SafetyBlog

A dust extractor can make a world of difference in the air quality of many workplaces. Also known as a dust collector, it will remove dust from the air. Many workplaces have high levels of airborne dust. Workplaces that produce wooden products or otherwise work with wood, for instance, will likely have high levels of wood dust. All of this dust can pose a safety hazard to workers. If this sounds familiar, you may want to invest in a dust extractor.What Is a Dust Extractor?A dust extractor is a d …

You can't ignore lockout/tagout when performing maintenance or repairs on machinery. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has standards in place to protect workers from injury, one of which is lockout/tagout. Below are five things you need to know about lockout/tagout and how it works.#1) Protects Against Accidental Startup and Stored EnergyLockout/tagout is designed specifically to protect against accidental startup and stored energy. Machinery must be turned off so that you …

If you work in a hot environment, you should familiarize yourself with the signs of heat cramps. Heat-related illness isn't limited to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Exposure to hot temperatures can affect your body in other ways. It may cause heat cramps, for instance. What are heat cramps exactly, and how do you prevent them?Overview of Heat CrampsHeat cramps are involuntary muscle contractions in response to heat. They involve electrolyte imbalances, particularly low levels of sodium, potass …

Are you thinking about buying a pair of leather work gloves? Work gloves are an essential form of personal protective equipment (PPE) for many jobs. Consisting of tanned leather, they will protect your hands from splinters, sharp objects and other potential work-related hazards. Leather work gloves, however, offer both advantages and disadvantages, some of which are discussed below.Pro: ComfortLeather work gloves are undoubtedly comfortable. They feature a softer, gentler texture than …

Over 22 million workers in the United States are exposed to potentially harmful noise levels each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Loud noise can damage the cochlea. Over time, this damage may manifest in the form of tinnitus -- chronic ringing of the ears -- or even hearing loss. You can lower your risk of occupational hearing loss by using foam earplugs.Foam earplugs are exactly what they sound like: expandable foam plugs that are designed for use i …