HAZWOPER

 

You could be exposed to chemical spills or hazardous waste. During excavation operations, for example, many companies have been surprised by the sometimes deadly things they haveuncovered. That’s why OSHA created 29 CFR 1926.65, HAZWOPER. Under this rule, your employer can either (1) participate in the handling of emergencies involving hazardous waste or chemical spills, or (2) immediately evacuate workers and call in trained hazardous materials (HazMat) teams.

How can HAZWOPER involve you?

Preparing for accidental chemical releases involves special training. OSHA has set up formal training for emergency responders under HAZWOPER regulations, with training levels ranging from awareness training for first response to technical training for those who solve problems associated with spill cleanup.

What should you do in case of a spill?

Whether it’s a solid or a liquid leak or spill, you can be exposed to toxic dust or vapor without even knowing it. If you are properly trained, act with care and speed. However, if you have not received training, do not respond to a chemical leak or spill. Instead, follow your company’s emergency action plan for reporting leaks and spills and evacuating.

While it is vital to avoid panic, it is equally vital to get people out of harm’s way as quickly as possible. Assess site hazards and act only when you do not endanger yourself. You want to help your fellow employees, but you won’t do that if you become a victim yourself.

Some of the things you can do before help arrives are:

·                  Determine the potential hazards. (Look at the material safety data sheet.)

·                  Know about spill equipment and safety personnel.

·                  Know the exits and escape routes.

·                  Know the location of fire extinguishers.

·                  Know first aid and where to get first aid equipment.

Act responsibly in chemical spill emergencies

Safety becomes extremely important when hazardous chemicals are spilled. A mistake here can be deadly. Use the buddy system, whether you’re part of the emergency response team or not. Don’t ever enter a chemical emergency situation alone.

Different chemicals will require different levels of protective clothing or other precautions. Don’t touch spills without protection. Avoid contaminated clothing of injured persons. Certainly, if the chemicals involved aren’t hazardous, respond immediately within your abilities.

Do only those things that you possess adequate training to perform. Check the area for potential hazards such as electrical cords or wires near the spill or obstacles in the path of the emergency response team. Check for injuries and notify emergency medical personnel. Decontaminate victims, if possible. Cooperate with emergency personnel when they arrive, and pass on any information you’ve gathered.

Emergency Response Plan

 

Overview

Proper emergency planning and response are important elements of the safety and health program that helps minimize employee exposure and injury. The standard requires that the employer develop and implement a written emergency response plan to handle possible emergencies before performing hazardous waste operations.

What must be in the plan? The plan must include the following elements: •          personnel roles, lines of authority, and communication procedures, •          pre-emergency planning, •          emergency recognition and prevention, •          emergency medical and first-aid treatment, •          methods or procedures for alerting onsite workers, •          safe distances and places of refuge,

•      Site security and control,

•      Decontamination procedures,

•      Critique of response and follow-up,

•      Personal protective and emergency equipment, and

•      Evacuation routes and procedures.

What must I do?

Each employee who has the potential to be exposed to a hazardous substance release should know:

·            What hazards are present in the workplace.

·            How to obtain a written copy of the emergency planning and response plan.

Happy New Year

 

New Year's Eve Safety Issues

 

1. Fireworks Safety Handle with Care: Follow local laws and safety guidelines for fireworks. Keep them away from children and pets. Maintain Distance: Light fireworks in open areas away from flammable materials and maintain a safe distance. Use Proper Equipment: Avoid holding lit fireworks in your hands and use safety gear like goggles if necessary. Dispose Safely: Douse used fireworks with water before discarding them. 2. Driving and Traffic Safety Avoid Drunk Driving: Use designated drivers, public transportation, or ride-sharing services if consuming alcohol. Be Alert: Watch out for impaired drivers on the road and drive defensively. Plan Ahead: Allow extra travel time as traffic may be heavy. 3. Crowd Management Know Your Exits: In large gatherings, identify emergency exits and keep your belongings secure. Stay Together: If attending events with family or friends, set a meeting point in case you get separated. Avoid Overcrowding: Be mindful of tightly packed spaces to avoid accidents or trampling. 4. Alcohol Consumption Drink Responsibly: Know your limits and stay hydrated. Monitor Guests: If hosting a party, provide non-alcoholic options and ensure no one drives under the influence. Supervise Young Adults: Prevent underage drinking and ensure safe environments. 5. Fire Hazards Candle Usage: Keep candles away from curtains, decorations, or flammable items. Electrical Safety: Avoid overloading power outlets with holiday lights or heaters. Supervise Cooking: Watch stoves and ovens while preparing celebratory meals. 6. Weather-Related Precautions Dress Warmly: In cold climates, wear layers and protect against frostbite or hypothermia. Prepare for Snow/Ice: Use sand or salt on icy pathways to prevent slips and falls. Travel Safety: Check weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out. 7. COVID-19 and Health Precautions Stay Informed: Follow current health guidelines, especially if attending large gatherings. Sanitize Frequently: Wash hands regularly and use hand sanitizer. Stay Home if Unwell: Avoid risking others’ health by attending events while sick. 8. Pet Safety Firework Anxiety: Keep pets indoors during fireworks to reduce stress. Safe Environment: Ensure no small or sharp decorations are accessible to pets. Supervise Food: Avoid feeding pets food that could harm them, such as chocolate or alcohol. Planning ahead and being mindful of these safety concerns can help ensure a happy and safe start to the New Year!