Mobile Crane Safety Mobile crane safety is critical because crane operations expose operators and ground personnel to falling loads, equipment overturns, electrical contact, struck-by hazards, and caught-between hazards. Only properly trained and authorized personnel may operate cranes or participate in rigging and signaling operations. Before operating a mobile crane, evaluate the work...

Accident & Incident Reporting Reporting accidents, injuries, incidents, and near misses is an important part of preventing future injuries. Even when an event appears minor, reporting it allows hazards to be identified, corrective actions to be taken, and similar incidents to be prevented. Instructor Note: Before beginning this Toolbox Talk, identify who...

Office Safety Practices – Preventing Everyday Injuries Office safety practices are important because even routine office activities can result in injuries when hazards are overlooked. Slips and trips, poor housekeeping, improper lifting, awkward postures, electrical cords, and office equipment can all cause preventable injuries. Following a few basic safety practices can make...

Trash Chutes Trash chutes provide an efficient way to remove debris from elevated work areas while helping maintain good housekeeping on construction, remodeling, and roofing projects. However, improperly constructed, guarded, or used chutes can expose workers to falling objects, falls, fires, and other serious hazards. Guide for Discussion Chute Construction and Installation When...

Painter Safety – Chemical and Coating Hazards Painter safety requires understanding the hazards associated with paints, coatings, solvents, primers, thinners, and other chemicals used during surface preparation and finishing. Painters may also be exposed to respiratory hazards, fire hazards, falls, noise, ergonomic stresses, and injuries from tools and equipment. Before beginning a...

Emergency Eyewash and Safety Showers Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers provide immediate flushing when employees are exposed to corrosive or other hazardous materials that can injure the eyes or body. When a chemical splash occurs, immediate and continuous flushing can significantly reduce the severity of the injury. Employees who work...

Insect Safety Employees who work outdoors or in areas where insects and ticks are present can be exposed to bites, stings, and insect-borne illnesses. Proper clothing, insect repellent, and regular inspections can reduce the risk. Protect Yourself Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing 20% to 30% DEET, or another appropriate repellent, according...

Changing Crops During Drought Drought conditions can require agricultural operations to change crops, irrigation systems, equipment, chemicals, work practices, and harvesting methods. Whenever crops or agricultural processes change, employers should evaluate the new or modified hazards before work begins and update safe work procedures and employee training accordingly. Evaluate Changes Before Work...

Heat Exhaustion Working in hot environments can place significant stress on the body. Heat, humidity, direct sunlight, strenuous physical activity, heavy or impermeable clothing, and inadequate hydration can contribute to heat-related illness. Heat can also affect concentration, coordination, reaction time, and judgment, increasing the potential for workplace accidents. Employees should recognize heat-related...