Environmental Health and Safety

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With a growing number of states legalizing marijuana, causing a rapid increase in the cannabis industry workforce, increasing attention is being given to the health and safety of those involved in the cultivation and distribution of the substance in its various forms. One potentially serious health risk is from occupational exposure to mold.

The International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) reports struck-by falling objects result in hundreds of fatalities annually and thousands of injuries. In 2016, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 255 fatalities and 47,920 injuries from dropped objects in the United States.

OSHA's efforts to revise and update the existing general industry walking-working surfaces standards have been underway since 1973. The final rule incorporates advances in technology, industry best practices, and national consensus standards to provide effective and cost-efficient worker protection.

Work started on Z10 in March, 1999. Almost 100 safety and health professionals spent six years drafting and reworking the document. The Z10 standard for occupational health and safety management systems (OHSMS) is now titled ANSI/ASSP Z10-2012 (R2017).

The standard provides requirements for managing combustible dust fire and explosion hazards. It directs the users to appropriate NFPA industry or commodity-specific standards by establishing a relationship and hierarchy between them.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer’s re-classification of welding fume as a Class 1 carcinogen has emphasized the health risks welders face. Previously classified as “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” welders should take every precaution possible to protect their health.

OSHA cited wholesale auto and truck parts distributor Parts Authority Georgia, LLC, for exposing workers to smoke and fire hazards. Inspectors determined that the company allowed obstructed exits; exposed workers to struck-by hazards from damaged storage rack supports and shelves; and failed to provide training on recognizing chemical hazards.

The worst time to realize your fleet’s safety program doesn’t measure up is when you’re answering questions in court, or at a deposition. Yet, even the best companies can find themselves in that uncomfortable position. If they do, it’s a sure bet the fleet’s own safety training program is where plaintiffs’ attorneys will look.

Winter can be a real drag, especially if you don’t have adequate protection for your environment. Effective PPE is a must during this time of year, when outdoor weather conditions can limit your ability to work and use your hands uncovered. When looking for your next winter glove, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Changes in technology and infrastructure have opened up new pathways for opportunities. The 2019 World of Concrete Education Program offers 187 sessions providing training and certification, safety, leadership and construction fundamentals and more—all vital to your growth and profitability.