.
• Use GHS pictogram wall signs and wallet cards to ensure that workers understand the meaning of each symbol.

A selection of GHS signs and labels can be found here.

Stumped? Try the Chemical Sign Selector

Does your business store any gasoline? Propane? Formaldehyde? Sodium carbonate? Hydrochloric acid?

Chemicals that are commonly found in many workplaces require a variety of signs or labels to identify their potential hazards. But it can be a real challenge to figure out exactly which signs you need to use for each chemical.

This task is made easier by using the ComplianceSigns Chemical Sign Selector, which will show you relevant signs for many common chemicals, based on SDS information. Depending on your operation, you may need signs addressing hazards and health risks, required PPE, handling procedures or transportation instructions as required by regulatory bodies including OSHA, GHS, NFPA, DOT, DOD and more.

Use the Chemical Sign Selector to find the signs you need in four easy steps:

1. Search by chemical name, CAS Number, UN Number, or choose the first letter of a chemical name from our A-Z list.
2. Select your chemical to see signs, labels and pipe markers for that chemical.
3. Choose a sign to see details and pricing.
4. Add the sign to your cart and continue shopping for each new chemical sign you may need.

Remember, having the right chemical, hazmat and pipeline safety signage cuts down on workplace injuries, reduces your potential liability — and can even save lives.

The post What Kind of Chemical, Hazmat or Pipeline Safety Signs Does Your Business Need? appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

These five tips can help any construction site manager or supervisor properly monitor heavy equipment and maintain safety on-site.

1. Require a Walkaround Inspection

A walkaround is a simple visual inspection that workers carry out any time they need to start up a piece of heavy equipment. The worker will circle the machine, looking for any obvious damage or issues — like loose handholds or damaged tires. The worker will finish the inspection by adjusting the seat and mirrors in the cabin for maximum visibility.

The walkaround will help ensure worker safety and make sure machines are properly maintained. While a regular maintenance check may not catch every problem, a walkaround can often help people spot issues.

Workers will need to follow the best practices for a walkaround inspection. A machine operator must understand common issues with the equipment they’re inspecting. For example, operators should always examine steps and handholds for damage.

Many safety manuals for specific machines include certain steps workers should take during their walkaround. Familiarity with these manuals will ensure an inspection that catches common or obvious issues before they become a major problem.

2. Ensure Workers Follow Basic Safety Practices

Managers should ensure basic safety practices are followed by workers on-site. For example, they should wear a seatbelt whenever they operate or ride in a piece of heavy equipment.

When mounting or dismounting a machine, employees should maintain at least three points of contact with it — either two hands and one foot, or both feet and one hand.

If handholds or steps are damaged, they should be replaced as soon as possible. They could easily lead to falls from equipment down the line, as they prevent workers from safely maintaining those three points of contact.

Machine operators should be aware of their blind spots and maintain constant communication with a spotter who can provide information from the ground. Two-way radios are generally the best option for this. However, if radios aren’t available — or site noise levels make them impractical for communication — a spotter trained in hand signals can also communicate relevant safety information.

Even if the machines used have additional safety equipment — like a back-up signal or collision detection sensors — workers shouldn’t rely on these devices to prevent accidents. Instead, they should communicate with their spotter and remain aware of machine blind spots.

3. Insist on Proper Storage and Monitoring

The right storage and equipment monitoring practices can significantly extend the lifespan of construction equipment and vehicle fleets.

Equipment that is stored improperly can break down sooner than it would otherwise, especially if exposed to the elements of extreme environmental conditions. Intense heat, humidity or cold can all wreak havoc.

Preventive maintenance — or AI-enabled predictive maintenance — is the best way to keep machines in good working order. A regular schedule will help catch issues and potential malfunctions before they cause machine failure.

However, it is also important equipment isn’t maintained too frequently. Every time a worker opens a machine for maintenance, they risk damaging components or exposing sensitive electronics to dust. Striking a balance is essential.

4. Consider Site Conditions

Some site conditions may require extra safety precautions to prevent accidents. For example, striking buried power lines and underground utilities with a machine can cause serious safety hazards. Even if workers take all other necessary safety precautions, they may be in harm’s way if they’re not aware of potential dangers on-site.

5. Keep Aware of Load Limits

Every machine has limits to how much weight it can move. Exceeding manufacturer load limits can severely stress equipment, potentially causing failure over a long enough period. In the best-case scenario, this can cause significant downtime. In a worst-case scenario, failure can potentially injure workers operating or near the machine.

It’s good practice to ensure employees are aware of these load limits and follow them when using a machine. Proper training and signage is the key to awareness and education so employees make informed decisions throughout the workday.

Monitoring Heavy Equipment Helps Keep Workers Safe

Heavy equipment can be a major safety hazard. However, the right precautions and monitoring practices can do a lot to keep workers safe.

About the Author:

Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief of Renovated, a web magazine for real estate and construction professionals.

The post 5 Safety Monitoring Tips for Heavy Equipment appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

All industries have their fair share of hazards but none compare to the daily challenges of utility worker safety. Many utility workers are required to perform work in the pouring rain in the dark of night to repair hazardous energy, like an electrical or water outage. Whether working overhead, underground or in the streets, utility workers are regularly faced with serious risks on the job, in unstable environments often created by Mother Nature.

Before a utility worker completes their task, not only are they subject to the elements – they work with gas, electrical hazards, and vehicles – all while working at various heights. At any given moment, utility line workers could be seconds away from potential injuries – even death – if they don’t follow safety procedures.

Failure to identify dangers on the job is a recipe for a serious workplace accident. Safety procedures are critical to ensure utility worker safety from such hazards. Safety signs and labels provide an effective way to communicate hazards related to utility work – such as electrocutions, trench collapse, work above, and high voltage, in addition to reminding workers to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Although signs and labels are imperative, OSHA standards for keeping utility workers safe is key.

What are the OSHA standards that protect workers in the utilities industry?

• Electrical  General Requirements – (1910.303)
• Electrical Wiring Methods – (1910.305)
• Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution – (1910.269)
• Personal Protective Equipment, Subpart I – (1910)
• Fall Protection – (1926.501)
• Hazard Communication – (1910.1200)
• Respiratory Protection – (1910.134)
• Lockout/Tagout – (1910.147)

What are the most important hazards associated with utility work?

All hazards are important but some are more common than others. For instance, the construction industry had the highest number of electrocutions, followed by the manufacturing, transportation, communications, and public utilities. According to OSHA, the most important hazards associated with work performed closely to electric power generation, transmission, and distribution are:

• Electrocution
• Falls
• Confined spaces
• Fires and explosions
• Sprains, strains, and fractures
• Environmental stress

Avoid the above hazards and ensure utility worker safety by following OSHA Standards, using the proper personal protective equipment and providing employee training. Additionally, with a front line safety leader, such as a supervisor, foreman or operations manager, they can consistently enforce safety on the jobsite.

When it comes to safety – you can’t cut corners! OSHA requires employees to either (1) be trained as qualified employees, or (2) must be undergoing on-the-job training, have demonstrated an ability to perform duties safety at their level of training, and be under the direct supervision of a qualified employee.

With the proper training, procedures, and safety programs in place, accidents can be avoided. The idea is to set realistic goals so your managers and supervisors are committed to implementing a strong safety program. But don’t stop there! You’ll need to continue to promote safety to better protect the men and women in the general and construction industry who work on or near electrical power lines every day.

Utility Safety Resources:

• ComplianceSigns.com has all your utility sign and label needs.
• Read more about the role of safety signage in pipeline safety.

The post Utility Work is One of the Top 10 Most Dangerous Jobs! appeared first on SafeWork Insider.