What Is an NEP?

NEPs are directives that focus OSHA inspectors on specific areas of workplace safety around specific hazards or workplaces. The department enacts them to respond to newly identified threats and needs that could use its resources and expertise.

The department enacts NEPs to create safer, healthier work environments. It regularly evaluates old and new NEPs based on injury and illness data, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports, peer-reviewed literature, OSHA inspection data and inspection findings.

NEPs help create safety standards by completing training, providing technical assistance and reaching out to struggling workplaces.

What’s in the New Warehouse NEP?

According to OSHA, the new NEP comes after seeing the significant growth of warehousing and distribution centers over the past decade. There are now nearly 2 million people working in the industry.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that with the growth came increased rates of severe injury and illnesses — far more than private industry. Some sectors showed numbers that were twice as high as their nonpublic counterparts.

This latest NEP is a three-year emphasis program where OSHA will determine the causes of these hazards and work with establishments to mitigate them. The risks most commonly relate to falling, handling and storing materials, unsafe walking or working surfaces, industrial vehicle operation, lack of fire protection and blocked emergency exits. Further discovered issues will be added to the list to work on.

Two lists determine who will be evaluated. The first is workplaces with industry codes stated in the NEP. The second involves retailers with high rates of injury and illnesses — often related to loading and unloading materials.

Another part of the program involves evaluating ergonomic and heat-related hazards. OSHA may conduct a health inspection if it finds these in a workplace.

States must adopt the warehouse NEP or offer an alternative with equal standards.

What Does It Mean for Your Workplace?

Depending on your workplace, a lot could happen. Preparing and evaluating before an inspection can protect your workers and prevent violations.

There are two reasons your company could get inspected under the new NEP:

1. You are a retailer with significant illness and injury rates, causing employees to take time off, work at limited duty or transfer positions.
2. You are directly involved in an industry with codes evaluated in the NEP. These include the following:

• Warehouses
• Product distribution
• Postal service
• Mail carriers
• Delivery services
• Couriers

Contact your OSHA office if you need help determining whether your establishments fall under the program.

OSHA’S INSPECTION PRIORITIES

Under the new directive, OSHA will select worksites to inspect using gathered data on the number of incidents. It will supply its satellite offices with a master list of high-risk workplaces. It will also contact each office with high-risk retailers in their jurisdiction.

Local inspectors must complete assessments of the identified establishments by the end of next year. You can check your area office lists to see if you will likely be inspected. If you are, don’t stress. It’s always intimidating to have an inspector around, but it is for the safety of everyone involved. There will likely be opportunities to correct any negative findings if you’re honest and cooperative. That’s what the NEP is all about.

PREPARING FOR INSPECTION

You can do several things to prepare for an OSHA inspection related to the new warehouse NEP. Ensure the following are in place at your company:

• Training that complies with current OSHA guidelines
• Updated employee health records and incident reports
• Clear signs of injury prevention measures, such as protective equipment and clear walkways
• A maintenance schedule that corresponds to current OSHA guidance
• Health and safety policies for each division that meets current standards

Place special focus on trucks, electrical hazards, fire risks, locks, storage, heat illness potential, ergonomic issues, exit routes and potentially hazardous materials.

THE INSPECTION PROCESS

Each inspection could look different, but most begin when an OSHA inspector provides an opening statement to managers and employees. They will then request relative documentation and walk through your facility.

The inspector will interview employees and review their health records. Each NEP has specific criteria for what should and should not get cited in the inspection. The new program also covers any potential retaliation, protecting workers who report rules and behaviors that would fall under violation of health and safety standards.

During your inspection, you may receive anti-retaliation information and related resources for you and your workers. Employees who experience retaliation or fear they’re at risk of it can file a report with the Whistleblower Protection Program. The program protects workers that mention workplace noncompliance.

You can take measures to resolve violations, such as using safer materials in and around your building and providing better personal protective equipment to employees.

How the Program Will Enhance Workplace Safety

The new NEP aims to tackle critical safety issues in warehousing, distribution and retail spaces. Under its focus, OSHA will inform workplaces on what can improve and help them pave the path to a safer, healthier workforce.

OSHA will evaluate effectiveness at the end of the program year. The department will examine the number of employees the NEP impacted, the violations found, targeted hazards removed from included workplaces and the measures used to eliminate the risks.

It’s easy to fall behind on safety education and implementation, but following guidelines that preserve your workforce as industries evolve is vital. The people involved in your organization keep it going. You ethically and legally need to ensure their well-being under your roof.

It would help if you didn’t think of OSHA as a dominating force but as a tool to ensure your and other facilities are as safe as possible for anyone who enters them. The better you follow current guidelines, the smoother your operation can run since your employees can dodge more potential obstacles.

Contact your local OSHA office if you have concerns about how the NEP could impact your business. You can also find more information on the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics website.

Creating a Safer Workplace

Worker safety should be the top priority of any employer. Dedicated researchers and inspectors are necessary to provide the best information on running compliant operations. OSHA’s new warehouse NEP can help you create a safer workplace.

Browse material handling signs and labels to help keep your warehouse or distribution center safe and compliant.

The post Enhancing Workplace Safety: OSHA’s Latest Focus on Warehouses and Distribution Centers appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Follow These 5 Electrical Safety Tips To Avoid Trouble

It’s easy to become too comfortable when you’ve had a lot of experience working around electricity. But no matter how experienced you are, you should always remain on your guard. Think through every situation before you work with any objects that have electrical currents flowing through them. These tips will help you keep yourself safe.

1. Don’t Let Electrical Equipment Get Wet

Water and electricity make a deadly combination. While this is common knowledge, many electrical accidents happen because people become careless around electricity and water. To stay safe, keep water and all other types of liquid at least 5 feet from any source of electricity. In environments with moisture, install ground fault circuit interrupters to reduce the likelihood of electrical shock, overheating and other electrical incidents.

2. Properly Ground Equipment

Proper grounding of equipment is one of the most important electrical safety tips you can follow. Improper grounding of equipment increases the risk of electrocution. Refer to grounding guidelines from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure you’re following grounding requirements. This will not only help keep you safe but also help you avoid any penalties due to noncompliance.  

3. Cover Any Exposed Electrical Parts

Open power distribution units, temporary lighting and detached insulation parts on electrical cords can all be hazards. It’s important to immediately secure these items by repairing them or using appropriate guarding mechanisms to keep them covered.

4. Do Not Fix Electrical Equipment Unless Qualified

One of the most important electrical safety tips is to never attempt to fix electrical equipment or tools unless you’re qualified to do so. You should always contact someone who is qualified to make the types of electrical repairs you need.

If you’re not sure whether a piece of equipment poses a risk of electrocution, look for cuts, abrasions or cracks on any wires, cords or cables. If you see any but you aren’t qualified to fix them, contact someone who is. If you are qualified to make electrical repairs to equipment, always follow established Lockout Tagout procedures and use lockout tagout safety tags to protect yourself and other workers on site.

5. Use Appropriate Signage

In areas where potentially hazardous electricity is in use, post signage to identify hazards and keep everyone safe. For example, install safety signs near high-voltage power lines or electrical panels. Use other signs to identify shock hazards and electrostatic-sensitive areas. A wide variety of electrical safety signs are available for almost any situation.

Use these five electrical safety tips to help minimize risks on the job site.

Electrical Safety Resources:

• Learn 5 things to keep in mind when implementing a LOTO program.
• Review electrical equipment safety guidelines for worksites.
• How to avoid hazardous arc flash sparks
• Browse electrical safety signs and voltage labels at ComplianceSigns.com.

The post 5 Essential Electrical Safety Tips appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Occupations That Pose a Significant Risk

Most chemical injuries in the workplace affect the skin and eyes, usually because a corrosive material spilled onto the skin or splashed into a worker’s face. In the latter case, the worker may accidentally swallow some of the material, which can cause injuries to the internal organs. Internal organs can also suffer damage if a worker inhales chemical fumes.

Here are a few occupations in which workers are at high risk for chemical burns.

• Factory Workers
  The manufacture of many consumer goods involves harsh or corrosive chemicals. Predictably, those who work in plants that specifically manufacture chemicals are at particular risk for injuries from accidentally coming in contact with these chemicals.
• Automotive Mechanics
  Battery acid is a highly corrosive chemical. Mechanics who work on motor vehicles may encounter it when changing the battery or while working in the engine compartment. Gasoline on the skin or other tissues also can cause a chemical burn.
• Construction Workers
  Many products used in the construction of new buildings and infrastructure can cause chemical injuries. Specific examples include paint thinners and concrete mix, the latter because it contains cement.

Symptoms of Chemical Burns

In some cases, the effects of a corrosive substance on body tissues are evident immediately. In other cases, the symptoms may emerge gradually. This is a potentially dangerous situation because the affected worker may not remember the incident, let alone what the substance was.

Symptoms of a chemical burn may vary depending on the type of substance, how long it remained in contact and the area of the body affected.

For example, chemical injury to the skin can cause it to change color. It can be red due to irritation, but it can also appear white or black. Blisters may form at the site of contact and the skin may appear cracked or start to peel. There may be burning pain or, if the substance has damaged several layers of skin, there may be no sensation at all. The body’s inflammatory response could cause swelling.

A chemical burn of the eyes could cause redness, watering and stinging pain. The injury could result in vision changes, such as blurring or, if the injury is severe enough, blindness.

Inhaling or accidentally ingesting a corrosive substance could cause vomiting, shortness of breath, hoarseness, cough or chest pain. The esophagus and stomach could become perforated and the worker could develop low blood pressure.

Severity of a Chemical Burn

As with other burn injuries, some chemical burns to the skin are superficial, affecting only the outermost layer. Others can penetrate deeper. Superficial injuries are the least serious, partial-thickness burns are moderately serious and full-thickness burns are severe.

Because the symptoms of a chemical injury do not always show up right away, the best practice is to consider any exposure to a corrosive substance as an emergency that should receive immediate medical attention, even if the injury appears superficial. In addition to the depth of the burn, which may be difficult for non-medical personnel to ascertain, there are other signs indicating that a chemical injury to the skin is particularly severe:

• The worker exhibits symptoms of hypovolemic shock, such as shallow breathing, clammy skin or weak pulse.
• The affected area of the skin has a diameter of at least 3 inches.
• The affected area of skin completely encircles a leg or an arm or completely covers the face, feet, groin, buttocks or hands.

If any of these signs are present, immediate medical attention is critical.

First Aid for a Chemical Burn

First aid for a chemical injury can help minimize damage and stabilize the situation before emergency medical personnel arrive. Appropriate first aid steps vary depending on whether the burn affects the skin, eyes or internal organs.

First Aid for Skin Burns

The first step is for the worker to remove any clothing or jewelry that the chemical has touched. Contaminated clothing can bring the substance back in contact with the skin and cause more damage. If any portion of a dry chemical substance remains on the skin, put on gloves and brush it off with the hands.

Rinse the affected area with water for at least 20 minutes, preferably under a shower, taking care to protect eyes or other unaffected parts of the body from contaminated runoff. Repeated rinses are appropriate as long as a burning sensation persists.

A clean bandage should cover the burn loosely to avoid applying pressure. Burned skin is delicate and, if swelling occurs, a bandage that is too tight can cut off blood flow to the area.

First Aid for a Eye Burns

If the corrosive material splashes into the eyes, remove contact lenses, if present, and rinse the eyes. Some worksites are required to have an eyewash station especially for this purpose. Otherwise, rinse the eyes in a shower or sink. Removing contact lenses prevents them from trapping chemicals next to the eye.

First Aid for Accidental Ingestion of a Corrosive Substance

An accidentally ingested chemical may burn the esophagus or stomach on the way down. Do not induce vomiting as it could cause more internal burns. Instead, have the worker drink lots of water to dilute the chemical in the stomach. Hopefully, this will lessen the effects and prevent further internal damage.

Prevention of Any Chemical Burn

Managers should train workers about chemical safety, including the use of personal protective equipment, and provide emergency showers or eyewash stations in case a chemical burn does occur. It is the management’s responsibility to store chemicals safely with signs or labels advising workers of the danger.

Chemical Safety Resources:

• Visit the OSHA Hazard Communication page
• Chemical Label Literacy: What Your Team Needs to Know About Hazardous Materials in the Workplace
• What Kind of Chemical, Hazmat or Pipeline Safety Signs Does Your Business Need?
• New NIOSH Tools Help Manage Chemical Exposure
• Shop for chemical safety labels

The post The Risk of Chemical Burns in the Workplace appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

1. Top 10 OSHA Violations of 2022

The preliminary Top 10 OSHA Violations of 2022 have been announced. Citations among the Top 10 increased 5% from 2021, marking the first increase in year-over-year citations in several years.  
See the List

2. Have You Seen the RuleBreakers?

Every workplace has that one employee who thinks the rules just don’t apply. We call them RuleBreakers. Sure, you can write them up, but what if the universe stepped in and took care of them for you? We’ve created a new series of short videos to show what might happen.
Watch Now

3. Sustaining 5S Through Thick & Thin

When stress levels are high and budgets squeezed, it’s easy to forget why 5S is a necessity. But the truth is, how well your 5S program is working often correlates to how successful the company is. That’s why 5S matters now – maybe more than ever.
Read More

4. Heat Safety Tips from OSHA

High outdoor temps are no longer an issue, but many indoor workers need to know the steps to take to avoid heat-related illness year-round. This list from OSHA gives steps to take to avoid trouble and also how to identify warning signs.

Learn More

5. Six Best Practices for 5S Color-Code Systems

Color-coding standards are a vital part of any 5S lean or productivity initiative. With color-coding, it’s easier to find designated critical zones, control points, and reduce wasted time. Review these best practices..
Read More

6. New ASSP Standard on Workplace Injuries

The ASSP says the new standard can help prevent injuries, illnesses and many other incidents. The Z16.1 standard provides the means to track and demonstrate the impact that safety and health efforts have on the organization’s business. 
Learn More

7. Preventing Electrical Injuries

Employee training plays a crucial role in avoiding electrical injuries at work. Fortunately, most of the electrical hazards can be easily prevented and controlled with a little caution and regular checks.
Learn More

The post 7 Top Workplace Safety Articles of 2022 appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

These facts make it essential to follow best safety practices and OSHA guidelines. If you are a welder or you supervise workers who weld, you’ll appreciate these 5 essential welding safety tips and resources.

1. Use Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment

When welding, it is immensely important to protect the eyes and face. Acceptable personal protective equipment (PPE) should include helmets, hand shields and goggles. Welding helmets that feature filter plates can help protect welders from sparks, arc rays and spatters. According to OSHA, hand shields and helmets should adequately protect the face, neck and ears from direct radiant heat.

2. Protect Eyes From the Welding Arc’s Rays

It only takes a few seconds of exposure to a welding arc’s rays for the eyes to experience “arc flash,” a painful condition that often appears hours after exposure. To prevent such a condition, welders should utilize approved safety glasses with ear protection and wide shields. Safety helmets should also be fitted with filter shades to protect the face and eyes. Workplaces can also install barriers or screens to protect the eyes of others from the arc.

3. Encourage Clean, Organized Welding Spaces

Welding injuries are far less likely to occur in well-organized, clean workspaces. To prevent injuries, clearly label and mark the place for each equipment piece. The welding area should only include equipment and tools the welder uses, nothing else. Welding tables should be adjustable so the welder can work at an appropriate height.

4. Launch a Welding Safety Program

If your welding employees realize your company is serious about safety, they will take safety seriously themselves. To show that your company places a strong emphasis on personal safety, consider launching a welding safety program. An on-going welding safety program keeps all welders on the same page and offers them the most up-to-date information as new PPE and technologies become available.

5. Create a Fire Safety Plan

If you are responsible for a workplace that employs welders, you should take the time to create a fire safety plan. Your welders should familiarize themselves with this plan and take it seriously. Your fire safety plan should:
• Identify significant fire hazards
• Outline procedures for notifying fire response agencies
• Lay out an evacuation route
• Outline procedures to account for all employees after evacuation
Having an easy-to-understand fire safety plan can save countless lives.

These 5 welding safety tips are are a good start toward ensuring the safety of welders in your workplace. Use the resources below for additional information as you plan your complete welding safety program.

Welding Safety Resources:

• Visit the OSHA welding, cutting and brazing page
• Controlling hazardous fumes and gases during welding
• Browse welding safety signs and labels

The post 5 Essential Welding Safety Tips appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

What Does the NFPA Diamond Look Like?

Because each side of the “fire diamond,” as it is sometimes called, is equal in length, another accurate way to refer to it is a “square-on-point” or a rotated square. In either case, it contains four quadrants, each of which represents a different hazard. Firefighters can identify the hazard both by the position of the quadrant within the diamond and its color. Each quadrant has a different color assigned to it.

In three of the four quadrants, there is a number from zero to four. This number demonstrates the severity of the hazard. The fourth quadrant can contain a symbol representing a special hazard posed by the material.

What Do the Different Colors Mean?

The NFPA diamond uses a color code, with each color representing a different hazard:
Red – The red quadrant appears in the 12 o’clock position on the fire diamond. It represents flammability, or the likelihood that the material will catch on fire.
Blue – The blue quadrant appears on the fire diamond in the 9 o’clock position. It represents health hazards, i.e., whether exposure to the chemical can cause illness or injury.
Yellow – The yellow quadrant appears in the fire diamond’s 3 o’clock position. It represents the chemical’s reactivity, or the likelihood that it could explode.
White – The white quadrant appears in the 6 o’clock position and represents special hazards that the other three quadrants do not cover.

What Do the NFPA Diamond Ratings Mean?

To communicate the severity of each hazard, the red, blue and yellow quadrants each receive a numerical rating from 0 to 4. A lower number represents a lower risk, while a higher number represents a greater risk:

• 0: Minimal hazard
• 1: Slight hazard
• 2: Moderate hazard
• 3: Serious hazard
• 4: Severe hazard

The combination of the color-coded quadrant and the numerical code inside of it communicates quickly to firefighters the type of hazard they are facing and how severe it is. Here are some examples of what the combined colors and numbers mean:

Yellow 1: Slight stability hazard, i.e., a normally stable substance that can become unstable if exposed to elevated pressure or temperature
Red 0: Minimal flammability hazard, i.e., a substance that is not flammable
Blue 4: Severe health hazard, i.e., a highly toxic substance that can cause death under emergency situations
Yellow 4: Severe stability hazard, i.e., a substance that can explode at normal temperatures and pressures
Red 2: Moderate flammability hazard, i.e., a substance that may ignite when exposed to relatively high ambient temperatures or moderate heat

Common NFPA Diamond Signs

What Do the Symbols in the White Quadrant Mean?

The white quadrant of the NFPA diamond is for special hazards not covered by the other four quadrants. Unique symbols communicate these hazards to firefighters and first responders.

There are only three symbols that the NFPA has authorized to go into the white quadrant. However, some people use additional, unauthorized symbols.

NFPA Authorized Symbols

The symbols the NFPA has authorized to go into the white quadrant are: OX, representing a substance that oxidizes; SA, indicating a simple asphyxiant gas; and a struck-through W, representing a substance that reacts with water.

While not itself explosive, an oxidizer can accelerate the explosion of a combustible material if the two come into contact.

A simple asphyxiant gas can push the oxygen out of the air. Low levels of oxygen can cause a person to suffocate. This symbol can only go on certain gases:

• Argon
• Helium
• Krypton
• Neon
• Nitrogen
• Xenon

Other gases may be asphyxiant but are not simple.

Water is a common ingredient in most firefighting substances. However, certain materials react strongly to water. For example, exposure to water causes sodium to combust. Therefore, using water to fight a sodium fire would feed the flames rather than extinguish them.

Non-Authorized Symbols

There are other symbols that, while not receiving authorization, nevertheless show up frequently in the white quadrant of the NFPA diamond. Examples of these non-authorized symbols include the following:

• ACID: Acidic
• ALK: Alkaline
• COR: Corrosive

Some people also use symbols in the white quadrant representing radioactivity or biohazard, if applicable.
While it is not illegal to use unauthorized symbols in the white quadrant, there are issues that can arise from it. First, firefighters receive training on reading the authorized symbols. If an unauthorized symbol appears, they might not understand what it means or waste valuable time trying to decipher it. The other issue is that many of the unauthorized symbols are unnecessary because they cover hazards communicated in the other three quadrants.

When and Where Do Facilities Have To Use the NFPA Diamond?

The NFPA 704 standard only tells facilities how to label hazardous materials. It does not specify when labeling is required. For this information, facilities must look to applicable local, state or federal regulations. Some facilities choose to use the fire diamond even when there is no legal requirement, and this is acceptable as long as they use the labels correctly.

Facilities that use NFPA 704 placards should place them at every entry point where firefighters could potentially enter the facility. If there are multiple possible entry points, placards need to appear at each one.

There is no set size for NFPA placards featuring the fire diamond. Rather, the placards must be large enough to be legible. The 704 standard provides guidance on placard sizing based on the distance at which firefighters and first responders will read them.

NFPA DIAMOND RESOURCES:

• Learn more about NFPA 704 diamond signs in our Compliance Resource Bulletin. (pdf)
• Purchase a copy of the NFPA 704 standard here.
• Make your own printed NFPA 704 diamond sign.
• Create a custom NFPA sign with diamond and chemical text.
• Browse blank signs and letter kits to create diamonds on-site.

The post What Is the NFPA Diamond and Why Is It Important? appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

COPD Risk is Increased for Certain Industries and Occupations

Occupational exposures are important causes of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), contributing to an estimated 14% of all cases. NIOSH has identified 6 industries, 5 occupations and several occupational exposures with significantly elevated COPD risks. Read the Report

Respirator Selection Guide for the Construction Industry

This NIOSH fact sheet will help construction companies understand the basics of respirator selection. It provides companies a central resource for respirator selection recommendations specific to the construction industry. Download Here

What Is Kaizen? Guide to Lean Manufacturing

Kaizen is a business philosophy of continuous improvement of all functions and employees. Kaizen in manufacturing is gaining popularity due to its ability to improve quality and efficiency. It allows manufacturers to create a better product and a happier workplace. Learn More

Save Employee Lives: Embrace Lockout Tags

The first step to protecting your employees with a LOTO program is to understand OSHA’s guidelines. A recent post covers the basics of establishing an effective lockout/tagout program. Read More

Have You Seen the RuleBreakers?

Every workplace has that one employee who thinks the rules just don’t apply. We call them RuleBreakers. Sure, you can write them up, but what if the universe stepped in and took care of them for you? We’ve created a new series of short videos to show what might happen. Watch Now

SAFETY TIP:
Beware Workplace Carbon Monoxide Dangers

Every year hundreds of workers experience carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, especially during the winter months with closed buildings and increased use of furnaces, space heaters and generators. But you can take steps to help stop workplace carbon monoxide dangers. Learn More

News & Notes

Survey: Health and safety, compliance remain key concerns
EHS pros believe that a higher level of EHS and ESG maturity in their organizations can drive new business, attract the best workers, and overcome regulatory compliance hurdles, according to recent findings. Learn More

Complete guide to workplace safety signs
This extensive guide to workplace safety signs, their meanings, and best practices for use is designed to help you navigate the complex web of rules and regulations that govern their display. See the Guide

Does Your Team Use the NIOSH Ladder Safety App?

The free app provides user-friendly guides and interactive tools to prevent major causes of falls. Available for Android or iOS. Learn More

Upcoming Safety Webinars Presented by OH&S:

• Dec. 1 – Hearing protection: Noise reduction and more
• Dec. 7 – Injury and illness recordkeeping: FAQs and common violations
• Dec. 8 – Leveraging technology to reduce fall risk
• Jan. 11 – Meeting OSHA’s first aid requirements
• Learn More or Sign Up

Don’t Miss Out On Top Safety News:
Subscribe to the Connection Here

The post Top Safety News for November 2022 appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

At ComplianceSigns, we take PPE requirements seriously. We have compiled this extensive guide to workplace PPE to help you understand how to implement proper protective equipment policies at your workplace. We have a huge collection of workplace PPE signs and another section of PPE safety posters dedicated to appropriate PPE types and procedures.

PPE GUIDE Table of Contents

• PPE Meaning: What Is PPE?

• Types of PPE Equipment

• OSHA PPE Requirements

• CDC PPE Requirements

• PPE Use Examples

• How To Put On PPE

• PPE FAQ

• Additional Resources

PPE Meaning: What Is PPE?

PPE has been making headlines, but that certainly doesn’t mean everyone understands what it is. Many people are left wondering “What does PPE stand for?” The term PPE stands for personal protective equipment. It is used to refer to specially designed gear that is worn to reduce environmental and occupational hazards. PPE reduces the risk of injury, illness, and contamination by protecting the wearer from risks such as radiation and chemicals, as well as physical or other workplace hazards.

Safety goes beyond simply knowing what PPE is. You must also know when and how to use it. To work effectively, protective equipment must be worn and used properly. OSHA has established guidelines, called standards, defining PPE and when it must be used to ensure safe working environments. Each industry has a specific set of standards that businesses must adhere to.

Types of PPE Equipment

Selecting the correct type of PPE is vital to ensuring safety in the workplace. There are six basic categories of PPE.

Eye and face protection keeps harmful chemicals and physical contaminants out of the eyes. Face shield PPE can prevent sparks from welding or cutting from burning the eyes and face. PPE face masks reduce transmission of infectious diseases by limiting droplet and airborne particles reaching mucous membranes. PPE goggles can also be used to protect eyes from bright lights, glare and foreign objects. They may be worn alone or over prescription lenses.

Head protection is required for “employees working in areas where there is a possible danger of head injury from impact, or from falling or flying objects, or from electrical shock and burns.” (OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.135). An ANSI-approved PPE helmet should be waterproof and slow burning, offer protection against penetration by objects, absorb the shock from an impact and be accompanied by clear instructions for use and care.

Hand and arm protection are largely accomplished with PPE gloves, but they may not be suitable for all applications In certain situations, such as when working with machinery where gloves might catch, other PPE such as finger guards or cots, barrier creams, arm protectors or sleeves are a better choice.  

Hearing protection helps prevent hearing loss from exposure to loud noise. PPE earpieces may be external muffs or plugs that are inserted into the ear.

Full body protection is generally achieved through PPE overalls or aprons worn over regular clothing. These offer protection from chemicals, extreme temperatures and sparks from welding or electrical hazards.

Foot and leg protection is achieved with PPE boots, chaps, gaiters and shoe covers. Footwear should be sturdy and supportive while offering protection against electrical and chemical hazards.

Respiratory protection such as respirators and masks keep harmful particles and chemicals from entering the lungs. They may serve to filter dust or gasses or supply clean air through a sealed system.

OSHA PPE Requirements

OSHA PPE standard 1910.132 lays out general requirements for PPE in the workplace. These define PPE that is required under general working conditions, who is responsible for the cost of OSHA PPE, and training that must be provided. According to this standard, employers are responsible for:

• Assessing hazards in the workplace and certifying that assessment
• Providing and maintaining appropriate OSHA PPE
• Training all employees on current standards including what PPE is required and the proper care, maintenance and adjustments of it

While employers must provide required PPE at no cost to employees, they are not responsible for non-required specialty products.

OSHA PPE standards conform to requirements set by the American National Standards Institute. ANSI does not establish binding regulations. Rather, it sets best practices for safety equipment and procedures. PPE requirements for eye and face protection in occupational and educational settings are outlined in ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2015.

OSHA standard 1910.132(f) mandates that training must include:

• When PPE should be worn
• What PPE is necessary
• How to properly adjust and wear PPE
• Procedures approved by OSHA for donning and doffing PPE
• Maintenance and care procedures for all required PPE

All employees must demonstrate knowledge of these procedures. If any employee cannot demonstrate competency with PPE procedures, he or she must receive additional training. Training should also be offered after any changes to workplace policies, procedures or PPE requirements.

CDC PPE Guidelines

PPE is used in healthcare settings to reduce the transmission of infectious diseases. The CDC issues guidelines for the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in medical settings such as hospitals, doctors’ offices and testing facilities. According to the CDC, PPE is only one component of a comprehensive infection control policy. The other components include training and administrative, engineering and work practice controls.

Proper PPE should always be matched to expected exposure. Base PPE selection on the type of exposure expected, the category of isolation of infectious agents, the appropriateness and durability of PPE for each task and how it fits each individual. Following CDC donning and doffing PPE procedures reduces contamination and potential exposure to pathogens. Displaying PPE posters throughout the workplace encourages proper use and care of protective equipment.

PPE Use Examples

The type of PPE you need to use will depend on the hazards present. Each occupational setting should be assessed individually, with appropriate precautions then taken to ensure PPE safety. Here are three personal protective equipment examples based on specific occupational scenarios that highlight the need for ongoing and individualized assessments of each workplace.

1. In a medical setting, CDC guidelines will dictate the types of PPE hospital staff will use. Masks, gowns, shoe coverings, face shields and head coverings are commonplace. Respirators may be required depending on the hazards present. Additionally, all protective medical equipment must conform to FDA standards and pass a review before being sold in the United States.
2. PPE policies at construction sites and manufacturing facilities are governed by OSHA standards. Hardhats and helmets are common types of PPE construction workers use to protect against traumatic brain injuries and punctures. Safety shoes and steel toes boots provide traction, chemical resistance and an extra line of defense against impact or crushing injuries to the feet. Gloves can shield hands from physical and chemical hazards, but care should be taken when operating machinery where a glove or long sleeve can catch and pull an operator in.
3. Welding PPE should include heavy gloves and an appropriate face shield. These must always be worn by both operators and attendants to avoid eye injury from sparks and radiant energy. Safety glasses and face shields guard against eye damage from sparks and other hazards that might be present on a construction site. OSHA standard 1910.252(b)(2)(ii)(A) states that “Helmets and hand shields shall be made of a material which is an insulator for heat and electricity. Helmets, shields and goggles shall be not readily flammable and shall be capable of withstanding sterilization” as well as protect the head, face and neck from radiant energy produced by the welding arc.  

How To Put On PPE

Both OSHA and the CDC recognize the importance of correctly putting on and taking off PPE. Failure to follow approved procedures can result in accidental exposure to hazardous or infectious materials. Therefore, all employees should be trained on how to don and doff PPE. They should also be trained on how to make PPE adjustments to ensure a proper fit.

The CDC explains that PPE should be donned in this order:

• Put on your gown first
• Follow that with a face mask or respirator
• Next, goggles or a face shield
• Put on your gloves last

Conduct fit checks and make any needed adjustments as you don each type of PPE before moving on to the next stage. Since the exact types of PPE that are required for each situation will be different, you may need to adjust or add to the order. Use common sense and an understanding of the applicable hazards to choose the best sequence if it is not clearly defined.

Any areas or situations that require PPE to be used should be marked with an appropriate PPE Required sign. This alerts workers to potential hazards and the need for additional protective measures. The type of equipment required should be clearly indicated.

Once employees are no longer at risk of exposure to the hazard, PPE can be safely removed. Instructions for how to remove PPE should be included upon exiting the area. Each employee should be trained on how to remove PPE in the correct order. This ensures no cross contamination during the doffing process.  According to CDC procedures, the correct order for removing personal protective equipment is as follows:

• Identify the contaminated and clean surfaces of your PPE before you proceed
• Remove gloves first since they are considered the most contaminated PPE gear
• Remove the face shield or goggles next
• Doff your gown
• Remove your respirator once you are no longer at risk of exposure

Always be sure to wash your hands following proper procedures once you have removed your PPE to further minimize any hazards.

ComplianceSigns Has the PPE Signs and Posters You Need

Personal protective equipment is a vital part of maintaining workplace safety. When effectively used, it serves as an added line of defense against physical, chemical, biological, radiological and mechanical hazards. OSHA standards, CDC guidelines and FDA regulations include the types of PPE that are required based on what hazards are in the workplace.

Properly placed signs, posters and infographics can help you keep workers informed about necessary PPE and approved procedures for its use. ComplianceSigns offers a full line of PPE posters and PPE safety signs for all types of businesses.

Personal Protective Equipment FAQ

Do you still have questions about PPE and its use? We have gathered some commonly asked questions along with answers to help you navigate the topic.

What are PPE items?

Personal protective items are pieces of equipment that help reduce environmental or occupational hazards. They protect against such things as chemicals, heat and cold, electrical hazards and infectious diseases.

What is PPE gear?

A few of the most common types of PPE gear include face masks, eye and ear protection and protective headwear. Steel toe boots are another example of a widely used form of PPE.

What is PPE used for?

According to OSHA’s Personal Protective Equipment publication, PPE is used “to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards” that may be experienced. It should be used as part of a comprehensive workplace safety program.

Why is PPE important?

PPE is an important part of workplace safety because it reduces exposure to hazards. This reduces the number of injuries and illnesses that occur and helps keep employees healthy.  

How do you make PPE?

PPE must meet standards set forth by occupational organizations such as ANSI and OSHA for workplace safety, so its manufacture is carefully controlled. Private use PPE can be made by sewing non-surgical cotton face masks and plastic gowns or using 3D printers to create face shields, respirators and PPE parts.

What is a PPE kit?

A PPE kit is a pre-packaged unit containing all necessary PPE for a given hazardous situation. This often includes a gown, face shield, mask, goggles, shoe covers, and gloves.

Additional Resources

For additional information about PPE, and how to ensure workplace compliance, visit these additional resources:

• OSHA PPE website
• NIOSH directory of PPE
• CDC Healthcare respiratory protection resources
• PPE Signs and labels at ComplianceSigns

The post A Comprehensive Guide to Personal Protective Equipment appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Following these four disaster clean-up safety tips from the CDC will help prevent further injuries – or loss of life – as teams and individuals work to clean storm damage at homes, businesses and communities.

1. Start with the Right Safety Gear

Emergency clinics and hospitals are often at maximum capacity following a natural disaster. Planning to stay safe while working on disaster clean-up can help keep you from joinng the list of injured people waiting for treatment. Recommended safety gear includes:

• Hard hats
• Goggles
• N95 masks or a respirator with a higher protection level
• Heavy work gloves
• Waterproof boots with steel toe and insole
• Earplugs or protective headphones if you’re working with noisy equipment
• Fire extinguishers with a UL rating of at least 10A

If sewage is involved, wear:

• Rubber boots
• Rubber gloves
• Goggles

2. Pace Yourself

Even with proper protective equipment, the physical and emotional strain of disaster clean-up work takes a toll on workers and volunteers. Safe disaster clean-up can take a very long time, so it’s best to work slowly, steadily – and safely.

• Prioritize cleanup tasks and focus on those tasks first
• Use teams to move heavy or bulky objects
• Avoid lifting any material that weighs more than 50 pounds per person
• Rest when you need to
• Work with other people so you aren’t alone

3. Use Chainsaws Carefully

Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be invaluable during disaster clean-up. But they also present several  hazards. If you’re not comfortable with a saw, leave that work for someone with experience.

• Always follow manufacturer’s instructions
• Always use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as head, hearing, hand, eye and foot protection
• Wear close-fitting, long-sleeved clothing
• Do not trim trees during dangerous weather conditions
• Assume that all power lines are energized and can electrocute a person at any time
• Beware of injury when bent trees or branches release
• Never turn your back on falling trees
• Take extra care when cutting trees or branches that are bent or caught under something else

4. Work Safely in Hot Weather

Water, rest and shade are keys to working safely in hot weather, whether on a construction site, road crew or disaster clean-up team:

• Drink water often
• Find shade and take a break when you feel fatigued
• Wear light and loose-fitting clothing (unless operating machinery)
• Review heat safety tips to recognize and be alert to the three types of heat-related disorders: heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Following these four disaster clean-up safety tips will help protect you and your crew as you assist disaster victims.

Additional Resources:

• Keep Children Safe During Disaster Cleanup
• Respiratory Protection when Entering Flooded Homes
• Basic Chainsaw Operations Fact Sheet from CCOHS
• Mold After a Disaster

Related Posts:

The post Disaster Clean-up Safety Tips appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

One swing of a hammer to loosen the lid of the box created an explosion that killed fifteen people and sent debris for blocks. This event is commonly referred to as “The San Francisco Incident” by those who discuss workplace safety because it was a tipping point that led to the development of the first chemical and hazardous material labels legislation. 

While your workplace may not be dealing with leaky crates of nitroglycerin, it probably has plenty of hazardous chemicals and materials around. So how do you keep your employees safe? Today’s chemicals have some pretty tight restrictions on their labeling thanks to the  Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling (GHS). By understanding these  labels, your team will have the knowledge to use, store, and clean up these products safely. 

The key is making sure that any and all employees who may come in contact with these materials have the proper chemical label literacy.

Common Workplace Hazardous Materials

You may think that it’s only industrial companies and manufacturing that are likely to have dangerous materials around, and they do account for the bulk of chemical-related accidents, but nearly every business has some form of hazmat on site. Some common hazardous materials found in workplaces include:

• Chlorine – Used in many industries such as paper, leather, and lumber production as well as the making of printing chemicals. Even the local swimming pool keeps it around.
• Hydrochloric Acid – It may be clear and odorless, but this substance can do serious damage to the eyes, organs, and skin. It’s used in some strong cleaning agents and found in batteries. 
• Sulfuric Acid – Also clear and odorless, sulfuric acid can cause chemical burns and blindness. You can find it in dyes, detergents, and fertilizers.
• Ammonia – Frequently used for cleaning, ammonia gas is very dangerous and all too common.
• Carbon Monoxide – It’s not just something that comes out of your car’s tailpipe. Carbon monoxide can build up where any fuel-burning engine is running and there is poor ventilation. 

These are just a few of the most common culprits when it comes to workplace hazmat issues, but there are many more out there.

GHS Chemical Hazard Labels

In 1992, at the United Nations Earth Summit, the GHS was born. It’s a standardized system for chemical information that can be recognized and understood across the globe. Prior to its development, every country had its own methods for chemical and hazardous material labels, which created confusion and even danger as chemicals were bought, sold and shipped internationally. GHS compliance is now required worldwide.

To meet GHS requirements, every label for hazardous chemicals must have:

• Name, Address and Telephone Number
• Product Identifier
• Signal Word
• Hazard Statement(s)
• Precautionary Statement(s)
• Pictogram(s)

The pictograms are small pictures on the label that can help identify hazard types without the use of words, eliminating language barriers. Nine GHS pictograms exist, each representing a hazard classification, but only 8 are considered mandatory by OSHA. At this point in time, the environmental pictogram is optional. 

Another major part of GHS labeling is the requirement for each product to have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) included in its packaging. These sheets provide crucial information such as proper use and storage, first-aid and fire-fighting measures, suggested or required personal protection measures, and proper disposal and much more. 

The GHS pictograms provide essential information at a glance, regardless of language, while the SDS sheets provide the complete playbook for each chemical.

GHS Literacy is Your Responsibility

As an employer, the safety of your workforce is your responsibility. What’s more, workplace hazardous material safety training is an OSHA requirement. According to OSHA, “All employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces must have labels and safety data sheets for their exposed workers, and train them to handle the chemicals appropriately.” That means if you do not have your chemicals labeled properly or your staff is not trained to read those labels, your business could be subject to significant fines. 

To make things easier on employers, OSHA has a number of hazard communication and GHS resources available. 

Chemical and hazardous material incidents can happen in a heart beat and they can be deadly. A flammable chemical is left too close to a flame or sparks. An heater is running but there is no ventilation. A worker uses the wrong product to clean up a spill. When these items aren’t treated with extreme care, lives are in danger.

Help your workforce stay safe by helping them understand the chemical and hazardous material labels and safety data sheets. By understanding the materials they work with, they can protect themselves and their coworkers from harm. The San Francisco Incident was tragic, but it was a catalyst that has lead to thousands, if not millions, of safer workplaces.

chemical and hazardous material label resources:

• Visit the OSHA Hazard Communication page
• What kind of chemical hazard signs does your business need?
• Review a bulletin on GHS signs
• Browse GHS signs and labels
• Find chemical safety signs and labels here

The post Chemical Label Literacy: What Your Team Needs to Know About Hazardous Materials in the Workplace appeared first on SafeWork Insider.