http://www.safetybriefs.org Inside the hot and sweaty world of safety Tue, 09 Mar 2010 01:38:53 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en Hey Luke, I hear you’re the fall protection expert who’s in the know. Here’s my question for you: Can I install the anchor points over my roof shingles? Sincerely, Ted This is a common question I get asked all the time and here's  the answer in a nutshell: You must secure the anchor directly to the ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/ask-luke-safety-questions-anchor-points/ In early February, Terry Thompson, 51, was killed from a 100 ft fall as he worked on dismantling a cell phone tower. He had almost 30 years experience. OSHA and local officials are still investigating. The same day in Florida, construction worker Daniel Caldwell, 40, died after a 25 ft fall ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-news/fall-protection-fatalities-and-a-%e2%80%9clucky%e2%80%9d-break/ This week I was researching recent (this month) deaths and injuries that occurred because of falls. These falls ranged from 25- 100 ft with both inexperienced and experienced workers. OSHA posted the following release this month and I thought I would post a portion of it: --- WASHINGTON, Pa. - The U.S. ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/press-releases/osha-fines-539000-after-workers-death/ [caption id="attachment_1224" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Wearing his harness. Safe - right?"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_1225" align="aligncenter" width="150" caption="Hmmmm, lets see where the anchor point is...."][/caption] I have been going through photos people have sent in to me or great photos that photographers have allowed me to share on this site. I am re-posting my favorites ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/fall-harness-equipment-whats-wrong-with-this-photo/ In August of 2009 a masonry worker for a Pennsylvania construction company died after falling 13 feet from the roof of the building he was working on.  A fellow co-worker said they were pulling cables to the roof and they weren’t wearing a fall harness because they, “were only working ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/osha-fines-for-construction-fall-leading-to-death/ [caption id="attachment_1203" align="alignleft" width="118" caption="Photo by NIOSH"][/caption] One workplace safety hazard I never considered until recently was the weather, specifically cold weather. I live in frick’n cold Wisconsin. A good friend (who lives in frick’n cold Minnesota) shared about his new job where he works outside installing satellite dishes. I asked ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/workplace-safety-and-cold-brrrrr/ The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) released data earlier this month showing that mine fatalities last year fell to an all time low. I think it is interesting to note that December 30th, 1969 was when the Coal Act was signed. Below is an excerpt from MSHA’s Assistant Secretary, Joe ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/good-news-in-workplace-safety-record-low-in-miners%e2%80%99-deaths-for-2009/ Dear Luke, I’m using a harness that I’ve had stored in the barn for the past decade. It was used infrequently but wasn’t stored super great. When is it time to replace a harness? What’s its shelf life? Wondering This question is often asked. I’ve seen harness that needed to be disposed after ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/mailbag-question-when-do-you-replace-a-harness/ Choosing lead-free traction tapes: Think about what goes into our landfills. At the end of a product’s life cycle it’s going to end up in the garbage and then a landfill. Lead-free products won’t contaminate a landfill which is a win-win for green-conscious businesses and individuals. Choosing products, like True Grip ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/lead-free-safety-tapes-making-green-choices/ It’s that time of year where we make resolutions & choose to make better decisions. One change we are making here at Safety Briefs is taking more mailbag questions for Luke, one of our fall protection experts. Feel free to email us your safety questions. If we don't know the answers, ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/uncategorized/happy-new-years-from-safety-briefs/ After researching safety tapes the past couple weeks I know more than I thought possible about safety tapes. This weeks tip:  Chose acrylic adhesives instead of rubber adhesives for anti-slip tape. If you have the choice, go with the acrylic adhesives. It’s going to save you time and money in the long ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/anti-slip-tape-advice-acylic-vs-rubber-adhesives/ For the month of December we are giving away TWO pairs of Harley Davidson safety glasses, courtesy of Safety Glasses Inc. All you need to do to get your name in the monthly drawing is subscribe to this blog. Yes it's that simple. This months winners are: *Brian, Florida (He picked the ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/monthly-give-away-harley-davidson-safety-glasses/ Every week Google sends me updates of the latest OSHA fines and workplace safety stories so it was awesome to read this week about amazing companies who are making their company the "safest." The America’s Safest Companies Award was founded in 2002. It honors companies that achieve specific criterias in safety. ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/award-america%e2%80%99s-safest-companies-of-2009-wahoo/ Earlier this month OSHA released news about New Place Carpentry who is facing new fines in the amount of $308,500. In the past six years they have been cited eight times by OSHA for “willful and repeat fall hazards.” These hazards included lack of fall protection and unsafe work involving ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/osha-fines-in-fall-hazards-308500/ What is the reason for the D-ring having to be situated between your shoulder blades? In a nutshell, that is where your body best takes the load in a free fall without doing internal damage. Many people do not understand that just because a harness has d-rings on the side you ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/mail-bag-questions-for-luke-the-d-ring/ OSHA has established a “Watch List” to help deal with fraudulent trainers and rebuild the strength of their Outreach Training Program. There has been plenty in the news about OSHA 10 (and other required courses) being taught fraudulently. Shortened classes, major class material left out and even completion cards handed ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/oshas-kicking-a-little-patucio-yes-i-made-up-that-word/ Whenever I hear about free safety items on the web I always take note.  A member of the Safety Community I belong to shared this site, called Tool Box Topics.  The site provides resources for safety talks. For ideas on how to use them, check out this page. Let us know ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/free-workplace-safety-resources/ [caption id="attachment_1099" align="alignright" width="108" caption="Chain saw injury. Logging can be dangerous!"][/caption] Is your job on "The List"? Last month I noticed a flurry of “Ten Most Dangerous Jobs” lists floating around. From year to year when the list is reissued I notice the order changes a little but the same jobs ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/is-your-job-one-of-the-top-10-most-dangerous/ Congrats to July's winner! Each month we pick someone who has signed up for our email subscription or RSS feed.  Safety Glasses Inc provides a pair of Harley Davidson safety glasses to each months winner (winner picks out their favorite pair). This months winner:  Roger from Victoria, Australia http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/julys-harley-davidson-safety-glasses-winner/ Two major updates in the news recently. 1.The CDC is encouraging people to get the seasonal flu vaccine along with the novel H1N1 vaccine. They are meant to be used together - the regular flu vaccine isn't going to protect you against H1N1 and vice versa. The CDC site states the ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/update-on-the-h1n1-flu-swine-flu-what-do-you-need-to-know/ Instructor Eric Okon teaches Jewelry and Metals at Oakland Community College located in Michigan. In the photo he is wearing a pair of safety glasses that his college students designed for him. Eric's picture captured my attention immediately since I like to "spiff up" my own safety glasses. Eric's glasses are ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/fun-safety-glasses/ [caption id="attachment_1058" align="alignleft" width="350" caption="Photo provided by Ricecracker on FlickR"][/caption] As I was checking out the "What’s New" section at NIOSH for the month of July, the topic Jackhammers caught my attention. NIOSH was specifically addressing hazardous dusts workers are exposed to when breaking concrete pavement and some safety precautions. That started ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/workplace-safety-jackhammers-and-niosh-what-ladies-want/ Congrats to June's Safety Glasses winner: Larry B. who is a fellow Wisconsinite! And thanks to www.safetyglassesinc.com who provides us Harley Davidson safety glasses every month to one lucky winner. http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/junes-winner-harley-davidson-safety-glasses/ The World Health Organization yesterday declared the seven-week-old outbreak of the novel H1N1 influenza virus a pandemic, marking it as a historic global health event, one whose consequences may not be known for years. The announcement -- expected for weeks but made with some reluctance -- essentially warns the WHO's ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/pandemic-preparedness-plan/ Hope you all stayed safe and singe-free for the 4th of July! We had a blast going to parades and fireworks. The only injury in my house was from overeating parade candy... gut rot. I took the excerpt below from Tim Garnder's post (with his kind permission). Although I usually read ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/uncategorized/everyone-a-safety-manager/ [caption id="attachment_1009" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Sassy Safety Queen's Tri Training Favorite"][/caption] I have to share about my new favorite, multi-purpose safety glasses - Elvex Avion Indoor/Outdoor Safety Glasses. They are great for many reasons but I LOVE Indoor/Outdoor safety glasses because I don’t need to have tons of pairs lying around to ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/indooroutdoor-safety-glasses-multi-purpose-favorites/ Having a safety plan involves different steps. One of these steps is identifying hazards. Did you know that small businesses are able to get free onsite consultation services? OSHA will send a qualified consultant to “help identify existing hazards and those that can develop, as well as implement systems to ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/safety-consult-from-osha-free/ The weather is finally hot here in Wisconsin!  Yahoo!  It’s a good thing too because my cabin fever was getting out of control.  We were using snow blowers in March which is just wrong! My psyche was suffering severely which meant I needed online shopping to repair it. But finally ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/spring-fever-diy-projects-and-ppe/ According to Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety the estimated cost of Workmen’s Comp due to disabling injuries and illnesses was 48.6 billion (most recent figure from ’06). That was not a typo – billion is correct. Holy crap is right! The most recently released Top Ten list of “Most Disabling ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/2008%e2%80%99s-index-of-most-disabling-injuries/ Did you know that MSHA offers free Education and Training resources? Topics include eye protection, mining safety, hazard recognition, first aid training, and tie-off fall protection rules are only a few of the many listed. If you’re interested in details then check out the link (see below)and read the synopsis or ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/get-free-workplace-safety-training-dvds/ After choosing this month’s winner in a very scientific manner (the old standby of eenie-meenie-miny-moe which is my personal favorite) we have this months winner of the Harley Davidson Safety Glasses. All you have to do to enter is subscribe to Safety Briefs!   Congrats to our May winner:  Sandra T, California     And thanks ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/uncategorized/harley-davidson-safety-glasses-mays-winner/ Are Off The Job Injuries a Problem? In my experience as a Paramedic/Fire Fighter, I have observed that most of the injury related calls I have responded to were not at the work site, but rather in homes or areas where people were participating in recreational activities. On one large construction ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-videos/what-do-injuries-really-cost/ Did you know that the 14th of April was the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic?  Well it was.  It was supposed to be an unsinkable ship.   We all know how that turned out, when the massive ship sunk in the Atlantic Ocean on its maiden voyage. The sinking of ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/dont-let-safety-sink-in-a-recession-like-the-titanic/ DeWalt has been making safety glasses for several years now, but I'm always surprised to find out how many loyal DeWalt users and carpentry workers don't know they exist.  So here's a brief look at some awesome glasses backed by a top notch brand. The glasses are manufactured by Radians, and ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/dewalt-safety-glasses/ Did you know that you can't just keep oily rags and flammable liquids just laying round your shop?  I'm not going to go into a whole bunch of detail here, but very briefly... THEY COULD CATCH ON FIRE! So what's a boy to do?  Flammable safety cabinets are the answer.  Plain ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/flammable-cabinets/ I wanted to take this post to let you know about brand of safety glasses you may not have known existed... Drumroll... O. C. C.... Yep, Safety Glasses Inc.  stocks Orange County Choppers Safety Glasses and they are sharp.  They're manufactured by AO Safety, so they've got that going for them.  ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/orange-county-choppers-and-safety-glasses/ April 23, was  officially take a chance day.  However here is a list of 10 things I would not take a chance on today. Not wearing your safety glasses for an entire day That new duct tape harness you created to save a few bucks Telling your boss you slept with his wife Leaving ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/take-a-chance-with-safety-day/ Are we in a Recession?  Apparently.  Oh well.  Here's the thing though.  In tough times, individuals and companies are looking for any way to save a buck.  They start cutting things.  Unfortunately, in our haste and panic we often cut the wrong things.  Safety is not an area to cut ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/safety-glasses-and-a-recession/ So, you're thinking about a horizontal lifeline system, but you don't know what the hell you're looking for.  Well, fear not my friends.  First off let me explain a horizontal lifeline system... Basically a horizontal lifeline stretches from "point A" to "point B" across the length of a roof.  The beauty ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/horizontal-lifelines/ Due to the increase of infrastructure construction, where fall protection and welding often meet, I thought I'd showcase a few welding fall protection products on the market. Anchor: Guardian Beamer 2000 - The metal that makes up this anchor is resistant to welding splatter and fits over I and H beams. Retractable: ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/welding-with-fall-protection/ Did you know that April 29 was National Zipper Day!!!  Did you know that zippers have played an important role in safety over the years?  Well they have.  In celebration, where can you find zippers in the safety industry? Hello, Vest Harnesses use zippers to make these things easy as hell ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/zippers-in-fall-protection/ Need a laugh? Check out this clip from  Aussie show, “Thank God You’re Here.” A perfect clip to show before a safety meeting? I think so. Check out around 4:05 minutes when they talk about the safety officer on site. http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-videos/humorous-workplace-safety/ Just by signing up to receive Safety Brief's workplace safety tips you are automatically entered to win a pair of Harley Davidson Safety Glasses, courtesy of Safety Glasses Inc. Our thanks to this month's winner for signing up for our tips and to Safety Glasses Inc who graciously is providing us a pair ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/press-releases/aprils-safety-glasses-winner/ In Part 1 of this series we introduced a three step approach to getting employees to “buy-in” to your safety culture.  Step #1 was to create a vision statement that communicates your safety goals and how you plan to achieve them.  We’ll now look at the two remaining steps. If you ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/part-2-how-to-create-ownership-within-your-safety-culture/   The number of U.S. human cases of Swine Flu Infection (this is lab confirmed results) is highest in New York City (51 cases) and second highest in Texas (16) as of late this morning. On the pandemic scale the Swine Flu is now at phase 4 (out of 6). The ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/uncategorized/swine-flu-n95-respirators-and-cdc/ Contractor, Shawnlee Construction Inc, is facing a potential $70,000 fine from OSHA for allegedly committing a willful violation of fall protection safety. A willful violation is considered “one committed with plain indifference to or intentional disregard for employee safety and health.” Allegedly, workers were exposed to a 50 ft fall while ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/70000-penalty-for-potential-50-ft-fall/   So you’re 300 ft up from the ground working on a wind turbine. You may be up for 30 minutes or up for 8 hours. You would be crazy not to have a fall harness that is comfortable. (Okay –if you’re 300 ft in the air you already are a little ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/part-ii-fall-protection-in-wind-energy-industry-what-to-wear/   Is the slowing economy causing more companies to cut corners on safety, creating a more dangerous work environment? Some analyst and labor officials think so. Recent headlines shout, “Bad Economy Leads to More Work Place Fatalities” and “Workplace Litigation Risk Heats Up as Economy Cools.” Tough times are here and we ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/safety-doesnt-cost-it-pays/ "This is the way we’ve always done things”.  “You better put on your PPE or the safety rep. is going to write you up”.  If these comments can be heard at your workplace, you are facing an ownership problem.   These folks see safety as something “they” want me to do, ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/part-1-how-to-create-ownership-within-your-safety-culture/ Recently I was asked about Indoor/Outdoor Safety Glasses so I dug through Frank's Reports (the one on lens colors) and chopped out the portion about I/O lenses. Thanks for your question! The indoor/outdoor lens is actually a clear lens with a mirrored coating.  The mirrored coating reflects sunlight and glare, which ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/indooroutdoor-safety-glasses/   A recent discussion group on an online safety site was discussing passive and active fall protection. Safety experts weighed in on their preferences between the two. First of all, for those of you who need a quick 101 in fall protection, follow along. An example of Passive Fall Protection Systems would ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/passive-vs-active-fall-protection-systems-what-the-experts-prefer/ For the past nine years Skanska USA Building Inc. has been awarding honors to its largest subcontractors with the goal of reducing construction-related falls. That’s putting their money where their mouth is. Through Skanska’s Top 40 competition they hope to “leverage the best leadership of the subcontractor organizations to eliminate all ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-news/top-40-award-positive-impact-for-on-the-job-safety-in-construction/ Here at Safety Briefs, we are interested in safety in all fields. Currently, we have been researching safety in Wind Industry. While the Construction Industry and others have slowed, the Wind Energy Industry has taken off.  With 20% of the stimulus package being set towards renewable energy it is bound ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/part-1-fall-protection-safety-in-wind-energy-industry/ Well, it was just announced that OSHA will be removing all of their sanctions from everything. Yep you heard me right... everything. Working on a skyscraper? You no longer need to wear a harness.  Want to make your employees run on flaming coals? Done.  ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/osha-removes-all-sanctions/ Take a look at the diagram. Interesting, huh? After evaluating the location and frequency of chainsaw injuries, doesn’t it kind of make you rethink your PPE plan? It’s easy to blow off PPE until you see the cold hard facts. Be Smart and Safe. And if you’re not, please email me your ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/chainsaw-injuries-fact-and-fiction-and-ppe/ This past week I have been invited to several different online training courses. The OSHA Training courses provide safety training for almost everything. Alas, I am hesitant to fork over the dough for a couple different reasons, but I don’t want my fear of the unknown to hamper a potentially ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/online-safety-training-courses-bogus-or-beneficial/ Temples are a huge component of safety glasses and eye protection, and as a result let's go over some of the common used terms when discussing this piece of equipment. First of a ll what is a temple?  Well, a temple is the plastic or metal that stretches from the frame ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/safety-glasses-temples/ Here is a brief answer to this question from the folks over at entnet.org.  So what's the deal?  Can we still hear voices and machines with ear plugs in?  How is that possible? "Just as sunglasses help vision in very bright light, so hearing protectors enhance speech understanding in very noisy ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/can-i-hear-machines-and-people-with-ear-plugs/ Here is another disaster fact from OSHA.  You may remember my first post about this neat feature, but if not you can check it out here.  Anyway, here is another sample accident and what you can do to prevent it.  Sometimes it's just a good idea to hear all of ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/fall-protection-at-the-edge/ The polarized safety glasses are the ultimate in sun protection.  The only thing stronger is Uncle Lester’s $5 cologne.  Polarized lenses are becoming the most sought after glasses on the market.  This lens is designed for outdoor use where reflected glare from water, snow, cement, and other hard surfaces exist. Polarized ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/polarized-safety-glasses/ Matt, Matt, Matt. What are we going to do with you? You had nowhere to go but down at Las Vegas Motor Speedway after the 500.  But seriously, last place? Okay if I am going to be fair, engine failure is a good reason to come in last – if ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/nascar-and-wiley-x-eyewear/ Tornadoes, high winds, hurricanes and hail can lead to tree damage. Clean up and recovery after a major storm can be exhausting and sometimes dangerous. For some of us, we can get a little trigger happy with the chainsaw.  I have certainly seen the end results of that – not that ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/tree-care-after-storms-staying-safe-with-chainsaws/ I thought it would be a good idea to go over some terminology used in the world of safety glasses so we're all on the same page.  This time I'd like to share with you the definitions of a "Nose Bridge" and "Nose Piece"  Let's go. Nose Bridge: Connects the two ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/safety-glasses-nose-pieces-nose-bridges/ In researching hard hats on the Internet, I came across the Hard Hat Brotherhood.  Now, these guys aren't all about safety but instead use the hard hat as a mascot due to its inherently manly nature.  Basically, they're just a bunch of guys that get together and do guys things. I ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/hard-hat-brotherhood/ I bet some of you were expecting a big huge list on this post.  Well, you're not going to get one.  That is unless you want me to list off the 206 bones in the human body. Yeah, that would be a pretty boring list, but you get the point.  Fall ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/206-reasons-for-fall-protection/ It wasn't too long ago when the only safety sunglasses you could get were humungous, unattractive, blue-blocker type glasses.  And no one wanted to go outside with those safety glasses on, rendering them useless.  We've come a long way baby, and now most safety sunglasses are indistinguishable from regular sunglasses.  ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/safety-sunglasses/ What do Matt Kenseth and I have in common? We are both from frick’n cold Wisconsin (I am a little bitter about our never-ending winter here in Wisconsin so I will move to the next topic). My husband, who willingly watches cars go ‘round and ‘round in circles, was thrilled. (He ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/two-wins-in-a-row-for-matt-kenseth/ Did you know that back before the current ANSI standards a minimum thickness of safety glasses was required. In the days of the old standards, a minimum lens thickness was required.  The old standard stated that a high impact lens must be at least 2 millimeters thick.  This was when size ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/what-ansi-has-to-say-about-safety-glass-thickness/ Did you know there are actually three classes of hard hats?  If not, I thought I'd fill you in or give you a little refresher course. Class A: These helmets are for general service. They provide good impact protection but limited voltage protection. They are used mainly in mining, building construction, ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/hard-hat-classes/ There are several variants of fall protection lanyards in the world of fall protection, so let's take a look at them so you can gain a better understanding of what you're looking for. Rope Lanyard: Offers some elastic properties for all arrest; used for restraint purpose. Web Lanyard: Ideal for restraint purposes ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/fall-protection-lanyard-differences/ Anti-Fog Safety Glasses coatings are becoming increasingly popular in this world of climate change.  Many of today’s lenses are equipped with an anti-fog coating, which minimizes lens fogging.  This simple coating is most effective in places where rapid change in temperature occurs. For example, an anti-fog lens would be ideal for ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/anti-fog-and-safety-glasses/ Here’s a great story that emphasizes the need for chainsaw chaps. Check out my other post with a chain saw injury if you want a great visual reminder. “Chaps actually saved my life once (I'm convinced, anyway). I was working for a builder in Michigan, clearing out some of his land ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/chainsaw-chaps-saved-my-life/ Prevention is one of the most cost-efficient ways to stay healthy. Your eyes are not exceptions. In honor of “Save Your Vision Week,” I’d like to pass along a couple great ways to protect your eyes. Here we go, ways to keep your eyes healthy: Schedule regular eye examinations. Wear protective eyewear when ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/march-1-7-save-your-vision-week/ Every pair of safety glasses has markings on it in order to let consumers know that it has passed the ANSI standard for safety glasses strength...  Which come in the form of two tests. A basic impact lens must pass the “drop ball” test.  In this test a 1 inch steel ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/ansi-markings-on-safety-glasses/ OSHA offers a section on their website that provides what they call Disaster Facts.  These brief reports describe an accident with all of the stats and recommendations on how to prevent this type of accident from occurring on your job site.  I thought this one was extremely relevant... BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/roofing-accident-help/ Some of you out there may not know that fall protection restraints and harnesses come in 4 different types of classes.  Now, each class has its own function and use.  So what better time to go over some of these differences. Class 1: Body belts (single or double D-ring) are designed ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/fall-protection-classes/ I believe we've mentioned bifocal safety glasses in passing, but I thought I'd take a little time to go into more detail on these little beauties. Bifocal safety glasses combine a polycarbonate (hard plastic) lens with essentially reading glasses.  This way you don't need two pair of glasses to get the ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/bifocal-safety-glasses/ If you’re like me, you want to look your best no matter what you’re doing. If you’re look’n good you’re feel’n good. Here’s some advice that won’t cost you a thing! Here are some “rules” for finding glasses that best fit your face shape. Contrast your glasses with your face shape. Glasses should ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/ladies-want-to-find-safety-glasses-that-look-great-on-you/ Can you use safety glasses for welding?  Yes, for mild welding.  If your going to be assembling a bridge, you're going to need a welding helmet or mask.  However, for smaller jobs (see below) you could use a filtered safety glasses. A filtered lens is the most misunderstood lens of all.  ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/welding-and-safety-glasses/ Today is No-Brainer Day. Yes officially! Finally! I've been waiting all year for today. What do I consider a no-brainer? Well, it's something that goes without saying. Such as having pretzels with beer, or watching Baywatch with your pants off. It just makes sense. You ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-news/safety-no-brainer-day/ On January 16th, OSHA (Big Brother) cited Peach State Roofing of Rock Hill, S.C. for repeat fall protection hazard with a proposed penalty of $50,000. That's a lot of bones, dinero, scratch, greenbacks, benjamins, dough, or cash no matter how you slice it. Why do we have so ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/osha-strike-again-yikes-huge-fine/ The I, or H Beam for that matter, can be a pretty tricky obstacle in the world of fall protection. Luckily, there are a lot of solid options out there and I thought we'd highlight a few of the standouts. Guardian Beamer 2000 - This classic anchor fits over ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/tackling-the-i-beam/ “Near miss” situations. We’ve all had them, whether we want to own up to it or not. My most memorable was a water rapids experience where, despite my life jacket, I still wasn’t coming back up. Luckily someone two rafts behind me saw me fly out and was able to ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/fall-protection-rescue-plans-and-near-misses/ ANSWER: It all depends on what kind of work you are performing on the ladder. You do not need Fall Protection if you have three points of contact on the ladder. Your feet and hands are your points of contact.  So if you had both feet and both hands on ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/do-i-need-to-use-fall-protection-on-a-ladder/ The indoor/outdoor (mirror 50) eye protection is used for um… oh yeah indoor and outdoor applications.  This lens is one of the most versatile lenses.  It has 50% visible light transmission, which means that it’s blocking about half of the light that could get through to your eyes. The lens is ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/using-indoor-outdoor-safety-glasses/ There may or may not be some confusion in this department so I thought I'd give you a brief look at what goes into a complete personal fall protection system. Here I go... Anchor - You need something to stay strong if you should fall. These attach to anything ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/personal-fall-protection-system/ When it comes to un-boxing that new TV or DVD player, I'm all for pitching the directions and putting them in the round file (garbage can). However with safety products it's a completely different situation. Reading and better yet understanding the directions can make the difference between life and death ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/read-the-directions-damnit/ I found this fun little video online and I thought you guys would enjoy it. I don't want to spoil the ending, but this video is about how to make emergency sunglasses out of duct tape. These glasses of course would not count as safety glasses, but they ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/emergency-duct-tape-sungalsses/ Chainsaw Chaps can seem expensive. That’s a problem. The average chainsaw injury requires 120 stitches. That’s an even bigger problem. Think about this – the cost of one stitch is about the same as a pair of chaps. Since the majority of injuries occur on the upper and lower leg, it makes ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/chainsaw-chaps-injury-and-protection/ Safety Meetings….for some of you it’s a chance to secretly finish your crossword puzzle, a 30 minute snooze session , or another thing to check off the list for the week. How can Safety Coordinators or Supervisors make safety meetings more effective? Here are some ideas to help energize safety meetings. 1. ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/safety-meetings-try-something-new/ There are a lot of cute colored lenses on safety glasses out there, but what do they do?  Is there a reason to have a lens that is baby blue or perfectly pink?  Yes, there is a reason and it has nothing to do with fashion or how festive you ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/safety-glasses-for-inspection-work/ Did know that today is Blame Someone Else Day? So allow me to pass some blame around... 8. Yoko, you single handedly broke up The Beatles. 7. Umm... 6. Ah... Okay that's about all I've got. But remember, if you don't take the extra effort to seek out, demand, ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/blame-someone-else-day/ I know a lot of us can be hard headed at times, but unfortunately that doesn't protect us from falling tools, protruding nails, and punches to the skull...  But a Hard Hat can. And, for those of you who didn't know, if you're running a job site where a head injury ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/hard-hat-safety/ Did you know that an estimated 1,000 eye injuries occur in American workplaces each and every day? That is a crap load! (I have no idea technically what a crap load is, but it's a lot) And the cost of these injuries totals more than $300 million ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/the-cost-of-eye-safety/ When I first saw the picture of my laid-back, over-educated, husband, I thought “Drug Lord.” He looked really scary. What do you think? I think it was the gun that put him over the edge. He was just enjoying his yearly "Guys Weekend" with his college buddies that he’s been ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/guys-guns-and-safety/ The most common eye protection in the universe is clear.  Actually I can’t statistically back that up, but I'd be willing to wager a significant chunk of change on it.  So let's take a look at what makes clear safety glasses the most common. A clear lens is ideal for indoor ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-glasses/common-safety-glasses/ February 3rd marked the 50th anniversary of the "Day the Music Died." For those of you that haven't heard "American Pie" by Don McLean or didn't feel like trying to decipher the cryptic lyrics, here's the skinny... Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens died in a plane crash... ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/the-day-the-music-died/ The World of Concrete Convention is going on right now. Literally. Right now. Unless you're reading this sometime after the 6th. Then, alas it has passed, but in celebration I thought I'd re-list the top 5 fall protection products for concrete... 5. SafeWaze SafeClaw Concrete Anchor (completely ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/world-of-concrete/ This Monday was Ground Hog Day. Do you ever feel like everyday is the same? You do the exact same things with very little consequence? That's a good thing when it comes to safety. Judging by the way irony works in this world, the odds are extraordinary that ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/safety-articles/groundhog-day-safety/ There are women you look at and think, “Amazing. That’s what I want to be like when I grow up.” These are women who personify spirit, adventure, and a little unconventionality. That brings me to Marcia from Lazy MJ Ranch. She bought her first safety harness, SafeWaze SafeLight, at the age ... http://www.safetybriefs.org/fall-protection-articles/women-and-fall-protection-wild-woman-do/