Electrical Safety

Electrical Safety

May 19, 2023 | Safety

Introduction:

Electricity is a powerful and essential source of energy that we rely on for various tasks. However, it can also pose significant risks if not handled properly. By understanding electrical hazards, implementing mitigation techniques, and utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), we can prevent accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. In this toolbox talk, we will highlight key points of electrical safety, including hazards, mitigation techniques, and the importance of using PPE to promote a safe working environment.

Electrical Hazards

Electrical hazards can be present in various forms in the workplace. It is important to be aware of these hazards to prevent accidents and injuries. Some common electrical hazards include:

  • Exposed Wires: Exposed electrical wires pose a risk of electrical shock and should be reported immediately.
  • Faulty Equipment: Equipment with damaged cords, plugs, or switches can cause electrical hazards and should be repaired or replaced promptly.
  • Overloaded Circuits: Overloading circuits with excessive electrical load can lead to overheating and fires.
  • Wet Conditions: Working with electricity in wet conditions increases the risk of electrical shock.  Mitigation Techniques
    • To mitigate electrical hazards and promote safety, it is important to implement the following techniques:
    • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): LOTO procedures should be followed when working on electrical equipment. LOTO involves de-energizing and isolating equipment from its power source to prevent accidental energization during maintenance or repairs.
    • Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): GFCIs help protect against electrical shock by monitoring the flow of electricity and quickly shutting off power if a ground fault is detected.
    • Insulation and Grounding: Ensuring proper insulation of wires and equipment helps prevent electrical shock. Proper grounding reduces the risk of electrical faults and provides a safe pathway for electrical curand Installationrents.
    • Proper Wiring : Electrical wiring and equipment should be installed by qualified professionals following appropriate codes and standards. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to identify and rectify any issues promptly.

     Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

    Using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial when working with electricity. Some commonly used PPE includes:

    • Rubber Gloves: Insulating rubber gloves provide protection against electrical shock when working with energized equipment or electrical systems.
    • Rubber Matting: Rubber mats or insulating floor coverings can be used to create an electrically safe work area, reducing the risk of electrical shock.
    • Insulated Tools: Insulated tools have non-conductive handles and provide an extra layer of protection when working on or near live electrical parts.
    • Flame-Resistant Clothing: In situations where arc flash or fire hazards are present, flame-resistant clothing helps protect against burns and injuries.

    Safe Work Practices

    In addition to PPE, following safe work practices is essential for electrical safety:

    • Never work on live electrical parts unless it is absolutely necessary and all appropriate precautions have been taken.
    • Conduct regular inspections of electrical cords, plugs, and equipment for any damage or signs of wear.
    • Keep work areas clean and free of clutter to reduce the risk of trips and falls.
    • Follow manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for the proper use and maintenance of electrical equipment.
    • Never use metal objects, such as screwdrivers or knives, to remove fuses or reset breakers.
    • If you do plan on working on Energized Parts and Equipment, ensure you have proper NFPA 70E Arc Flash Training.  B42L Training conducts regular NFPA 70E Arc Flash Training at its Training center or at your facility. Inquire for more information today!

    Conclusion:

    Electrical safety is of utmost importance in the workplace. By recognizing electrical hazards, implementing mitigation techniques, and utilizing appropriate PPE such as rubber gloves, rubber matting, and insulated tools, we can protect ourselves and others from electrical accidents and injuries. Remember to follow safe work practices, report any electrical hazards promptly, and prioritize safety at all times. Together, we can create a safe working environment where electrical incidents are prevented, and everyone can go home safely at the end of the day.

      Purchase Electrical Safety PPE HERE
      Tick Safety

      Tick Safety

      May 12, 2023 | Health

      As the weather gets warmer, many of us will spend more time outdoors enjoying activities such as hiking, camping, and gardening. Unfortunately, spending time in wooded or grassy areas also puts us at risk of coming into contact with ticks. Ticks are small arachnids that attach themselves to the skin and can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tick-borne encephalitis. In this toolbox talk, we will discuss the importance of tick safety and the precautions you can take to protect yourself.

      Identification

      The first step in protecting yourself from ticks is to be able to identify them. Ticks are small, flat, and oval-shaped. They can range in size from a poppy seed to a small grape. They are most active in the spring and summer months, but can be active all year round in some areas. Ticks can be found in wooded and grassy areas, as well as in your own backyard.

      Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

      When working or spending time in areas where ticks may be present, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes long-sleeved shirts, long pants tucked into socks, and closed-toe shoes. Clothing should be light-colored, as it makes it easier to spot ticks.

      Repellents

      In addition to wearing appropriate clothing, you can also use repellents to help keep ticks away. There are many different types of repellents available, including those that contain DEET, picaridin, or permethrin. Be sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully. Apply repellents to exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors.

      Tick Checks

      After spending time outdoors, it is important to do a thorough tick check. Ticks like to hide in warm, moist areas such as the groin, armpits, and scalp. Make sure to check these areas carefully, as well as behind the ears, inside the belly button, and around the waistband. If you find a tick attached to your skin, use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out.

      Tick Removal and Disposal

      If you find a tick attached to your skin, it is important to remove it as soon as possible. The longer the tick remains attached, the greater the risk of disease transmission. Use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out. Do not twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. Once the tick is removed, dispose of it in a sealed container or flush it down the toilet.

      Monitoring for Symptoms

      Even with proper precautions, it is still possible to contract a tick-borne illness. If you experience any symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, or a rash after spending time outdoors, it is important to seek medical attention. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider that you may have been exposed to ticks.

      Conclusion:

      Ticks can be a serious health hazard, but by taking the proper precautions and being aware of the risks, you can protect yourself and enjoy the great outdoors. Remember to wear appropriate PPE, use repellents, perform tick checks, and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms. Stay safe and have fun!

        DOT Road Blitz 2023

        DOT Road Blitz 2023

        May 5, 2023 | Safety

        DOT Drivers are required to ensure their vehicles are in top working order every day of the year by completing pre- and post-trip inspections and reporting any concerns to their management for remediation. But from Tuesday, May 16 – Thursday, May 18, 2023, drivers should take extra precautions.

        Those are the dates for this year’s Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) International Roadcheck. Over the course of 72 hours, law enforcement officials will conduct more than 50,000 commercial motor vehicle inspections (CMV) in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

        Items that will be checked

        • Anti-lock Break System
        • Inspectors will determine whether a vehicle requires ABS or not 
        • Ensure the ABS lamp cycles on and off
        • Check for signs of an ABS malfunction, such as:
        • Lamps that don’t light up
        • Lamps that remain on during transit

        An ABS malfunction is not an out-of-service (OOS) vehicle violation. However, other braking system infractions accounted for over 25% of all OOS vehicle violations written during the 2022 International Road Check. A properly functioning ABS prevents wheels from locking up or skidding. This allows a driver to maintain control of their CMV while performing a hard braking maneuver and can reduce the risk of collisions.

         

        To check for cargo securement violations, inspectors will:

        • Ensure spare tires, loads, cargo and dunnage can’t fall, blow, spill, leak, roll or shift
        • Confirm you have enough tie-downs for the weight and length of items you’re transporting. (The general rule: One tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo.)
        • Check for loose, torn, damaged, bent or knotted tie-downs
        • Inspect anchor points and structures for damage
        • Verify commodity-specific cargo is secured in accordance with regulations
        • Improper or inadequate cargo accounted for almost 11% of all vehicle OOS violations during last year’s International Road Check. Drivers should check load securement as often as possible and at a minimum every time they exit the cab.

         

        Three quick tips to help you pass an inspection:

        1. Perform thorough pre- and post-trip inspections. Make sure everything inside and outside your truck is in optimum working order. If you notice any defects, let dispatch know immediately so they can be fixed.
        2. Follow all best practices for CMV drivers. If you get selected for a North American Standard Level I Inspection, you will undergo a vehicle and driver safety check. Make sure your license and hours-of-service paperwork are up to date. Know where to find vehicle insurance and the location of your annual inspection sticker. Wear your seatbelt. Drive sober.
        3. Leave nothing to chance. Pack extra tie-downs. Secure every item in the cab (blocks, shovels, fire extinguishers, etc.). Make sure the doors to the cab and trailer, tailgates, stakes and locks close properly.
        Building a Successful Safety Culture

        Building a Successful Safety Culture

        May 1, 2023 | Professional

        Introduction:

        Building a successful safety culture is a simple task, but why is it so hard to accomplish? Over the years the B42L staff has worked with stellar safety cultures, and some that needed some help. Here are some trends we see.

        Understaffed In House Teams

        Some businesses are stuck in what we call “the in between stage”. They don’t necessarily have the need for a full-time safety professional, and if they do, the safety professional is swamped. Additionally, safety as a function can be dumped onto HR’s lap. Although some HR Managers do a great job at the juggling act, we have seen many HR Managers get equally as burnt out trying to perfect a positive safety culture and fulfill their core set of HR tasks.

        Even if a positive safety culture is achieved, it is normally gone with the wind when overall business priorities shift.

         

        Management Commitment

        In certain cases, management is not committed to safety. Although this is becoming less common, there are certain organizations that “check the box” of safety to “check the box”. The business is not affected by injuries/incidents, and management views safety from a compliance perspective. These compliance based cultures, typically do not change unless there is a severe injury or fatality. It is unfortunate that some businesses still operate in this manner, however we have found that when safety is prioritized and management is sold on the idea, even the worst safety cultures can improve.

        Complex Businesses

        The workload for a safety professional can be exhausting. There are only so many hours in the day and we have seen businesses who specialize in many different operations tend to succeed in certain areas, but struggle in others. The safety professionals in these scenarios tend to focus their energy on the positive aspects of the business, and hope nothing goes wrong with the other arms of the business. They tend to have a generally positive outlook on safety, but disorganization can interrupt positive changes.

        Quick Growth

        Growth in business is always exciting. However, if companies scale too quickly, or do not calculate safety into their growth, a poor safety culture can quickly shut the entire operation down. Management can be committed to safety in these scenarios, but it can get overshadowed with quick expansion, or newfound territories. These businesses typically have great intentions, but the old expression is, “Don’t put the cart in front of the horse”. Safety staff, systems, procedures, and policies need to be accounted for anytime there is sudden growth in an organization.

        Post Incidents

        We have seen businesses with “knock out” safety programs suddenly get flipped upside down after an incident occurs. The improper management of incidents can leave a bad taste for both employees, and customers. Unfortunately there are scenarios where one incident results in the loss of a key account, leading to the loss of jobs awards, and projects. The lack of work and productivity can tarnish all of the programs that were previously implemented and the safety culture falls apart.

        Fractional Partnerships Promote Healthy Safety Cultures

        Working with a safety consultant can seem unnecessary, and at times is!  Other times, working with a safety consultant can be the missing piece in the success of your safety culture. If you do decide to work with a safety consultant, your team can benefit by focusing on the items you have augmented out to computer-based training, safety videos, and webinars.

        Feedback we have received from dozens of partners is that computer based training, and safety videos do not provide the value they were told they would receive.

        When you work with a partner who is dedicated to your operation, your needs, and provides solutions, your employees notice that action. They appreciate the investment regardless of what brand is printed on the hard hat. However, the safety consultant better believe in what they are doing.

        There are horror stories of safety consultants who are not invested in their customers. They show up, do the bare minimum, and go home.

        At B42L Safety Consulting, we are passionate about the work we perform. We value our partners, and we value their people. As second generation safety professionals, our team is dedicated to its mission of “Helping others save lives”. For this reason alone, we have organically grown into the most sought out, and respected Safety Consulting Company in the PA/WV/OH Tri-State Area. Our partners believe in us, and we work tirelessly to provide both common sense, and complex solutions to their unique challenges. 

         

        Working with B42L Safety Consulting

        Some Safety Consulting companies only allow you to utilize the work they perform if you have an existing contract.  We believe you don’t solve one problem just to create another one. When you partner with B42L Safety Consulting, understand that if you decide to part ways, you own the work we deliver. We are confident that when we deliver services, you’ll ask yourself how else we can aid you. 

        Inquire about our Fractional Partnerships Today!

        Call 412-216-9427 or email info@b42l.com

         

        Chemical Spills & Cleanup

        Chemical Spills & Cleanup

        Apr 28, 2023 | Safety

        Introduction:

        Chemical spills can pose a serious risk to the safety and health of workers in any workplace. Chemical spills can occur due to various reasons such as poor handling, improper storage, and equipment failure. In order to prevent chemical spills and minimize the risks associated with them, it is important for workers to understand the risks associated with chemicals and take necessary precautions to prevent spills from occurring. This toolbox talk will discuss how to prevent chemical spills through engineering and administrative controls, and how to safely clean up basic spills in the workplace.

        Engineering Controls

        Engineering controls are the first line of defense against chemical spills. These controls are put in place to prevent spills from occurring by eliminating or reducing the hazards associated with handling chemicals. Some of the engineering controls that can be put in place to prevent chemical spills include:

        Storage: Proper storage of chemicals is essential to prevent spills. Chemicals should be stored in designated areas that are well-ventilated, well-lit, and away from sources of heat or ignition. Chemicals should also be stored in appropriate containers that are labeled, sealed, and in good condition.

        Secondary Containment: Secondary containment is used to prevent spills from spreading beyond the area where the chemical is stored or used. This can be achieved by using spill containment pallets, bund walls, or dikes.

        Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent the buildup of vapors that can cause explosions or fires. Ventilation can be provided through natural or mechanical means such as fans or exhaust systems.

        Equipment Design: Equipment used to handle chemicals should be designed to prevent spills. This can include using spill-proof containers, using equipment with automatic shutoff valves, and using equipment that is resistant to corrosion or chemical attack.

        Administrative Controls

        Administrative controls are measures that are put in place to reduce the risk of chemical spills through proper training, communication, and work practices. Some of the administrative controls that can be implemented to prevent chemical spills include:

        Training: Workers who handle chemicals should be trained on proper handling techniques, spill response procedures, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

        Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): SOPs should be developed for all chemical handling and storage activities. These procedures should include instructions for proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals, as well as spill response procedures.

        Communication: Workers should be informed of the potential hazards associated with the chemicals they handle and the appropriate measures to prevent spills. Signs and labels should be used to identify hazardous areas and indicate the location of spill response equipment.

        Housekeeping: Good housekeeping practices can help prevent spills by keeping work areas clean and free of clutter. Chemical spills should be cleaned up immediately and spills should be reported to the appropriate personnel.

        Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

        Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for workers who handle chemicals to protect them from chemical exposure and to prevent chemical spills. The type of PPE needed will depend on the type of chemical being handled, the potential for exposure, and the task being performed. Some of the PPE that may be required to prevent chemical spills include:

        Gloves: Gloves are essential for protecting hands while handling chemicals and during spill clean ups. Different types of gloves offer different levels of protection, such as cut-resistant gloves, chemical-resistant gloves, and impact-resistant gloves. It is important to always check the SDS of the chemical you intent to work with and see what type of glove is recommended to safely handle the chemical.

        Eye and Face Protection: Eye and face protection, such as safety glasses, goggles, or face shields, should be worn to protect workers from chemical splashes or sprays.

        Respiratory Protection: Respiratory protection, such as respirators or air-purifying devices, may be necessary to protect workers from breathing in hazardous chemicals.

        Protective Clothing: Protective clothing, such as coveralls, or chemical resistant suits provide the worker complete body protection from chemical burns. 

        Cleaning Up Spills

        Once you have taken the initial steps to contain the spill and notified the appropriate personnel, it’s important to follow proper procedures for cleaning up the spill. Here are some additional steps to take:

        1. Determine the Severity of the Spill

        Before attempting to clean up a spill, it’s important to determine the severity of the spill. If the spill is minor, meaning it is small and does not pose a significant risk to health or the environment, then you may be able to clean it up yourself with the proper PPE and equipment. If the spill is more severe, meaning it is large or poses a significant risk, then you should evacuate the area and call for professional assistance.

        1. Identify the Chemical Involved

        It’s important to identify the chemical involved in the spill so that you can take the appropriate measures to clean it up. Different chemicals require different cleanup methods and PPE. You can usually find information about the chemical on the product label or SDS (Safety Data Sheet).

        1. Select the Appropriate PPE

        Before beginning the cleanup process, ensure that you have the appropriate PPE. This will include gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection, depending on the chemical involved. You may also need to wear a full body suit, boots, and other protective gear.

        1. Ventilate the Area

        Ensure that the area is properly ventilated before beginning the cleanup process. This will help to disperse any vapors or gases that may be present.

        1. Contain the Spill

        Using the appropriate absorbent materials, contain the spill and prevent it from spreading. Be sure to follow proper disposal procedures for the absorbent materials, as they may be considered hazardous waste.

        1. Clean Up the Spill

        Using the appropriate cleanup materials and procedures, clean up the spill. Be sure to dispose of any contaminated materials properly, and follow all safety procedures.

        1. Decontaminate the Area

        After cleaning up the spill, it’s important to decontaminate the area to ensure that there are no remaining hazards. This may involve using a special cleaning solution or chemical, or it may involve simply washing the area with soap and water.

        Conclusion

        Chemical spills can be dangerous and can cause harm to people and the environment. It’s important to take steps to prevent spills from occurring in the first place, and to have a plan in place to respond to spills if they do occur. By following proper procedures for spill prevention and cleanup, you can help to keep yourself and others safe in the workplace.

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