Top Safety News, March 2016
- OSHA issues final rule on silica dust, effective in June
- Employer resources for Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April
- Repetitive motions can lead to workplace trouble
- Silica protection and silicosis prevention tips
- New at ComplianceSigns.com: Size reference charts and more
March 2016 ComplianceSigns Connection Workplace Safety Newsletter
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Top Safety News, March 2016
• OSHA issues final rule on silica dust, effective in June
• Employer resources for Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April
• Repetitive motions can lead to workplace trouble
• Silica protection and silicosis prevention tips
• New at ComplianceSigns.com: Size reference charts and more
OSHA Issues Final Rule on Silica Dust
OSHA estimates its new final rule on silica dust will impact some 2.3 million workers who
are exposed to crystalline silica, including construction workers who drill, cut crush or grind
concrete, stone and other common materials. The new PEL is 50-80 percent lower than
existing standards. New standards for construction and general industry take effect
in June with compliance dates 1-2 years afterward.
Browse Eye PPE Safety Signs at ComplianceSigns.com.
Free Resources for Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April
The National Safety Council designates April as Distracted Driving Awareness
Month to draw attention to the epidemic of distracted driving - and offers a variety
of free resources for employers. A free cell phone policy kit helps employers of
any size protect their workers - and their business. Other resources include
posters, fact sheets, infographics, videos, research and more.
Browse Cell Phone and Texting Signs and Labels.
What's New at ComplianceSigns.com
Size Reference Images - Customers tell us it's easy to find the signs they need at
ComplianceSigns.com, but sometimes they have questions about text height or
sign size. We understand it can be challenging to visualize the difference between
a 10x7-inch sign and a 14x10-inch sign, and text height varies from one sign to the
next. So, we developed sign size and text height reference images for many signs
in our store. Look for the blue-gray icons below the main sign image, and
click them for information on sign size, text height or to view a larger image.
Biohazard Signs and Labels on a wide range of topics including vaccine storage,
bio disposal, sharps notices, solvents, sanitation and more. See our newest signs here, or visit our custom
signs and labels page to make your own.
Repetitive Motions Mean Danger in the Workplace
Whether employees work at a computer or install ceiling tiles, if they perform the
same motion for long periods of time, they may be at risk of repetitive motion
disorders, MSDs or cumulative trauma disorders. No matter what they're called,
these problems can be hard to detect because they vary from person to
person. NIOSH and Minot State University recently published resources that can
help address ergonomics in your workplace.
View Industrial Hazard Signs and Labels.
Workplace Tool Safety Tips
Power tools and workshop equipment send nearly 400,000 Americans to the emergency room
every year, with non-powered tools causing the majority of injuries. OSHA offers
information on how to prevent such injuries. Key points: Keep tools in good condition; Use the
right tool for the job; Don't use damaged tools; Understand and follow manufacturer's
instructions.
Browse Workplace Safety Signs and Labels.
Properly Fit Hard Hats Support Safe Worksites
Page 1 of 3ComplianceSigns Connection Newsletter
4/25/2016
2. An article in the March OH&S magazine describes the importance of selecting a
hard fat that fits correctly and comfortably, and offers some perspective on hard
hat construction, regulations and fit tips. We've shared key points at the
Connection blog and provided links to resources related to hard hat standards.
Browse PPE-Head Safety Signs.
March Safety News and Notes
Here's a collection of recent workplace safety news and resources:
New OSHA Eye and Face Protection Standards Effective April 25.
OSHA has published a final rule that updates requirements for personal protective
equipment (PPE) for workers in general industry, shipyards, longshoring, marine
terminals and construction. It updates references to include ANSI/ISEA
Z87.1-2010.
Plan Ahead for Safety Stand-Down in May
OSHA has designated May 2-6, 2016, for the third annual National Safety Stand-
Down. The event is a nationwide effort to remind and educate employers and workers in the construction
industry of the serious dangers of falls. OSHA, NIOSH and the Center for Construction Research and
Training encourage employers to pause during their workday for topic discussions, demonstrations and
training on how to recognize hazards and prevent falls.
New Heat Stress Info from NIOSH
NIOSH has released the updated Criteria for a Recommended Standard:
Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments.NIOSH has evaluated the
scientific literature on heat and hot environments and updated the criteria
document, which was last revised in 1986.
Hazard Alert for Oil and Gas Workers
A new joint NIOSH and OSHA hazard alert identifies health and safety risks to oil
and gas industry workers who manually gauge or sample fluids on production and flowback tanks. A new
publication gives recommendations on protecting workers from related hazards.
Resources to Prevent Aerial Lift Injuries
Learn about the fall-related risks and recommended safe work practices associated with this equipment by
visiting the new NIOSH Aerial Lifts web page. While you’re there, test the Hazard Recognition Simulator,
which is designed to help users acclimate to aerial lift operation.
Upcoming OH&S Workplace Safety Webinars
• April 7 - New Technology in Lab Safety: Flame-Resistant, Chemical-Splash Protection
• April 20 - Worker Fitness: Wellness Meets Health Surveillance
• April 27 - Protection from the Unexpected: Hidden Dangers for Electric Utility Workers
• May 3 - GHS and the Status of the New SDS
• May 4 - Preparing your Organization for Electrical Compliance/NFPA 70E
SAFETY TIP:
Crystalline Silica Protection and Silicosis Prevention
With OSHAs new final rule on crystalline silica on the books, this is a good time
to review silica dust exposures and policies in your workplace. We've assembled
tips from NIOSH and OSHA to help you address this hazard, including:
• 6 Sources of Silica Exposure
• 21 Work Practices to Prevent Silicosis - for Employers and Employees
• 12 Common Materials Containing Crystalline Silica
Browse Respirator Safety Signs at ComplianceSigns.com.
Customer Comments
Here's what customers are saying about ComplianceSigns.com this month:
• Your website is quick and efficient, your selection of signage is perfect. Thank You! - John S.
• Signs are easy to read, and look sharp! We'll definitely utilize Compliance Signs again. - Ryan
• Signs were durable and professional looking. Will utilize this site for future needs! - Meagan
• You guys provide every sign I've been looking for. - Crystal M.
Read more ComplianceSigns.com customer reviews.
Page 2 of 3ComplianceSigns Connection Newsletter
4/25/2016
3. ComplianceSigns CONNECTION
Dave Anderson, Editor
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Top Safety Articles Last Month
These were the most popular articles in last month's Connection:
• January OSHA Fines Total $1.5 Million
• Ensure Correct Rigging Procedures for Safe Lifting
• 2016 Safety Predictions: 4 Trends to Address
• Top 10 Disabling Workplace Injuries Cost Employers $51 Billion Annually
• NIOSH Study Identifies Top Industries for Hearing Problems
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Page 3 of 3ComplianceSigns Connection Newsletter
4/25/2016