National Safety Month: 5 Tips for a Safer Work Force

1. Prevent musculoskeletal disorders. Tools designed to work with the body’s natural movements can minimize the risk for developing musculoskeletal disorders. Consider investing in ergonomic equipment and examining work design to help reduce worker fatigue, increase productivity and avoid injuries and strains. 2. Respect and prepare for invisible confined space hazards. Atmospheric hazards might not be visible to the human eye, but they are all too common in manholes. Before heading into a manhole, practice OSHA’s “test, purge and ventilate” routineto ensure that the space is free of combustible gases and has ample oxygen. 3. Be visible on the road. The most recent Bureau of Labor statistics show that 220 workers were struck and killed by a vehicle in 2010. Whether repairing a cable line on the side of a highway or directing traffic around a construction site, high-visibility clothing and equipment can prevent these devastating incidents. 4. Take ladder safety a step higher. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, approximately 65,000 workers go to the hospital every year due to ladder-related accidents. Before using a ladder, inspect it for broken rungs, missing bolts and other broken parts and make sure it is placed on level ground. When climbing up and down, face the ladder while holding onto the sides. Use a ladder wedge to help keep the ladder steady. 5. Keep your cool. Take preventative measures when working in the summer heat. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks and wear lightweight clothing. Tents and umbrellas also can help safeguard workers from the beating sun. “As we continue to observe National Safety Month, we encourage organizations in all industries to make an extra effort to examine their current safety initiatives and ensure that they are taking the best possible measures to keep workers safe,” said Russ Mason III, vice president of sales at U-Teck. Read more here.