Carelessness and Unsafe Acts Most workplace incidents are preventable. They often occur when someone takes a shortcut, becomes distracted, ignores a known procedure, or allows pressure to override good judgment. Calling an incident simply “carelessness,” however, does not always identify why the unsafe action occurred. When an unsafe act or near miss...

Safety Eyewear - Eye Protection for Sun and Shade Safety eyewear protects employees from flying particles, dust, splashes, and other hazards that can cause serious or permanent eye injuries. Whether working indoors or outdoors, employees must wear eye protection appropriate for the hazards involved. Choosing the Right Safety Eyewear Safety glasses are available...

Poisonous Plants and Harmful Algae Employees working outdoors may encounter poisonous plants or harmful algae that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, respiratory problems, or illness. Workers should learn to recognize hazards common to their work area and take precautions to prevent exposure. Blue-Green Algae Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, may occur...

Forklift Safety – General Operating Rules Operating a forklift requires training, skill, attention, and good judgment. Forklifts are heavy, powerful machines that can cause serious injuries or fatalities if operated improperly. Only trained, evaluated, and authorized employees may operate powered industrial trucks. Operators are responsible for inspecting the forklift before use, following...

Shop Safety Checklist Shop safety begins with maintaining a clean, organized workplace, keeping equipment in safe operating condition, and ensuring that only trained and authorized employees use shop machinery. A routine checklist can help identify hazards before they result in an injury. Guide for Discussion Access and Equipment Security Only trained and authorized...

Accident Reporting - Reporting and Investigating Incidents Accident reporting is an essential part of preventing future injuries. All work-related injuries, illnesses, property damage incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions should be reported promptly so hazards can be identified, investigated, and corrected before another incident occurs. The purpose of reporting and investigating an...

Material Handling Safety – Preventing Lifting and Handling Injuries Material handling safety begins with planning each lift before moving the load. Improper lifting, awkward loads, poor housekeeping, pinch points, and failure to use available material-handling equipment can result in strains, sprains, crushed fingers and feet, falls, and other serious injuries. Before lifting...