Blood-borne Pathogens

Blood-borne pathogens are micro-organisms in the blood or other body fluids that can cause illness and disease in people. These micro-organisms can be transmitted through contact with contaminated blood and other bodily fluids.

The most common diseases spread by bodily fluids are:

• Hepatitis B (HBV) – An infectious inflammatory illness of the liver
• Hepatitis C (HCV) – A viral disease that leads to inflammation of the liver
• HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) – A viral disease that gradually destroys the immune system, which makes it harder for the body to fight infections.
• Hemorrhagic fevers – Hemorrhage is the medical term for bleeding, usually excessive bleeding. Hemorrhagic diseases are caused by, or result in bleeding. Most hemorrhagic fevers e.g. Dengue hemorrhagic fever, Ebola hemorrhagic fever, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, etc.; are fairly uncommon in the USA.

Blood-borne pathogens are most frequently transferred by the following methods:

• Blood transfusions (not common in the United States)
• Direct contact with blood in health care settings
• Sexual contact with an infected person
• Tattoo or acupuncture with unclean needles or instruments
• Shared needles during drug use
• Shared personal items (such as toothbrushes, razors, and nail clippers) with an infected person

Many blood-borne diseases can be lethal, and it is impossible to tell what pathogens any given blood or other bodily fluids contain, so they all should be treated as if they carry infectious disease. You must protect yourself if you come in contact with any bodily fluids, including blood. You may have to help someone who has been injured, or you may be the one who has to clean up after an injury.

Always remember to protect yourself first! Use Latex or Nitrile gloves; a face shield or other eye protection; and if at all possible a gown or other disposable garb. If you are cleaning up after an injury, remember to use a mixture of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water, saturate the area and let it sit for about 15 minutes, clean area and place cleaning rags in a plastic bag, and lightly spray area again and let air dry. Remove your gloves and place them in the same plastic bag and double bag the waste. Call your local non-emergency number for the fire department and ask what the proper disposal protocol for your area is and follow it. Remember to wash your hands, face and any other area that may have been affected during clean up. Scrub good and for no less than 20 seconds!

This is a serious subject, and a more than a little frightening, but there are a lot of myths to debunk. Pathogens are not transmitted by touching an infected person; through coughing or sneezing; by using the same equipment, materials, toilets, water fountains or showers.

Remember, using good personal hygiene and safe work practices are your best defenses.

Sources: PubMed Health, Bloodborne Pathogens, Wikipedia – Blood-borne Disease

- Cherie

Do You Really Need an Energy Drink?

Energy drinks are coming off the shelves at an alarming rate and the majority of them are purchased by, but not limited to, people under the age of 25. Two of my children, one by birth and one by choice, are in their 30’s and enjoy their occasional energy drinks. A local coffee stand makes a smoothie out of them and you can go into about any bar, if you’re old enough, and have a mixed drink that contains them.

Most of these drinks contain more sugar and in most cases many times the amount of caffeine as in a soda or cup of coffee. There are studies that indicate that excessive caffeine from energy drinks can cause adverse reactions such as arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeats; hypertension, or high blood pressure; dehydration and other more serious medical conditions. Combining energy drinks with alcohol or drugs, either prescription or illegal, raises the risk of serious, even life-threatening injury, as well as the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors such as driving under the influence.

Many people reading this article will probably know at least one person that has had a doctor or hospital visit, or should have seen a doctor, for adverse reactions caused from drinking energy drinks. I personally know two, one in his late 20’s, who started drinking them in junior high school and now has problems with arrhythmia, and one in his 60’s who was severely dehydrated and hospitalized for over a week. We thought we were going to lose him!

Check out the following website and find out how much caffeine your drink of choice or energy candy has:

http://www.energyfiend.com/the-caffeine-database

In Pediatrics: Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics February 14, 2011 edition, there is a 20 page study on the “Health effects of Energy Drinks on Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults”, that says

“…according to surveys, energy drinks are consumed by 30% to 50% of adolescents and young adults. Frequently containing high and unregulated amounts of caffeine, these drinks have been reported in association with serious adverse effects, especially in children, adolescents and young adults with seizures, diabetes, cardiac abnormalities, or mood and behavioral disorders or those who take certain medications. Of the 5,448 US caffeine overdosed reported in 2007, 46% occurred in those younger than 19 years.”

“Energy drinks used in excess or in combination with alcohol or drugs can pose a serious health risk,” said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde. “The beverage industry, consumer groups, community coalitions, the healthcare community, teachers, parents and others must get the word out that quick fix energy drinks are not a solution and carry great risks, especially in combination with other substances of abuse. Sleep, exercise and a healthy diet rather than stimulants in a beverage are the keys to quality performance, sustained success, and overall wellness.”

If you really need more energy, try eating healthy foods; like fruits and veggies, drinking good old fashioned milk or orange juice, exercise and get the recommended amount of sleep. It may take a couple weeks to really feel it, but you will eventually feel it. Most importantly, when you get to be my age, you will feel better for it.

Sources: Pediatrics: Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

- Cherie

Ocean Companies Safety Tip of the Week – Eating Healthy

Eating Healthy

When you say “Diet” most people think weight loss. Diet is actually just what you eat every day. You can change your diet to lose weight, gain weight or just to get healthier. The diet you eat may determine if you develop chronic disease or remain healthy. Most of the people I know usually skip breakfast; grab something quick and easy for lunch, maybe a burrito or chicken out of the deli; and dinner is pretty much a full plate. In between all this are bags of chips and sodas or numerous cups of coffee.

What’s wrong with this picture?

You start the day running, on no fuel and end it by fueling up when you’re shutting your engine down. Unlike a car or a boat, that fuel changes while you sleep and does not keep you going the next day Most of the foods are high in sugar or fat and salt. And I hear people all the time tell me caffeine doesn’t affect their sleep. People who don’t get the proper amount of sleep will usually pack on the pounds. Caffeine is fine in moderation but over doing it, more that 3 or 4 cups (24 to 32 ounces) of coffee or soda, really does affect your sleep pattern.

“Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper”

Quote by Adelle Davis

Studies have been done and we tend to ignore them. Students do better in school and workers do better at work if they have had a good breakfast. Feed your body, feed your brain. It makes sense to start your day with a good breakfast so you have the energy to help your brain function at full capacity. What makes a good breakfast? According to http://www.eatright.org/  by the American Dietetic Association you can “Power Up with Breakfast” by eating things like the following:

• Make plain instant oatmeal with milk instead of water. Mix in raisins or dried cranberries. Top with walnuts. (for those of you who don’t like fish, walnuts are high in Omega3 oil)
• Layer low fat yogurt with your favorite crunchy (low sugar of course) cereal and sliced fruit or berries.
• Mix up a breakfast smoothie in the blender with low-fat milk (if you use soy, watch how much sugar and fat is in it) frozen strawberries and a banana.
• Buy a good whole-grain cereal (read the portion size on the box!) and top a bowl of it with sliced peaches and blueberries. Add low-fat milk and your good to go!
• Top a whole-grain toaster waffle with low-fat yogurt and fruit.
• Spread a low carb tortilla with peanut butter. Add a whole small banana and roll it up.
• Add lean ham and low-fat Swiss cheese to a toasted whole-grain English muffin.
• Break out of the norm and try almond butter on a toasted whole-grain bagel with apple slices.
• Take a half cup of left over white or brown rice, mix in some low-fat yogurt, dried chopped fruit and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Now those may not seem like breakfast for a king, but they are quick, easy and packed with the nutrients your body needs to get going.

If you pack your lunches the night before, or maybe spend a little time on the weekend preparing your lunches, you can make delicious, healthy lunches that keep you energized and your brain working more efficiently without succumbing to the desire of wanting instant food. The following ideas for healthy lunches come from  http://www.hivehealthmedia.com/healthy-lunch-ideas-work/  and most are very easy to prepare:

• Soup and a sandwich made with low-fat meat and/or cheese (such as ham, turkey, tuna packed in water, etc.) and bring soup. If you buy the soup, watch for sodium content. There are many soups out there now that you can pop the lid off and stick in the microwave. However, soup is very easy to make and packing a serving of homemade soup to warm up at work is a very comforting thing.
• Peanut butter and banana sandwich. You can put this on good whole-grain bread or wrap it in a low carb tortilla.
• Put a good tuna or chicken salad in a container and bring some large lettuce leaves to have a delicious bunch of lettuce wraps. Eat a string cheese with it, or add it to the wrap.
• For an easy cheese quesadilla take a low carb tortilla, lightly brush one side with olive oil, fill one half of the un-oiled side with cheese and grill it, folding it in half.  This can be warmed up in the microwave at work. Throw in a selection of crunchy veggies of all colors, such as: Baby carrots; cucumbers; broccoli; cauliflower; zucchini; red, yellow, orange, and green bell peppers; and etc. and take an assortment.
• Hummus and veggies from the list above or add some other favorites.
• Leftovers are the most affordable lunch, since we usually end up throwing a lot of leftovers away each year, bringing them to work save you from throwing good food away as well as keeping you from spontaneously spending money on a high fat and sodium fast food lunch.
• Frozen meals. Despite the negative stigma attached to them, there are really some good options to choose from. Just make sure you read the nutritional information on the meals to make sure they are meeting your nutritional needs and are not full of things you don’t need.
• Salad is always a good choice and there are so many kinds to choose from. You can make a roasted veggie salad with grilled chicken and light vinaigrette, mixed greens with dried cranberries and walnuts (also good with grilled chicken), you can add low-fat grated cheese, etc. the possibilities are endless. Be very careful of the dressings you use and how much you put on it, they can be filled with fat.

Now you have had a “Power Up” breakfast and a healthy lunch, now we are going to talk about healthy dinners and we will finish up with some good snacking ideas.

• Beer battered fish tacos with a fresh made salsa, maybe add avocado to the mix.
• Chili rubbed steak.
• Light homemade soup, such as chicken broth with cubed grilled chicken and spinach or other vegie of your choice.
• Lettuce wraps filled with leftover cooked meat and low fat grated cheese.
• Take a pita or a tortilla and spread some marinara or alfredo sauce on it and add grilled chicken and chopped fresh basil and top with thin sliced mozzarella and broil it until the cheese melts.

Snacks are a must. You should eat within an hour of waking and never go more than 3 hours without food. Just remember, watch your portions or you will pack on the pounds. Your body and mind will thank you.

• A quarter cup Nuts. Nuts contain protein and fiber that help fight hunger pangs, as well as almonds contain vitamin E, walnuts omega3 oils, peanuts contain folate (a B vitamin) and niacin.
• 5 olives, any kind
• 1 hearty multi-grain cracker spread with hummus (maybe add a slice of avocado)
• Carrot sticks and a quarter cup hummus
• Cucumber slices
• Black bean salsa and celery sticks
• Celery sticks and cheese spread  or peanut butter
• 1 oz. mozzarella cheese and a half cup cherry or grape tomatoes
• Apple slices and peanut butter

How and what you eat will determine how you feel, both physically and mentally, Eating foods high in fats will slow you down, high in sugar will pick you up for a little while, but will leave you more tired than when you started and too much caffeine will keep you from a good night sleep and people who don’t get enough sleep tend to gain weight. Even if you only replace some of your less healthy foods with better choices you gain in health. If you take nothing else from this article I hope you eat your breakfast.

Sources: The importance of Breakfast, EatRight.org, Healthy Lunch Ideas for Work

- Cherie

HAZARD RECOGNITION

Tools are such a common part of our lives that it is difficult to remember that they may pose hazards. All tools are manufactured with safety in mind but, tragically, a serious accident often occurs before steps are taken to search out and avoid or eliminate tool-related hazards.

In the process of removing or avoiding the hazards, workers must learn to recognize the hazards associated with the different types of tools and the safety precautions necessary to prevent those hazards.

HAND TOOLS

Hand tools are non-powered. They include anything from axes to wrenches. The greatest hazards posed by hand tools result from misuse and improper maintenance.
Some examples:

• Using a screwdriver as a chisel may cause the tip of the screwdriver to break and fly, hitting the user or other employees.
• If a wooden handle on a tool such as a hammer or an axe is loose, splintered, or cracked, the head of the tool may fly off and strike the user or another worker.
• A wrench must not be used if its jaws are sprung, because it might slip.
• Impact tools such as chisels, wedges, or drift pins are unsafe if they have mushroomed heads. The heads might shatter on impact, sending sharp fragments flying.

The employer is responsible for the safe condition of tools and equipment used by employees but the employees have the responsibility for properly using and maintaining tools.

Employers should caution employees that saw blades, knives, or other tools be directed away from aisle areas and other employees working in close proximity. Knives and scissors must be sharp. Dull tools can be more hazardous than sharp ones.

Appropriate personal protective equipment, e.g., safety goggles, gloves, etc., should be worn due to hazards that may be encountered while using portable power tools and hand tools.

Safety requires that floors be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent accidental slips with or around dangerous hand tools.

Around flammable substances, sparks produced by iron and steel hand tools can be a dangerous ignition source. Where this hazard exists, spark-resistant tools made from brass, plastic, aluminum, or wood will provide for safety.

POWER TOOL PRECAUTIONS

Power tools can be hazardous when improperly used. There are several types of power tools, based on the power source they use: electric, pneumatic, liquid fuel, hydraulic, and powder-actuated.

Employees should be trained in the use of all tools – not just power tools. They should understand the potential hazards as well as the safety precautions to prevent those hazards from occurring.

The following general precautions should be observed by power tool users:

• Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.
• Never yank the cord or the hose to disconnect it from the receptacle.
• Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil, and sharp edges.
• Disconnect tools when not in use, before servicing, and when changing accessories such as blades, bits and cutters.
• All observers should be kept at a safe distance away from the work area.
• Secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.
• Avoid accidental starting. The worker should not hold a finger on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool.
• Tools should be maintained with care. They should be kept sharp and clean for the best performance. Follow instructions in the user’s manual for lubricating and changing accessories.
• Be sure to keep good footing and maintain good balance.
• The proper apparel should be worn. Loose clothing, ties, or jewelry can become caught in moving parts.
• All portable electric tools that are damaged shall be removed from use and tagged “Do Not Use.”

GUARDS

Hazardous moving parts of a power tool need to be safeguarded. For example, belts, gears, shafts, pulleys, sprockets, spindles, drums, fly wheels, chains, or other reciprocating, rotating, or moving parts of equipment must be guarded if such parts are exposed to contact by employees.

Guards, as necessary, should be provided to protect the operator and others from the following:

• point of operation,
• in-running nip points,
• rotating parts, and
• flying chips and sparks.

Safety guards must never be removed when a tool is being used. For example, portable circular saws must be equipped with guards. An upper guard must cover the entire blade of the saw. A retractable lower guard must cover the teeth of the saw, except when it makes contact with the work material. The lower guard must automatically return to the covering position when the tool is withdrawn from the work.

SAFETY SWITCHES

The following hand-held powered tools must be equipped with a momentary contact “on-off” control switch: drills, tappers, fastener drivers, horizontal, vertical and angle grinders with wheels larger than 2 inches in diameter, disc and belt sanders, reciprocating saws, saber saws, and other similar tools. These tools also may be equipped with a lock-on control provided that turnoff can be accomplished by a single motion of the same finger or fingers that turn it on.

The following hand-held powered tools may be equipped with only a positive “on-off” control switch: platen sanders, disc sanders with discs 2 inches or less in diameter; grinders with wheels 2 inches or less in diameter; routers, planers, laminate trimmers, nibblers, shears, scroll saws and jigsaws with blade shanks one-fourth of an inch wide or less.

Other hand-held powered tools such as circular saws having a blade diameter greater than 2 inches, chain saws, and percussion tools without positive accessory holding means must be equipped with a constant pressure switch that will shut off the power when the pressure is released.

ELECTRIC TOOLS

Employees using electric tools must be aware of several dangers; the most serious is the possibility of electrocution.

Among the chief hazards of electric-powered tools are burns and slight shocks which can lead to injuries or even heart failure. Under certain conditions, even a small amount of current can result in fibrillation of the heart and eventual death. A shock also can cause the user to fall off a ladder or other elevated work surface.

To protect the user from shock, tools must either have a three-wire cord with ground and be grounded, be double insulated, or be powered by a low-voltage isolation transformer. Three-wire cords contain two current-carrying conductors and a grounding conductor. One end of the grounding conductor connects to the tool’s metal housing. The other end is grounded through a prong on the plug. Anytime an adapter is used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the adapter wire must be attached to a known ground. The third prong should never be removed from the plug.

Double insulation is more convenient. The user and the tools are protected in two ways: by normal insulation on the wires inside, and by a housing that cannot conduct electricity to the operator in the event of a malfunction.
These general practices should be followed when using electric tools:

• Electric tools should be operated within their design limitations.
• Gloves and safety footwear are recommended during use of electric tools.
• When not in use, tools should be stored in a dry place.
• Electric tools should not be used in damp or wet locations.
• Work areas should be well lighted.

POWERED ABRASIVE WHEEL TOOLS

Powered abrasive grinding, cutting, polishing, and wire buffing wheels create special safety problems because they may throw off flying fragments.

Before an abrasive wheel is mounted, it should be inspected closely and sound- or ring-tested to be sure that it is free from cracks or defects. To test, wheels should be tapped gently with a light non-metallic instrument. If they sound cracked or dead, they could fly apart in operation and so must not be used. A sound and undamaged wheel will give a clear metallic tone or “ring.”

To prevent the wheel from cracking, the user should be sure it fits freely on the spindle. The spindle nut must be tightened enough to hold the wheel in place, without distorting the flange. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Care must be taken to assure that the spindle wheel will not exceed the abrasive wheel specifications.

Due to the possibility of a wheel disintegrating (exploding) during start-up, the employee should never stand directly in front of the wheel as it accelerates to full operating speed.

Portable grinding tools need to be equipped with safety guards to protect workers not only from the moving wheel surface, but also from flying fragments in case of breakage.

In addition, when using a powered grinder:

• Always use eye protection.
• Turn off the power when not in use.
• Never clamp a hand-held grinder in a vise.

PNEUMATIC TOOLS

Pneumatic tools are powered by compressed air and include chippers, drills, hammers, and sanders.

There are several dangers encountered in the use of pneumatic tools. The main one is the danger of getting hit by one of the tool’s attachments or by some kind of fastener the worker is using with the tool.

Eye protection is required and face protection is recommended for employees working with pneumatic tools.

Noise is another hazard. Working with noisy tools such as jackhammers requires proper, effective use of hearing protection.

When using pneumatic tools, employees must check to see that they are fastened securely to the hose to prevent them from becoming disconnected. A short wire or positive locking device attaching the air hose to the tool will serve as an added safeguard.

A safety clip or retainer must be installed to prevent attachments, such as chisels on a chipping hammer, from being unintentionally shot from the barrel.

Screens must be set up to protect nearby workers from being struck by flying fragments around chippers, riveting guns, staplers, or air drills.

Compressed air guns should never be pointed toward anyone. Users should never “dead-end” it against themselves or anyone else.

POWDER-ACTUATED TOOLS

Powder-actuated tools operate like a loaded gun and should be treated with the same respect and precautions. In fact, they are so dangerous that they must be operated only by specially trained employees.

Safety precautions to remember include the following:

• These tools should not be used in an explosive or flammable atmosphere.
• Before using the tool, the worker should inspect it to determine that it is clean, that all moving parts operate freely, and that the barrel is free from obstructions.
• The tool should never be pointed at anybody.
• The tool should not be loaded unless it is to be used immediately. A loaded tool should not be left unattended, especially where it would be available to unauthorized persons.
• Hands should be kept clear of the barrel end. To prevent the tool from firing accidentally, two separate motions are required for firing: one to bring the tool into position, and another to pull the trigger. The tools must not be able to operate until they are pressed against the work surface with a force of at least 5 pounds greater than the total weight of the tool.

If a powder-actuated tool misfires, the employee should wait at least 30 seconds, then try firing it again. If it still will not fire, the user should wait another 30 seconds so that the faulty cartridge is less likely to explode, than carefully remove the load. The bad cartridge should be put in water.

Suitable eye and face protection are essential when using a powder-actuated tool.

The muzzle end of the tool must have a protective shield or guard centered perpendicularly on the barrel to confine any flying fragments or particles that might otherwise create a hazard when the tool is fired. The tool must be designed so that it will not fire unless it has this kind of safety device.

All powder-actuated tools must be designed for varying powder charges so that the user can select a powder level necessary to do the work without excessive force.

If the tool develops a defect during use it should be tagged and taken out of service immediately until it is properly repaired.

FASTENERS

When using powder-actuated tools to apply fasteners, there are some precautions to consider. Fasteners must not be fired into material that would let them pass through to the other side. The fastener must not be driven into materials like brick or concrete any closer than 3 inches to an edge or corner. In steel, the fastener must not come any closer than one-half inch from a corner or edge. Fasteners must not be driven into very hard or brittle materials which might chip or splatter, or make the fastener ricochet.

An alignment guide must be used when shooting a fastener into an existing hole. A fastener must not be driven into a spalled area caused by an unsatisfactory fastening.

HYDRAULIC POWER TOOLS

The fluid used in hydraulic power tools must be an approved fire-resistant fluid and must retain its operating characteristics at the most extreme temperatures to which it will be exposed.

The manufacturer’s recommended safe operating pressure for hoses, valves, pipes, filters, and other fittings must not be exceeded.

JACKS

All jacks – lever and ratchet jacks, screw jacks, and hydraulic jacks – must have a device that stops them from jacking up too high. Also, the manufacturer’s load limit must be permanently marked in a prominent place on the jack and should not be exceeded.

A jack should never be used to support a lifted load. Once the load has been lifted, it must immediately be blocked up.

Use wooden blocking under the base if necessary to make the jack level and secure. If the lift surface is metal, place a 1-inch-thick hardwood block or equivalent between it and the metal jack head to reduce the danger of slippage.

To set up a jack, make certain of the following:

• the base rests on a firm level surface,
• the jack is correctly centered,
• the jack head bears against a level surface, and
• the lift force is applied evenly.

Proper maintenance of jacks is essential for safety. All jacks must be inspected before each use and lubricated regularly. If a jack is subjected to an abnormal load or shock, it should be thoroughly examined to make sure it has not been damaged.

Hydraulic jacks exposed to freezing temperatures must be filled with an adequate antifreeze liquid.

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Employees who use hand and power tools and who are exposed to the hazards of falling, flying, abrasive and splashing objects, or exposed to harmful dusts, fumes, mists, vapors, or gases must be provided with the particular personal equipment necessary to protect them from the hazard.

All hazards involved in the use of power tools can be prevented by following five basic safety rules:

• Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.
• Use the right tool for the job.
• Examine each tool for damage before use.
• Operate according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Provide and use the proper protective equipment.

Employees and employers have a responsibility to work together to establish safe working procedures. If a hazardous situation is encountered, it should be brought to the attention of the proper individual immediately.

Source: Hand and Power Tools – OSHA

- Cherie

Keeping a clean and orderly workspace plays a very important role in safety and in production as well.  For safety’s sake it is essential to keep all walking areas free of debris; e.g. fish, chunks of wood from pallets, etc.; to prevent slips, trips and falls, a main reason for injuries. We must also make sure there is nothing blocking passageways or sitting in front of exit doors, eye wash stations, emergency showers, and fire extinguishers. This is all common sense, if it’s blocked, how can we get to it in an emergency.  In the words of The Department of Labor and Industries, “You must keep all areas of your workplace, passageways, storage rooms and service rooms in a clean, orderly and sanitary condition to the extent the nature of the work allows.”  When L& I starts a sentence with “You must,” it means it is a law in the Washington Administrative Code, or WAC.

If your work area is clean; meaning hoses are coiled and hung on the wall, drawers are closed, and tools are put away; it becomes easier to find everything you need, when you need it. This saves time and money by: reducing accidents and mistakes, increasing production, extending the life of the equipment by making it easier to spot minor equipment problems before they happen, improving inventory and quality control, eliminating fire hazards, reducing waste, lowering frustration, and to come into a clean environment every day raises morale.  The same rules regarding housekeeping and safety that apply to work, also applies at home! A clean home is a safer home and when things are put away in their proper place, they are easier to find.

Sources: Weekly Safety Wisdom: Housekeeping and Safety, Housekeeping, Drainage, & Storage

- Cherie

New Years Eve is a huge night for everyone, which means crowds will be swarming toward all the metropolitan hubs around the world. People feed off eachothers’ excitement, and sometimes things can get out of hand if safety precautions are not taken. Everyone wants to have an unforgettable night (in a good way!). By simply using some common sense, we can keep it that way. Ring in the New Year safely!

• Designate a Driver: If you are going to be driving New Years Eve, don’t drink and drive. If you have a friend who does not prefer to drink, make sure they take the wheel. You might even be on the water this New Years Eve. The person in charge of navigating the boat needs to be cautious, and this still applies to them! It is important to be safe on the water as well, so drink sensibly.

• Don’t forget about your pets! They are just as much a part of the family as everyone else. If you are using fireworks, anything with loud noises, or fire, be sure that pets are kept at a distance as well as children. None of these are a good mix. Candles are also a potential hazard.

• Be Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and how others are acting. Stay away from those who are out of control and might cause harm. Taking preventive measures is key. If someone is really intoxicated, prevent them from trying to drive or leaving with someone they do not know. It’s important to keep an eye out for each other.

• Don’t Drive: If you don’t have to go behind the wheel, avoid it. More people will be driving under the influence on this particular night, so avoid a potentially dangerous accident by staying off the road. Otherwise, be alert and drive defensively. Most importantly, wear your seatbelt! Also, using public transportation is a wise option. If taking a cab is too expensive, crashing at a friend’s place nearby is a convenient solution.

• Stick Together: This way we can look out for our friends and family. Going out to parties and nightclubs means a fast-paced, crazy night; so be sure to travel in groups. Having a safety net around you in this environment, especially for women, is imperative.

• Monitor your Alcohol Intake: A majority of people will be drinking on New Years Eve, and there is nothing wrong with that. Just be sure to pay attention to how much you and others are consuming. Drinking too much alcohol can have lethal affects. Be responsible.

Source: New Year’s Eve Safety Tips

- Cherie

Before crawling up on the roof to string the Christmas lights, you need to know that every year, hospital emergency rooms treat about 12,500 people for injuries, such as falls, cuts and shocks, related to holiday lights, decorations and Christmas trees, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

In addition, warns CPSC, candles start about 11,600 each year, resulting in 150 deaths, 1,200 injuries and $173 million in property loss. Christmas trees are involved in about 300 fires annually, resulting in 10 deaths, 30 injuries and an average of more than $10 million in property loss and damage.

“Sometimes people are having such a nice time during the holidays that they forget to extinguish candles,” said CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. “Always put out lit candles before leaving a room or going to bed. Always keep burning candles within sight. Also, make sure your holiday lights bear the mark of a recognized testing lab to show they meet safety standards.”

Since CPSC started monitoring holiday lights and decorations sold at stores nationwide, inspectors have prevented the import of 116,500 units of holiday lights that did not meet safety standards.

CPSC tips to make your holiday a safe one:

Trees:

• When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” Although this label does not mean the tree won’t catch fire, it does indicate the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.
• When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and do not break when bent between your fingers. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.
• When setting up a tree at home, place it away from fireplaces and radiators. Because heated rooms dry live trees out rapidly, be sure to keep the stand filled with water. Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways.

Lights:

• Indoors or outside, use only lights that have been tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory, which indicates conformance with safety standards. Use only lights that have fused plugs.
• Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections, and throw out damaged sets. Always replace burned-out bulbs promptly with the same wattage bulbs.
• Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. Make sure the extension cord is rated for the intended use.
• Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.
• Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use.
• Stay away from power or feeder lines leading from utility poles into older homes.
• Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls, or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage. Use only insulated staples to hold strings in place, not nails or tacks. Or, run strings of lights through hooks (available at hardware stores).
• Turn off all holiday lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire.
• Use caution when removing outdoor holiday lights. Never pull or tug on lights – they could unravel and inadvertently wrap around power lines.
• Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Portable outdoor GFCIs can be purchased where electrical supplies are sold. GFCIs can be installed permanently to household circuits by a qualified electrician.

Decorations:

• Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. Choose tinsel or artificial icicles of plastic or nonleaded metals. Leaded materials are hazardous if ingested by children.
• Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down.
• In homes with small children, take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable, keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to avoid the child swallowing or inhaling small pieces, and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.
• Wear gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation while decorating with spun glass “angel hair.”
• Follow container directions carefully to avoid lung irritation while decorating with artificial snow sprays.

Fireplaces:

• Use care with “fire salts,” which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if eaten. Keep them away from children.
• Do not burn wrapping papers in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

Sources: Holiday Decoration Safety Tips from CPSC, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

- Cherie

Besides the flu vaccination, here are some other ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

To help stop the spread of germs:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Put your used tissue in the waste basket.
• If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu–like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)

What is the right way to wash your hands?

According to the CDC “people are not washing their hands often or well enough and may transmit up to 80% of all infections by their hands. From doorknobs to animals to food, harmful germs can live on almost everything. Hand washing may be your single most important act to help stop the spread of infection and stay healthy.”

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold) and apply soap.
• Rub your hands together to make a lather and scrub them well; be sure to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Continue rubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
• Rinse your hands well under running water.
• Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Sources: CDC Says “Take 3” Actions To Fight The Flu, Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives

- Cherie

It’s flu season and according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) “The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.” The vaccine is a nonliving virus that can be given to those over the age of 6 months. The vaccines” protect against the three influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season.”

“While everyone should get a flu vaccine each flu season, it’s especially important that the following groups get vaccinated either because they are at high risk of having serious flu-related complications or because they live with or care for people at high risk for developing flu-related complications:

1. Pregnant women
2. Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
3. People 50 years of age and older
4. People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
5. People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
6. People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
7. 1. Health care workers
   2. Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
   3. Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)

    

Make sure you check out the source link at the bottom of this article to read more about seasonal flu vaccinations from the CDC’s website. Next week’s topic will also help prevent the flu and colds, as well. Watch for “Cover your cough, wash your hands!”

Source: Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine

- Cherie

Driving during the cold months is not about dealing with snow; Ice on the road is the real threat. Black ice, in particular, is dangerous because it’s invisible. However, you can protect yourself by understanding and knowing how to deal with this issue. While knowing how to drive on it remains a number one priority, here are some other things to do:

• Drive below the speed limit. Don’t try to speed, it will take away any control you might have.
• Don’t tail gate.
• Keep your windshield clear of anything that may prevent you from seeing properly. Use an ice scraper to scrape ice from the windshield before you start the car as using your windshield wipers will cause damage to the wiper blades.
• Turn your headlights on early to help detect a sheen from the black ice.
• Make sure your tires have good tread. Worn tread causes accidents in any condition. Consider having snow tires during the cold months.
• NEVER drive in potentially icy conditions with your cruise control active!
• If you have ABS brakes, know how they feel when they engage so you don’t panic.
• Avoid sudden movements. Quickly turning your tires, accelerating or braking can cause you to lose traction and/or may cause over compensation.
• Have snow tires fitted before the temperatures drop low enough to cause black ice.
• Stay off the phone and don’t mess with the radio. Pay attention to the road or you may wreck!

Understand black ice is like regular ice. It’s called “black ice” because it tends to look like the rest of the pavement on the road, although in reality, it’s actually clear. Black Ice forms without creating bubbles, which allows it to blend in with any surface it forms over. It is dangerous precisely because it’s hard to detect in advance.

Know where to expect black ice. Black ice usually forms just about the freezing point. It sometimes forms due to the heat of the tires on the road coupled with freezing temperatures. It forms most commonly at night or in early morning. It tends to be found along tree lined routes that see little or no sun and bridges, overpasses and under overpasses a treacherous due to cold air being able to cool both the top and under the bridge or overpass, bringing about faster freezing.

Know how to see black ice – sometimes. At night, it is nearly impossible to see black ice, however, at dawn, daylight, and dusk you can usually see, if you’re looking for it, a glossy surface. The road will be a dull black color, like an unkempt black cars paint job and the black ice will be like a nice new black car’s shiny surface. You won’t always see it, but looking for it can’t hurt. It may also help you stay focused in less than ideal driving conditions.

Practice driving on slippery surfaces. If possible, practice driving on ice in a safe surrounding. Find a nice, large empty parking lot with ice on it. Drive on the ice practicing braking. Understand how your car feels and handles in these conditions.

Deal with a black ice encounter. If you  do hit black ice, your first reaction must be to remain calm and avoid overreacting. Black ice is often patchy and hopefully your  tires will soon find traction. The general rule is to do as little as possible and allow the car to pass over the ice without hitting the breaks and trying to keep the steering wheel straight. If you feel the back of the car sliding left or right, make a very gentle turn of the steering wheel in the same direction the rear of the car is moving. If you steer in the opposite direction, you risk skidding or spinning out. You may have to decide if you should stay in the safety of your vehicle to protect you from other vehicles spinning out of control, or leaving your vehicle to a place where you are out of harm’s way.

Slow down by de-accelerating. Take your foot completely off the gas pedal. Do not hit the break! Slowing down will give you more control and prevent needless damage. If you have the ability, shift into a lower gear for more control.

What to do after a black ice encounter:  Chances are you will be rattled, but panicking won’t help. If you must keep driving, do so slowly. Get off the road as soon as possible and take a few minutes to recover and feel less panicked. If possible, have a hot drink like cocoa, coffee, or tea to help you relax before driving again.

Source: wikiHow – How to Drive on Black Ice

- Cheire (drive safely!)