Spontaneous Ignition Preventing Spontaneous Ignition Spontaneous ignition can occur without an external flame or spark when combustible materials generate heat through oxidation. If that heat cannot dissipate, temperatures can continue to rise until the material ignites. Proper storage, handling, and housekeeping are essential for preventing these fires. Guide for Discussion How Spontaneous Ignition Occurs Certain...

Hard Hats - Protective Headwear Hard hats protect workers from serious head injuries caused by falling or flying objects, impacts, penetration hazards, and, when properly rated, electrical hazards. A single blow to the head can cause permanent injury, making proper selection, use, inspection, and care of head protection essential. When Hard Hats...

Workplace Electrical Safety Electrical hazards are present in many workplaces and can result in electric shock, electrocution, burns, fires, explosions, and serious secondary injuries. Employees who work with or around electrical equipment must recognize these hazards and follow established electrical safe-work practices at all times. Electrical incidents can occur when workers contact...

Wire Rope Safety and Maintenance Wire rope is a critical component of many cranes, hoists, and lifting systems. Its condition directly affects the safety of the lift. Improper installation, kinking, crushing, corrosion, inadequate lubrication, excessive wear, or other damage can significantly reduce the strength of a wire rope and may result...

Alcohol & The Job - A Safety Issue Alcohol and workplace safety do not mix. Alcohol can impair judgment, coordination, reaction time, concentration, and decision-making, all of which are essential for working safely. This is particularly dangerous when driving, operating equipment, using tools, working at heights, or performing other safety-sensitive tasks. Employees...

Appreciating the Hazards of Oxyacetylene Oxyacetylene equipment is commonly used for welding, cutting, heating, and brazing. Because experienced workers may use this equipment routinely, it can be easy to overlook how much stored energy, fire, and explosion potential is involved. Oxygen and acetylene each present different hazards, and both must be handled...

Springtime Yard & Field Maintenance Safety Springtime yard and field maintenance often brings increased outdoor activity, equipment movement, material handling, and chemical use. Before operations become busy, inspect and organize yards, outdoor shops, storage areas, and field facilities to identify and correct hazards. Guide for Discussion Chemical Storage and Hazard Communication If chemicals are...

What Is a Hazardous Material or Chemical? Hazardous materials and chemicals are found in many workplaces and may present serious safety or health risks if they are not properly identified, handled, stored, and used. Employees who work with hazardous chemicals must understand the hazards involved and the precautions necessary to protect...