Workplace Fire Safety The potential for fire exists in nearly every workplace. Good housekeeping, proper storage, maintained electrical equipment, and knowledge of emergency procedures can significantly reduce the risk of fires and their consequences. Employees should understand common fire hazards, know how to prevent them, and be prepared to respond appropriately if...

Chocking and Blocking Safety Chocking and blocking are important methods for preventing the unexpected movement of vehicles, trailers, mobile equipment, cargo, and equipment components. Proper use can prevent struck-by, caught-between, crushing, rollover, and loading-dock incidents. Chocking and Blocking Hazards Unexpected movement can occur during: Loading and unloading; Hitching and unhitching trailers; Parking mobile...

Auto Body Painting Safety Auto body painting can expose workers to hazardous solvents, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), isocyanates, metal-containing pigments, and airborne paint mist. These substances may be inhaled or absorbed through the skin and can cause both short- and long-term health effects. Before using primers, paints, reducers, hardeners, or cleaning products,...

Crane Safety Safety Precautions for Working Near Overhead Power Lines Contact between cranes and energized overhead power lines can result in electrocution, serious burns, fire, equipment damage, and fatalities. Electricity does not require direct contact to cause injury; it can arc across an air gap when equipment gets too close to an...

Employee Safety Responsibilities Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace, establishing appropriate safety programs, and protecting employees from recognized hazards. However, workplace safety also depends on employees taking an active role in protecting themselves and those around them. Every employee should understand and carry out their safety responsibilities each...

Cross-Contamination Cross-contamination occurs when hazardous substances are unintentionally transferred from a contaminated work area to clean areas, vehicles, clothing, personal belongings, or workers' homes. Contaminants can be carried on hands, skin, clothing, footwear, tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Without proper controls, workers can expose themselves, coworkers, and family members to...

Compressed Gas Cylinder (CGC) Safety Compressed and liquefied gas cylinders are commonly used to store gases for industrial and construction operations. Because cylinders contain material under high pressure, improper handling, storage, or use can result in serious injury, fire, explosion, chemical exposure, or asphyxiation. Understand the Hazards Compressed gas cylinders present two primary...

Safe Driving - Be an Extra-Safe Driver Safe driving requires more than knowing the rules of the road. Even experienced drivers face changing traffic, weather, road conditions, pedestrians, distracted motorists, and other hazards that require constant attention and defensive driving. Professional drivers should set the example by maintaining their vehicles, staying alert,...