Statistics on Hand Hygiene
(Sources: Michigan State University; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Queen Mary, University of London; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Global Handwashing Day)
When is the flu season in the United States?
In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter.
While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, but activity can last as late as May. The overall health impact (e.g., infections, hospitalizations, and deaths) of a flu season varies from season to season.
CDC collects, compiles, and analyzes information on influenza activity year-round in the United States and produces FluView, a weekly surveillance report, and FluView Interactive, which allows for more in-depth exploration of influenza surveillance data. The Weekly U.S. Influenza Summary Update is updated each week from October through May.
Influenza (Flu) Facts (CDC, 2017)
Influenza (the flu) can be a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Anyone can get sick from the flu.
People with flu can spread it to others. Influenza viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are up to about 6 feet away or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose.
Flu Vaccine Facts (CDC, 2017)
Flu vaccines CANNOT cause the flu. Flu vaccines are made with either killed or weakened viruses.
Flu vaccines are safe. Serious problems from the flu vaccine are very rare. The most common side effect that a person is likely to experience is soreness where the injection was given. This is generally mild and usually goes away after a day or two. Visit Influenza Vaccine Safety for more information.
September 2024
Hazardous Chemical Spill Procedure
When a hazardous chemical spill or leak occurs follow these steps:
Do not attempt to clean up a spill if you have not been trained to or if you are alone.
August 2024
Share the following eight tips at your next work meeting:
The key to mitigating risks begins with understanding what could cause a potential hazard or incident. Ask each employee to look around their workspace and identify anything that could jeopardize their safety. In many cases, non-threatening items could be problematic in the right scenario. Knowing what damage certain things could potentially cause can help you avoid these situations.
Incidents can happen at any time to anyone, even those who take safety seriously. When an incident occurs or a hazard manifests itself, employees should know how to report issues expeditiously to lessen their effects. Go over the proper procedures with employees so they can reduce response time, secure the affected if necessary, and work toward a resolution quickly.
Some employees will cast caution to the wind in order to save time. But what they don’t always realize is that tasks have been carefully thought out to prevent safety issues, even if they do require a little more time. Let employees know that if there were a quicker way, you’d already be doing it. Remind them about the importance of following procedures to the letter for their own sake.
A clean workspace is a safe workspace. Clear away any clutter or unnecessary items that could pose risks of tripping, falling, slipping, or other injuries. Studies show that slips, trips, and falls are one of the biggest dangers at work. They create almost 250,000 missed work days each year, but they’re also largely preventable.
If your team members aren’t engaged with the company outside of meetings and normal job duties, that’s a problem. It’s important for your employees to feel invested in the company. Volunteering for projects, lending a hand outside of their normal duties, joining a committee or team, or participating in company-sponsored programs can immerse them in your company's culture. Employees that have a vested interest in the company can do a better job of maintaining safety standards than someone who simply shows up to work. Let your people know how they can get involved with the company. Offer them ways to stay engaged and show them how it can improve their work life.
It sounds crazy, but some people work straight through breaks in order to finish a job. While this shows a dedication to their company, it also shows a disregard for safety. Taking regular breaks can ensure projects are completed on time and without incident because it gives workers a chance to grab their focus.
Even though they aren’t sleeping on the job, feeling rested can help them exercise better judgment at work. They’re less likely to make mistakes that can result in safety issues. Emphasize the importance of a good night’s sleep and how it can ultimately affect your employees' performance.
When new employees come on board, it’s essential to start them off right. Rely on your team to help integrate them into your safety culture. Set expectations up front and make it easy for them to learn the ropes to stay safe on the job.
July 2024
Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, around 618 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Here are helpful tips, information, and resources to help you stay safe in the extreme heat this summer.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water and avoid sugary beveragesStay Cool
Stay in an air-conditioned areaWear Light Clothes
Wear loose-fitting, light in color, and lightweight clothesJune 2024
The 2023 hurricane season is here. Being prepared for what experts predict will be another record-setting year is the key to protecting your family and assets.
The U.S. experienced more category 4 and 5 hurricanes in the last five years, than in the previous 50 years combined.
All equipment and appliances must be approved by a reputable testing laboratory, which certifies the equipment and appliances meet the minimum requirements of NFPA-99. Defective plugs, cords, or equipment/appliances are not permitted for use under any circumstance.
Small electrical appliances for personal hygiene use by non-critically ill patients and for patient comfort or entertainment must be reported nursing and checked by Safety prior to use. No personal appliances are to be approved for use by critically ill patients. No extension cords are permitted for any patient approved appliance under these guidelines. Unacceptable items include:
All electrically powered convenience items (microwaves, fans, coffee makers etc.) must be inspected by Safety prior to use.
All electrical items are subject to inspection by Safety EOC and hazardous safety surveillance surveys. If found defective or in violation, they must be removed from service.
Portable heaters are not permitted in the facility. If there is a heating issue, Safety will provide a heater after all other avenues has been exhausted.
If the appliance in use has an approved label that is more than four (4) years old, please contact Safety to have the appliance re-inspected.
May 2024
April 2024
Severe Weather Know your emergency plan on where to seek shelter in case of severe weather, tornado, or a fire. If you hear thunder, stay indoors to protect yourself from lightning. Stay informed about current severe weather conditions by tuning in to a weather radio, television, or the internet. Know how to communicate to others quickly when emergency action is required. Participate in drills to make sure things run smoothly and problems can be worked out be a real emergency happens. Hazardous Weather Outlook: Definitions of Hazard Levels and Their Associated Triggers Hazard Level 0 1 2 3 4 5 Threat to life orproperty and/oreconomic impact Nil Minimal Small Medium Significant VerySignificant Grassland Fire Danger Index Very High Extreme Catastrophic Heat Index (°F) 100° 105° for 3 hours/Advisory 110° for 3 hours/Warning 110° for 3 hours/Warning for 3 days Wind Chill (°F) 0° -15° for 3 hours/Advisory -25° for 3 hours/Warning -25° for 3 hours/Warning for 3 days Blowing Dust or Smoke Blowing Dust Advisory(3/8sm - 1sm) Blowing Dust WarningVisibility < 3/8sm Other Obstruction to Visibility (statute miles) Nil Obstruction to Visibilityin grids Patchy 1/2sm Advisory Widespread<1/8sm Wind(non-convective) Advisory High Wind Warning High Wind Warning for 3 hours or more Hurricane Force Frost/Freeze Nil Frostmentioned FrostAdvisory FreezeWarning Lightning Nil Thunder mentioned Hail Nil Below SignificantWeather Alert Significant Weather Alert Severe Hail Likely >= 2 inches > 3 inches Wind(convective) Nil Below SignificantWeather Alert Significant WeatherAlert Severe Wind Likely 75 mph Derecho Tornado Nil Cold AirFunnels Chance Likely Tornado< EF4 EF4-EF5 Winter Weather Nil Mentioned Below Winter WeatherAdvisory Criteria Advisoryor Watch Warning Paralyzing Winter Weather (ie., 1 inch or more ice or blizzard w/ heavy snow) River Flood Nil Action Stage Likely Flood Warning(minor-moderate) MajorFlooding Record Flooding Flood/Flash flood Nil Flood Warnings Possible(FLW) Likely Flood Warnings (FLW);Possible Flash Flood Warnings (FFW), Flood/Flash Flood Watches (FFA) Widespread Flooding,or high probability of Flash Flood Warnings (FFW) Dam Break/Catastrophic Flooding
March 2024
All equipment and appliances must be approved by a reputable testing laboratory, which certifies the equipment and appliances meet the minimum requirements of NFPA-99. Defective plugs, cords, or equipment/appliances are not permitted for use under any circumstance.
Unacceptable items include:
Non Patient Rooms
February 2024
Don't Sleep on Fatigue in the Workplace
Drowsy workers who aren’t getting enough sleep cost employers between $1,200 and $3,100 in productivity losses per employee each year and can create serious safety problems. Here’s what employers and employees can do about fatigue in the workplace.
Feeling drowsy or tired on the job isn’t just an annoyance—it’s also a serious safety problem. In fact, decreased alertness as a result of worker fatigue played a role in numerous industrial disasters, including the Texas City BP oil refinery explosion, the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger, and the nuclear accidents at both Chernobyl and Three Mile Island, OSHA reports.
WHAT IS WORKPLACE FATIGUE?
Workplace fatigue is something that often happens when there is a conflict between a person's work schedule and their sleep schedule or sleep habits. Too little, poor quality or interrupted sleep over an extended period of time can result in fatigue, which is the body's signal that it needs a period of rest.
The body operates on a circadian rhythm sleep/wake cycle,” OSHA states. “It is naturally programmed for sleeping during night hours. Demanding work schedules may disrupt the body's natural cycle, leading to increased fatigue, stress, and lack of concentration.
Fatigue can hit anyone, anywhere, at any time of day.
In fact, the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that more than 43% of workers are sleep-deprived. The NSC also notes:
OSHA also reports that studies show fatigue is linked to health problems like heart disease, stomach and digestive problems, musculoskeletal disorders, reproductive problems, and depression.
Signs of Workplace Fatigue
Fatigue presents unique challenges for companies but recognizing the signs of fatigue can help managers to keep employees safe. Here are seven signs of fatigue:
“Discussing the need for sleep is an important part of addressing workplace fatigue.”
Effects of Fatigue in the Workplace
“Worker fatigue increases the risk for illnesses and injuries,” OSHA points out. In studying the relative risk of incidents in the morning, afternoon, and night shifts of 8-hour shift systems, the National Institutes of Health identified an 18% increased risk in the afternoon shift and a 30% increase in the night shift (compared to the morning shift).
The longer the shift, the higher the chances of worker fatigue. Working 12 hours per day is associated with a 37% increased risk of injury, OSHA reports, and employers absorb roughly $136 billion in annual costs related to fatigue-related lost productivity.
The Fatigue-Safety Connection
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation can be as dangerous as alcohol impairment when you’re behind the wheel. The Sleep Foundation writes that:
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety (CCOHS) points to this data as a demonstration of why fatigue is a serious workplace hazard, too.
Unlike alcohol consumption, which is easier to detect on the job, fatigue levels are not easily measured or quantified. As a result, it’s difficult to isolate the effect of fatigue on accident and injury rates, CCOHS states. “Factors that may influence fatigue are shift rotation patterns, balanced workloads, timing of tasks and activities, availability of resources and the workplace environment (e.g., lighting, ventilation, temperature, etc.).”
Preventing and Managing Fatigue in the Workplace
Employers can help combat fatigue by offering breaks, scheduling work when employees are most alert, and promoting the importance of sleep. Other effective strategies include balancing workload and staffing, training workers on the issue of fatigue (and how to manage it) and leveraging NSC resources like Managing Fatigue: Developing an Effective Fatigue Risk Management System and Fatigue in the Workplace: Causes & Consequences of Employee Fatigue.
How Do You Fight Fatigue at Work?
There's no single solution for reversing sleep deprivation, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), good sleep habits can help. The CDC recommends that people:
OSHA’s recommendations include some additional points, such as:
If you work evenings or nights, make sure you’ve slept within the last eight hours before going to work
If you’re napping before work, try to allow for a complete sleep/wake cycle by napping either for:
CCOHS echoes this approach and provides a few additional strategies to lessen overall fatigue:
Eat at regular intervals and consume a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and protein
For additional resources, see the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Employers and workers who implement these strategies can help minimize worker fatigue and lessen the chances of a workplace accident or mishap—which will help make the workplace a safer and healthier place for everyone.
January 2024
Ladders are tools. Many of the basic safety rules that apply to most tools also apply to the safe use of a ladder:
The Three Point-of-Contact Climb
Factors contributing to falls from ladders include haste, sudden movement, lack of attention, the condition of the ladder (worn or damaged), the user's age or physical condition, or both, and the user's footwear.
When climbing a ladder, it is safest to utilize Three Points-of-Contact because it minimizes the chances of slipping and falling from the ladder. At all times during ascent, descent, and working, the climber must face the ladder and have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand in contact with the ladder steps, rungs and/or side rails. In this way, the climber is not likely to become unstable in the event one limb slips during the climb. It is important to note that the climber must not carry any objects in either hand that can interfere with a firm grip on the ladder. Otherwise, Three Points-of-Contact with the ladder cannot be adequately maintained and the chance of falling is increased in the event a hand or foot slip occurs.
December 2023
Thousands of deaths are caused by fires, burns and other fire-related injuries every year, and 12% of home candle fires occur in December, the National Fire Protection Association reports. Increased use of candles and fireplaces, combined with an increase in the amount of combustible, seasonal decorations present in many homes means more risk for fire.
Never leave burning candles unattended or sleep in a room with a lit candle
While many subscribe to the theory any fried food is good – even if it's not necessarily good for you – there is reason to be on alert if you're thinking of celebrating the holidays by frying a turkey.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports there have been 168 turkey-fryer related fires, burns, explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning incidents since 2002. CPSC says 672 people have been injured and $8 million in property damage losses have resulted from these incidents.
NSC discourages the use of turkey fryers at home and urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out professional establishments or consider a new oil-less turkey fryer.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides some holiday food safety tips. Here are a few:
November 2023
Brighten the holidays by making your health and safety a priority. Take steps to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy and ready to enjoy the holidays.
October 2023
Statistics on Hand Hygiene
(Sources: Michigan State University; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Queen Mary, University of London; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Global Handwashing Day)
When is the flu season in the United States?
In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter.
While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, but activity can last as late as May. The overall health impact (e.g., infections, hospitalizations, and deaths) of a flu season varies from season to season.
CDC collects, compiles, and analyzes information on influenza activity year-round in the United States and produces FluView, a weekly surveillance report, and FluView Interactive, which allows for more in-depth exploration of influenza surveillance data. The Weekly U.S. Influenza Summary Update is updated each week from October through May.
Influenza (Flu) Facts (CDC, 2017)
Influenza (the flu) can be a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Anyone can get sick from the flu.
People with flu can spread it to others. Influenza viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are up to about 6 feet away or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose.
Flu Vaccine Facts (CDC, 2017)
Flu vaccines CANNOT cause the flu. Flu vaccines are made with either killed or weakened viruses.
Flu vaccines are safe. Serious problems from the flu vaccine are very rare. The most common side effect that a person is likely to experience is soreness where the injection was given. This is generally mild and usually goes away after a day or two. Visit Influenza Vaccine Safety for more information.
September 2023
Hazardous Chemical Spill Procedure
When a hazardous chemical spill or leak occurs follow these steps:
Do not attempt to clean up a spill if you have not been trained to or if you are alone.
August 2023
Share the following eight tips at your next work meeting:
The key to mitigating risks begins with understanding what could cause a potential hazard or incident. Ask each employee to look around their workspace and identify anything that could jeopardize their safety. In many cases, non-threatening items could be problematic in the right scenario. Knowing what damage certain things could potentially cause can help you avoid these situations.
Incidents can happen at any time to anyone, even those who take safety seriously. When an incident occurs or a hazard manifests itself, employees should know how to report issues expeditiously to lessen their effects. Go over the proper procedures with employees so they can reduce response time, secure the affected if necessary, and work toward a resolution quickly.
Some employees will cast caution to the wind in order to save time. But what they don’t always realize is that tasks have been carefully thought out to prevent safety issues, even if they do require a little more time. Let employees know that if there were a quicker way, you’d already be doing it. Remind them about the importance of following procedures to the letter for their own sake.
A clean workspace is a safe workspace. Clear away any clutter or unnecessary items that could pose risks of tripping, falling, slipping, or other injuries. Studies show that slips, trips, and falls are one of the biggest dangers at work. They create almost 250,000 missed work days each year, but they’re also largely preventable.
If your team members aren’t engaged with the company outside of meetings and normal job duties, that’s a problem. It’s important for your employees to feel invested in the company. Volunteering for projects, lending a hand outside of their normal duties, joining a committee or team, or participating in company-sponsored programs can immerse them in your company's culture. Employees that have a vested interest in the company can do a better job of maintaining safety standards than someone who simply shows up to work. Let your people know how they can get involved with the company. Offer them ways to stay engaged and show them how it can improve their work life.
It sounds crazy, but some people work straight through breaks in order to finish a job. While this shows a dedication to their company, it also shows a disregard for safety. Taking regular breaks can ensure projects are completed on time and without incident because it gives workers a chance to grab their focus.
Even though they aren’t sleeping on the job, feeling rested can help them exercise better judgment at work. They’re less likely to make mistakes that can result in safety issues. Emphasize the importance of a good night’s sleep and how it can ultimately affect your employees' performance.
When new employees come on board, it’s essential to start them off right. Rely on your team to help integrate them into your safety culture. Set expectations up front and make it easy for them to learn the ropes to stay safe on the job.
July 2023
Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, around 618 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Here are helpful tips, information, and resources to help you stay safe in the extreme heat this summer.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water and avoid sugary beveragesStay Cool
Stay in an air-conditioned areaWear Light Clothes
Wear loose-fitting, light in color, and lightweight clothesJune 2023
The 2023 hurricane season is here. Being prepared for what experts predict will be another record-setting year is the key to protecting your family and assets.
The U.S. experienced more category 4 and 5 hurricanes in the last five years, than in the previous 50 years combined.
All equipment and appliances must be approved by a reputable testing laboratory, which certifies the equipment and appliances meet the minimum requirements of NFPA-99. Defective plugs, cords, or equipment/appliances are not permitted for use under any circumstance.
Small electrical appliances for personal hygiene use by non-critically ill patients and for patient comfort or entertainment must be reported nursing and checked by Safety prior to use. No personal appliances are to be approved for use by critically ill patients. No extension cords are permitted for any patient approved appliance under these guidelines. Unacceptable items include:
All electrically powered convenience items (microwaves, fans, coffee makers etc.) must be inspected by Safety prior to use.
All electrical items are subject to inspection by Safety EOC and hazardous safety surveillance surveys. If found defective or in violation, they must be removed from service.
Portable heaters are not permitted in the facility. If there is a heating issue, Safety will provide a heater after all other avenues has been exhausted.
If the appliance in use has an approved label that is more than four (4) years old, please contact Safety to have the appliance re-inspected.
May 2023
April 2023
Hazard Level |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
Threat to life or property and/or economic impact |
Nil |
Minimal |
Small |
Medium |
Significant |
Very Significant |
|
||||||
Grassland Fire Danger Index |
|
|
Very High |
Extreme |
Catastrophic |
|
Heat Index (°F) |
|
|
100° |
105° for 3 hours/ Advisory |
110° for 3 hours/ Warning |
110° for 3 hours/ Warning for 3 days |
Wind Chill (°F) |
|
|
0° |
-15° for 3 hours/ Advisory |
-25° for 3 hours/ Warning |
-25° for 3 hours/ Warning for 3 days |
Blowing Dust or Smoke |
|
|
|
|
Blowing Dust Advisory (3/8sm - 1sm) |
Blowing Dust Warning Visibility < 3/8sm |
Other Obstruction to Visibility (statute miles) |
Nil |
Obstruction to Visibility in grids |
Patchy 1/2sm |
Advisory |
Widespread <1/8sm |
|
Wind (non-convective) |
|
|
Advisory |
High Wind Warning |
High Wind Warning for 3 hours or more |
Hurricane Force |
Frost/Freeze |
Nil |
Frost mentioned |
Frost Advisory |
Freeze Warning |
|
|
Lightning |
Nil |
Thunder mentioned |
|
|
|
|
Hail |
Nil |
Below Significant Weather Alert |
Significant Weather Alert |
Severe Hail Likely |
>= 2 inches |
> 3 inches |
Wind (convective) |
Nil |
Below Significant Weather Alert |
Significant Weather Alert |
Severe Wind Likely |
75 mph |
Derecho |
Tornado |
Nil |
|
Cold Air Funnels |
Chance |
Likely Tornado < EF4 |
EF4-EF5 |
Winter Weather |
Nil |
Mentioned |
Below Winter Weather Advisory Criteria |
Advisory or Watch |
Warning |
Paralyzing Winter Weather (ie., 1 inch or more ice or blizzard w/ heavy snow) |
River Flood |
Nil |
|
Action Stage Likely |
Flood Warning (minor-moderate) |
Major Flooding |
Record Flooding |
Flood/Flash flood |
Nil |
|
Flood Warnings Possible (FLW) |
Likely Flood Warnings (FLW); Possible Flash Flood Warnings (FFW), Flood/Flash Flood Watches (FFA) |
Widespread Flooding, or high probability of Flash Flood Warnings (FFW) |
Dam Break/ Catastrophic Flooding |
March 2023
All equipment and appliances must be approved by a reputable testing laboratory, which certifies the equipment and appliances meet the minimum requirements of NFPA-99. Defective plugs, cords, or equipment/appliances are not permitted for use under any circumstance.
Unacceptable items include:
Non Patient Rooms
February 2023
Don't Sleep on Fatigue in the Workplace
Drowsy workers who aren’t getting enough sleep cost employers between $1,200 and $3,100 in productivity losses per employee each year and can create serious safety problems. Here’s what employers and employees can do about fatigue in the workplace.
Feeling drowsy or tired on the job isn’t just an annoyance—it’s also a serious safety problem. In fact, decreased alertness as a result of worker fatigue played a role in numerous industrial disasters, including the Texas City BP oil refinery explosion, the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger, and the nuclear accidents at both Chernobyl and Three Mile Island, OSHA reports.
WHAT IS WORKPLACE FATIGUE?
Workplace fatigue is something that often happens when there is a conflict between a person's work schedule and their sleep schedule or sleep habits. Too little, poor quality or interrupted sleep over an extended period of time can result in fatigue, which is the body's signal that it needs a period of rest.
The body operates on a circadian rhythm sleep/wake cycle,” OSHA states. “It is naturally programmed for sleeping during night hours. Demanding work schedules may disrupt the body's natural cycle, leading to increased fatigue, stress, and lack of concentration.
Fatigue can hit anyone, anywhere, at any time of day.
In fact, the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that more than 43% of workers are sleep-deprived. The NSC also notes:
OSHA also reports that studies show fatigue is linked to health problems like heart disease, stomach and digestive problems, musculoskeletal disorders, reproductive problems, and depression.
Signs of Workplace Fatigue
Fatigue presents unique challenges for companies but recognizing the signs of fatigue can help managers to keep employees safe. Here are seven signs of fatigue:
“Discussing the need for sleep is an important part of addressing workplace fatigue.”
Effects of Fatigue in the Workplace
“Worker fatigue increases the risk for illnesses and injuries,” OSHA points out. In studying the relative risk of incidents in the morning, afternoon, and night shifts of 8-hour shift systems, the National Institutes of Health identified an 18% increased risk in the afternoon shift and a 30% increase in the night shift (compared to the morning shift).
The longer the shift, the higher the chances of worker fatigue. Working 12 hours per day is associated with a 37% increased risk of injury, OSHA reports, and employers absorb roughly $136 billion in annual costs related to fatigue-related lost productivity.
The Fatigue-Safety Connection
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation can be as dangerous as alcohol impairment when you’re behind the wheel. The Sleep Foundation writes that:
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety (CCOHS) points to this data as a demonstration of why fatigue is a serious workplace hazard, too.
Unlike alcohol consumption, which is easier to detect on the job, fatigue levels are not easily measured or quantified. As a result, it’s difficult to isolate the effect of fatigue on accident and injury rates, CCOHS states. “Factors that may influence fatigue are shift rotation patterns, balanced workloads, timing of tasks and activities, availability of resources and the workplace environment (e.g., lighting, ventilation, temperature, etc.).”
Preventing and Managing Fatigue in the Workplace
Employers can help combat fatigue by offering breaks, scheduling work when employees are most alert, and promoting the importance of sleep. Other effective strategies include balancing workload and staffing, training workers on the issue of fatigue (and how to manage it) and leveraging NSC resources like Managing Fatigue: Developing an Effective Fatigue Risk Management System and Fatigue in the Workplace: Causes & Consequences of Employee Fatigue.
How Do You Fight Fatigue at Work?
There's no single solution for reversing sleep deprivation, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), good sleep habits can help. The CDC recommends that people:
OSHA’s recommendations include some additional points, such as:
If you work evenings or nights, make sure you’ve slept within the last eight hours before going to work
If you’re napping before work, try to allow for a complete sleep/wake cycle by napping either for:
CCOHS echoes this approach and provides a few additional strategies to lessen overall fatigue:
Eat at regular intervals and consume a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and protein
For additional resources, see the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Employers and workers who implement these strategies can help minimize worker fatigue and lessen the chances of a workplace accident or mishap—which will help make the workplace a safer and healthier place for everyone.
January 2023
Ladders are tools. Many of the basic safety rules that apply to most tools also apply to the safe use of a ladder:
The Three Point-of-Contact Climb
Factors contributing to falls from ladders include haste, sudden movement, lack of attention, the condition of the ladder (worn or damaged), the user's age or physical condition, or both, and the user's footwear.
When climbing a ladder, it is safest to utilize Three Points-of-Contact because it minimizes the chances of slipping and falling from the ladder. At all times during ascent, descent, and working, the climber must face the ladder and have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand in contact with the ladder steps, rungs and/or side rails. In this way, the climber is not likely to become unstable in the event one limb slips during the climb. It is important to note that the climber must not carry any objects in either hand that can interfere with a firm grip on the ladder. Otherwise, Three Points-of-Contact with the ladder cannot be adequately maintained and the chance of falling is increased in the event a hand or foot slip occurs.
November 2022
Brighten the holidays by making your health and safety a priority. Take steps to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy and ready to enjoy the holidays.
October 2022
Statistics on Hand Hygiene
(Sources: Michigan State University; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Queen Mary, University of London; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Global Handwashing Day)
When is the flu season in the United States?
In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter.
While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, but activity can last as late as May. The overall health impact (e.g., infections, hospitalizations, and deaths) of a flu season varies from season to season.
CDC collects, compiles, and analyzes information on influenza activity year-round in the United States and produces FluView, a weekly surveillance report, and FluView Interactive, which allows for more in-depth exploration of influenza surveillance data. The Weekly U.S. Influenza Summary Update is updated each week from October through May.
Influenza (Flu) Facts (CDC, 2017)
Influenza (the flu) can be a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Anyone can get sick from the flu.
People with flu can spread it to others. Influenza viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are up to about 6 feet away or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose.
Flu Vaccine Facts (CDC, 2017)
Flu vaccines CANNOT cause the flu. Flu vaccines are made with either killed or weakened viruses.
Flu vaccines are safe. Serious problems from the flu vaccine are very rare. The most common side effect that a person is likely to experience is soreness where the injection was given. This is generally mild and usually goes away after a day or two. Visit Influenza Vaccine Safety for more information.
September 2022
When a hazardous chemical spill or leak occurs follow these steps:
Do not attempt to clean up a spill if you have not been trained to or if you are alone.
August 2022
Share the following eight tips at your next work meeting:
The key to mitigating risks begins with understanding what could cause a potential hazard or incident. Ask each employee to look around their workspace and identify anything that could jeopardize their safety. In many cases, non-threatening items could be problematic in the right scenario. Knowing what damage certain things could potentially cause can help you avoid these situations.
Incidents can happen at any time to anyone, even those who take safety seriously. When an incident occurs or a hazard manifests itself, employees should know how to report issues expeditiously to lessen their effects. Go over the proper procedures with employees so they can reduce response time, secure the affected if necessary, and work toward a resolution quickly.
Some employees will cast caution to the wind in order to save time. But what they don’t always realize is that tasks have been carefully thought out to prevent safety issues, even if they do require a little more time. Let employees know that if there were a quicker way, you’d already be doing it. Remind them about the importance of following procedures to the letter for their own sake.
A clean workspace is a safe workspace. Clear away any clutter or unnecessary items that could pose risks of tripping, falling, slipping, or other injuries. Studies show that slips, trips, and falls are one of the biggest dangers at work. They create almost 250,000 missed work days each year, but they’re also largely preventable.
If your team members aren’t engaged with the company outside of meetings and normal job duties, that’s a problem. It’s important for your employees to feel invested in the company. Volunteering for projects, lending a hand outside of their normal duties, joining a committee or team, or participating in company-sponsored programs can immerse them in your company's culture. Employees that have a vested interest in the company can do a better job of maintaining safety standards than someone who simply shows up to work. Let your people know how they can get involved with the company. Offer them ways to stay engaged and show them how it can improve their work life.
It sounds crazy, but some people work straight through breaks in order to finish a job. While this shows a dedication to their company, it also shows a disregard for safety. Taking regular breaks can ensure projects are completed on time and without incident because it gives workers a chance to grab their focus.
Even though they aren’t sleeping on the job, feeling rested can help them exercise better judgment at work. They’re less likely to make mistakes that can result in safety issues. Emphasize the importance of a good night’s sleep and how it can ultimately affect your employees' performance.
When new employees come on board, it’s essential to start them off right. Rely on your team to help integrate them into your safety culture. Set expectations up front and make it easy for them to learn the ropes to stay safe on the job.
July 2022
Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, around 618 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Here are helpful tips, information, and resources to help you stay safe in the extreme heat this summer.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water and avoid sugary beveragesStay Cool
Stay in an air-conditioned areaWear Light Clothes
Wear loose-fitting, light in color, and lightweight clothesJune 2022
The 2022 hurricane season is here. Being prepared for what experts predict will be another record-setting year is the key to protecting your family and assets.
The U.S. experienced more category 4 and 5 hurricanes in the last five years, than in the previous 50 years combined.
All equipment and appliances must be approved by a reputable testing laboratory, which certifies the equipment and appliances meet the minimum requirements of NFPA-99. Defective plugs, cords, or equipment/appliances are not permitted for use under any circumstance.
Small electrical appliances for personal hygiene use by non-critically ill patients and for patient comfort or entertainment must be reported nursing and checked by Safety prior to use. No personal appliances are to be approved for use by critically ill patients. No extension cords are permitted for any patient approved appliance under these guidelines. Unacceptable items include:
All electrically powered convenience items (microwaves, fans, coffee makers etc.) must be inspected by Safety prior to use.
All electrical items are subject to inspection by Safety EOC and hazardous safety surveillance surveys. If found defective or in violation, they must be removed from service.
Portable heaters are not permitted in the facility. If there is a heating issue, Safety will provide a heater after all other avenues has been exhausted.
If the appliance in use has an approved label that is more than four (4) years old, please contact Safety to have the appliance re-inspected.
May 2022
April 2022
Hazard Level |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
Threat to life or property and/or economic impact |
Nil |
Minimal |
Small |
Medium |
Significant |
Very Significant |
|
||||||
Grassland Fire Danger Index |
|
|
Very High |
Extreme |
Catastrophic |
|
Heat Index (°F) |
|
|
100° |
105° for 3 hours/ Advisory |
110° for 3 hours/ Warning |
110° for 3 hours/ Warning for 3 days |
Wind Chill (°F) |
|
|
0° |
-15° for 3 hours/ Advisory |
-25° for 3 hours/ Warning |
-25° for 3 hours/ Warning for 3 days |
Blowing Dust or Smoke |
|
|
|
|
Blowing Dust Advisory (3/8sm - 1sm) |
Blowing Dust Warning Visibility < 3/8sm |
Other Obstruction to Visibility (statute miles) |
Nil |
Obstruction to Visibility in grids |
Patchy 1/2sm |
Advisory |
Widespread <1/8sm |
|
Wind (non-convective) |
|
|
Advisory |
High Wind Warning |
High Wind Warning for 3 hours or more |
Hurricane Force |
Frost/Freeze |
Nil |
Frost mentioned |
Frost Advisory |
Freeze Warning |
|
|
Lightning |
Nil |
Thunder mentioned |
|
|
|
|
Hail |
Nil |
Below Significant Weather Alert |
Significant Weather Alert |
Severe Hail Likely |
>= 2 inches |
> 3 inches |
Wind (convective) |
Nil |
Below Significant Weather Alert |
Significant Weather Alert |
Severe Wind Likely |
75 mph |
Derecho |
Tornado |
Nil |
|
Cold Air Funnels |
Chance |
Likely Tornado < EF4 |
EF4-EF5 |
Winter Weather |
Nil |
Mentioned |
Below Winter Weather Advisory Criteria |
Advisory or Watch |
Warning |
Paralyzing Winter Weather (ie., 1 inch or more ice or blizzard w/ heavy snow) |
River Flood |
Nil |
|
Action Stage Likely |
Flood Warning (minor-moderate) |
Major Flooding |
Record Flooding |
Flood/Flash flood |
Nil |
|
Flood Warnings Possible (FLW) |
Likely Flood Warnings (FLW); Possible Flash Flood Warnings (FFW), Flood/Flash Flood Watches (FFA) |
Widespread Flooding, or high probability of Flash Flood Warnings (FFW) |
Dam Break/ Catastrophic Flooding |
March 2022
All equipment and appliances must be approved by a reputable testing laboratory, which certifies the equipment and appliances meet the minimum requirements of NFPA-99. Defective plugs, cords, or equipment/appliances are not permitted for use under any circumstance.
Unacceptable items include:
Non Patient Rooms
February 2022
Drowsy workers who aren’t getting enough sleep cost employers between $1,200 and $3,100 in productivity losses per employee each year and can create serious safety problems. Here’s what employers and employees can do about fatigue in the workplace.
Feeling drowsy or tired on the job isn’t just an annoyance—it’s also a serious safety problem. In fact, decreased alertness as a result of worker fatigue played a role in numerous industrial disasters, including the Texas City BP oil refinery explosion, the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger, and the nuclear accidents at both Chernobyl and Three Mile Island, OSHA reports.
Workplace fatigue is something that often happens when there is a conflict between a person's work schedule and their sleep schedule or sleep habits. Too little, poor quality or interrupted sleep over an extended period of time can result in fatigue, which is the body's signal that it needs a period of rest.
The body operates on a circadian rhythm sleep/wake cycle,” OSHA states. “It is naturally programmed for sleeping during night hours. Demanding work schedules may disrupt the body's natural cycle, leading to increased fatigue, stress, and lack of concentration.
Fatigue can hit anyone, anywhere, at any time of day.
In fact, the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that more than 43% of workers are sleep-deprived. The NSC also notes:
OSHA also reports that studies show fatigue is linked to health problems like heart disease, stomach and digestive problems, musculoskeletal disorders, reproductive problems, and depression.
“Worker fatigue increases the risk for illnesses and injuries,” OSHA points out. In studying the relative risk of incidents in the morning, afternoon, and night shifts of 8-hour shift systems, the National Institutes of Health identified an 18% increased risk in the afternoon shift and a 30% increase in the night shift (compared to the morning shift).
The longer the shift, the higher the chances of worker fatigue. Working 12 hours per day is associated with a 37% increased risk of injury, OSHA reports, and employers absorb roughly $136 billion in annual costs related to fatigue-related lost productivity.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation can be as dangerous as alcohol impairment when you’re behind the wheel. The Sleep Foundation writes that:
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety (CCOHS) points to this data as a demonstration of why fatigue is a serious workplace hazard, too.
Unlike alcohol consumption, which is easier to detect on the job, fatigue levels are not easily measured or quantified. As a result, it’s difficult to isolate the effect of fatigue on accident and injury rates, CCOHS states. “Factors that may influence fatigue are shift rotation patterns, balanced workloads, timing of tasks and activities, availability of resources and the workplace environment (e.g., lighting, ventilation, temperature, etc.).”
Employers can help combat fatigue by offering breaks, scheduling work when employees are most alert, and promoting the importance of sleep. Other effective strategies include balancing workload and staffing, training workers on the issue of fatigue (and how to manage it) and leveraging NSC resources like Managing Fatigue: Developing an Effective Fatigue Risk Management System and Fatigue in the Workplace: Causes & Consequences of Employee Fatigue.
There's no single solution for reversing sleep deprivation, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), good sleep habits can help. The CDC recommends that people:
OSHA’s recommendations include some additional points, such as:
If you work evenings or nights, make sure you’ve slept within the last eight hours before going to work
If you’re napping before work, try to allow for a complete sleep/wake cycle by napping either for:
CCOHS echoes this approach and provides a few additional strategies to lessen overall fatigue:
Eat at regular intervals and consume a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and protein
For additional resources, see the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Employers and workers who implement these strategies can help minimize worker fatigue and lessen the chances of a workplace accident or mishap—which will help make the workplace a safer and healthier place for everyone.
January 2022
If a team member is unable to resolve an issue independently, the issue should be escalated up the chain of authority in a timely manner.
Examples of issues that should be escalated include, but are not limited to:
It is important for staff to utilize the Safety Online System (SOS) as a means of documenting and tracking patient safety events. Delays in patient care can have devastating effects on our patients; therefore, urgent issues/events should be escalated per policy, in addition to documenting the event within SOS.
December 2021
Thousands of deaths are caused by fires, burns and other fire-related injuries every year, and 12% of home candle fires occur in December, the National Fire Protection Association reports. Increased use of candles and fireplaces, combined with an increase in the amount of combustible, seasonal decorations present in many homes means more risk for fire.
Never leave burning candles unattended or sleep in a room with a lit candle
While many subscribe to the theory any fried food is good – even if it's not necessarily good for you – there is reason to be on alert if you're thinking of celebrating the holidays by frying a turkey.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports there have been 168 turkey-fryer related fires, burns, explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning incidents since 2002. CPSC says 672 people have been injured and $8 million in property damage losses have resulted from these incidents.
NSC discourages the use of turkey fryers at home and urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out professional establishments or consider a new oil-less turkey fryer.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides some holiday food safety tips. Here are a few:
November 2021
Brighten the holidays by making your health and safety a priority. Take steps to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy and ready to enjoy the holidays.
October 2021
Statistics on Hand Hygiene
(Sources: Michigan State University; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Queen Mary, University of London; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Global Handwashing Day)
When is the flu season in the United States?
In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter.
While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, but activity can last as late as May. The overall health impact (e.g., infections, hospitalizations, and deaths) of a flu season varies from season to season.
CDC collects, compiles, and analyzes information on influenza activity year-round in the United States and produces FluView, a weekly surveillance report, and FluView Interactive, which allows for more in-depth exploration of influenza surveillance data. The Weekly U.S. Influenza Summary Update is updated each week from October through May.
Influenza (Flu) Facts (CDC, 2017)
Influenza (the flu) can be a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Anyone can get sick from the flu.
People with flu can spread it to others. Influenza viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are up to about 6 feet away or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose.
Flu Vaccine Facts (CDC, 2017)
Flu vaccines CANNOT cause the flu. Flu vaccines are made with either killed or weakened viruses.
Flu vaccines are safe. Serious problems from the flu vaccine are very rare. The most common side effect that a person is likely to experience is soreness where the injection was given. This is generally mild and usually goes away after a day or two. Visit Influenza Vaccine Safety for more information.
September 2021
When a hazardous chemical spill or leak occurs follow these steps:
Do not attempt to clean up a spill if you have not been trained to or if you are alone.
August 2021
Share the following eight tips at your next work meeting:
The key to mitigating risks begins with understanding what could cause a potential hazard or incident. Ask each employee to look around their workspace and identify anything that could jeopardize their safety. In many cases, non-threatening items could be problematic in the right scenario. Knowing what damage certain things could potentially cause can help you avoid these situations.
Incidents can happen at any time to anyone, even those who take safety seriously. When an incident occurs or a hazard manifests itself, employees should know how to report issues expeditiously to lessen their effects. Go over the proper procedures with employees so they can reduce response time, secure the affected if necessary, and work toward a resolution quickly.
Some employees will cast caution to the wind in order to save time. But what they don’t always realize is that tasks have been carefully thought out to prevent safety issues, even if they do require a little more time. Let employees know that if there were a quicker way, you’d already be doing it. Remind them about the importance of following procedures to the letter for their own sake.
A clean workspace is a safe workspace. Clear away any clutter or unnecessary items that could pose risks of tripping, falling, slipping, or other injuries. Studies show that slips, trips, and falls are one of the biggest dangers at work. They create almost 250,000 missed work days each year, but they’re also largely preventable.
If your team members aren’t engaged with the company outside of meetings and normal job duties, that’s a problem. It’s important for your employees to feel invested in the company. Volunteering for projects, lending a hand outside of their normal duties, joining a committee or team, or participating in company-sponsored programs can immerse them in your company's culture. Employees that have a vested interest in the company can do a better job of maintaining safety standards than someone who simply shows up to work. Let your people know how they can get involved with the company. Offer them ways to stay engaged and show them how it can improve their work life.
It sounds crazy, but some people work straight through breaks in order to finish a job. While this shows a dedication to their company, it also shows a disregard for safety. Taking regular breaks can ensure projects are completed on time and without incident because it gives workers a chance to grab their focus.
Even though they aren’t sleeping on the job, feeling rested can help them exercise better judgment at work. They’re less likely to make mistakes that can result in safety issues. Emphasize the importance of a good night’s sleep and how it can ultimately affect your employees' performance.
When new employees come on board, it’s essential to start them off right. Rely on your team to help integrate them into your safety culture. Set expectations up front and make it easy for them to learn the ropes to stay safe on the job.
July 2021
Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, around 618 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Here are helpful tips, information, and resources to help you stay safe in the extreme heat this summer.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water and avoid sugary beverages
Stay Cool
Stay in an air-conditioned area
Wear Light Clothes
Wear loose-fitting, light in color, and lightweight clothes
June 2021
All equipment and appliances must be approved by a reputable testing laboratory, which
certifies the equipment and appliances meet the minimum requirements of NFPA-99. Defective
plugs, cords, or equipment/appliances are not permitted for use under any circumstance.
Small electrical appliances for personal hygiene use by non-critically ill patients and for patient comfort or entertainment must be reported nursing and checked by Safety prior to use. No personal appliances are to be approved for use by critically ill patients. No extension cords are permitted for any patient approved appliance under these guidelines. Unacceptable items include:
All electrically powered convenience items (microwaves, fans, coffee makers etc.) must be inspected by Safety prior to use.
All electrical items are subject to inspection by Safety EOC and hazardous safety surveillance surveys. If found defective or in violation, they must be removed from service.
Portable heaters are not permitted in the facility. If there is a heating issue, Safety will provide a heater after all other avenues has been exhausted.
If the appliance in use has an approved label that is more than four (4) years old, please contact Safety to have the appliance re-inspected.
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
Drowsy workers who aren’t getting enough sleep cost employers between $1,200 and $3,100 in productivity losses per employee each year, and can create serious safety problems. Here’s what employers and employees can do about fatigue in the workplace.
Feeling drowsy or tired on the job isn’t just an annoyance—it’s also a serious safety problem. In fact, decreased alertness as a result of worker fatigue played a role in numerous industrial disasters, including the Texas City BP oil refinery explosion, the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger, and the nuclear accidents at both Chernobyl and Three Mile Island, OSHA reports.
Workplace fatigue is something that often happens when there is a conflict between a person's work schedule and their sleep schedule or sleep habits. Too little, poor quality or interrupted sleep over an extended period of time can result in fatigue, which is the body's signal that it needs a period of rest.
"The body operates on a circadian rhythm sleep/wake cycle,” OSHA states. “It is naturally programmed for sleeping during night hours. Demanding work schedules may disrupt the body's natural cycle, leading to increased fatigue, stress, and lack of concentration."
Fatigue can hit anyone, anywhere, at any time of day.
In fact, the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that more than 43% of workers are sleep-deprived. The NSC also notes:
OSHA also reports that studies show fatigue is linked to health problems like heart disease, stomach and digestive problems, musculoskeletal disorders, reproductive problems, and depression.
“Worker fatigue increases the risk for illnesses and injuries,” OSHA points out. In studying the relative risk of incidents in the morning, afternoon, and night shifts of 8-hour shift systems, the National Institutes of Health identified an 18% increased risk in the afternoon shift and a 30% increase in the night shift (compared to the morning shift).
The longer the shift, the higher the chances of worker fatigue. Working 12 hours per day is associated with a 37% increased risk of injury, OSHA reports, and employers absorb roughly $136 billion in annual costs related to fatigue-related lost productivity.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation can be as dangerous as alcohol impairment when you’re behind the wheel. The Sleep Foundation writes that:
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety (CCOHS) points to this data as a demonstration of why fatigue is a serious workplace hazard, too.
Unlike alcohol consumption, which is easier to detect on the job, fatigue levels are not easily measured or quantified. As a result, it’s difficult to isolate the effect of fatigue on accident and injury rates, CCOHS states. “Factors that may influence fatigue are shift rotation patterns, balanced workloads, timing of tasks and activities, availability of resources and the workplace environment (e.g., lighting, ventilation, temperature, etc.).”
Employers can help combat fatigue by offering breaks, scheduling work when employees are most alert, and promoting the importance of sleep. Other effective strategies include balancing workload and staffing, training workers on the issue of fatigue (and how to manage it) and leveraging NSC resources like Managing Fatigue: Developing an Effective Fatigue Risk Management System and Fatigue in the Workplace: Causes & Consequences of Employee Fatigue.
There's no single solution for reversing sleep deprivation, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), good sleep habits can help. The CDC recommends that people:
OSHA’s recommendations include some additional points, such as:
If you work evenings or nights, make sure you’ve slept within the last eight hours before going to work
If you’re napping before work, try to allow for a complete sleep/wake cycle by napping either for:
CCOHS echoes this approach and provides a few additional strategies to lessen overall fatigue:
Eat at regular intervals and consume a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and protein
For additional resources, see the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Employers and workers who implement these strategies can help minimize worker fatigue and lessen the chances of a workplace accident or mishap—which will help make the workplace a safer and healthier place for everyone.
February 2021
January 2021
Members of the healthcare team are obligated to report real and/or potential problems affecting patient care.
If a team member is unable to resolve an issue independently, the issue should be escalated up the chain of authority in a timely manner.
Examples of issues that should be escalated include, but are not limited to:
It is important for staff to utilize the Safety Online System (SOS) as a means of documenting and tracking patient safety events. Delays in patient care can have devastating effects on our patients; therefore, urgent issues/events should be escalated per policy, in addition to documenting the event within SOS.
December 2020
Thousands of deaths are caused by fires, burns and other fire-related injuries every year, and 12% of home candle fires occur in December, the National Fire Protection Association reports. Increased use of candles and fireplaces, combined with an increase in the amount of combustible, seasonal decorations present in many homes means more risk for fire.
Never leave burning candles unattended or sleep in a room with a lit candle
While many subscribe to the theory any fried food is good – even if it's not necessarily good for you – there is reason to be on alert if you're thinking of celebrating the holidays by frying a turkey.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports there have been 168 turkey-fryer related fires, burns, explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning incidents since 2002. CPSC says 672 people have been injured and $8 million in property damage losses have resulted from these incidents.
NSC discourages the use of turkey fryers at home and urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out professional establishments or consider a new oil-less turkey fryer.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides some holiday food safety tips. Here are a few:
November 2020
Brighten the holidays by making your health and safety a priority. Take steps to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy and ready to enjoy the holidays.
Wash hands often to help prevent the spread of germs. It’s flu season. Wash your hands with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds.
Prepare food safely. Remember these simple steps: Wash hands and surfaces often, avoid cross-contamination, cook foods to proper temperatures and refrigerate foods promptly.
October 2020
(Sources: Michigan State University; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Queen Mary, University of London; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Global Handwashing Day)
In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter.
While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, but activity can last as late as May. The overall health impact (e.g., infections, hospitalizations, and deaths) of a flu season varies from season to season.
CDC collects, compiles, and analyzes information on influenza activity year-round in the United States and produces FluView, a weekly surveillance report, and FluView Interactive, which allows for more in-depth exploration of influenza surveillance data. The Weekly U.S. Influenza Summary Update is updated each week from October through May.
Influenza (the flu) can be a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Anyone can get sick from the flu.
People with flu can spread it to others. Influenza viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are up to about 6 feet away or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose.
Flu vaccines CANNOT cause the flu. Flu vaccines are made with either killed or weakened viruses.
Flu vaccines are safe. Serious problems from the flu vaccine are very rare. The most common side effect that a person is likely to experience is soreness where the injection was given. This is generally mild and usually goes away after a day or two. Visit Influenza Vaccine Safety for more information.
September 2020
When a hazardous chemical spill or leak occurs follow these steps:
Do not attempt to clean up a spill if you have not been trained to or if you are alone.
August 2020
Sharing workplace safety tips often can help build top of mind awareness and put safety into perspective. No employee is invincible against potential workplace hazards, so do your part in ensuring each person understands their role.
Share the following eight tips at your next work meeting:
The key to mitigating risks begins with understanding what could cause a potential hazard or incident. Ask each employee to look around their workspace and identify anything that could jeopardize their safety. In many cases, non-threatening items could be problematic in the right scenario. Knowing what damage certain things could potentially cause can help you avoid these situations.
Incidents can happen at any time to anyone, even those who take safety seriously. When an incident occurs or a hazard manifests itself, employees should know how to report issues expeditiously to lessen their effects. Go over the proper procedures with employees so they can reduce response time, secure the affected if necessary, and work toward a resolution quickly.
Some employees will cast caution to the wind in order to save time. But what they don’t always realize is that tasks have been carefully thought out to prevent safety issues, even if they do require a little more time. Let employees know that if there were a quicker way, you’d already be doing it. Remind them about the importance of following procedures to the letter for their own sake.
A clean workspace is a safe workspace. Clear away any clutter or unnecessary items that could pose risks of tripping, falling, slipping, or other injuries. Studies show that slips, trips, and falls are one of the biggest dangers at work. They create almost 250,000 missed work days each year, but they’re also largely preventable.
If your team members aren’t engaged with the company outside of meetings and normal job duties, that’s a problem. It’s important for your employees to feel invested in the company. Volunteering for projects, lending a hand outside of their normal duties, joining a committee or team, or participating in company-sponsored programs can immerse them in your company's culture. Employees that have a vested interest in the company can do a better job of maintaining safety standards than someone who simply shows up to work. Let your people know how they can get involved with the company. Offer them ways to stay engaged and show them how it can improve their work life.
It sounds crazy, but some people work straight through breaks in order to finish a job. While this shows a dedication to their company, it also shows a disregard for safety. Taking regular breaks can ensure projects are completed on time and without incident because it gives workers a chance to grab their focus.
Even though they aren’t sleeping on the job, feeling rested can help them exercise better judgment at work. They’re less likely to make mistakes that can result in safety issues. Emphasize the importance of a good night’s sleep and how it can ultimately affect your employees' performance.
When new employees come on board, it’s essential to start them off right. Rely on your team to help integrate them into your safety culture. Set expectations up front and make it easy for them to learn the ropes to stay safe on the job.
July 2020
Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, around 618 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Here are helpful tips, information, and resources to help you stay safe in the extreme heat this summer.
Stay in an air-conditioned area
Wear loose-fitting, light in color, and lightweight clothes
June 2020
May 2020
All equipment and appliances must be approved by a reputable testing laboratory, which certifies the equipment and appliances meet the minimum requirements of NFPA-99. Defective plugs, cords, or equipment/appliances are not permitted for use under any circumstance.
Unacceptable items include:
April 2020
March 2020
Drowsy workers who aren’t getting enough sleep cost employers between $1,200 and $3,100 in productivity losses per employee each year, and can create serious safety problems. Here’s what employers and employees can do about fatigue in the workplace.
Feeling drowsy or tired on the job isn’t just an annoyance—it’s also a serious safety problem. In fact, decreased alertness as a result of worker fatigue played a role in numerous industrial disasters, including the Texas City BP oil refinery explosion, the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger, and the nuclear accidents at both Chernobyl and Three Mile Island, OSHA reports.
Workplace fatigue is something that often happens when there is a conflict between a person's work schedule and their sleep schedule or sleep habits. Too little, poor quality or interrupted sleep over an extended period of time can result in fatigue, which is the body's signal that it needs a period of rest.
“The body operates on a circadian rhythm sleep/wake cycle,” OSHA states. “It is naturally programmed for sleeping during night hours. Demanding work schedules may disrupt the body's natural cycle, leading to increased fatigue, stress, and lack of concentration.”
Fatigue can hit anyone, anywhere, at any time of day. In fact, the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that more than 43% of workers are sleep-deprived. The NSC also notes:
OSHA also reports that studies show fatigue is linked to health problems like heart disease, stomach and digestive problems, musculoskeletal disorders, reproductive problems, and depression.
“Worker fatigue increases the risk for illnesses and injuries,” OSHA points out. In studying the relative risk of incidents in the morning, afternoon, and night shifts of 8-hour shift systems, the National Institutes of Health identified an 18% increased risk in the afternoon shift and a 30% increase in the night shift (compared to the morning shift).
The longer the shift, the higher the chances of worker fatigue. Working 12 hours per day is associated with a 37% increased risk of injury, OSHA reports, and employers absorb roughly $136 billion in annual costs related to fatigue-related lost productivity.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation can be as dangerous as alcohol impairment when you’re behind the wheel. The Sleep Foundation writes that:
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety (CCOHS) points to this data as a demonstration of why fatigue is a serious workplace hazard, too.
Unlike alcohol consumption, which is easier to detect on the job, fatigue levels are not easily measured or quantified. As a result, it’s difficult to isolate the effect of fatigue on accident and injury rates, CCOHS states. “Factors that may influence fatigue are shift rotation patterns, balanced workloads, timing of tasks and activities, availability of resources and the workplace environment (e.g., lighting, ventilation, temperature, etc.).”
Employers can help combat fatigue by offering breaks, scheduling work when employees are most alert, and promoting the importance of sleep. Other effective strategies include balancing workload and staffing, training workers on the issue of fatigue (and how to manage it) and leveraging NSC resources like Managing Fatigue: Developing an Effective Fatigue Risk Management System and Fatigue in the Workplace: Causes & Consequences of Employee Fatigue.
There's no single solution for reversing sleep deprivation, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), good sleep habits can help. The CDC recommends that people:
OSHA’s recommendations include some additional points, such as:
If you work evenings or nights, make sure you’ve slept within the last eight hours before going to work
If you’re napping before work, try to allow for a complete sleep/wake cycle by napping either for:
CCOHS echoes this approach and provides a few additional strategies to lessen overall fatigue:
For additional resources, see the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Employers and workers who implement these strategies can help minimize worker fatigue and lessen the chances of a workplace accident or mishap—which will help make the workplace a safer and healthier place for everyone.
February 2020
Canned air is commonly used in offices to clean dust from equipment such as computers and shredders. These products often are used without incident; however, lack of training in proper use can lead to flash fires and injuries, warns the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.
Canned air is different from the air we breathe. The products are made of a gas that is compressed into a liquid and canned. The types of gases used vary, and some are dangerous when used improperly. Some of the more common dangers include:
Simple steps in the workplace can help keep workers safe from these dangers associated with canned air products. Washington L&I recommends the following measures:
Canned-air products commonly are used in offices to remove dust from computers, shredders and other electronic equipment. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries warns employers that without proper training, employees may not follow safe practices because they assume the products are harmless. However, a variety of gases used in canned-air products are highly flammable. Follow these basic steps from Washington L&I to help keep your employees safe from hazards associated with canned-air products:
Fire doors (generally doors that have auto closers) should never be propped open with doorstops, chocks, etc.
Know the location of your nearest pull station and fire extinguisher
Keep hallways clear (COWS may not be charged in corridors)
January 2020
Members of the healthcare team are obligated to report real and/or potential problems affecting patient care.
If a team member is unable to resolve an issue independently, the issue should be escalated up the chain of authority in a timely manner.
Examples of issues that should be escalated include, but are not limited to:
It is important for staff to utilize the Safety Online System (SOS) as a means of documenting and tracking patient safety events. Delays in patient care can have devastating effects on our patients; therefore, urgent issues/events should be escalated per policy, in addition to documenting the event within SOS.
December 2019
Thousands of deaths are caused by fires, burns and other fire-related injuries every year, and 12% of home candle fires occur in December, the National Fire Protection Association reports. Increased use of candles and fireplaces, combined with an increase in the amount of combustible, seasonal decorations present in many homes means more risk for fire.
Never leave burning candles unattended or sleep in a room with a lit candle
While many subscribe to the theory any fried food is good – even if it's not necessarily good for you – there is reason to be on alert if you're thinking of celebrating the holidays by frying a turkey.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports there have been 168 turkey-fryer related fires, burns, explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning incidents since 2002. CPSC says 672 people have been injured and $8 million in property damage losses have resulted from these incidents.
NSC discourages the use of turkey fryers at home and urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out professional establishments or consider a new oil-less turkey fryer.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides some holiday food safety tips. Here are a few:
November 2019
Brighten the holidays by making your health and safety a priority. Take steps to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy and ready to enjoy the holidays.
Wash hands often to help prevent the spread of germs. It’s flu season. Wash your hands with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds.
Prepare food safely. Remember these simple steps: Wash hands and surfaces often, avoid cross-contamination, cook foods to proper temperatures and refrigerate foods promptly.
October 2019
39% of people wash their hands before eating food
We should spend 15 to 20 seconds washing our hands with soap and water to kill germs
The average person washes their hands after using the toilet for 6 seconds
1 gram of human feces can contain 10m viruses and 1m bacteria
15% of men don’t wash their hands at all, compared to 7% of women
When men do wash their hands, only 50% use soap compared to 78% of women
There is fecal matter on 14% of banknotes and 10% of credit cards
(Sources: Michigan State University; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Queen Mary, University of London; London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Global Handwashing Day)
In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter. While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, but activity can last as late as May. The overall health impact (e.g., infections, hospitalizations, and deaths) of a flu season varies from season to season. CDC collects, compiles, and analyzes information on influenza activity year-round in the United States and produces FluView, a weekly surveillance report, and FluView Interactive, which allows for more in-depth exploration of influenza surveillance data. The Weekly U.S. Influenza Summary Update is updated each week from October through May.
Influenza (Flu) Facts (CDC, 2017)
Flu Vaccine Facts (CDC, 2017)
Flu vaccines CANNOT cause the flu. Flu vaccines are made with either killed or weakened viruses.
September 2019
When a hazardous chemical spill or leak occurs follow these steps:
Do not attempt to clean up a spill if you have not been trained to or if you are alone.
August 2019
Back to school is an exciting time, but besides new teachers, good books, and old friends, it can also bring contagious infections as well as traffic issues.
Read more about the highly contagious viral infection, measles. [PDF]
School days bring congestion: Yellow school buses are picking up their charges, kids on bikes are hurrying to get to school before the bell rings, harried parents are trying to drop their kids off before work.
It's never more important for drivers to slow down and pay attention than when kids are present – especially before and after school.
Schools often have very specific drop-off procedures for the school year. Make sure you know them for the safety of all kids. More children are hit by cars near schools than at any other location, according to the National Safe Routes to School program. The following apply to all school zones:
According to research by the National Safety Council, most of the children who lose their lives in bus-related incidents are 4 to 7 years old, and they're walking. They are hit by the bus, or by a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus. A few precautions go a long way toward keeping children safe:
If you're driving behind a bus, allow a greater following distance than if you were driving behind a car. It will give you more time to stop once the yellow lights start flashing. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.
July 2019
The Fourth of July is not the only thing the month of July is known for.
July is also UV Safety Awareness Month.
UV radiation is the main factor responsible for skin cancers. Part of the UV spectrum, UVA rays are present during all daylight hours while UVB rays can cause burning, tanning and skin aging.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, just five sunburns doubles your risk of Melanoma, one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer.
The Skin Cancer Foundation says you should apply sunscreen, seeking shade during peak sun hours and cover up with clothing, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Here are a few tips from the Skin Cancer Foundation:
June 2019