1-800-571-4646
For Sales and Customer Service Mon-Fri 7:30AM - 8:00PM ETFeatured Articles
May is Bicycle Safety Month
Each year, May is recognized as Bicycle Safety Month. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 846 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes in 2019. A lot of these crashes can be avoided if motorists and bicyclists use caution on the road.For bicyclists, the NHTSA …
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds motorists about safe riding and driving practices each May during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. This year’s theme is Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles. By raising awareness, both riders and drivers will be safer on the …
National Work Zone Awareness Week
Safety is always important on our roadways, for both motorists and road crews. With road construction work increasing this time of year, drivers should pay extra attention in these areas.“Drive Safe. Work Safe. Save Lives” is the 2021 theme for National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW), …
2021 National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Proper disposal of unused or expired prescription medications saves lives and protects the environment. When left in a cabinet or on a shelf, they are a public safety issue that too often tragically leads to accidental poisoning, drug misuse and abuse, and overdoses. The Drug Enforcement …
USDA: Special 2-Day Virtual Meeting About Statistical Programs
The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will be holding its upcoming Data Users’ Meeting on April 14-15. NASS is the federal statistical agency responsible for producing official data about US agriculture, and they meet to share recent and pending statistical program changes.This …
Prevent Tick Bites
Although tick exposure can happen all year, they are most active in warmer months. If a tick bite goes untreated it can lead to a number of diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 47,743 reported cases of tick borne diseases in the United States in …
7 Easy Ways to Keep Safe at Railroad Crossings
Railroads are vital to the US. Since the 1800s, trains have traveled along these miles of tracks carrying materials and people to their destinations. Tracks go through both cities and rural areas.Walking near or around railroad tracks pose hazards and must be taken seriously. According to the …
Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week Offers Free Webinars
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Grain Handling Safety Coalition, Grain Elevator and Processing Society, and National Grain and Feed Association present Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week from March 29-April 2. This year’s event will feature live safety demonstrations …
Keep Your Food Safe During Power Outages
After a power outage, your frozen or refrigerated food may not be safe to eat. If food is not taken care of properly when the power goes out, it must be thrown out to avoid making someone sick. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers these tips to keep your food safe in the event …
Würth Industry North America/Northern Safety & Industrial Acquires ORR Safety To Deliver Expanded Safety Solutions Nationally
Indianapolis, IN, USA –Würth Industry North America (WINA)/Northern Safety & Industrial (NSI) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Louisville-based ORR Safety, one of the largest privately held safety companies ($125M) in the United States. Since 1948, ORR Safety has provided …
Spring Thaw Training Workshops for Miners
Working in mines presents many dangers including explosions, falls, and exposure to toxic gases. These accidents have a tendency to increase in the early spring months. To reverse this trend, the mining industry hosts workshops about work hazards and best practices. Safety professionals, …
March is Ladder Safety Month
The American Ladder Institute (ALI) recognizes March as Ladder Safety Month. The ALI reports that more than 100 people die or suffer a significant injury from a ladder-related accident every year. The ALI created this month to raise awareness of the risks associated with ladders as well …
DOL: Final Rule to Modernize Temporary Agricultural Labor Certification Program
The Department of Labor (DOL) recently announced a final rule on the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Labor Certification Program. The rule mandates electronic filing of job orders and applications, allowing the Foreign Labor Applications Gateway (FLAG) system to share information with federal …
OSHA Issues Stronger Coronavirus Safety Guidance
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued stronger safety guidance to assist workers and employers in implementing a coronavirus prevention program. They also want to help workplaces better identify risks that could lead to exposure and contracting COVID-19.OSHA has …
DOL Launches Free Workshops to Transitioning Military Spouses
The Department of Labor’s (DOL) Veteran’s Employment and Training Service (VETS) recently announced a new series of career workshops aimed to provide career assistance to military spouses. The workshops are part of the Transition Assistance Program. The programs will take place …
How to Launder Your Cloth Masks
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend face coverings as a way to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. This doesn’t mean that you wear the same mask day in and day out. Or shove one in a coat pocket for whenever you need it. Or worse, grab one off the floor of your car when …
Four Tips to Avoid Electrical Burns at Home
The American Burn Association (ABA) is celebrating National Burn Awareness Week from February 7-12, 2021. This year’s theme is Electrical Safety from Amps to Zap (A-Z)!More than 73% of burn injuries occur at home. You and your family can be safer by following these helpful tips:If …
Tips to Avoid Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving comes with a lot of risk, danger, and at times lead to tragedy. Driving in this condition can happen if there is an untreated sleep disorder, use of medication, use of alcohol, or lack of sleep from the driver. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) warns that drowsiness:Makes you less …
CDC Posts Questions and Answers about the COVID-19 Vaccine
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has posted helpful information about the COVID-19 vaccination program.On their website, people can find out:How to schedule your appointmentWhat to expect before, during, and after your vaccination appointmentsPotential side effects of the …
Know the Dangers to Stay Safe in Harsh Winter Weather
Winter storms can produce a pretty snowy landscape, but also present potential hazards. Those caught in harsh weather may contend with car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, and carbon monoxide poisoning from the extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. To …
Fire Safety and Prevention – Make it a Priority at Work
Preventing injuries and destruction that result from workplace fires must be a priority for you, your employer, and your colleagues. Having a fire prevention policy in place, along with choosing the right equipment to prevent and fight fires are crucial elements to ensuring everyone’s …
Stay Safe While Removing Snow from Rooftops This Winter
Removing snow and ice from rooftops is necessary for numerous reasons, most importantly, to prevent overloading or collapse. Each year while performing this task, workers are severely injured or killed. After conducting investigations, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has …
OSHA: Inspection Program Updated
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently announced that its Site-Specific Targeting 2016 program has been updated.By applying industry and establishment-size criteria, OSHA focuses data collection on those most likely to be experiencing elevated rates and increased numbers …
OSHA: New Video Reminds Workers How to Stay Safe Over the Holidays
The holiday season is in full swing with lights decorating homes across the country. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued a new video to remind workers to keep themselves safe.In the video, OSHA provides the following tips:Train workers on safe practices.Maintain …
What to Do if Stranded in a Car During the Winter
If you’re car breaks down or you get a flat tire in cold, snowy weather, you will likely have concerns about how to keep safe.The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has some guidance.If you’re stranded in a vehicle, stay in the vehicle. Do not leave the vehicle to search for …
Common COVID-19 Respiratory and Training Citations by OSHA
Can the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cite workplace COVID-19 violations? Yes, they can.OSHA recently published Common COVID-19 Citations: Helping Employers Better Protect Workers and Comply with OSHA Regulations.By understanding which workplace hazards have most often …
Flu Season: Keep your family and yourself healthy
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reminding us that we can take steps to keep healthy during flu season.Routine annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all persons over six months of age, who don’t have any contraindications. By reducing our incidents of …
Enjoy Fried Turkey for Thanksgiving
Frying your bird for Thanksgiving is a popular (and delicious) way to enjoy your feast. Nonetheless, as with any cooking, there are some guidelines to follow to avoid a turkey disaster.Here are some tips from the USDA:Don’t buy your bird too early…If bought fresh, keep it in the …
America Recycles Day
November 15 is America Recycles Day. It’s a perfect time to improve our contributions to recycling efforts.What Can be Recycled?Recycling programs vary depending on where you live. Even if you don’t have a curbside pickup program, chances are you have a recycling center nearby. …
Practice Ladder Safety Each Day
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the United States leads the world in ladder-related incidents. Ladders cause more than 164,000 injuries and 300 deaths each year. Always choose the right ladder for the job and follow best practices.Workers should always be trained in the proper …
OSHA issues guidance for the home repair industry
There are many appliances and systems inside the home that periodically need repair, from refrigerators to furnaces to sinks. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recently issued guidance to help reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 for workers who perform in-home …
Saluting Bravery on Mine Rescue Day
Working in mines is a dangerous career. Approximately 333,000 men and women work in mines across the US.Roof cave-ins, flooding, fires, and explosions present great risk to miners. When these emergencies occur, mine rescuers are called to save their fellow miners from peril. October 30 has been set …
2020 National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Proper disposal of unused or expired prescription medications saves lives and protects the environment. When left in a cabinet or on a shelf, they are a public safety issue that too often tragically leads to accidental poisoning, drug misuse and abuse, and overdoses. The Drug Enforcement …
Staying Safe In Tree Removal Sites
Loggers and other tree care specialists perform many duties. They clear sites for new construction projects, fell dying and diseased trees to avoid danger to residential areas, and remove trees that have received storm damage.Unfortunately, more workers are killed while felling trees than during …
OSHA: Temporary Guidance for Initial and Annual Fit-Testing Requirements
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the shortage of N95 respirators and fit testing supplies, health care employers may have to consider using alternative respirators, like powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs), for those personnel in high exposure jobs. The workers impacted may be …
Fire Prevention Week 2020: Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!
The National Fire Prevention Association is celebrating Fire Prevention Week from October 4-10, with the theme of Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen™.The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Simple actions can prevent cooking fires.Stay in the kitchen if you are …
Protecting Refuse Collection Workers
Collecting residential and commercial trash keeps communities clean but also poses risks for the people who perform the work. Garbage trucks generally weigh over 26,000 lb. and have dangerous moving parts, including a hopper, hydraulic lift, and packer blade. According to the Bureau of Labor …
National Farm Safety and Health Week
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), agriculture is one of the top ten most dangerous industries. Injuries are common due to farmers’ use of heavy equipment, chemicals, and ladders along with their exposure to extreme weather conditions and noise. The National Institute for …
Know the Warning Signs of a Landslide
In a landslide, large masses of earth, rock, or debris move down a slope. It can happen after an earthquake, large storm, fire, volcanic eruption, rapid snow melt, and even a large-scale construction project. The damage can be devastating, but even a few inches of slope movement can cause septic, …
Final Beryllium Standard for General Industry
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a final rule revising the beryllium standard for general industry, affecting approximately 50,500 workers. The changes maintain protection for employees while ensuring that the standard is well understood, and compliance is simple …
National Preparedness Month
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and ready.gov want you to think ahead and plan for floods, wildfires, blizzards, hurricanes, ice storms, and tornadoes.National Preparedness Month is celebrated each September, offering guidance and helpful tips to individuals, families, communities, …
Forest Fire Prevention
Forests are a national treasure. They provide homes to wildlife, trails for hikers to explore, along with oxygen for us to breathe. When a forest fire occurs, people, businesses, animals, and residences are in danger along with acres of trees. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, …
Safer Handling of Granite and Marble Slabs
Individual granite and marble slabs can weigh anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand pounds. Workers who transport and handle these large pieces of rock face difficult challenges, including shifting loads and rack/support failures. Awareness of these hazards and appropriate precautions can …
OSHA Issues Poster for Meat Packing, Poultry, and Pork Workers
Recent guidelines for meat packing, poultry, and pork processing employers have been issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to help protect workers in these industries from coronavirus.The guidelines are presented in a poster format with the following steps:Stay home if …
Safe and Sound Week
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Safety Council (NSC) are sponsoring Safe and Sound Week from August 10-16. The event reminds employers how safety programs reduce injuries at the workplace.Each year, more than four million people endure job-related injuries …
Wearing Safety Footwear
Anyone who has had a sprained ankle, a bone spur, or a broken toe knows the inconvenience that comes with a bandaged foot, a cast, or crutches. At work, the right footwear protects workers against common hazards like heavy objects, compression, high pressure jets, and wet floors, and is an …
Tips for Working in Hot, Humid Weather
For roofers, landscapers, road crews, and other outdoor workers, hot temperatures and high humidity pose health risks. Those performing strenuous tasks, new to working in extreme heat, or wearing non-breathable protective clothing are particularly prone to heat illness. Fortunately, heat stress can …
Safe Weed Trimmer Use
There are usually spots in the lawn that a mower can’t reach. Taking care of these grassy and weeded areas around the home is an arduous but important part of yard maintenance. A weed trimmer is the go-to tool for this job. As with all outdoor power equipment, following the …
Hurricane Preparedness
The peak of Atlantic Hurricane Season is August to October. Damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and power outages may occur. What can you do to prepare? Know your hurricane risk: even if you don’t live in a coastal state, rain and wind could have a major impact.Make an emergency plan: …
OSHA and CDC Publish Interim COVID-19 Guidance to Seafood Processing Industry
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, in consultation with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), released important information for seafood processing employers and workers.Processing stations in busy facilities may cause …
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally-occurring gas. It’s colorless and odorless, yet its radioactive properties make it a concern for homeowners. When radon’s outside, its trace amounts disperse quickly in the air and generally don’t cause a health concern. If it gets into your house, it poses a …
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally-occurring gas. It’s colorless and odorless, yet its radioactive properties make it a concern for homeowners. When radon’s outside, its trace amounts disperse quickly in the air and generally don’t cause a health concern. If it gets into your house, it poses a …
Transportation Tips for the Oil & Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry is a vital part of the US economy. Employment in this field requires vast knowledge, expertise, and teamwork. This hard work is rewarding, yet often poses difficult obstacles. One obstacle is location. Sometimes, the work takes place in remote areas with inadequately …
OSHA Releases Information on Proper Workplace Respirator Use
Millions of people across the country wear a respirator daily as part of their personal protective equipment (PPE). The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has published a new video and poster for both employers and workers, showing them how to correctly wear and remove a …
Lightning Safety Awareness Week
The probability of thunder and lightning storms increases in the summer. The National Lightning Safety Council reminds everyone to be aware of the real dangers of lightning and to take the risks seriously. In 2018-2019, 42 people died from lightning strikes. Seeking shelter could have …
New EXAMiner Software Release for Miners
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has published an update to their EXAMiner software, a tool used to train miners to find and address hazards.The software allows workers to perform a virtual workplace examination, utilizing their risk recognition skills. It includes 31 …
OSHA Issues Alert for the Dental Practitioners
The COVID-19 virus continues to affect daily life, including going to the dentist office. The American Dental Association (ADA) called on dentists nationwide to postpone non-urgent dental procedures through April 30, 2020. Now that states are beginning to reopen, the Occupational Safety and Health …
June 9, 2020: Seventh Year of National Forklift Safety Day
The Industrial Truck Association (ITA) is celebrating National Forklift Safety Day virtually this year. Participants will be able to view presentations from government representatives, safety, experts, and industry professionals.Among this year’s topics are:Occupational Safety and Health …
May 29, 2020 National Heat Awareness Day
The summer months are perfect for fun activities like fishing, gardening, and swimming. For those who work in these hot months or in highly humid conditions, the temperatures of the season bring on the risks of heat-related illness and stress.There are different types of heat-related …
15 Tips for Safer Chainsaw Use
Chainsaws are handy tools for both the professional and the homeowner. The speed and ease in which these powerhouse tools tackle tree trunks are unmatched. With any tool, proper use includes following its safety guidelines. Avoid accidents and injuries by wearing personal protective equipment …
OSHA & CDC Release Interim COVID-19 Guidance for Meatpacking Industries
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have released joint guidance relating to the COVID-19 virus for workers and employers in beef, pork, and poultry operations. The coronavirus has affected many meatpacking and …
Nine Tips from the CDC to Care for Your Vision
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reminds us about the importance of taking care of our vision. While it’s easy to think that vision problems are rare or only prevalent in older Americans, eye problems can happen at any age.May is Healthy Vision Month. The CDC offers nine ways that you …
40th Annual Building Safety Month
The 40th Annual Building Safety Month, sponsored by the International Code Council, will be celebrated in May. This year’s theme is Safer Buildings, Safer Communities, Safer World.Each week will have a different focus.Week 1: Disaster PreparednessAdvance planning for shattering events like …
Bicycle Riding… Keep it fun and safe
As National Bicycle Safety Month approaches, it’s a perfect time to remind bicycle enthusiasts to stay safe while they’re riding and having fun enjoying the outdoors.Why is roadway bicycle safety important? Bicyclists, like pedestrians and motorcyclists, are vulnerable to injury because …
Safe Forklift Operation Checklist
Forklifts are a warehouse staple. They move heavy objects, load and unload trucks, and raise and lower pallets. Their versatility is unmatched.Because they’re so commonplace, a worker might think that they pose no threat to their safety. However, they can cause collisions, falls, tip-overs, …
2020 National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Proper disposal of unused or expired prescription medications saves lives and protects the environment. When left in a cabinet or on a shelf, they are a public safety issue that too often tragically leads to accidental poisoning, drug misuse and abuse, and overdoses. The Drug Enforcement …
National Volunteer Week: April 19-25
Each year the Points of Light Organization celebrates the impact of volunteer service and embraces the power of people tackling society’s greatest challenges during National Volunteer Week (NVW). Working together builds stronger communities and transforms the world. “Celebrate …
NIOSH: New Video about Black Lung Disease Among Coal Miners
There was a time when black lung disease generally affected only older coal miners. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has seen an increase in black lung, or coal worker’s pneumoconiosis (CWP) in younger workers, and wants to raise awareness of the personal and …
Know the Risks of Grain Handling and Storage
National Stand Up for Grain Safety Week will take place April 13-17, 2020. This year’s theme is, “Small Changes, Big Impact.”According to Purdue University’s Agricultural Safety and Health Program, there were 38 grain engulfment cases in the US in 2019. This was a 27% …
What is Suspension Trauma?
A life is saved when someone’s personal fall arrest system stops a fall. But what about the worker’s condition after that? Waiting for rescue is uncomfortable, at best. The suspended worker is recovering from a traumatic experience and probably panicked, yet relieved to be alive. The …
Better Ergonomics for Working at Home
Did you recently make the move out of the office to working remotely? Your set-up at home might not be as ergonomically ideal as your desk space at work. To avoid aches and pains, or even carpal tunnel syndrome, it’s wise to arrange as comfortable a workstation as you can. Your neck and back …
Scaffolding Safety for Working at Heights
Scaffolding is a common sight on both city streets and construction sites alike. These important temporary structures on the outside of a building allow workers to build, repair, or clean. The systems are complex and provide both safety and convenience for the entire team, from masons to window …
Hidden Dangers in Your Garage and How to Fix Them
Even a well-meaning homeowner’s garage can end up being a dumping ground for all the items you don’t want in the house. When was the last time you took a good look at what’s out there? An over-crowded garage not only prevents you from parking your car, but also presents hazards …
OSHA: Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19
A new OSHA alert and guidance document on COVID-19 provides general practices to help prevent worker exposure to coronavirus.Prevent Worker Exposure to Coronavirus (COVID-19)The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently issued an alert saying that the novel …
Know the Dangers of Underground Grease Traps
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently released a hazard bulletin to remind employers and workers about the risks of grease traps.You’ll find grease traps at food processing sites, bakeries, hotels, and grocery stores. They’re generally an underground, outdoor …
March is Ladder Safety Month
The American Ladder Institute (ALI) is sponsoring National Ladder Safety Month to raise awareness of the importance of using ladders properly and to decrease ladder-related injuries at home and at work.This year’s themes are:March 1-7: Ladder Safety Training and Year-Round PartnersMarch 8-14: …
Lift Safely and Prevent Back Injuries
Aches and pains in the back are common complaints. They can stem from a poor night’s sleep, overexertion in the yard, or a long car ride. One of the biggest causes of back injuries is lifting. Simply practicing better lifting techniques and using caution not only reduces injuries but …
10 Ways to Secure Your Home While You’re Away
Heading out for a vacation? Lucky you! Whether you’re headed to warmer climates or a skiing holiday, don’t forget about the safety of what you’re leaving behind… like your house and valuables. Remember, burglars know the signs of an empty house and how to get in and …
Lowest Number of Fatal US Mining Accidents in 2019
The US Department of Labor (DOL) Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has released some promising news.In 2019, there were 24 fatalities in the mining industry, the lowest ever recorded. This followed a two-year increase from 2017-2018.“The low number of mining deaths last year …
Burn Awareness Week
National Burn Awareness Week, sponsored by the American Burn Association (ABA), takes place annually during the first full week of February. It provides an opportunity for burn survivor support groups, public safety, and other professionals to promote awareness of the frequency of burn injuries in …
After an Earthquake
Earthquakes can happen at any time and have the potential to damage homes, schools, bridges, and buildings. They can disrupt vital gas, electric, and phone service and even trigger landslides and fires. As workers undergo efforts to restore services and bring normal life back to communities, how …
30th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act
The US Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (EDEP) has announced the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA is civil rights legislation that works to increase the inclusion of people with disabilities in all …
Watch out for icy, slippery conditions
It’s January, and for a lot of regions in the US, that means tricky weather conditions. A winter storm forecast from Mother Nature can include sleet, wind, snow, and ice. Ice is great for a hockey game, but presents some problems when you’re trying to walk down the sidewalk or …
Look Back at 2019
When Patrick Kapust, deputy director of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Directorate of Enforcement Programs, announced the Top 10 Violations of 2019 at the National Safety Conference last fall, the list was largely unchanged from 2018. Falls dominated the list again …
Northern Safety News & Information
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
May is Bicycle Safety Month
Each year, May is recognized as Bicycle Safety Month. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 846 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes in 2019. A lot of these crashes can be avoided if motorists and bicyclists...Read Full Article
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds motorists about safe riding and driving practices each May during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. This year’s theme is Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles. By raising awareness,...Read Full Article
National Work Zone Awareness Week
Safety is always important on our roadways, for both motorists and road crews. With road construction work increasing this time of year, drivers should pay extra attention in these areas.“Drive Safe. Work Safe. Save Lives” is the 2021...Read Full Article
