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Prepare Your Business with a Disaster Response Plan
With hurricane season here, it’s important that companies are prepared. These storms can cause heavy winds and flooding that impact both the businesses’ infrastructure as well as workers trying to get to work. In the event of a devastating storm causing this sort of damage, companies …
School Bus Awareness
For many years, school buses have been protected under U.S. traffic law. These vehicles are trusted to transport children to and from school on a daily basis, and it’s very important that we do all we can to ensure they have the safest possible trip. Tips for MotoristsOne of the most …
Using Leading Indicators to Improve Safety and Health Outcomes
Leading indicators can play an important role when trying to increase safety in the workplace. They are proactive and preventative measures that shed light on the events leading up to injuries, illnesses, and other workplace incidents and reveal other potential problems your health and safety …
Safe + Sound Week 2019
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of worker deaths and reported injuries in the United States has decreased by more than 60% in the past four decades since the Occupational Safety and Health Act was passed. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has …
New NIOSH Report Provides Process for Chemical Management
A vast number of chemical substances do not have occupational exposure limits (OELs) for the workplace, potentially exposing workers to substances at levels that could be harmful. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recently released a chemical management strategy that …
Preventing Hazardous Gas Exposure
Gas detection remains a top priority for safety managers in many industries, as accidents and safety incidents involving hazardous gas exposure can lead to serious illness and even death. Combustible gas explosions cause destruction including fires, structural damage, and loss of life. Depending on …
Tips for Tractor Safety
Modern farm tractors provide most of the power needed for agricultural enterprises today. According to the National Agriculture Safety Database (NASD), tractors are the most common piece of equipment on farms. Because tractors are used so much, they can cause a variety of serious injuries. The NASD …
EPA Lowers Lead Limits Allowed in Dust on Floors and Windowsills
According to a new rule announced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last month, the amount of lead allowed in dust on floors and windowsills in housing and buildings where children spend significant amounts of time will soon be lower. The EPA’s rule change stems from a …
Keep Your Picnics Safe
With the 4th of July quickly approaching, it’s important to remember to keep your picnic food safe and avoid the dangers associated with keeping food outdoors in the summer heat. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) offers many helpful tips.Pack and Transport Food SafelyWhen bringing food …
Department of Labor Announces Upgraded Data System to Assist Mine Operators
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has completed an upgrade to the Mine Data Retrieval System (MDRS). This update brings increased functionality and more intuitive navigation to this widely used data system.The MDRS is designed to help operators stay …
Evaluating Indoor Air Quality
Office ergonomics and indoor air quality are the most common complaints of employees according to Louise Vallee, CSP, CIH, CPE, of Crum and Forester Insurance who spoke at the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Safety 2019 conference. Complaints from employees regarding air quality …
June 11 is National Forklift Safety Day
The Industrial Truck Association (ITA) will observe the sixth annual National Forklift Safety Day (NFSD) on June 11 this year. The ITA uses this day to create an event to educate customers, workers, policymakers, and government officials on the importance of proper operator training as well as …
June is National Safety Month
Every year the National Safety Council (NSC) recognizes June as National Safety Month. National Safety Month focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road, and in our homes. The goal of National Safety Month is to highlight specific dangers and how to avoid …
Get to Know N95 Disposable Respirators
Disposable respirators protect you and your workers from a variety of hazards, including harmful dust, fog, smoke, vapors, and mists. Without the proper protection, workers may develop chronic breathing problems, cancer, lung damage, or other illnesses and diseases. OSHA requires that employers …
OSHA Issues Final Rule to Revise Requirements in Safety and Health Standards
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued a final rule that revises 14 provisions for recordkeeping, general industry, maritime, and construction standards that might be considered confusing, outdated, or unnecessary. This final rule is the fourth under OSHA's …
7 Motorcycle Safety Tips
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) designate May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. This year’s campaign, Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles, is designed to help motorists understand motorcycle driving behavior and how …
OSHA Announces Sixth Annual National Fall Stand-Down Week
National Fall Safety Stand-Down Week will take place May 6-10. This week is designed to raise fall hazard awareness and stop fall injuries and fatalities.A Safety Stand-Down is a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about safety. Workplaces can hold a stand-down by taking a …
Cal/OSHA Offers Heat Illness Prevention Training
With the summer months fast approaching, Cal/OSHA reminds employers to protect their workers from heat illness. Any workers who spend a substantial portion of the shift outdoors should be aware of how to prevent heat illness. Examples include construction workers, agricultural workers, baggage …
Workers’ Memorial Day 2019
On April 28, 2019, the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) will observe Workers’ Memorial Day. Workers’ Memorial Day was created to recognize workers who have died or suffered from exposures to hazards at work and to encourage safer, healthier …
Choose The Right Hard Hat
When working in the field, it’s important that workers use the proper personal protective equipment, including hard hats. There are different types and classes of hard hats, and getting the right one is vital to a worker’s safety.TypesThere are two types of hard hats, Type I and Type …
NIOSH Announces Free, Confidential Screenings for Coal Miners
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) will begin offering free, confidential health screenings to coal miners this month as part of the Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program (CWHSP). The testing will look to detect coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP). CWP …
National Work Zone Awareness Week
Each year the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) conduct National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) to bring attention to motorist and worker safety as well as mobility issues in work zones. This year’s event will be held April 8 …
April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month
The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) designate the month of April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that every day at least 9 Americans die and 100 are injured in distracted …
Lithium Batteries at Work
Many workers are wearing small electronic devices powered by lithium batteries as part of their daily routine. These units provide sustained power in a tiny space, providing practical benefits in many applications, including body cam use in law enforcement. These pint-sized batteries are …
11 Tips for Working Safely in Demo Projects
Demolition is a growing industry in the US, in which site clearance, structural dismantlement, environmental radiation, salvage, recycling, and industrial recovery employs many people on construction sites. Workers in this field use hydraulic equipment, cranes, loaders, wrecking balls, and more to …
Choose the Right Cut Resistant Hand Protection
Our hands are important. They help us do so many day-to-day things. Their flexibility, strength, coordination, and sensitivity make them the perfect tools. However, because they do so much, they are one of the most vulnerable parts of the body. Accidents due to cuts and lacerations cause …
OSHA Offers FAQs on Respirable Crystalline Silica
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has posted frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the new standard for respirable crystalline silica in general industry.These FAQs provide guidance to employers and workers regarding the standard’s requirements. A short …
Know the Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Every year, accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning kills at least 430 people and causes emergency room visits for approximately 50,000 people in the US, according to stats from the Centers for Disease Control. CO is found in fumes produced by furnaces, kerosene heaters, vehicles …
NTSB Releases 2019-2020 Improvements List
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released its biennial Most Wanted List of Transportation Safety Improvements List. The NTSB first began publishing the list in 1990.The ten items on the list are:Eliminate distractionsEnd alcohol and other drug impairmentEnsure the safe shipment of …
Guides to Help Prevent Falls in Construction
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has developed a collection of compliance assistance resources to address falls in the workplace, the leading cause of worker fatality in the construction industry. Workers performing tasks 6’ or more above lower levels are at risk of …
MSHA Stats Reveal 2018 Mining Fatalities Were Second Lowest on Record
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) recently reported that 27 mining fatalities occurred in 2018, which is the second lowest number ever recorded. There were 18 fatalities at surface operations and 9 deaths in underground mines.The leading cause of …
New NIOSH Tools to Help Identify Dampness & Mold in Schools and Other Buildings
Due to roof leaks, flooding, and high indoor humidity, office buildings, schools, and other industrial buildings may develop moisture and dampness problems over time. Unfortunately, damp indoor conditions promote the growth of mold. As a result, people in these buildings can be exposed to …
Safe Rooftop Snow Removal
Heavy snow and ice are an inconvenient part of winters in many regions of the US. Blizzard conditions can dump two feet or more of snow, plaguing motorists and keeping plow crews busy. Another hazard heavy snow brings is potential damage to roofs, especially when the snow is saturated with …
Heading Out to Enjoy Winter Recreation?
Venturing outdoors is a fun way to get fresh air, participate in sports, and enjoy nature. Winter is no exception with skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding options to enjoy. However, as the weather gets colder, we face new hazards. When temperatures drop significantly below normal and as wind speeds …
8 Tips for Safer Snow Shoveling
It seems everyone has a different opinion of snow. Falling snow is pretty to some. It delivers a fun, wintry landscape for those outdoor enthusiasts among us. And if there’s a snow day, you might hear an explosion of absolute glee. But most people agree that shoveling it is a …
New Website for Understanding the Control of Hazardous Energy in Manufacturing
On-the-job accidents can happen during servicing and repair of machinery. Lockout/tagout procedures are meant to safeguard employees from the unexpected start-up of machinery, unsafe release of energy, or exposure to uncontrolled hazards that can cause injuries. These hazards can stem from …
National Influenza Vaccination Week is December 2-8, 2018.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reminding people to protect themselves against the flu and that it’s not too late to be vaccinated.The CDC recommends that flu vaccination efforts continue throughout the flu season. While the CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end …
OSHA Certification Requirements for Crane Operators
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published a final rule that clarifies certification requirements for crane operators, and maintains the employer’s duty to ensure that crane operators can safely operate the equipment. The final rule will maintain safety and health …
Tips to Steer Clear of Colds & Flu
Cold and flu symptoms can make you miserable, especially with the holidays coming up. Do your best to protect yourself this year. Making wise choices now and following some good old-fashioned advice can help you be free of illness all season long.It’s good to remember how germs and bacteria …
Cleaning Up = Improved Safety
Liquid spills and leaks can occur in a number of places, from under machinery, to the production line, to drum storage areas. Unfortunately, even minor fluid drips can lead to slip and fall accidents. Maintaining a clean facility is an integral part of keeping workers injury-free.Quickly attending …
The Importance of Skin Care in the Workplace
Occupational dermatitis is an ongoing issue for workers and managers alike. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 50% of all working time lost to industrial illness is due to dermatitis. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that occupational skin …
A Safe Halloween is a Happy Halloween
Halloween is a fun, exciting and highly anticipated night for children. To keep everyone happy and safe, the American Academy of Pediatrics provides some helpful tips.Costumes:When shopping for costumes, look for labels clearly showing that it’s flame-resistant.Costumes should be bright and …
Dispose of Unwanted, Unused, or Expired Prescription Meds
October 27, 2018 is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This nationwide event is sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and began in 2010 to address a crucial public safety and public health issue: the misuse and overuse of prescription drugs. According to the 2016 …
NIOSH: Fact Sheet Available Addressing Opioid Overdoses in the Workplace
Sadly, opioid overdoses are on the rise at work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overdose deaths from non-medical use of drugs and alcohol between 2013 and 2016 rose 38%. The Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) data shows that on average, 115 Americans die every day from an opioid …
Six Safety Tips for Raking Leaves
The good news: changing leaves on deciduous trees are a beloved part of autumn. Shades of gold, red, and orange are a beautiful sight on your commute. The bad news: these leaves don’t just change. They also fall onto your lawn. Is raking leaves part of your fall duties? If so, …
Fire Prevention Month
Did you know that on an average day in America, there are more than 200 workplace fires? That’s a staggering and frightening statistic. What’s even more frightening is that each year, these fires kill hundreds of workers, injure many thousands more, and cost businesses billions of …
NIOSH: Black Lung Continues to Increase Among US Coal Miners
A recent National Institutes of Safety and Health (NIOSH) report in The American Journal of Public Health shows startling statistics among long-time coal miners. One in ten miners who have worked underground for twenty-five years or more were identified as having black lung. And further, coal …
Free Workplace Violence Prevention Webinar for Healthcare Organizations
Healthcare institutions often experience acts of workplace violence. In fact, healthcare workers have a 20% higher chance of being the victim of workplace violence than other workers. Physical and verbal abuse lead to injuries, poor worker morale, decreased job satisfaction, and employee …
School’s Open!
Is summer vacation over already? Yes. Kids are putting their pencils and books into their backpacks and they’re off to school. Let’s get them there safe and sound.Student School Bus Safety With their famous yellow color, flashing red lights, cross-view mirrors, and stop sign arms, …
Wildfires: Advice to keep you safe
A wildfire is an unplanned fire that burns in a natural area such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. They can be caused by humans or lightning and spread quickly, igniting brush, trees, and homes. These destructive events disrupt transportation, gas, power, and communications systems and …
OSHA’s Safe & Sound Week 2018
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is sponsoring Safe & Sound Week, a nationwide program to raise awareness and understanding of the value of safety and health programs. This year’s event is taking place August 13-19, 2018.According to OSHA, “Safety and health …
USDA: Top Five Food Safety Mistakes
Are your cooking habits up to par?The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) recently completed an interesting observational study in which participants in a test kitchen were recorded to see if they handled food safely while cooking. Here are the top five food safety mistakes that …
Roadway Work Zones… Work and Drive Safely
We spend a lot of time on the roads during the warmer months. And work zones are a familiar site. Work zones are dangerous for workers and drivers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, transportation incidents and workers struck by vehicles or mobile equipment account for the highest …
Newly Launched Hazardous Waste Electronic Manifest System from EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently released e-Manifest, a national system for tracking hazardous waste shipments electronically. It will also serve as a national reporting hub and database for all hazardous waste manifests and shipment data. The EPA’s initial proposal …
8 Tips for Safely Using Your Weed Trimmer
Homeowners know the work, time, and effort that goes into keeping a lawn looking great. A well-trimmed yard is a source of pride! Whether you’re new to lawn care or a seasoned veteran, take some time to consider these eight safety tips to keep you out of the emergency room.Clear the area of …
The Heat is On
With steamy temperatures popping up all over the county, don’t forget to think about the dangers that the heat brings. Whether you work outdoors, or in hot indoor environments, it’s important to protect yourself and your co-workers against the effects of the heat. Occupational …
General Industry and Maritime Silica Standard Effective June 23
According to OSHA, about 2.3 million people in the U.S. are exposed to silica at work. Those who inhale these very small particles are at risk for developing serious diseases including silicosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and kidney disease.To better protect workers …
June 18-23: Host a Trench Safety Stand Down
Excavation and trenching are among the most dangerous construction operations. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), two workers are killed every month in trench cave-ins. Other potential dangers are falling loads, hazardous atmospheres, and accidents involving …
June 12, 2018: National Forklift Safety Day
The Industrial Truck Association (ITA) is sponsoring National Forklift Safety Day and works with OSHA to provide training seminars and develop safety materials to ensure the ongoing safety of forklift operators.Powered industrial trucks, commonly called forklifts, are used in many industries to …
OSHA: Helpful Resources for the Maritime Industry
Shipyard work traditionally has an injury rate of more than twice that of construction and general industry. They are at risk for struck-by accidents, back injuries, falls, respiratory ailments, and more. To address the unique safety issues for these workers, OSHA provides resources to help lower …
Hurricane Season Preparation Guidelines in Multiple Languages
The unpredictable Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1. It’s important for people who live in susceptible regions to develop an emergency plan for the events before, during, and after a hurricane.Where do you find the guidance you need in multiple languages? You can find helpful materials …
Picnic Food and Keeping It Safe
Memorial Day is the start of picnic season for millions of Americans. From family reunions to graduations parties, summer brings on many reasons to celebrate. Bring on the corn on the cob, burgers, and pie, but don’t let unsafe food handling ruin your event!Some important (and often …
Food Allergies Are On The Rise
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), millions of Americans have allergic reactions to food each year. Although most food allergies cause relatively mild and minor symptoms, some cause severe reactions and may be life-threatening.While more than 160 foods can cause reactions in …
May 7-11, 2018: Fifth Annual Stand-Down for Fall Safety
The National Safety Stand-Down raises fall hazard awareness across the country in an effort to stop fall fatalities and injuries. A Safety Stand-Down is a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about safety. Any workplace can hold a stand-down by taking a break to …
May is National Building Safety Month
The International Code Council (ICC) designates May as National Building Safety Month. The ICC hopes to “raise awareness of the importance of building safe and resilient construction, fire prevention, disaster mitigation, and new technologies in the construction industry.”The theme for …
Upstairs… Downstairs… Why You Should Use the Handrail
Slip, trips, and falls are a common cause of accidents on stairways, sending people to the emergency room daily. These hazards (and the painful injuries) can easily be minimized, and even eliminated with a little work, attention, and vigilance. Poorly designed stairs and handrails can lead to …
Recycling Tips for Home and Work
The average American generates almost 5 pounds of waste each day. That’s almost 1 ton of trash per person, per year. Recycling is a quick and easy way to reduce your impact on the environment. So much of today’s packaging is recyclable. Some packaging you may not even realize can …
7 Tips for Safer Machine Maintenance
Well-executed machine maintenance helps minimize accidents, reduce downtime, and save money. It’s important to remember that no matter what type of maintenance is taking place, precautions must be made to ensure the safety of the person carrying it out.Here are some guidelines to keeping …
OSHA Bulletin Provides Information on Horizontal Drilling Hazards
OSHA’s "Avoiding Underground Utilities During Horizontal Directional Drilling Operations" addresses safe operations and specific methods to avoid underground lines and reminds contractors to use the state’s utility location system before any drilling occurs.What is Horizontal …
New Nanotechnology Workplace Design Recommendations from NIOSH
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has released four tools to help companies control possible exposure of nanomaterials to their workers. Workers in industries that use or make uniquely engineered nanomaterials may inhale nanoparticles on a daily basis, posing a …
Easy Ways to Reduce Trips & Falls
According to OSHA, slips, trips, and falls cause the majority of general industry accidents. The good news is that many of these accidents can be avoided with preparation, care, and attention to your walkways and outdoor areas. Straighten up!Problem: general clutter, boxes, and hoses on the …
Spring Security Spruce-Up
A home burglary is terrifying. It can leave you frustrated, angry, scared, and sad. It’s a good habit to periodically examine your home, routines, and security to prevent these break-ins from happening.Begin by asking yourself these questions:Can anything expensive be seen through the …
Reminding Workers About Dangers of Lead Exposure to Children
OSHA reminds workers that if you work with lead, you could be bringing this toxic metal home on your shoes, skin, hair, and hands. Take-home lead can cause lead poisoning in children and other family members.“Far too many Americans are exposed to lead in their workplace,” said Labor …
OSHA Publishes Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard Fact Sheet
When workers cut, grind, or drill materials that contain crystalline silica like stone, artificial stone, and industrial sand, they can be exposed to very small silica dust particles. These tiny particles are respirable and can travel deep into the lungs and cause silicosis, an incurable and …
OSHA Releases Tree Care Worker Safety Resource
Employees in the tree care industry face many unique challenges. To promote safety for those workers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently released Solutions for Tree Care Hazards.In this publication, OSHA provides safety measures for both employers and crew …
Hand Truck, Fork Lift, and Pallet Jack Safety
Material handling is a major component of warehouse operations. Proper handling and moving of materials are key to ensuring a safe workplace. Whether you use power equipment or your own body to move materials, you should adhere to these general safety rules:Assess each load to decide the best way …
New Fact Sheet from OSHA About Safety Walk-Arounds
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is reminding employers, managers, and supervisors to keep up an active role in their safety programs. OSHA’s new fact sheet, Safety Walk-Arounds for Managers, provides suggestions for conducting inspections that can help them …
Signs Make Your Workplace Safer
Every workplace has hazards. Workers need to be aware of the specific hazards of their work area, as well as those in other areas of the facility. Signs are an important component of every workplace. They remind workers of safe work practices, and alert those in the area of the hazards they may …
Landslides and Debris Flow
Landslides can occur quickly, often with little notice, and the best way to prepare is to stay informed about changes in and around your home that could signal that a landslide is likely to occur.In a landslide, masses of rock, earth, or debris move down a slope. Debris and mud flows are rivers of …
MSHA: Winter Alert Campaign Continues Until March
MSHA’s annual Winter Alert campaign reminds miners and mine operators of the increased hazards of colder weather.When the barometric pressure drops during colder weather, methane can migrate more easily into the mine atmosphere, increasing the risk of an explosion. Dry winter air also results …
Make a Resolution for Safety
In homes and workplaces all over the country, resolutions become a popular topic of conversation this time of year. What’s your resolution? Exercise more? Spend less? Take up a new hobby? Why not make a resolution for better workplace safety?The benefits of a safer work environment are …
Cold and Flu Season? Try to steer clear and stay healthy!
Cold and flu season can be extremely rough. Fortunately, there are several common-sense ways to help avoid getting sick.Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for 10 seconds.Use hand sanitizers throughout the day to keep bacteria off your hands and prevent the spread of germs.Disinfect your …
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About Northern Safety News & Information
When you're looking for industry news and product information, Northern Safety has exactly what you need to stay up to date! Get the most out of your visit with our free safety articles today. Northern Safety’s News and Information provides valuable industry safety tips and practices, frequently updated news content, and informative safety and industrial product articles. You can count on Northern Safety to help you keep your workers safe.
Recent Articles
Prepare Your Business with a Disaster Response Plan
With hurricane season here, it’s important that companies are prepared. These storms can cause heavy winds and flooding that impact both the businesses’ infrastructure as well as workers trying to get to work. In the event of a...Read Full Article
School Bus Awareness
For many years, school buses have been protected under U.S. traffic law. These vehicles are trusted to transport children to and from school on a daily basis, and it’s very important that we do all we can to ensure they have the safest...Read Full Article
Using Leading Indicators to Improve Safety and Health Outcomes
Leading indicators can play an important role when trying to increase safety in the workplace. They are proactive and preventative measures that shed light on the events leading up to injuries, illnesses, and other workplace incidents and reveal...Read Full Article
