Safety & Health - September 2019

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safetyandhealthmagazine.com

104 Safety+Health | September 2019

Large-scale incident safety
for first responders

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND Carroll credits the widespread adoption of the National
RESPONSE HAVE CHANGED SINCE 9/11 Incident Management System – launched in 2003 by the
Department of Homeland Security – with providing guid-
By Barry Bottino, associate editor ance to all levels of government, nongovernment organi-
zations and the private sector on working together before,
For first responders, the 9/11 terrorist attacks were a during and after incidents.
mind-numbingly unique and devastating event.
“It was hard to prepare for something of that mag- “When we have these large-scale incidents that occur, we
nitude. It was such a large call,” said Patrick J. Morrison, can all [follow] the same structure, know what our respon-
assistant to the general president for occupational health, sibilities are and speak the same language,” he said. “That’s
safety and medicine at the International Association of Fire been very beneficial.”
Fighters. “It was a trying time.”
With active shooter incidents on the rise nationwide, Carrol
On that Tuesday morning in 2001, nearly 3,000 people died said interagency training and cooperation has proved benefi-
during the attacks in New York City, Pennsylvania and Wash- cial, as well.
ington, D.C. Of them, 343 were New York City firefighters and
23 were officers with the New York City Police Department. “NIMS provides a consistent, flexible and adjustable
Many first responders who assisted in rescue and recovery national framework where government and private enti-
efforts are feeling, or have felt, the effects – hundreds have ties at all levels can work together to manage domestic inci-
died and thousands are suffering from related cancers, ill- dents, regardless of their size, location or complexity,” said
nesses and injuries. Lizzie Litzow, press secretary at the Federal Emergency
Management Agency.
Training and preparation
The enormity of 9/11 has shaped the way first responders Chemical exposures
plan and train for future large-scale incidents, as well as According to the Centers for Disease Control and Preven-
how they protect themselves. tion, hundreds of cancers are listed on the World Trade
Center Health Program’s list of covered conditions – a stark
“I would definitely say first responders are safer,” said reminder of the dangers many first responders encounter
Jeffery W. Carroll, assistant chief of the Metropolitan Police just by arriving on a scene.
Department in Washington, D.C., and manager of the
department’s Homeland Security Bureau. “Since 9/11, there’s Respirators can provide first responders protection from
been a tremendous advancement in overall emergency man- exposures to mold after a hurricane or flood, debris from wild-
agement and emergency response. fires, and illicit drugs. However, Angela Weber, coordinator

“The more you plan and the more you train, the better Feature at a Glance
your response will be when an unplanned event occurs.”
First responders have learned many safety lessons from the 9/11 ter-
Joseph Schmider, state EMS director for the Texas rorist attacks.
Department of State Health Services, has participated in
numerous training events since his career began in the Key points
1970s. • Training for police, fire and emergency medical services profession-

“Before, you did it just within your own company,” he said. als has taken on a heightened importance, from small jurisdictions
“You never depended on anyone else. We had drills and prac- to large metropolitan areas.
tices, but after 9/11, that made it real.” • Adopting the National Incident Management System has allowed
many organizations to “speak the same language” during disaster
During a recent training session in the Dallas area, training and response.
Schmider said hundreds of first responders were in atten- • The International Association of Fire Fighters has opened a treat-
dance. “We can’t do it by ourselves,” Schmider said. “We need ment facility for its members who are experiencing mental health
to be able to work with everybody.” issues, substance abuse and/or post-traumatic stress disorder.

safetyandhealthmagazine.com Safety+Health | September 2019 105

How researchers can help of the Disaster Science Responder Research Program at
first responders NIOSH, said they have little to no benefit when worn improp-
erly or are not available during a large-scale event.

In May, IAFF announced the launch of the National Fire
Operations Reporting System Exposure Tracker mobile
app. It will allow first responders to create personal dia-
ries for logging exposures and incident details in a private,
encrypted and secure online environment. This data will be
used by researchers, according to IAFF, to help improve the
understanding of toxic exposures and develop new treat-
ments and protocols for work-related diseases.

No matter the scale, disasters can take a toll on first Looking out for one another Photo: P_Wei/iStockphoto
responders’ mental and physical health. In 2001, Morrison was working for the Fairfax County (VA)
Fire and Rescue Department. He spent two-and-a-half
NIOSH is working to use research to benefit this work- months in New York City after the attacks, assisting the
force during and after future events. FDNY with its counseling services unit.

“We’re doing the research NIOSH has always done, but Morrison and fellow firefighters went to fire stations
we’re trying to strategically improve on how fast it’s done,” to listen to colleagues, provide behavioral health support
said Angela Weber, coordinator of the agency’s Disaster and continually check in on first responders to ensure they
Science Responder Research Program. “We need a rapid weren’t turning to alcohol or other substances.
[institutional review board] protocol. We need to rapidly
share results.” “The FDNY really changed the paradigm to peer support,”
he said.
The goal is to respond quickly to disasters and keep first
responders safer with up-to-date information as an event The counseling services team wanted to offer first
unfolds. Research results also will help long term when responders assistance, so it enlisted retired firefighters,
responding to future incidents. chaplains and trained clinicians.

Weber said one example of the program’s work is the “It gave us an opportunity to look at what were some of
possibility of equipping first responders with direct-reading the qualities why some firefighters were doing better than
instruments to gather data on exposures they encounter others,” Morrison said.
during a disaster. Specifically, the program would have
these tools available when exposures “are the most highly For some, it involved having a peer, spouse or friend
concentrated, most complex, most unknown,” Weber said. they could talk to during the most difficult emotional
“We think this is going to address multiple types of disas- times.
ters. We’re focusing on chemical ones first. We’re excited
to see where this leads.” IAFF has developed a national peer support training pro-
gram and, in 2017, opened the IAFF Center for Excellence
Along with their use in chemical incidents, these instru- for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery in Upper
ments could be helpful in monitoring mold levels after hur- Marlboro, MD. The facility, for IAFF members, has treated
ricanes or floods and air quality during and after wildfires. more than 800 firefighters from across the country for post-
traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse and/or mental
Weber is the only full-time employee involved with the health conditions. Morrison and IAFF staff members visit
program, which is within the NIOSH Emergency Prepared- the facility every two weeks.
ness and Response Office. She has help, however, from a
10-person steering committee throughout various disci- “The biggest reward you can have in life is when a fire-
plines at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. fighter comes up and says, ‘Thank you for saving my life,’”
The committee was formed eight months after a 2014 Morrison said.
stakeholder meeting outlined the issues and needs of
disaster science research. Schmider, who was working in Pennsylvania in 2001,
arrived at ground zero a week after the attacks – when “the
“We are looking to conduct research on topics that pile was still smoking” – to help with family assistance. He
may include the impact of a novel exposure, unexpected is acutely aware of the demands on a first responder’s health
or severe health effects, the effectiveness of a proposed and family, and he regularly drives home a safety message
intervention, mental health/resilience issues, and disease with EMS colleagues.
outcomes with latency periods,” NIOSH Director John
Howard said in a recent interview with Safety+Health. “Whenever I speak to a group,” he said, “I always end with,
‘Take care of your patient. Take care of your partner. Take
care of yourself. And, most importantly, take care of the
people who are taking care of you.’”

106 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

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BONUS SECTION

Too much of a good thing?
Nuts
When it comes to your diet,
‘everything in moderation’ Nuts are rich in fiber, protein and healthy fats. But
is key – even with healthy foods they’re also high in calories (and if they’re salted,
sodium), so a serving size is smaller than you might
BY SUSAN VARGAS expect. The American Heart Association recommends
1.5 ounces, or about one-third of a cup.
When you find something nutritious that you
love to eat, it’s easy to go overboard and “Nuts are good for you, but that doesn’t mean you
still feel proud of yourself. But even healthy should throw a handful in your breakfast cereal in the
foods are best enjoyed in moderation. Here are some morning, in your salad in the afternoon and on your des-
examples: sert in the evening because you’re just going to be adding
extra calories,” said Alice H. Lichtenstein, senior scientist
Avocados and director of the Cardiovascular Nutrition Laboratory
at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research
These tropical fruits are all the rage – and for good Center on Aging, and a Stanley N. Gershoff professor
reason. They’re high in healthy fats, potassium and fiber, at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy
and their creamy richness makes them an excellent at Tufts University in Boston. “What you need to do is
replacement for saturated fats such as butter or mayon- ask yourself, ‘If you’re going to increase your nut intake,
naise, notes Caroline Passerrello, a registered dietitian what are you going to eat less of?’”
nutritionist and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutri-
tion and Dietetics. Fish

But one medium-sized avocado contains roughly 20 Seafood – especially fatty fish – is a good source of pro-
grams of fat – about one-third of the average person’s tein, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and other nutri-
daily allowance. “Fat has more calories per gram than ents. However, because most seafood is contaminated
carbs or protein, so high intake can lead to overcon- with traces of methylmercury, which can impact brain
sumption of calories and weight gain,” Passerrello said. and nervous system development, the Food and Drug
“A fifth of an avocado is considered a fat serving, but Administration advises women of childbearing age, preg-
most of my clients don’t eat just one-fifth of an avocado.” nant and breastfeeding women, and young children to
limit their consumption of lower-mercury seafood (such
So, if you do indulge in larger servings, just make sure as salmon, canned light tuna, shrimp and catfish), and
to trim your fat intake elsewhere. avoid the species that typically have the highest mercury
levels (such as shark and swordfish) entirely. (For specific
Like what you’re reading? Fall 2019 guidelines, go to fda.gov/media/102331/download.)
8/1/19 11:05 AM
This article and the tips on the Keep in mind that the benefits of eating fish outweigh
the risks. “The risk of developing cardiovascular disease
following pages are from Family Safety SArAeFyoEu a is much higher than the theoretical risks of consuming
& Health magazine. Produced by the DRIVER? fish,” Lichtenstein said. “Dietary patterns that are higher
same trusted team that brings you in fish are associated with better health outcomes.”
Safety+Health, this quarterly well- DThIeEtTruAthRaYboFuAt TS
ness publication features content Brown rice
sLBtreIifkGoerHse TNING
“The dietary guidelines for Americans recommend that
FChIaEpLerDonTinRg IaP? around 50% of our calories come from carbohydrates,
WEhXePn tIoRtIoNssGthePmRODUCTS: and brown rice counts as a good source of complex car-
bohydrates,” Passerrello said. “Brown rice is a rich source
PrediabetesTime to take steps

intended to keep workers – and their TheOf cialMagazineforOff-the-JobSafety
fall19.cvr.indd 1

loved ones – safe and healthy 24/7. To learn

more, visit nsc.org/fsh.

108 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

of amino acids and fiber, as well as vitamins and miner- Even healthy smoothies should be
als like folic acid, potassium and magnesium.” However, enjoyed in moderation. “Chewing actu-
eating rice morning, noon and night isn’t a good idea. ally triggers something in the brain
“Arsenic is found in all soil, and rice tends to absorb more to help us be satisfied,” Passerrello
of it than other food crops,” Passerrello said. said. “So, if you’re always drinking
your calories, there’s a chance
According to the FDA, long-term exposure to high that your brain is delayed in
levels of arsenic has been linked to increased risk of getting the signal that you’re
liver, bladder and lung cancer, as well as heart disease. eating, and you may end up
Although you can reduce the amount of arsenic in rice
by rinsing it before cooking, or boiling it in a large overdoing it.”
quantity of water and draining off the excess (as you
would with pasta), Passerrello points out that these
methods also remove some nutrients.

This doesn’t mean consumers should cut rice
from their diets. “Most people need about six
servings of grains a day, and if you have brown
rice as one or two of those servings a couple times
a week, you’re closer to meeting your whole-grain
recommendations,” Passerrello said. “There’s also
nothing wrong with giving babies fortified rice cereal, but
it does not need to be their first food or their only food.”

Dried fruit

With many of the same nutrients found in fresh
fruit, plus the added benefits of longer shelf life and
portability, dried fruit can be a convenient, healthy
choice. But imagine popping 15 raisins in your
mouth versus 15 grapes, and you’ll see why it’s
easier to overeat dried fruit than fresh fruit,
said Passerrello, who recommends a quarter-
cup serving size. “Because all of the water has
been removed, it’s a concentrated source of
calories, so eating too much can contribute to
weight gain,” she said.

This particularly is true if sugar has been
added. “Read the nutrition facts panel and
ingredient list to be sure there are zero grams
of added sugars and the only ingredient is the
fruit,” Passerrello said.

Photo: sam74100/iStockphoto Smoothies

They have a healthy reputation, but smoothies are lit- Safety+Health | September 2019 109
erally what you make of them. Depending on whether
you’re packing them with fruits and vegetables, or sug-
ary juices and ice cream, they can be nutritional power-
houses or fat and calorie bombs. That’s assuming you even
know what’s in them. “Convenience store smoothies that
advertise ‘real fruit’ might have some real fruit in them,
but also a lot of added sugar,” Passerrello cautioned.

safetyandhealthmagazine.com

quick tips

BONUS SECTION

Keep seniors safe in the heat

Too much heat isn’t good for anyone, but it’s especially
dangerous for older adults, the National Institute on
Aging says. Of particular concern:
✓✓Heat syncope, a feeling of sudden dizziness when

active in hot weather.
✓✓Heat cramps, the painful tightening of muscles from

exerting one’s self in hot weather.
✓✓Heat exhaustion, your body’s warning that it can no

longer regulate its temperature.

Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, an emergency ✓✓Keep your home as cool as possible by limiting the use
that requires immediate medical attention. The NIA points of your oven, keeping your blinds and shades closed,
out that older people living in homes without fans or air and opening your windows at night (if you don’t have air
conditioning are at greater risk for heat stroke, and seniors conditioning).
with chronic diseases or alcoholism are most at risk.
✓✓If your home is too hot, go somewhere that has air-
Signs that an older adult may be experiencing heat conditioning, such as a library, shopping mall, cinema
stroke include fainting; becoming confused or agitated; or senior center. If you need help getting to a cool place,
having a body temperature above 104° F; and sweating, call a friend or family member or reach out to your
even if it isn’t hot. local senior center.

Lower the risk ✓✓Wear natural fabrics, such as cotton, which can be
cooler than synthetic materials.
Older adults can take several steps to help lower their risk
of heat-related illnesses. Among them: ✓✓Don’t exercise or partake in strenuous activities out-
✓✓Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water or fruit doors when it’s hot.

and vegetable juices. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.

Make bath time safe ✓✓Install no-slip strips or mats to the ✓✓Don’t overfill the tub. Using more Top photo: deeepblue/iStockphoto;
by planning ahead bottom of the tub to help prevent than a few inches of water is danger- bottom photo: PeopleImages/iStockphoto
slips and falls. ous for children.
Taking a bath can be a fun, playful
time for babies and young children. ✓✓Test the water temperature to help ✓✓Don’t count on bath seats or rings to
But if you’re not careful, it can also be avoid burns. Babies and young chil- help prevent drownings.
dangerous. “You and your child can dren have more sensitive skin than
play and bond during tub time, but adults. If possible, adjust your water Keep in mind that bathtime isn’t the
it’s important to plan ahead and pay heater so the temperature doesn’t only water danger in the bathroom. The
attention to protect your child from exceed 120° F. Consumer Product Safety Commission
bad bath time habits that can cause has received reports of children drown-
slips, falls, burns or even drowning,” ing, head-first, in toilets. Install locks
says the Cleveland Clinic, a nonprofit on bathroom doors and childproof
academic medical center. latches on toilets.

The clinic recommends the follow- Dine out without sacrificing
ing to keep bathtime safe: your diet
✓✓Never leave a child unattended – not
Trying to eat healthy? If so, don’t let
even for a few seconds. Before you going out sabotage your plan. The
start the bath, make sure you have American Heart Association offers a
everything you’ll need at hand.
safetyandhealthmagazine.com
110 Safety+Health | September 2019

number of tips to help you make better says the Centers for Disease Con- Is your dog scared
choices when dining out. Here are a few: trol and Prevention. These illnesses of fireworks?
✓✓Check out the menu ahead of time. included harmful germ infestations
such as E. coli and Salmonella. Fireworks are a common source of
Many restaurants post their menu fear and anxiety for many dogs dur-
and nutrition information online. Keep illness at bay ing the summer months. The Fourth
✓✓Look for dishes marked with of July is one of the biggest culprits.
“healthy” symbols or descriptions Use these tips from the CDC to help The noise from the explosive displays
that include the words “light,” “fit,” your animal-loving kids stay healthy: can cause some dogs to tremble
“skinny” or “vegetarian.” Wash hands regularly. Make sure violently, bark and howl, hide, and
✓✓Just say “no” to bread baskets, chips children thoroughly wash their hands refuse to eat, the Animal Defense
and salsa, and other complimentary immediately after petting animals League of Texas says.
foods. or touching anything in animal
✓✓Ask your server about healthier sub- areas. Remind your children to keep Fortunately, you can take steps to
stitutions. For example, instead of their hands away from their eyes and help settle your pet:
french fries, request a baked potato. mouths until they’re clean. If running ✓✓Keep your dog inside, close the
Instead of white bread, see if they water and soap aren’t available, use
offer a whole grain version, etc. an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that curtains or blinds, and turn on
✓✓Ask for toppings, such as cheese, contains at least 60% alcohol. music or the TV to drown out the
gravies and salad dressings, to be Take eating and drinking precau- noise from the fireworks.
served on the side. tions. Even if your kids get hungry, ✓✓Does your dog have a favorite
✓✓Consider splitting an entrée with a don’t serve snacks or drinks in the special treat, such as a toy you can
friend, or ask for a box to pack up animal area. Wait until they’re done stuff with peanut butter? Give it to
half of your meal to take home as petting the reindeer, and then go find your pet to provide a distraction.
soon as it arrives at the table. an area to eat that is well away from ✓✓Does your dog have a favorite
the zoo. Don’t forget to wash your own place to relax, such as a crate
Stay healthy at petting zoos hands before serving food or drinks. with soft bedding? Make sure it’s
Practice caution. Because children 5 accessible.
Petting zoos are a great way for kids to and younger are particularly vulner- ✓✓If you must take your dog outside,
interact with animals. But before you able to the germs animals carry, the use a leash to prevent him or her
let your kids touch those llamas, goats, CDC recommends that they avoid from running off – a common
chickens and cows, take steps to prevent touching reptiles, amphibians and live response to fear.
exposure to animal-related diseases. poultry (such as chicks and ducklings). ✓✓Make sure your dog’s collar identi-
These animals are commonly associ- fication is current in case he or she
“From 2010 to 2015, about 100 ated with outbreaks of disease. gets lost.
outbreaks of illness in people linked
to animals in public settings like zoos, For more information, go to cdc.gov/
fairs and educational farms were features/animalexhibits.
reported to public health officials,”

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Safety+Health | September 2019 111

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Circle xx on Reader Service Card

Safety Leadership

Experts from DEKRA Organizational Safety and Reliability weigh in on what leaders need to know

Understand brain functions to understand mistakes

By Michael Mangan The first worker puts his finger in the coupler to try to remove
the material at the same time the second worker tries to jam
EDITOR’S NOTE: Achieving and sustaining an injury-free work- the tube in again, severely cutting the first worker’s finger.
place demands strong leadership. In this monthly column, experts
from global consulting firm DEKRA Organizational Safety and As leaders, the challenge is embracing the dynamics of the
Reliability share their point of view on what leaders need to know brain and understanding how it functions, and not falling
to guide their organizations to safety excellence. into the trap of thinking that people who make mistakes are
bad people. We also have to recognize that telling people
AS SAFETY LEADERS, we need to understand how the inter- simply to be more aware will not solve the problem.
section of culture, leadership, systems and process is key to
determining whether exposure is controlled in the work- Recent neuroscience research indicates that many of
place. All four areas are linked in keeping workers safe from the causes of these types of errors are a result of how the
injuries or fatalities. Paying attention to fewer or none cre- brain is designed to operate. In many cases, these charac-
ates vulnerabilities that no organization wants. teristics – what we call brain-centric hazards – help our
brains be more efficient but, in some cases, can increase
Focusing on production over safety will more likely cre- exposure to injury and error.
ate incidents because more exposures go uncontrolled. We
know that when work schedules and overtime demands We all can visualize physical hazards such as ice on a
require people to work in a fatigued state, errors will be sidewalk, an unguarded rotating shaft, a speeding driver
more frequent. We also know that when safe processes are or the movement of a heavy load with workers nearby. But
not given the level of management oversight required, more it’s more difficult to visualize hazards housed in our brains.
errors occur. If left unattended, brain-centric hazards can create high-
consequence exposures.
Yet, even when organizational culture, leadership, sys-
tems and process are strong and supportive, good people Controlling brain-centric hazards requires that critical
still make mistakes. elements align with how the human brain actually works.
Organizations need a system to address reliability gaps
These aren’t necessarily because of sloppiness or careless- within work environments, technological interfaces, oper-
ness, but because they didn’t discern the exposure – given ating procedures, training, work schedules, decisions, risk
how the human vision system operates – or they didn’t rec- perceptions and the leadership-driven messages that shape
ognize the exposure as a problem. Another reason is because organizational culture.
they didn’t complete all steps in a procedure because of
fatigue, distraction or running on autopilot. Finally, they All components of operational reliability must be aligned
may not have involved others in the process of error identifi- and draw on the latest neuroscience to achieve sustainable
cation and prevention. success.

When we work alone, all of us are particularly susceptible There is no silver bullet for eliminating all error from the
to these errors. However, working within a team isn’t neces- workplace. However, organizations can put strong defenses
sarily a fix and, in fact, may even foster additional opportu- in place.
nities for error. In actuality, some incidents occur because
other people were present. Effective leadership, a mature culture, brain-aligned sys-
tems and countermeasures enable “right-first-time” perfor-
For example, two construction workers are halfway mance to occur more often and more consistently across the
through building 20-foot scaffolding. As one worker organization, especially within safety and operation critical
attaches the horizontal ledger for the next level to the verti- tasks.
cal uprights through a coupler, he runs into a problem. The
coupler has some dirt stuck in it and the tube won’t seat This article represents the independent views of the author and should not
properly. The second worker comes to help. Together, they be construed as a National Safety Council endorsement.
try to jam the tube into the coupler, but it still won’t go. The
first worker thinks to himself that they should inspect it and Michael Mangan leads DEKRA Organizational Safety
try to remove the debris. The second thinks to himself that and Reliability’s (dekra.us/osr) research and develop-
jamming it was making progress and they should try again. ment department. He is responsible for facilitating
global thought leadership and generating new innova-
tions across the organization.

114 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

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All About You

Motivation for safety and health pros

Get the most out of conventions and conferences

By Richard Hawk When you meet someone, be sure to smile as though
you’re meeting a longtime friend. Can you practice smiling?
EDITOR’S NOTE: Motivating employees to work safely is part of Of course! Notice how people react to your smiles, and vary
the safety professional’s job. But who motivates the motivator? In them slightly to see what kind of results you get. It’s amazing
this monthly column, veteran safety pro and professional speaker how a smile can make a person feel comfortable and get your
Richard Hawk offers his entertaining brand of wisdom to inspire small talk off to a great start.
safety pros to perform at their best.
To start, say “hello,” offer your hand, tell the person your
ARE YOU GOING to the National Safety Council 2019 Con- name before you ask for theirs, and then have a few opening
gress & Expo in San Diego? If you are, and it’s your first time, remarks ready besides “Where do you work?” or “Where are
I’m sure you’ll be delightfully surprised by the event’s size you from?” Not that they aren’t fine opening remarks, but
and all the opportunities you’ll have to learn and network. more specific questions such as “Have you been to this con-
ference before?” or “Did you go to the reception last night?”
I’ve attended the council’s main event several times, and put you both on more common ground and tend to lead to a
I’m always impressed by how well it’s organized. I’ve also had longer conversation.
the privilege of hosting several Professional Development
Seminars, Technical Sessions and three closing keynotes. From that point on, be sure to show interest in the per-
son’s responses and ask follow-up questions, rather than
Attending conventions and conferences is a mainstay of my focus on yourself.
profession, and I’ve learned some things over the years that
have help me get the most out of them, which I’d like to share. A final note on small talk: Be mindful of your smartphone
use so it doesn’t get in the way of your chances to network.
Listen to Richard’s podcast based on this month’s (See “Sharpening your social skills in the smartphone age,”
column at safetyandhealthmagazine.com (click on Safety+Health, October 2017, p. 58.)
the “Resources” tab).
Share what you learn
Have specific objectives Share what you have discovered and experienced, both dur-
A colleague of mine always writes down what he wants to ing the event and when you return home and to work. My
accomplish and learn before he attends a convention. It’s wife always asks me when I get home, “What was the high-
a great idea, and one that I copy – although my list isn’t as light of your trip?” So, usually on the plane, I review my notes
extensive as his. (You should see his list!) A few of his doz- and think about what happened. That way I’m ready to give
ens of goals include how many new people he wants to meet, her a thought-out answer. Writing a brief narrative can also
what trends he wants to learn more about, and how many help you be more prepared to share the highlights of your
new ideas he can use to improve his effectiveness as a safety experience.
and health consultant.
I’ll be hosting a “Mindfully Safe” Professional Develop-
My list this year will include finding out about companies ment Seminar this year and an “All About You” Technical
that are including mindfulness as part of their safety and Session based on this column. Whether or not you attend
health program, and how well it’s been received. one of my sessions, I hope we get to meet and give each other
a big smile!
Hone your ‘small talk’ skills
Small talk is often regarded as meaningless, but according This article represents the independent views of the author and should not
to Debra Fine, author of “The Fine Art of Small Talk: How be construed as a National Safety Council endorsement.
to Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking
Skills – and Leave a Positive Impression!” it “will create Richard Hawk helps safety professionals become
pathways and channels for new opportunities to present better leaders through his keynotes, workshops,
themselves.” Fine says you can develop your small talk articles and books so they can create vibrant safety
skills just like any other skill. I heartily agree, and I’ve writ- cultures. His popular “Mindfully Safe” keynote
ten several times about how you can improve all kinds of teaches employees how to focus better and improve
communication skills by purposely practicing them. their situational awareness, a key skill to preventing
incidents. To contact Richard, visit makesafetyfun.com.

116 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

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Speaker Spotlight GLOBAL

Top-rated presenters from the NSC Congress & Expo share their insights

The safety observation blueprint

By Cary Usrey If we subscribe to the proposition of safety observation
data providing value, it is necessary to develop a data use
EDITOR’S NOTE: Every year, the National Safety Council Congress plan. This is a structured approach to disseminating infor-
& Expo features some of the top thought leaders and motivators in the mation collected by the observers so that data-driven deci-
occupational safety and health community. Safety+Health has invited sions can be made. The conversations are a great start but
the most highly rated presenters to contribute to this monthly column. the success will be short-lived if it is believed that the col-
For more on this year’s event, visit congress.nsc.org. lected information is going into a proverbial black hole.

ALMOST ALL COMPANIES conduct some form of worksite For example, the data can indicate what controls are and
safety inspections. This process is typically part of the tradi- are not being focused on, what areas of a facility have and
tional landscape of a comprehensive health and safety plan. have not been observed, and what key learnings are trend-
At regular intervals, someone within the organization sets out ing and can be shared with the broader organization. The
to conduct observations to ensure work is being performed plan for using the data can be relatively simple, such as com-
safely. It is important to clearly define the safety observation munication and sharing of information, or more complex,
process in organizations to achieve maximum benefit from such as convening learning teams to review commonalities
the activity and avoid a “checking-the-box” exercise. in trends for the purpose of improving the process.

It is important to clearly define the safety Although most companies have a safety observation pro-
observation process in organizations to gram in place, very few organizations have taken the time
achieve maximum benefit from the activity to clearly define the purpose or the techniques necessary
and avoid a “checking-the-box“ exercise. to achieve success. Companies often assume that a health
and safety plan – complete with detailed policies and proce-
Conducting worksite safety inspections should be fueled dures – is being followed everywhere and all the time exactly
by more than just compliance. The focus should be strate- as intended. An effective safety observation program can
gic and based on known history, upcoming schedule of work either confirm or dispute those assumptions with detailed
and associated level of risk. The purpose should be to assess evidence.
work being performed, understand how and why deviation
occurs, and make proactive and positive adjustments aimed Observations should be a two-way conversation
at preventing injuries. aimed at developing an understanding
and providing mutual benefit. They are only
Additionally, the process should be focused on positive as good as the conversation they elicit.
outcomes and not on negative aspects such as blame. For
those conducting safety inspections, clear expectations In essence, safety is the presence of controls and not simply
must be set and training conducted to avoid a “whack-a- the absence of injuries. Observations can be used to ensure
mole” mentality of walking a beat, pointing out negative those controls are working as intended. Once realized, the
findings and issuing citations. Beyond hazard recognition organization can then take the necessary proactive steps to
awareness, the inspector should be trained on how best to align intentions with actualities in a positive manner for the
approach and coach the workers being observed. benefit of all involved.

Besides a noble purpose, the observation events should be This article represents the independent views of the author and should not
social in nature. Never should observers conduct an inspec- be construed as a National Safety Council endorsement.
tion like a seagull – fly by, squawk loudly, leave a mess and fly
off. Observations should be a two-way conversation aimed Cary Usrey has been a process improvement leader
at developing an understanding and providing mutual ben- at Predictive Solutions (predictivesolutions.com)
efit. They are only as good as the conversation they elicit. since March 2007. In this role, he is responsible for
Observation learnings should be openly shared both at the implementing solutions and best practices for cus-
individual level and beyond if there are key learnings that tomers seeking to prevent worker injuries through
would benefit others. Excluding this social aspect turns the use of an integrated safety management system
safety inspections into contentious paper exercises. that focuses on leading safety indicators.

118 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

Circle 72 on Reader Service Card. See us at the NSC 2019 Congress & Expo, Booth #3807.

Product Focus HEAD/FACE PROTECTION

Hard hat with clear visor
AboveView Hard Hats are designed with a see-through replaceable visor to help workers
identify potential hazards overhead. The hard hat meets ANSI/ISEA classification Z89.1,
Type I, Class E and G requirements, and is available with three replaceable lenses with tint
options. AboveView sits below the nape of the user’s head, ensuring a secure fit and reduc-
ing the possibility of the hard hat falling off.
Bullard

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Lightweight hard hat
Built with a lightweight, flexible, airy, four-point suspension, Skullerz Hard Hats provide
improved balance, ventilation and fit for all-day comfort. Adjustable vents are available in
Class C models, while removable sweat bands and breathable, moisture-wicking top pads
come standard with all models. All Skullerz Hard Hats are designed with a front and rear
integrated slot to securely attach Ergodyne’s new removable, magnetic headlamp – avail-
able separately or included with some models.
Ergodyne

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Full-brim hard hat
The Serpent Safety Helmet family now includes a full-brim version. The product exten-
sion features a wraparound brim to provide 360-degree sun and rain protection. The
vented version allows heat to escape through the vents in the shell, keeping workers
cooler. For anyone working around electrical safety hazards, the unvented Serpent is
an ideal Class E head protection solution. The full-brim Serpent (pictured) is available
in white, yellow, red, blue, green, high-visibility orange and high-visibility lemon.
Gateway Safety Inc.

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Sun-protection helmet accessory
HexShade UV by Snap Brim is a safety helmet accessory that provides users with a firm,
weather-resistant panel to extend shade up to 3 inches from the helmet’s brim. With various
models available, HexShade UV easily and securely snaps onto HexArmor safety helmets and
most other safety helmets to help provide protection against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. This
lightweight, easy-to-don-and-doff accessory is complete with a removable neck shade to
help ensure maximum protection.
HexArmor

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Welding helmet
Jackson Safety Brands’ 46101 HLX-100 Welding Helmet with Insight Variable ADF-Stars
and Scars features a 9.3-square-inch viewing area, variable shade 9-13, sensitivity and delay
adjustments, and meets ANSI Z87.1 2010 standards. The CSA-compliant helmet has four
independent sensors, digital controls and a grind mode. Jackson Safety’s premium 370
Series Easy Grip-Easy Turn ratcheting mechanism is included.
Surewerx

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120 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

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PPrroodduuccttFFooccuuss

TRENDS IN ... HEAD/FACE PROTECTION

Find PPE that ‘goes the extra mile’

By Tracy Haas-Depa, assistant editor “It sends a vibration alert, warning workers Conn pointed out that accessories that
when body temps are reaching a danger- don’t work in conjunction with safety
Compliance is key to head and face pro- ous level,” he said. helmets can compromise compliance.
tection, says Todd Conn, director of new “Removing your helmet to don a stand-
market development at Grand Rapids, The No. 1 trend HexArmor has been alone faceshield, for example, leaves the
MI-based HexArmor. “Look for [personal monitoring is “the evolution of the hard head unprotected,” he said.
protective equipment] that goes the extra hat design into more of a climbing-style
mile to make their protection secure and helmet, which brings with it new tech- Advice
comfortable enough to wear so it doesn’t nologies and improvements to head Worker safety is worth taking extra steps.
get in the way of an employee doing their protection across the board,” Conn said. “To evaluate or determine the best PPE
job,” he said. “The best PPE is the PPE He noted that helmet-style head protec- for your location and applications, we rec-
that the worker does not notice.” tion provides new built-in safety features, ommend conducting a site audit, as well
such as extended back-of-neck coverage, as a fit test per person to ensure proper fit,
Here, Conn and Mark Stanley, presi- shorter brims, front-to-back ventilation to help increase compliance and safety,”
dent of Atlanta, TX-based Stanco Safety and low-profile designs. Conn said.
Products, discuss what’s new in the
head and face protection field, and what Misuse Compiled with the
employers need to know to best protect One way a worker can be out of compli- assistance of the
their workforce. ance, Stanley said, is if the hard hat is worn International Safety
backward – unless it’s designed to be – in Equipment Association
Innovations an attempt to keep the sun off the neck or
One new technology Stanley brought up is increase the field of vision. COMING NEXT MONTH …
a hard hat that features a heat stress alarm.
First aid/emergency response

Six-point suspension system helmet
The Vertex Vent Hi-Viz offers a six-point suspension system that conforms to the shape
of the user’s head for maximum comfort. Centerfit adjustment for quick sizing allows the
helmet to be perfectly centered on the head, and a flip-and-fit system on the headband
can fold into the shell for easy storage and transport. The Vertex helmet line meets ANSI
Z89.1 certification standards.
Petzl

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Hard hat
The North Zone Hard Hat has a sleek, modern shell combined with a patented suspension
design featuring multiple adjustment points for size, height and snugness. With a personal-
ized fit and individualized comfort, the North Zone is an ideal general purpose hard hat that
meets the following standards: ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 2014 Type I, Class C, G and E; and CSA
Z94.1 2015 Type I, Class C, G and E.
Honeywell

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Product information is provided by manufacturers. This publication has not independently tested
manufacturers’ products and cannot assume responsibility for the validity of product claims.

“Product Focus” is compiled by Assistant Editor Tracy Haas-Depa. Email her at [email protected].

safetyandhealthmagazine.com Safety+Health | September 2019 123

Safety Tips

Make good ergo part of your drive to work

GOOD ERGONOMICS isn’t limited to the office: The same Lower back pain is a common commuter complaint,
practices that can help avoid aches and pains at your desk along with discomfort and pain. The same goes for foot
can be applied to your drive to and from work, the Cana- cramps and a sore neck and shoulders stemming from
dian Center for Occupational Health and Safety says. poor posture, and stress and tension caused by sitting in
one position for an extended period of time.

Make your ride to work more comfortable with these
tips from CCOHS:
•   Adjust your seat so you can easily reach the pedals and

controls. You should be able to reach the steering wheel
without stretching your arms.
•   Raise the steering wheel if your legs or knees bump it
while driving.
•   Keep the backrest at shoulder height so it doesn’t inter-
fere with your rearview vision.
•   Adjust the headrest so it’s as high as – but not lower than
about 2.5 inches from – the top of your head.

Understand the hazards or otherwise strictly controlled in the travel throughout the body and cause
of asphalt vicinity of asphalt operations.” damage to many different organs.”
Millions of tons of asphalt are produced Fume safety: Workers handling asphalt
and used in the paving and roofing should be educated on its hazards and When working with heated asphalt,
industries every year, the Texas Depart- safe work procedures, and Safety Data recommended PPE includes chemi-
ment of Insurance Division of Workers’ Sheets should be available. cal goggles, loose clothing with closed
Compensation notes, and more than collars and buttoned cuffs, thermally
500,000 workers are exposed to fumes Visit tdi.texas.gov/pubs/videoresource/ insulated gloves with gauntlets that
from asphalt. stpasphalt.pdf for detailed information extend up the arm, and boots with tops
on engineering controls for asphalt. at least 6 inches high. Also, workers
Asphalt is derived from crude oil. should wear safety shoes and barrier
Exposure to asphalt fumes can cause Personal protective equipment creams, TDI states.
headaches, skin rashes, sensitization, TDI stresses that PPE is necessary to
fatigue, reduced appetite, throat and protect workers from asphalt burns Take extra care when using
eye irritation, cough, and skin cancer, and irritation, because “many of the canned air
according to TDI. solvents used to cut asphalt can be Have you ever used a canned air prod-
absorbed through unprotected skin uct to clean off your computer key-
Two main hazards associated with into the bloodstream, where they can board? Despite its name, canned air is
working with asphalt are fires and not the air you breathe. That means it
explosions and inhalation of the sub- can be hazardous if not used correctly. Top photo: BartekSzewczyk/iStockphoto;
stance’s fumes. bottom photo: BanksPhotos/iStockphoto
Fire/explosion prevention: Asphalt “Canned air products contain a gas
is often stored and handled at high that is mostly compressed into a liquid,”
temperatures, so it’s important to the Washington State Department of
take fire prevention seriously. “One of Labor & Industries states, adding that “a
the greatest hazards in handling hot variety of gases are used in these prod-
asphalt is exposure to a source of igni- ucts and some are highly flammable.”
tion,” TDI states. “Sparks, electricity,
open flames, incandescent material Because canned air can be flamma-
(lighted cigarette), or other possible ble, it needs to be used properly. Keep
ignition sources should be prohibited canned air products in an upright posi-
tion during spraying. This allows for

124 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

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RELY ON INSIGHTS

NOT JUST INSTINCTS

When it comes to worker safety and productivity, you
need to see the whole picture. With live monitoring

as part of your connected site solution, you can
mitigate risk in real time by knowing where your
people and assets are deployed, who is working
in dangerous conditions, and what gases could

threaten nearby communities.

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Safety Tips

Left photo: ronstik/iStockphoto; FACE photos: NIOSH only the gas layer above the liquid to be FACEValue
released.
NIOSH’s Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation Program
“Unsafe use occurs when the can is
tilted, allowing the liquefied gas to be Case report: #2017/07/1*
released from the nozzle and saturate Issued by: Oregon Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) Program
the air and any surfaces it contacts,” Date of incident: March 21, 2017
Washington L&I cautions.
FARM MECHANIC DIES AFTER PLASMA TORCH
Canned air should never be used in EXPLOSION
small or poorly ventilated areas – the
gas is much more likely to become On the day of the incident, a
concentrated and create a flammable 46-year-old farm mechanic used
atmosphere. a plasma torch to remove the lid
from a 55-gallon drum that formerly
In addition, ignition sources – contained flammable brake wash
including electrical switches, flames fluid. The drum was empty but had
and sparks – should be kept clear of not been cleaned. The first cut with
the work area to help prevent fires. the torch caused a flash and explo-
sion that blew off the bottom of the
Another potential hazard of using drum and knocked the mechanic
canned air: frostbite. That’s right – unconscious. He died in the hospi-
indoors. When used, gas expansion in tal three months later from a trau-
the can makes the liquid inside very matic head injury. The victim had 25
cold. years of experience working for his
employer. He had worked his way
“Exposure to a steady stream of this up from field laborer to mechanic.
liquid can cause serious frostbite with It was reported that he was knowl-
physical injury such as deep crack- edgeable, experienced and pro-
ing and damage to muscles, nerves, ficient in using the plasma torch.
and blood vessels,” Washington L&I However, no procedures were in
notes. place for the safe removal of drum lids in the farm’s written
safety program records.
Workers can prevent frostbite
by reading all labels and following TO HELP PREVENT SIMILAR INCIDENTS:
instructions carefully, and never tilt- ✔✔ Never weld, cut or perform other hot work on a drum or other metal
ing or shaking the can.
container unless it has been thoroughly cleaned and vented.
For more information about canned ✔✔U se a non-sparking manual tool when removing a lid from a metal drum or
air safety, visit sh-m.ag/2QKutSD.
barrel to further reduce the risk of ignition or explosion.
✔✔ R outinely assess job hazards, and provide periodic training and communica-

tions on site-specific hazards and safe work practices. Take corrective action
when needed.
✔✔C heck and monitor employees’ knowledge of job hazards and implementa-
tion of safe practices to control those hazards.
✔✔ P rovide appropriate personal protective equipment and ensure it’s used
correctly.

Go to safetyandhealthmagazine.com *This report is the product of NIOSH’s Cooperative State partner. The findings and conclusions in
and click on the “Safety Tips” tab to find each report are those of the individual Cooperative State partner and do not necessarily reflect the
more tips sorted by category. views or policy of NIOSH.

To download the full report, go to sh-m.ag/2yMYuJr.

safetyandhealthmagazine.com Safety+Health | September 2019 127

Workplace Solutions

Experts from safety equipment manufacturers and service providers answer “from the field” questions

Confined space •   Location of the space Photos: Roco Rescue
rescue: Have a plan •   Position/dimensions of entry portals
•   Hazards of the space
QUESTION: What elements should a confined space rescue •   Personal protective equipment required
plan include? •   Number of authorized entrants
•   Experience of the rescue team
Responding is Pat Furr, corporate safety officer, VPP coordi- •   Available rescue equipment
nator, chief instructor and technical consultant, Roco Rescue,
Baton Rouge, LA. The first thing to look at when preparing rescue plans
ANSWER: If your employer allows is the configuration of the space. This will determine if
entry into permit-required confined non-entry rescue is feasible. Get an idea of what oppor-
spaces, then it is critically important tunities and limitations are included in the immediate
to have a rescue plan for each of those surroundings of the entry portals. What are the anchor
spaces. The old adage “proper plan-
ning prevents poor performance” opportunities? Is there room to oper-
is especially true when lives are at ate the rescue systems or to stage
stake, and permit-required confined breathing air equipment? Is there
space entry rescue certainly fits that enough headroom to complete a ver-
description. It doesn’t matter if the tical lift of a litter? Will an elevated
rescue will be performed as non-entry rescue be required to get the victim
retrieval, or if rescuers need to enter to the ground once clear of the space?
the space to perform rescue – the
need to have a clear and comprehen- An often-overlooked consideration is
sive rescue plan goes a long way in the shape and dimensions of the entry
ensuring a successful outcome. portal. If the portal is too small to
enter while properly wearing a self-
There are many reasons to have contained breathing apparatus back-
rescue plans completed for all permit- pack, rescuers are often tempted to
required confined spaces. First, doff their SCBA and push it ahead of
OSHA requires that the employer them as they enter the space. This
make those spaces available to the practice has led to many fatalities and
rescue service for the purposes of should never be allowed. If your equip-
rescue planning. But more impor- ment includes a rigid litter, will it
tant, over 60% of confined-space pass through the portal with a victim
fatalities in multifatality confined- loaded? Generally, you need more than 24 inches in the small-
space incidents involve the would-be est dimension to get rigid litters to pass with a victim aboard.
rescuer. Determine the hazards of the space, which will dictate the
rescuer PPE requirements and the appropriate monitoring
By preplanning the strategies and requirements for a equipment, as well as guide what additional equipment you
potential future rescue, the rescue service is able to per- may take into the space to treat/stabilize the victim(s).
form a thorough evaluation without the pressure of having How many planned entrants are typical for the space?
to make quick decisions, as would be the case in an actual This will affect the time it may take to get everyone safely out
emergency. The level of detail in a rescue plan varies depend- of the space and may require supplied air respirators with
ing on several factors and should be determined by the res- replacement air bottles ready instead of backpack SCBAs.
cue service that completes the plan. Some, but not all, of What are the technical capabilities and the equipment
those factors include: inventory of the rescue team? By performing a compre-
•   Configuration of the space hensive rescue plan, it may reveal some gaps in training or
•   Immediate surroundings equipment that need to be closed.
Once the rescue plans have been completed, they should
become part of the confined space program and be updated
and/or reviewed as conditions, team members, or any other
factor that may affect the plan change.

128 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

SAFETY & HEALTH - MEZZ ACCESS 1-2 vert pg 2019_AD 2/7/19 2:49 PM

Photo: MELTRIC Corp. Workplace Solutions MEZZANINE ACCESS LIFTS

Energized equipment 4 Rider Scissors Lifts compliant with
and the Hierarchy of MH29.1:2012 as cited by the 2015
Controls International Building Code

QUESTION: The NFPA 70E 2018 Hierarchy of Controls places 4 Non-Rider Scissors Lifts compliant with
“elimination” at the top of the inverted pyramid. But there MH29.1:2012 as cited by the 2015
are times when working on energized equipment can’t International Building Code
be avoided. What steps can we take to increase worker
safety when electrical hazards can’t be fully eliminated? 4 VRC’s (vertical reciprocating conveyors)
Responding is Eduardo Torices, MELTRIC lead applications compliant with ASME B20.1 & The
engineer, MELTRIC Corp., Franklin, WI. Application Guidelines for Vertical
ANSWER: “NFPA 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Reciprocating Conveyors
Workplace” is recognized as the blueprint companies and
individuals follow to avoid electrical hazards. It’s a manda- 4 Package Lifts which are free-standing,
tory component of every workplace safety program. NFPA smaller & faster VRC’s
70E includes the Hierarchy of Controls. If adhered to, NFPA WE OFFER A FULL ARRAY OF CHOICES FOR
70E helps decrease the likelihood of a worker experiencing
an electrical incident or arc flash incident. EFFICIENTLY SERVICING MEZZANINES

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Article 130.2 of NFPA 70E requires equipment and machin- aVailable at
ery greater than 50 volts to be placed into an “electrically
safe work condition” before maintenance or repair work advancemezzaninelifts.com
begins. This means completely de-energizing equipment,
conductors or circuits before an employee begins work. 1-800-843-3625

However, NFPA 70E allows for energized work “if the Circle 77 on Reader Service Card
employer can demonstrate that de-energizing introduces
additional hazards or increased risk.” Energized work
should be the exception, not the rule. Only qualified per-
sons (people trained and certified for 50-plus-volt energized
work) can work on energized equipment. NFPA 70E requires

safetyandhealthmagazine.com

What's wrong with this Mask ... Workplace Solutions

documentation, including an energized electrical work
permit, for energized work. Article 130.2(B) details permit
requirements.

NOTHING!!! Approach boundaries
and arc flash assessments
You can change the cartridge position Whether equipment is energized or de-energized, another
without changing the cartridge required safety practice is to perform an arc flash assess-
ment and establish approach boundaries.
Simply adjust the cartridge to one of three positions
and then you have a half mask and cartridge that will These tasks can be time-consuming and costly; however,
fit under a face shield or welding helmet! these procedures save lives and shouldn’t be overlooked or
discounted.
Easy, convenient, efficient and safe.
Should an electrical incident result in injury or death,
Click here to see the details OSHA investigates and levies steep fines against companies
or call us to see if you qualify for a FREE sample! that don’t enforce these safety procedures.

www.dentecsafety.com Article 130 of NFPA 70E provides specific guidelines for
conducting arc flash analyses and establishing approach
and arc flash protection boundaries. Approach boundary
tables are available in Section 130.4.

® Equipment maintenance
Proper equipment and machine maintenance also help
DENTEC - Ad - 3.25_ x 4.875_ What's Wrong with this Mask.indd 1 eliminate electrical and arc flash hazards. Energized equip-
ment, including electrical cabinets, must be properly main-
tained and free of dust, dirt, oil, chemicals and other debris.
1/23/2019 12:27:02 PM These are all accelerants that, if ignited, create or extend an
arc flash incident.

Electrical boxes, cabinets and doors to electrical areas
should be locked and secured. Appropriate lockout/tagout
procedures should be followed for all equipment and
machines.

Personal protective equipment
PPE is the last line of defense against electrical and arc flash
hazards. NFPA 70E Table 130.5(G) details the appropriate
type of arc-rated clothing and PPE required based on inci-
dent energy analyses.

PPE has earned the reputation as being hot and uncom-
fortable to wear. However, today, many PPE designs are
manufactured for comfortable daily wear, using cool,
breathable fabrics.

Don’t skimp on PPE. Buy the best-rated PPE you can get,
because it might one day save your life.

Circle 78 on Reader Service Card Conclusion
See us at the NSC 2019 Congress & Expo, Booth #4003 There is no completely safe method of working hot (ener-
gized). The best practice is to fully de-energize 50-or-more-
volt equipment before work or maintenance begins. If that
is impossible, adhere to the NFPA 70E standards regarding
energized work.

To be clear, this article provides highlights of the NFPA
70E standard. To be fully informed, read and understand the
standard, live the content, and work safe.

safetyandhealthmagazine.com

Photo: Superior Glove Workplace Solutions PROTECT

The science of NEXT LEVEL OF CUSHIONING
cut-resistant gloves
MAXIMUM CUSHIONING.
QUESTION: How is glass and steel engineered into cut- RELIABLE STABILITY.
resistant gloves?
LONG-LASTING COMFORT.
Responding is Corenne Taylor, content marketing specialist, ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE.
Superior Glove, Cheektowaga, NY.
ANSWER: When you hear the words “cut-resistant gloves,” WWW.PUMA-SAFETY.COM
what comes to mind? If you picture thick, chainmail Circle 79 on Reader Service Card

gloves, you’re not alone.
However, many of

today’s most cut-resistant
gloves are just the oppo-
site – thin, form-fitting
and very comfortable. Yet,
they can still repel blades.
How is that possible?
Cut resistance meets Geometry 101
To understand the science behind cut resistance, picture
a triangle with each point representing one element of
cut-resistant technology: strength, hardness and rolling
action. These three elements form the basis of cut-resistant
technology.
On their own, each provides a base level of cut resistance,
but once you start combining them, that’s when the cut
resistance truly starts to add up.
To combine cut-resistant elements, you have to start at the
very beginning – the yarn. Looking closely at a cut-resistant
string-knit glove, it will appear to be made with only one yarn,
but it’s actually a three-ply yarn that has been engineered to
combine several elements into one.
Let’s take a look at how each element contributes to the
overall cut resistance of the whole glove.
Strength
The strength element refers to the inherent strength of the
material used to produce the yarn. In terms of protective
gloves, both para-aramid and high-performance poly ethyl-
ene (HPPE) are considered very strong fibers.
If those names sound strange, you’re probably more
familiar with their brand names, such as Kevlar (para
aramid) and Dyneema (HPPE). Although these fibers are
extremely strong, on their own they typically produce
gloves with an ANSI Cut Level 2, which is not very cut resis-
tant; however, when combined with other elements from
the cut-resistance triangle, they can produce yarn that
offers the highest levels of cut resistance.

safetyandhealthmagazine.com

Workplace Solutions

Hardness Can the axe still cut through easily? Probably not – you’ll
If you’ve ever heard of cut-resistant gloves containing glass or need to take a couple of whacks to cut it now.
steel, the hardness corner of the triangle explains how that
works. Hardness refers to the material’s ability to dull a blade Some yarns inherently contribute more than others to the
and is achieved by engineering very hard substances into the rolling action, or “slipperiness,” of the fiber. For instance,
yarn itself. If the thought of glass in your gloves makes you there is much debate over which is stronger, Kevlar or
itchy – don’t worry, you won’t feel a thing! Dyneema, but there is no question that Dyneema (or HPPE)
is more slippery than Kevlar. This inherent slipperiness
Rolling action helps blades glide over the fiber rather than cutting through
Looking closely at a three-ply yarn, you may be able to spot it. In fact, HPPE is so slippery that when it’s extruded as a
the three different pieces that make up the yarn, but what sheet, it can be used as an artificial skating rink, allowing
you won’t see are the hundreds of filament fibers that make the skate blades to glide along without cutting through.
up each piece of yarn. It is how these filament fibers move
together that helps determine the level of cut resistance. Putting it all together
On their own, none of these elements is highly cut resis-
In cut-resistant fibers there is “rolling action,” which tant – that’s why they need to work together. The most
means that the filament fibers can move loosely and the highly cut-resistant materials typically combine all three
motion absorbs some of the impact from the blade. If this in an engineering feat that allows for top-notch cut pro-
is hard to imagine, picture a rope tied taut between two tection in a form-fitting, comfortable glove.
points and trying to cut through it with an axe – cuts pretty
easily, right? Now, imagine that same rope tied to the same Editor’s Note: These articles represent the independent views of the authors
two points but instead of being taut, it’s hanging loosely. and should not be construed as National Safety Council endorsements.

Check out the Looking
Safety+Health® for safety
Buyer’s Guide products
and services?

Circle 81 on Reader Service Card 900012865 0318 © 2019 National Safety Council

132 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

Circle 80 on Reader Service Card

New Products

Portable breathing air monitor Emergency decontamination
AirGuard is a next-generation portable breathing air system that meets NFPA booth
and OSHA Grade D breathing air requirements. It provides comprehensive data Laboratory Applications Emergency
log records, and uses an audio alarm and large external color display to commu- Shower Booths are available with fin-
nicate warnings, threats and data collection. The ished side exterior panels. The booths
system integrates a three-stage filter system that are fully assembled and ready for
removes oil, water, particulate matter and odors installation to water supply and waste
with carbon monoxide, differential dew point and systems. The showers are molded of
CFM flow sensors. seamless, chemical-resistant fiberglass,
ENMET and equipped with pull-rod activation
and a push handle eye/facewash for
Circle 107 on Reader Service Card immediate drenching
of workers exposed
Personal fall limiter to hazardous chemi-
The Honeywell Miller Turbolite Flash Personal Fall Lim- cals. The shower fea-
iter is a self-retracting lifeline to protect at-height workers tures frosted front
against hazards in electrical utility, arc flash and hot work strip curtains, inte-
applications. Designed for workers who are exposed to rior grab bars, raised
arc flash, welding and other combustible dangers, the deck grating, and a
SRL is available in three configurations: for bucket trucks, bottom or rear drain
aerial lifts and standard platforms. A range of lengths, outlet.
tie-back options, swivel connectors, and single/twin ver- HEMCO Corp.
sions provide application flexibility and worker mobility.
Honeywell Circle 109 on Reader

Circle 108 on Reader Service Card Service Card

Protective coveralls Traction aid
MicroMax VP Coveralls are specifi- Stride Full Foot Ice Traction Aid provides full cover-
cally designed for protection against age for maximum traction support on ice or snow.
bloodborne pathogens and viral Forty-eight steel cleats offer superior bite and trac-
tion in all conditions. The Thermo Plastic Elastomer
exposures. From the design ensures a tension fit over all types of boots
fabric composition to but will remain flexible to 45 degrees. The open
the garment design, shank area provides total flexibility.
the MicroMax VP fam- Impacto
ily of products is ideal
for workers who may Circle 111 on Reader Service Card
come into contact with
bloodborne pathogens. Oil-resistant gloves
The coveralls include The OilShield line of oil-resistant and ANSI cut-resistant gloves are offered in four
an attached hood and models. Model 1444 is a standard drivers glove with exceptional dexterity. Model
elastic wrists and ankles 1445 is a drivers glove with a para-aramid liner for ANSI A6 cut protection and
for optimal protection, Level 4 ANSI abrasion and puncture resistance. Model 1446 (pictured) is a drivers
and pass ASTM F1670/ glove with TPR impact protection and a para-aramid liner for serious impact and
F1671 requirements for ANSI A6 cut protection, as well as Level 4 ANSI
blood and viral protection. abrasion and puncture resistance. Model 1340
Lakeland Industries is a MIG/Stick glove with a para-aramid liner and
Circle 110 on Reader Service Card Dupont Kevlar thread for excellent heat resis-
tance, as well as ANSI A7 cut protection and
Product information is provided by manufacturers. Level 4 ANSI abrasion and puncture resistance.
This publication has not independently tested John Tillman Co.
manufacturers’ products and cannot assume
responsibility for the validity of product claims. Circle 112 on Reader Service Card

134 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

Circle 82 on Reader Service Card

New Products

Arc flash harness Nitrile disposable gloves
The Blue Armor Arc Flash Harness is a durable fall protec- These Nitrile Disposable Gloves offer
tion harness specifically designed for workers who may be superior hand protection for workers
exposed to an electric arc. In the event of a fall, the built-in who need shielding from grease, dirt,
yellow handles at the seat aid in achieving the gravity over- oil, chemicals and more. The two-
ride position, reducing the potential hazards of suspension layer, 6-mm, black-and-white nitrile
trauma. It meets the ASTM F887 arc flash requirements and construction makes the glove more
both ANSI and OSHA fall protection requirements. rip- and chemical-resistant than other
Werner Co. nitrile offerings, and also helps signal
breakthrough and increase user safety.
Circle 113 on Reader Service Card These heavy-duty gloves are latex-free
and fully textured to enhance grip.
Utility knife Venom Steel
The Slice 10490 Manual Metal-Handle Utility Knife has the feel of a traditional utility
knife, with a thick, heavy-texture metal handle for a comfortable grip. Choose from Circle 115 on Reader Service Card
three cutting depths to find the safest blade length for the
job. The 10490 ships with the thin, durable 10524 Utility Blade
(rounded tip), and is compatible with the 10523 Serrated Util-
ity Blade and the 10525 Utility Blade (pointed tip). All three
blades feature a patent-pending finger-friendly edge.
Slice Inc.

Circle 114 on Reader Service Card

LLC

U.S. Pat. No. 9,121,437

Circle 43 on Reader Service Card

136 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

New Products

Traction aid Pworkplace solutionsExperts from safety equipment manufacturers and service providers answer “from the field” questions Need a solution?
TRACTION UP is a revolutionary topi- WLrooecsrpkkoopuntsl/aibtcaiplegitroryoSuogottrelacumttivisoe nclsothingExpertQssahf.U0rRf7oBEae.1mrAscS2aop.irTwNdsluopeoiIacynt5rStOrgwkfyae/drCpe6WiWuMsNtlv?aeneiatootmanieclyptsiheEr:fwmoeafngnegpbwparsSeineuAuaRntWohlboovfc.iopqraenitylco,ngiou:cARtfegeoiuoetthfuM,nvhtlchrsheisieotrnhroreaao.ntrnfltCntiiwnoaEioasemstnpoavtrrdmnislentorAcesasslnweyils.–sLlofCafm,emfieewb.eroebureauefeer,+ipfnTyen.aiouwsnmimiuiocorerltaetafnsnsenaenttisdenenuognshn.iHhTlrcmdasfehuilstrladlaonctbtf-iftuevcndeosetdtAlce;omtMipieftthpkeranbioroertiienpsrt-idreestiooitekproetccnisienenmthntr5prmeluvotvkkeriiaalgrnsdbybrdnnmaneissird6nAmrnortooiveimairsggeeit-iotgenolthyniaiwnWrsesyeteoeeutigpynmisetsiRbsovee)vnz.puynpgfnttms,vakvoihsnn.g(wocsoyxfgfbpsbaoemWyeehtaaeae.elwcpemwiTeArnaQllinddgoaoie/bkouetryurfusserihnasbonad-idn|torronseoaloTaraetrreruhpinpeeoruuntanonRuheihocentuwJoeaBishaOoceleeffcgietsnidlrsaeodtrntnfejlopeelsrhlomdletodnodgcelc)shuriidauaewxoychvaeculpdoikairorouedetsnhnasylmptnwyssr.rnhdtarovilietlcltgclecamhbeetifbmeIbhosphyciacdlcofsntsaylemporo’lnAocsthanilnlaoeiwkciaarltncudebmmhsosoiutteaeatmpeaikutekuaasetsutrrvrlalnry2ngcoaewcxnnitpnyeunoau8wsaioeaolsr:ouaadmpooisocrvvzncqoehminlosvtrenc.0cafkuaespbbegesmfoirol,ofeorv4sesdttutassoseattahdtmiecCetpooecn.oi1gonuiuuunoedr,CicofphrnsstehceetrilrkineeetmerhauntrnsntdrS2oelcayrrosnnebrerpsm.poheaeti,tet,ntyhai-eil-uaekmecorts/odes-b.aotgatertmmusnsihgthditrnmrbSaS.,rsdmilrwiraoalaeelttsskaf:scaathualdroTcedocuehuelsenlmotooceirweasoetaaiuiaiiTneepne-“mrIAngioscanmircaouletasSiene,foitvlurhttepnidbet’edfbrsmysmestsdoczqdoiogtfytdhnmauehtbpiugleogthrctnybdnddeahcfRselietfleyvueteosgepaithittehuuuosfvioocn,casiiticeaoulttrcke,frnoo’lcsfeeeaitcdtehnonfsciaietsrMlamehte.eedfisnebikhiclisiuffoeotihokmmadsastoan conv/lnvihreicdnaesnupenntmswemaanytahgireilrpoooccoA;rueedinanfeoacnteeyinreiliaiyorddtgaeniseaac.aamemltcvetapmcsgntifnbouuinoarxriecuthd+sfepssatnptbRtnteisrnpsooktlsimpcwefrinrsmnigioaaacacfaesfirnhslesttnouagrtseodletnialettitpHruls,mesdpcteowhtloaecryotkleondldeslsyolwoai/asnicaseleidrmrdmsoyspawtlflftollishplelosiutlezollnnietkysifnyoieeertoteatsqprynllum,toprtsf-eatirlnituinnutniasatdeapmeaaetleagrfdeynhanoegsnao.tolmunpshhnetotkuilndomeriasrte,wrgnsryftnrd,leaculiehgwdfisanhnrhghdeyoc,eyradlnaswtilsoiyiaseeatimsami.efdioddo-iniaa,htvnwiwtm.isnwrfnlvittgotietnte.aaagnaecfut.trttnlrhnNnlvsnnntphtballwhiyatoeewhtouieiymorogTaie-Asccinedtcevlnhuntn|dhheApoaicodrscigocigyptatvcefer-leeaalhbr,r”tsuitiern,ehitnJlesatileaotdwebeotnisraidaebtdyoae.n?tndntaeryttnthnrcensveoehrienuorwarkioaeenifbirthyeecintaulcoh,lnwpsoaiteslnaeatuwgeawsadgesnemsinavneeatenBseteatome,oaawehiipuehakitgtfassptxrqniictenhrtdohehtiisnerbrearftsf-rttdimaiinnsircAsgtadpicsoaea.teaiaemersimyrehietuhoettArttrsiehpegeansueielnamkhlicsdouui2neohdouufnriAmhnnntsotisctesRaw;resaliiqaelmscpneanatoslRanenroadeird0nageeirluasscainrdaislouiawtolcp.auasprtdceauudstnreNergsfetdnspps1gigpapssnau-nypgol.collekogttyleotoiaplwfttklqulerilnmsdotlpmek5iogpretro,-polaFtllhbteToitrtasiiecaaoerhliessnn,ofsewgwlbrsuoe-ociarCnvsirdattThavypsereciunsenpepPdohneracotebptegrouot,lchleccors“eitabociyeoknoredshhaogmhikyiosoAtalhnemtrrsaldseaflecniswnftaaeesdstnttdaoeleeae.rredeshhynopo-eiereocrreit.radmriseoaethetrindpadssck.eoaatcxme.nesoy7ribndeatiateApyanesoissn-lebrnmacedancFeAhfeoocwuromorsino.b0trastseid,tdetaarmny.atvlflapccubarolapxkbgtnenlirmr,tEnyeeritbidegraoimuahldhtimtsieeuansrosmoektsrnslectsaierivnee.tgadnajewascdoThoenemepAi,liech-tpvoPleodacnoeoe syaggeegri(bascidcksmneetihfyhgtriuairo;otR.urdavtumrarclnekty-trrichotroadfleoTeeiis-oioosc-ftamfoT-eshcei-reehnnmatutjtdwcanoeibotcnedhieluubuehuosederuyaii-hotstaneditmamysorrnilvfwvwzsouoneecpstatlpslrnaivypeopeeturonled-deossenerimra-eeneyptseslmlnareaeaeic,naoeytrlasse”fd,tvsselredtdodor,eerhkorsytpmtony.fnieauhsdfmtuadmrmqfisrgofaifnereeFhdsteaptdvio-oiogoviacuried,grttt-ndmnedetlippaieannieurtleayytetdnhtihsinyeofrn,emihfasy-miawshaniopt.oaafanemznottre-lec,pmeiratpleonielpftneportiohrp-loocnandrrdndiernyr,rtiyokrosiroksoiananc,h,i,sfaot-gTannedmszepetnbntetoltdeptresoeoeolaheyeefytdhiaa-ltrncodwfacirrrcdeoehinfoatufrsttlefetkasaeymehwyieoihzndresFrkatltvotu,cemooaellemaehe-yaRetpeiutstabarTtusshleoacohye.iemlpadtFneailhcsogsmTectf,cfToeqcllOcRspedoateyhlaoowhowncmhPukeeeopervlfeSnduyoemstdlPnevaihectoxrheleeHgpeahaemhlesleteydEpirtcodoosmpmelcgimyleecravmAeeaae.oisnpthsea elyotelrfbyn.hTtdeioipr:aalrtmuarelrsnosrcssInmeathtsiauesnnlyalnfahnophadlettulqtcqoiewryoytihwituugencewioiaeieuusafntfaenvsestoi,lerse,svpshchiidalxatituinactcmktratetldoenhidaiospsfisaeckhtolrkonhnoreekgawrluseipeserkclatme,nsoroerytswsy.egnesianroeehpnta.temhn,Tuoaasishslpustcioeidtrndaelspelh,vtllipsearteohlcorltlneilaiiioeefianttenglohofdcfiserapsuoa.haynndnrfaefsefmkaeayonAiwesucrlfeuosyseenedgn.aocfhoexcelwipfilfiedcsiaonggeeiu.qcbflnraevgbnlsfzyeyeottaiecheomeuitinget.ouvosaasscnrlcekdatcoyd nidceiakstortterheadesotoeone.entneietelbotvsyrytnsofrruvsdsomwhdtrd6,eareodsstoice,hnr/etegpe8rsnfooatpmeaetqsepol/eianadyko1eowrojtraymhn2tmuruictdtkemay,pmclaaihooie,trisvecspihs2oenpinkrwimynro:iavntl3kndw.cmsd-eaoirot9earegasoieabylP-rirrefor.tpetMieeysnenteWnhcvaeotoistkaytrsnlsatpihauoitluthawgneuioneuhtcesslmeadnastotitislp/toarhhsauplyikteilaueeiotpauhbnincanitnlgalisarehrlaaltltotfssisiwsohbyfrottuisema-iiziyofoatcclnotefiratalsetffkoegyodyltsdchsa.rtak-zehTfito-naohfuetuet.cl.lom
cal coating application that increases Do you have a question you would like
slip resistance on most hard, smooth
floor surfaces when wet. This prod- answered in Workplace Solutions?
uct is not an acid-etching product. It Email questions to [email protected].

applies millions of nano- Photo: Brady Corp.
sized spikes to all sur- Photo: Westex Inc.
faces, including floors
and footwear. A spray-
on application that any
worker can easily apply,
it’s 100% biodegrad-
able, non-caustic, PH-
neutral, NSF-approved
and safe to use even on
floors in food areas.
Traction Up
Circle 116 on Reader Service Card

“New Products” is compiled by Assistant
Editor Tracy Haas-Depa. Email her at
[email protected].

Dwoitnh’EtlPecltaryicaGlaSmafeetsy

MELTRIC Switch-Rated
plugs and receptacles
keep your operations up
and running past “go.”

HSEACRUDRWE OSARFKEITNYGFOFERET Circle 85 on Reader Service Card
SBeeoWuoWHstIhaGWtH#.NS9SKSP4ECEL5CEL/EHRIUGPHFPOEORFTOWREMAARN.UCES Safety+Health | September 2019 137

Circle 84 on Reader Service Card

See us at the NSC 2019 Congress & Expo, Booth #945
SQK-2925 Quatro Safety Boot 2.1x4.8_SH.indd 1 8/2/19 1:11 PM

safetyandhealthmagazine.com

New Products

SUPPLIER NEWS better serve current and future customer
demand.”
PROTECTIVE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
INC., a Latham, NY-based supplier of People
hand protection and general safety prod- Richfield, WI-based HY-BRID LIFTS
ucts, will be opening a 600,000-square- has welcomed Nik Fleischfresser as
foot distribution center in Olive Branch, national account manager. He will focus
MS. The center will be outfitted with on national account customers, along
with regional sales
state-of-the-art pallet locations, logis- growth and channel
tics software and hardware systems that development of Hy-Brid
will result in enhanced efficiencies on all Lifts – Custom Equip-
levels. This large, cross-docked facility ment’s line of lightweight
increases inventory holding capacity by low-level scissor lifts. He
three times. At press time, the facility previously worked in
was slated to open Sept. 1. engineering and sales
roles for various global Fleischfresser
MOUNT VERNON FR recently announced markets.
the expansion of operations at its facility
in Trion, GA. The additional 4,500 square Elyria, OH-based RIDGID recently added
feet of production space will house new
state-of-the-art flame-resistant treatment Mitch Barton to its global press connec-
equipment intended to increase Mount
Vernon FR’s production and finished fab- tion team as marketing director. Barton
ric capacity by 20%. “Our rapid growth
has presented challenges with space to will manage product development, part-
accommodate the equipment required
to manufacture an ever-expanding range ner relations and new business opportu-
of FR products,” said Mike Woods, vice
president of FR fabrics. “This addi- nities for the growing line
tional square footage will allow us to
of RIDGID press tools.

Barton brings several

decades of marketing

and product develop-

ment experience to his

new role. Previously, he

served as director of

CIVILIAN Barton global project manage-
ment for Performance

Health in Akron, OH.

Information in “Supplier News” is provided by
the featured companies.

Circle 86 on Reader Service Card Circle 87 on Reader Service Card
safetyandhealthmagazine.com
See us at the NSC 2019 Congress & Expo, Booth #5503

Photo © www.kalice.fr DUO

Powerful. Rugged. Reliable.

A rechargeable headlamp with anti-glare technology
The DUO headlamp line features a robust construction with an IP67 rating and
up to 1100 lumens of power. The design incorporates FACE2FACE functionality
that automatically dims the headlamp brightness when users are facing each
other, CONSTANT LIGHTING for ensured output and stable battery drain, and
universal helmet mounting. The DUO is perfect for team operations in demanding
environments. petzl.com

Circle 88 on Reader Service Card

Introducing the new 3M™ DBI-SALA®
Nano-Lok™ Personal Self-Retracting Lifeline

Light on
weight.
Heavy on
features.

The lightest ANSI certified SRL that
allows for knee level tie-off.

The Nano-Lok has long been the
workhorse personal SRL of the
industry. Our latest version builds on
the versatility, reliability and durability
you trust while delivering new
performance features to save time.*

� Installs 60% faster

� Easy and quick to inspect

� Nitrile rubber cover lasts 4X longer
than outgoing model

� 4 ft. overhead fall clearance per
OSHA 1910 General Industry

� Knee level or higher tie-off—
310 lbs. capacity

*Compared to previous generation. Learn more and request a demo
at 3M.com/NanoLok.
3M, DBI-SALA and Nano-Lok are trademarks of 3M.
© 3M 2019. All rights reserved.

Circle 89 on Reader Service Card. See us at the NSC 2019 Congress & Expo, Booth #4121.

New Products

Floor tape applicator
The ToughStripe Floor Tape Applicator makes
applying 2-inch vinyl and all 2- to 4-inch Tough-
Stripe tapes a breeze. Its ergonomic and light-
weight design saves workers’ backs and keeps
material changeovers fast and efficient. The
applicator collects liner as tape is being applied
to make cleanup quick and easy. Its small foot-
print means the applicator can fit into tight
spaces to save storage space.
Brady

Circle 117 on Reader Service Card

Work boots
Pulsar PVC Knee Boots have calf relief expansion
that offers workers up to 1.5 inches for more com-
fort. They feature a cutline at 12 inches for fast and
clean height modification, and are made with a
high-performance outsole and a unique blended
upper, resulting in great slip resistance and excel-
lent comfort and value.
Tingley

Circle 118 on Reader Service Card

Explosion-proof emergency system
The EXP-EMG-EXT-LE8-3L Explosion Proof Emergency System with Exit Sign is
rated for use in Class I, Divisions 1 and 2; and Class II, Divisions 1 and 2 hazardous

locations. This unit for flammable work areas features a
one-sided explosion-proof LED exit sign and two 12-watt
LEDs with a sealed lead acid battery pack for emergency
operation during power failure events. An explosion-proof
enclosure holds the electrical components at the center of
the system.
Larson Electronics LLC
Circle 119 on Reader Service Card

Circle 90 on Reader Service Card VISIT US AT NSC,
safetyandhealthmagazine.com BOOTH 4635

thinkNSA.com | 800.553.0672

Circle 91 on Reader Service Card

See us at the NSC 2019 Congress & Expo, Booth #4635

Training Calendar

This listing of National Safety Council training programs was current at the time of publication. For course and certificate
descriptions, and updated program listings for the council and its local chapters, visit nsc.org and click on “Safety Training”
at the top. Then, click on “NSC University.” Or, call NSC Customer Service at (800) 621-7619.

ADVANCED SAFETY CERTIFICATE Incident Investigation Safety Inspections

Ergonomics: Managing for Results Learn techniques to gather objective incident Learn to plan and conduct a safety inspection,
data; reveal true root causes; and determine complete inspection reports, develop recom-
Learn basic concepts of workplace ergonom- corrective action that prevents future injuries, mendations, and follow up and manage an
ics, recognize risk factors, conduct ergonomic property damage and financial loss. effective inspection program.
worksite analyses, evaluate and rank hazards, Nov. 8 – Youngstown, OH Nov. 12 – Charlotte, NC
assess control methods, and identify steps to Nov. 11 – Charlotte, NC
implement corrections. Nov. 20 – West Springfield, MA Safety Management Techniques
Nov. 4 – Birmingham, AL
Nov. 14 – Charlotte, NC Job Safety Analysis Learn to manage change, conduct audits,
work with committees, sell management on
Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene Learn to develop and manage a Job Safety safety and initiate a multiyear safety manage-
Analysis program in your workplace. Find out ment plan.
Learn about industrial hygiene and how to how to enlist participation from line employ- Nov. 18 – Denver, CO
anticipate, recognize and evaluate factors ees, supervisors and upper management.
that cause work-related illnesses. Nov. 1 – West Springfield, MA CERTIFICATE IN OSHA
Nov. 4 – Los Angeles, CA Nov. 13 – Charlotte, NC COMPLIANCE
Nov. 18 – Atlanta, GA
Nov. 18 – Rockville, MD Machine Guarding

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ADVERTISER INDEX

Circle # Advertiser Page # Circle # Advertiser Page #
60 3M..............................................................................................75 38 MELTRIC Corporation...............................................................49
89 3M............................................................................................140 85 MELTRIC Corporation.............................................................137
62 ABUS USA..................................................................................84 69 Mount Vernon FR.................................................................... 112
7 Accuform...................................................................................10 23 mPower Electronics, Inc............................................................29
77 Advance Lifts, Inc....................................................................129 20 Mr. Chain...................................................................................26
39 Afassco First Aid Products.......................................................50 193 National Association of Safety Professionals.........................144
30 Air Systems International..........................................................39 91 National Safety Apparel......................................................... 141
41 Alchemy Systems......................................................................52 67 New Pig Corporation..............................................................102
54 Aramark ....................................................................................59 71 Pacific Handy Cutter............................................................... 117
32 Avery Products Corporation....................................................41 57 Petzl America............................................................................71
2 AVO Training Institute.................................................................3 88 Petzl America..........................................................................139
192 AVO Training Institute.............................................................144 191 Power Pusher, Div. of Nu-Star Inc...........................................144
196 AVO Training Institute.............................................................144 63 Protective Industrial Products..................................................91
4 Banom.........................................................................................7 95 Protective Industrial Products................................................ 147
70 Banom..................................................................................... 115 79 PUMA Safety Shoes................................................................131
36 Black Stallion ............................................................................47 49 Pure Safety Group.....................................................................61
24 Board of Certified Safety Professionals...................................30 53 Pyramex Safety Products..........................................................66
26 Brady Worldwide, Inc................................................................32 5 Radians, Inc.................................................................................8
1 Bullard.........................................................................................2 22 Rockford Systems, LLC.............................................................28
43 Carnie Products, LLC..............................................................136 44 RPB Safety.................................................................................55
47 Coast Products, Inc...................................................................67 96 RPB Safety...............................................................................148
45 Columbia Southern Unitersity..................................................56 SafeStart....................................................................................44
78 Dentec Safety Specialist, Inc..................................................130 25 Safety Rail Company, LLC.........................................................31
48 DOD Technologies, Inc............................................................60 52 SafetySign.com.........................................................................65
73 Dräger Inc...............................................................................121 195 SafeVision................................................................................144
58 DragonWear by TrueNorth Gear..............................................72 21 SC Johnson Professional..........................................................27
92 DragonWear by TrueNorth Gear..............................................64 59 Sentry Protection Products......................................................73
190 E.A.R., Inc................................................................................144 17 SHOWA.....................................................................................23
42 Ergodyne Corporation..............................................................53 19 Skedco, Inc................................................................................25
90 ErgoShield® by Powerstep® .................................................. 141 86 Skedco, Inc..............................................................................138
68 Garmin International, Inc........................................................101 84 Skellerup.................................................................................. 137
65 Gas Clip Technologies..............................................................96 13 SPAN International Training....................................................18
10 Gateway Safety, Inc...................................................................15 12 Streamlight Inc..........................................................................17
64 GlenGuard.................................................................................92 72 Superior Glove........................................................................ 119
11 Glove Guard LP.........................................................................16 56 TexTech Industries, Protective Markets ..................................69
83 Glove Guard LP.........................................................................58 87 The Caster Master...................................................................138
18 Gulf Petrochemical Industries Co.............................................24 189 The Safety Knife Company.....................................................144
14 Haws Corporation.....................................................................19 28 ThermOmega Tech...................................................................37
3 HYTEST Safety Footwear............................................................4 75 ThermOmega Tech.................................................................125
31 Impacto Protective Products....................................................40 61 Tingley Rubber Co....................................................................76
8 Industrial Scientific Corporation..............................................13 33 Tyndale......................................................................................42
76 Industrial Scientific Corporation............................................126 46 Ultra-Safe, Inc............................................................................54
16 J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.....................................................22 29 University of Alabama at Birmingham......................................38
9 Liberty Mutual Insurance..........................................................14 40 W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.....................................................51
15 Marlin.........................................................................................20 27 Wooster Products, Inc..............................................................36
55 MCR Safety................................................................................68 194 Working Concepts..................................................................144

safetyandhealthmagazine.com Safety+Health | September 2019 145

My Story

Safety+Health readers share how they got into the EHS field

MY STORY BEGAN A LONG TIME AGO. I worked con- about the lack of safety and the push for production
struction and as an equipment operator after leaving over safety.
the Army in 1977, where I had served in the infantry as
a medic. I saw some things on many jobsites that made The company hired a new safety manager and he
me wonder, but I had no idea how to address any of my approached me one day. He asked if I would like to
observations. put my energy to good use. He asked if I would like to
be something more than just a loud voice for change,
Then I got hired by an oil refinery, where I worked as would I like to become an instrument of change? I took
a laborer and then a process unit operator. As an oper- the position he was offering and the rest is my history
ator, I saw some mismanaged and poorly managed as a safety professional.
maintenance and operations activities, things that quite honestly I had a lot to learn when I took the job in 1984 and, honestly, I
scared me. Equipment that was on the verge of failure being pushed still have a lot to learn. This career field chose me and I have never
to continue operations and production. Daily mishaps, including for a second regretted my decision. It is unfortunate that in my time
fires and hazardous materials releases. Coming to work expecting to at that refinery I attended 10 funerals – all of them for my friends,
see smoke and flames on the horizon was common. co-workers and recreational sports buddies. But, I use the lessons I
learned from each of those tragedies to ensure that as long as I have
I volunteered to return to the labor gang and get out of pro- a say, it never happens to anyone ever again. Not on my watch.
cessing. I even took a cut in pay. Shortly after leaving the catalytic
cracking unit where I was a qualified operator, that unit burned Daniel J. Hughes
to the ground, killing a man I truly respected. We had carpooled SH&E Manager
together. I knew his wife and child, and we had spent time fishing Reelsville, IN
on the creek together. I was devastated and became very vocal

I AM A 33-YEAR-OLD WOMAN with a big heart and a strong passion Kotzebue, the Alyeska Trans-Alaska Pipeline, the Petro Star Refinery
for safety. I originally went to college for economics at the University in Valdez, and the Andeavor Refinery in Kenai, to the Sitka Aquatics
of Southern Maine. After some personal struggles and a divorce, I Center and Kodiak Library, I have had part in the safety and health
moved back to Alaska for a fresh start. At that time, I was offered a of Alaskans far and wide. I work with an air cargo firm, telecommuni-
very temporary summer position as an administrative assistant to a cations and beyond. 
safety director. I fell in love with safety within the first few weeks, and
decided to transfer my credits to Trinidad State Junior College and As the owner and president of SafeLogic Alaska LLC, I oversee a
pursue my associate degree in occupational safety and health.  team of six professionals who assist me in serving all of my clients.
Aside from sending home my friends and neighbors to their families
From that point on, I became a leader, a mentor and a known each night, I take an extreme amount of
driving force in the safety industry in Alaska. At the age of 27, after pride in the work I do that changes the
spending five years in the oil and gas industry, I became the safety safety and health culture within my cli-
manager at the Eklutna Generation Station Project in Eklutna, AK. ents’ organizations. From implementing
This $265 million dual-fuel power generation plant project diversi- voluntary OSHA partnership programs
fied and expanded my knowledge and stretched my capabilities. to safety management systems with the
I was able to shine, demonstrating my abilities to lead the project Federal Aviation Administration, these
staff, including three to six other safety professionals. It was during partnerships and my work mean a safer
this project five years ago that I finished my associate degree and workplace.
also achieved my CSP certification. 
I also use my position and resources
At the end of this project, I turned to consulting and have worked of my business to advocate youth sports and sponsor teams in the
with clients throughout Alaska and multistate clients in a multitude community, provide discounted or free CPR and first aid certifica-
of industries and locations. From the Alaska Airlines terminal in tions to certain groups, and other community service projects. 

Randee Johnson
Corporate Safety Manager
Anchorage, AK

What’s your story?

Email us at [email protected] with the subject line
“My Story.” You may be featured in an upcoming
issue of Safety+Health.

146 Safety+Health | September 2019 safetyandhealthmagazine.com

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