Our Safety Blogs

Respiratory Protection Requirements Respirators are one of the most important types of personal protective equipment (PPE). In hazardous environments, respirators are a critical component of the safety procedures that protect workers.  Regulations dictate using respiratory protection when working with hazardous waste, hazardous materials, or toxic chemicals. The various forms of hazardous materials and chemicals out there require different types of respiratory protection. Resultantly, there are various types of respirators available in the marketplace. Employers must decide on the right kind of respirator by considering the job tasks that expose and may potentially expose workers to different hazardous substances or hazardous working conditions. What is a Respirator? A respirator is a device worn over the nose and mouth to protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous substances, whether chemical, biological, or radiological. Respiratory protective devices consist of a facepiece connected to either an air source or an air-purifying device. What is Respiratory Protection? OSHA has identified the need for respiratory protection for workers exposed to various airborne hazards arising due to working in and around hazardous wastes and hazardous materials such as silica and hydrogen sulfide, toxic chemicals, and bloodborne pathogens. OSHA also recommends respiratory protection when workers carry out work operations in confined spaces and at excavation sites and trenches where the possibility of encountering hazardous atmospheres or insufficient oxygen levels exists. Respiratory protection mainly comes into play in situations where workplace engineering controls and modifications to work practices are unable to protect workers from these airborne hazards. Accordingly, OSHA has developed respiratory protection standards for General Industry (29 CFR 1910.134), Construction Industry (29 CFR 1926.103), and Maritime operations (29 CFR 1915.154, 1917.92, and 1918.102).  Types of Respirators 1. Particulate-filtering respirators 2. Chemical cartridge/gas mask respirators 3. Non-powered, or negative pressure respirators 4. Powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) 5. Self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs) 6. Supplied-air respirators (SARs) 7. Pressure demand respirators 8. Continuous flow respirators 9. Full facepiece respirators 10. Half mask facepiece respirators How do Respirators Protect Workers? Respiratory protection is used to protect workers from inhaling contaminated air or other hazardous air-borne particles that would impact their good health and compromise safety. Respirators protect workers in case of a lack of or low levels of oxygen in the environment; toxic gases, mists, sprays, or vapors; harmful dust; hazardous fog; and smoke. There are two main categories of respirators that protect workers in two ways: Air-purifying respirators (APRs) - which remove contaminants from the air, so workers breathe in clean non-contaminated air, and Air-supplying respirators (ASRs) - which provide breathable air for the wearer from an uncontaminated air source (e.g., an oxygen tank). Often, a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is used when a different source of air supply is required to ensure workers do not breathe in air from contaminated sites or while working with toxic gasses. It is worth noting that according to OSHA Standards, SCBAs are mainly used in situations that are tagged as ‘Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)’. To better understand the various types of respirators that are used in different hazardous circumstances, read the article titled ‘Effective Respiratory Protection: How to Choose a Suitable Respirator’. Respiratory Protection Program In a workplace where the use of respirators is necessary to safeguard the health of employees, employers must develop and implement a Respiratory Protection Program to comply with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard. This respiratory protection program must include the following requirements: • There must be a written operating procedure that details which respiratory protection will be used, and why. • Respirators must be selected based on the specific hazards prevalent at that worksite and to which workers are or may be exposed. • Workers should be given training on the uses and limitations of respiratory protection equipment (RPE) they will be using at the worksite. • Respirators must be regularly cleaned, disinfected, and stored in a clean, secure, and convenient location. • Respirators should routinely be examined and tested. • When required, respirators must be repaired or replaced, as needed. • Employers must consistently monitor working conditions and employee stress and exposure. • Before employees use respirators, fit testing must occur to ensure that the respiratory equipment fits each employee properly.  • Medical examinations must be conducted, and medical professionals should determine whether employees are physically able to use respiratory equipment. • The respiratory protection program must be regularly evaluated to ensure effectiveness and reflect any changes in the worksite, and for recommending improvements as required. Choosing the Right-Fit Respirator To ensure proper respiratory protection, employers and employees must not only choose the right-fit respirator but also the correct respirator for the job. Here are three questions that must be answered before workers can begin using a respirator. Question 1: What type of respirator do I need to wear? First, a decision must be made on the type of respirator that a worker needs to wear. Consider the type of hazardous exposure – is it a gas or vapor exposure or a possible situation of contaminated air or low oxygen levels? Accordingly, either an APR or an SCBA respirator may need to be decided on. Also, consider things like the use of a half-face respirator or a full-face respirator, and what type of filter cartridges must be used based on required filter efficiency and compatibility.  Remember, to meet OSHA regulations, employers must provide employees with respirators that are approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). This is because NIOSH ensures respirators undergo rigorous testing to increase the protection afforded to the wearer. Question 2: Is it safe for me to wear a respirator? When workers are required to wear a respirator at the workplace to safeguard against hazardous vapors or toxic atmospheres, they must be sure that wearing a respirator will not have any negative impact on their health. Individuals who suffer from asthma, high blood pressure, chronic bronchitis, or other lung and breathing problems may be at risk when using respirators. This is because when wearing a respirator, extra pressure is put on the lungs that may cause blood pressure to rise. Thus, employers must send employees for a medical evaluation before they start wearing respirators at the worksite. It is also required that a Physician or Other Licensed Healthcare Professional (PLHCP) conduct and clear workers for them to be able to use respirators at the workplace. Question 3:  Do I require fit testing/training before using the respirator? The answer to this question is a resounding YES!  To ensure workers can gain the highest levels of protection from respirators, they must undergo a fit test once medical clearance is received for wearing a respirator. The fit testing process helps determine the proper size and type of respirator for each employee as well as checks if the respirator forms a seal on the user’s face to ensure no contaminants are accidentally inhaled.   One part of the fit testing process requires employees to be given respiratory protection equipment and shown how to put it on and take it off. Then, the employee is allowed to choose the size and weight of the equipment components to ensure a comfortable fit. Once the employee chooses the desired respiratory equipment, a seal check is performed. If the seal isn’t tight, the employee will choose a different size or style or equipment that may fit his/her body better. As per OSHA’s respiratory protection standards, employees must perform several different exercises while wearing the respiratory for 1 minute each. These testing exercises include normal breathing, deep breathing, moving the head from side to side and up and down, talking out loud, and bending at the waist or jogging in place.  It is worth noting that fit testing is mandatory for all positive or negative pressure, tight-fitting facepiece respirators.  OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standards recommends employees be fit tested before the initial use of a respirator in the workplace, whenever a new or different facepiece is used, and annually for safety and protection. Two types of fit testing can be conducted – a qualitative fit test and a quantitative fit test. We will discuss this in more detail in our next blog article.  In Conclusion Adhere to Respiratory Protection Regulations! To ensure workers receive the highest levels of respiratory protection based on their workplace exposure to airborne hazards, workers must understand the need for respiratory protection and be given appropriate training. All our safety training courses include a section on respiratory protection aligned with OSHA standards. Training courses such as the OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER course have a dedicated module with five lessons explaining the various aspects of ‘Respiratory Protection’.  Enroll employees in HAZWOPER and OSHA training to ensure they are protected against respiratory hazards while meeting all relevant respiratory protection requirements as recommended by OSHA.  Click here to view our online course catalog.

California Hazmat Training DOT Hazmat Transportation Training Transportation of hazardous materials within States, across States, and internationally is guided by strict regulations governed by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT). The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) enforces the DOT’s Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) and guides U.S. citizens to comply with such standards to ensure the safety of the people, property, and the environment. Hazmat Transportation Training Regulations in CaliforniaThe state of California is renowned as a strict enforcer of standards and regulations that support the safety and health of employees. On this premise, California expects employers and employees transporting hazardous materials (hazmat) via highway, rail, air, and water, to follow the stringent Hazardous Materials Regulations as developed by the DOT and enforced by PHMSA. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires drivers of hazmat to have a commercial driver's license (CDL) with an “H” endorsement in line with CFR, Title 49 §383.5, before driving any size or type of vehicle transporting hazmat. To get this “H” endorsement prospective drivers of hazmat must undergo and pass a knowledge test about the regulations and requirements related to the transportation of hazardous materials. Additionally, drivers are also required to have appropriate knowledge of the DOT HMR. This requires drivers to undergo additional training that provides in-depth details of all aspects of hazardous materials transportation including, hazmat packaging, loading, labeling, marking, placarding, and securing awareness training. To fulfill these safety training requirements, hazmat drivers can enroll in the DOT Hazmat Transportation 10-Hour Advanced General Awareness Training course that is specifically designed to give an in-depth understanding of the U.S. DOT’s Hazardous Materials Regulations (CFR Title 49 Parts 171-180).The California DMV also requires all vehicles transporting hazmat to display warning signs as specified by the DOT HMR. These diamond-shaped warning signs are known as “placards”. Our DOT hazmat transportation 10-hour online training course has a module dedicated to explaining the use of DOT placards on trucks, tankers, rail cars, freight containers, cargo transport units, or aircraft unit load devices. On completion of the 2-lesson module, learners will be able to identify and select the appropriate placards for specific classes of hazardous materials and any exceptions to these requirements.Which Hazmat Transportation Training Course is Right for Me?According to the explanation given above, hazmat drivers need to have good knowledge about the hazardous materials they are transporting. Thus, as mentioned, in addition to the knowledge test to receive the “H” endorsement on their CDL, they will also need added training to understand the pertinent elements of the DOT HMR. Remember! As a driver of a tank car or a truck transporting hazardous goods via highway, you must be aware of the type of hazmat you have in the back of the vehicle you drive. To do this safely, you may need to know the correct packaging requirements for different types of hazardous materials, you may also need to know the hazard classification of such hazmat, and if the hazmat packages being transported have the proper labels and markings. Furthermore, as the driver of a hazmat vehicle, it is important that you understand the placarding requirements so that you can be sure that other drivers beside and behind you get some idea that you are transporting hazmat. Such placards are also important in case of emergencies or accidents occurring as it gives proper information to emergency workers such as medical personnel and firefighters. Additionally, knowing the security requirements when transporting hazmat is critical in today’s uncertain times for the safety of all. The training requirements for other hazmat workers are dependent on the work they do while preparing hazardous materials for transportation. For instance, a person who is only involved in the packaging part of the value chain may require in-depth knowledge of hazmat packaging, in addition to general knowledge about the HMR, the hazard classifications, and other topics such as hazmat labels and markings. For personnel with specific requirements, we offer a 4-Hour DOT Hazmat Transportation General Awareness Training course together with a choice of function-specific training for the preparation of shipping papers, and specific requirements for packaging, placarding, marking, labeling, etc. Click here to review all DOT Hazmat Transportation function-specific training courses. However, as a manager of a hazmat shipping department or a supervisor of hazmat cargo, we consider having more knowledge to be better than having less. Hence, it is recommended that personnel in high positions and those who are responsible for a team should receive comprehensive training on understanding the DOT’s HMR by enrolling in our 10-Hour Dot Hazmat Transportation training course.Occupational Health and Safety in CaliforniaCalifornia also leads the way when it comes to occupational safety and health. As one of the 22 States operating an OSHA State Plan, California has more stringent regulations when employees work with hazardous waste, hazardous materials, and other hazardous substances.California OSHA (Cal/OSHA) Regulations California has a dedicated OSHA State Plan covering the safety and health of both the private sector and state and local government workers. Popularly known as Cal/OSHA, the California OSHA State Plan is rigorous and requires employers to make every effort to meet OSHA compliances. According to records, Cal/OSHA consistently surpasses its safety and health inspection goals proving the administration’s dedication to protecting the millions of men and women employed across the State. Besides following the Federal OSHA standards (amended to suit the stringent requirements in line with the Cal/OSHA State Plan), Cal/OSHA has developed several State-specific standards for various topics and industries. These include:Toxic Chemical Handling and ExposureAgricultureRepetitive Motion InjuriesChild LaborHeat ExposureNoise ExposureInjury and Illness Prevention ProgramAerosol Transmissible DiseasesPetroleum Drilling and ProductionPetroleum Refining, Transport, and HandlingWorkplace Violence Prevention in Health CareTraining to Comply with Cal/OSHALike Federal OSHA, Cal/OSHA also accepts online, virtual instructor-led training, classroom training, and on-site group training options for employers to train employees. These training courses are also required to be supplemented by on-the-job training so that employees better understand the workplace-specific processes and procedures implemented by their employer. When enrolling any employees in OSHA safety training courses, employers should ensure these safety training courses meet the training requirements specified in Cal/OSHA and comply with the Cal/OSHA standards. Often, it is aspects such as permissible exposure limits (PELs) for hazardous substances such as acetone, ammonia, and sulfur dioxide (among others) that differ. In the case of the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, Cal/OSHA requires more information regarding the selection and evaluation of procedures for sharps and needles and a more detailed injury report. When working on scaffolding Cal/OHSA has enhanced the requirements of guardrail systems, while Cal/OSHA has stricter rules regarding fall protection with the need for fall protection systems when working at lower levels compared to Federal OSHA. Furthermore, as Cal/OSHA has State-specific standards, these must also be complied with.

Hazardous Waste Training: Who Needs It?There are various types of hazardous wastes that people are exposed to daily. Workers involved in hazardous waste operations are at greater risk of exposure to adverse health effects than others. These health impacts can vary from mild, short-term illnesses to more severe, long-term health impacts such as eye and skin irritations, allergies, respiratory illnesses, and some forms of cancers. With over 44,000 people employed as hazardous materials removal workers in the United States as of May 2021 (BLS), the risk of occupational diseases arising due to handling hazardous waste and removal of other types of hazardous materials is very high. Considering the growing number of people working with hazardous waste every day, regulatory bodies have developed and implemented stringent standards and frameworks to protect the safety and health of hazardous waste workers. One such authority is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, known as OSHA. OSHA, whose focus is to safeguard employees’ health, has developed safety standards and regulations across industries and types of work. The HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) Standards for the Construction Industry and the General Industry is one such standard that must be adhered to by employers and employees. Another is the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), a framework that regulates the safe work practices of hazardous solid waste generators. The RCRA is a law that is implemented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The somewhat diverse objectives of these two regulatory agencies can sometimes lead to confusion as to who needs hazardous waste training and the frequency of such training programs. A basis that all employers of hazardous materials removal and hazardous waste operations can follow is to protect employees exposed to hazardous waste, either in liquid, gaseous, or solid form. This can be done by following the requirements as explained in the OSHA HAZWOPER standards for various worksite control measures. This would involve utilizing proper engineering and administrative controls aligned to the principles of the Hierarchy of Controls at the worksite to protect hazardous waste workers while they carry out their work tasks. Furthermore, employers must provide hazardous waste workers with appropriate online training, on-the-job training, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Fulfilling HAZWOPER and RCRA Training NeedsTo comply with training requirements, guidance can be obtained from the relevant OSHA regulatory standards or the RCRA program. The HAZWOPER standards have segregated training according to different levels of worker exposure to hazardous waste, namely, HAZWOPER (e) training, HAZWOPER (p) training, and HAZWOPER (q) training.For detailed information about HAZWOPER read the article:What is HAZWOPER and What is its Purpose?It, therefore, becomes obvious that hazardous waste workers require suitable and comprehensive training on the safe handling and management of hazardous waste, irrespective of its form (solid hazardous waste, liquid hazardous waste, or hazardous waste gasses). Accordingly, both OSHA and the EPA’s RCRA Program have developed training and education requirements for hazardous waste workers, including the need for initial training as well as annual refresher training.Enroll in our OSHA 24-Hour HAZWOPER – RCRA TSD Operations Training CourseEnroll in our OSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Annual Refresher – RCRA TSD Operations Training CourseEnroll in our RCRA Hazardous Waste Generator Training CourseEnroll in our RCRA Hazardous Waste Generator Refresher Training CourseWho Needs RCRA Training?According to the RCRA, all workers involved in generating, storing, treating, and disposing of hazardous waste must be provided with training by the employer. These hazardous waste workers include personnel employed by large quantity generators (LQG), small quantity generators (SQG), and very small quantity generators (VSQG); as defined by the RCRA program.To better understand the waste generator categories as designated by the EPA’s RCRA Program, read the article:EPA Hazardous Waste Generator CategoriesTherefore, employees whose job responsibilities include all or any one of the following tasks must be provided with RCRA annual training by their employers.Personnel who identify and calculate hazardous waste.Employees engaged in bundling and collecting hazardous waste.Workers involved in marking, labeling, inspecting, handling, or moving hazardous waste containers.Personnel managing hazardous materials (hazmat) waste in satellite areas.Workers operating a waste-generating process.Anyone who reads and applies RCRA regulations at the workplace or worksite.Who Needs OSHA-HAZWOPER Training?OSHA’s HAZWOPER standards apply to employees who are exposed to and could possibly be exposed to hazardous substances and hazardous waste. The HAZWOPER standards divide these employers and their employees into five (5) distinct groups as follows.Employers and employees involved in clean-up operations conducted at uncontrolled hazardous waste sites required by a federal, state, or local governmental body.Employers and employees engaged in corrective actions involving clean-up operations at sites covered by the RCRA.Personnel undertaking voluntary clean-up tasks at sites recognized by federal, state, local, or other governmental bodies as uncontrolled hazardous waste sites.Personnel engaged in operations involving hazardous wastes that are conducted at treatment, storage, and disposal facilities regulated by Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations Parts 264 and 265 under RCRA, or by agencies under agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to implement RCRA regulations.  Emergency response operations for releases of, or substantial threats of releases of, hazardous substances regardless of the location of the hazard.These operations are specified as per OSHA HAZWOPER standards 1910.120(a)(1)(i-v) and 1926.65(a)(1)(i-v).(Source: OSHA, n.d.)Enroll in ourOSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER – 29 CFR 1910.120 (e) Training CourseEnroll in ourOSHA 24-Hour HAZWOPER – 29 CFR 1910.120 (e) Training CourseEnroll in ourOSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Refresher – 29 CFR 1910.120 (e) Training CourseEnroll in ourOSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Supervisor Training Course Enroll in ourOSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Supervisor Refresher Training CourseHow Often Do Hazardous Waste Workers Need RCRA and HAZWOPER Training?Both the EPA’s RCRA Program and OSHA’s HAZWOPER standards require employers to provide mandatory annual online or classroom-style training to their employees. Employees must be trained before they start work at hazardous waste sites or in hazardous waste operations. As per the RCRA rules (40 CFR 262.17(a)(7)), employers classified as large quantity generators (LQGs) must provide mandatory annual training to their employees working in hazardous waste facilities, also known as treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDF). Alternately, the EPA’s RCRA Program does not mandate annual training for hazardous waste workers employed by small quantity generators (SQGs). However, the RCRA rule requires hazardous waste workers to be "thoroughly familiar" with RCRA regulatory requirements. Thus, as a best practice, it is recommended that employees of SQGs also be given annual RCRA training.According to OSHA’s HAZWOPER standards (1910.120(a)(1)(i-v) and 1926.65(a)(1)(i-v)), employees require annual training when involved in work operations at hazardous waste TSD facilities. Thus, employers must provide either the RCRA Training or the HAZWOPER RCRA TSDF training, as relevant, to employees before they start work, and annually thereafter. The RCRA and HAZWOPER RCRA TSD annual refresher training must be completed before the expiration date of the previous training completion certificate.What Should be the Duration of the RCRA and HAZWOPER Training?The OSHA HAZWOPER standards specify the duration of training. Thus, all HAZWOPER training courses identify the training time in hours. For example, 40-Hour HAZWOPER training, 24-Hour HAZWOPER training, and 8-Hour HAZWOPER refresher training. The EPA does not specify the duration of training for its RCRA Program. The requirement is to ensure employees get adequate training to safely conduct their job tasks without adversely impacting their health and well-being while working with hazardous waste. The employer is responsible for identifying the appropriate training duration for each employee based on business operations and an individual’s job tasks. Such training must comply with mandated training requirements as per RCRA regulations. Hazardous Waste Workers: Training Course FAQsWho Needs RCRA Hazardous Waste Initial and Annual Training?Employees engaged in hazardous waste operations involving the generations, storage, treatment, and/or disposal of hazardous waste must be provided with training by the employer.Who needs the OSHA HAZWOPER 24-Hour RCRA TSDF Training Course?The OSHA HAZWOPER 24-Hour RCRA TSDF training course is required for all newly recruited personnel at RCRA permitted hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDF) due to their continued exposure to hazmat and other health hazards. Examples of such personnel include supervisors, workers, and environmental professionals.Current employees of RCRA permitted hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD) facilities who do not meet the training requirements as specified by OSHA, also must receive this 24-hour training. Who needs the OSHA HAZWOPER 8-Hour RCRA TSDF Refresher Training Course?Hazardous waste workers employed by TSDFs require 8 hours of refresher training annually, as per OSHA HAZWOPER standards.Who needs the OSHA HAZWOPER Supervisor Training Course?OSHA standards require all managers and supervisors who supervise or are directly responsible for employees at a hazardous waste site and seeking Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification to complete at least eight hours of specialized training. Generally, OSHA expects a general hazardous waste site worker who is becoming a supervisor or manager for the first time to receive at least 16 hours of training the year they become a supervisor: 8 hours of the HAZWOPER supervisory training plus 8 hours of the HAZWOPER refresher training.Who needs the OSHA HAZWOPER Supervisor Refresher Training Course?Managers and supervisors seeking to refresh their initial OSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Supervisor Training Certification in compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120(e)(8) and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.65(e)(8) regulations must enroll in this training course. Who needs the OSHA HAZWOPER 40-Hour Training Course?General site workers engaged in hazardous material removal or other activities that could expose or potentially expose them to hazardous substances.Who needs the OSHA HAZWOPER 24-Hour Training Course?General site workers who encounter hazardous substances occasionally and those not involved in hazardous waste clean-up operations.Who needs the OSHA HAZWOPER 8-Hour Refresher Training Course?General site workers who work at hazardous waste sites, continually or occasionally, and those workers are involved in hazardous waste clean-up operations. Employees need to annually renew the initial 40-Hour or 24-Hour HAZWOPER training certificate to ensure their training meets OSHA compliance requirements.ReferenceOSHA. (n.d.). Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER). Website. https://www.osha.gov/emergency-preparedness/hazardous-waste-operations/faq-hazpowerU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2021, May). Occupational Employment and Wages Statistics, May 2021. 47-4041 Hazardous Materials Removal Workers. Website. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes474041.htm#(1)

How to Safely Transport Hazardous Materials and Goods 6 best practices for the safe shipping of hazardous materials explained Shipping hazardous materials (hazmat) and other dangerous goods is a daily activity. For instance, oil, petroleum, compressed gasses, explosives, radioactive material, flammable substances, corrosives, and lithium batteries are shipped from one place to another to fulfill their end purpose. As such, it is essential that personnel involved in the transportation and shipping process, be it moving the hazmat from the plant to the warehouse; or tasked with packaging or marking and labeling the dangerous goods, be aware of the risks and the best practices in handling these hazmat packages. Often, many shippers and carriers embark on shipping hazardous materials locally in the United States and internationally without giving adequate attention to the rules and regulations governing hazmat shipments. For instance, in the United States, the Department of Transportation’s Hazardous Materials Regulations (DOT HMR) regulates the shipping of hazardous materials. Similarly, other countries and regions have different national regulatory bodies to oversee the safe transportation and shipping of hazardous materials and dangerous goods by highway, rail, air, and water.  Statistics recorded by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) state that 7,039 incidents occurred with damages amounting to over $36 million during the shipping of hazardous materials in 2021 (2022). According to the PHSMA, in 2022 (as of 22nd September 2022), 3,712 hazmat incidents during transit have been recorded, incurring damages over $38 million (2022). Many of these incidents occur when shipping hazardous materials by highway (PHSMA, 2022). Hazardous Materials incidents that occur during the transportation of hazmat can have far-reaching consequences for shippers and carriers, the public, and the ecosystem. Importance of Shipping Hazardous Materials as per Regulations There are several reasons why businesses and employers must comply with regulations related to shipping hazardous materials and other dangerous goods. One of the most significant is to ensure the safety and security of the personnel involved in the shipping process. Likewise, businesses shipping hazardous materials must also consider the safety and protection of the public and their property. The safe transportation of hazmat is also important from the perspective of safeguarding the environment. Consider the detrimental impact of oil spills on marine life, the environment, and even people. Additionally, if hazardous materials are not appropriately packaged and labeled, in case of an accident or other emergency, the public and those involved in emergency operations would be at greater risk of exposure to poisonous gases or other toxic substances.  Vehicle drivers and emergency responders transporting hazardous materials have a higher possibility of exposure to health risks if something goes wrong while shipping hazardous materials. Aside from the impact on human health and well-being, non-compliance with regulations related to shipping hazardous materials can increase the business risks of shippers and carriers. In case a hazmat incident occurs, they will be liable for worker compensation, damages, and other penalties levied by regulatory authorities. Such adverse hazmat incidents also lead to loss of reputation, increased customer concerns, and employees who feel less safe at the workplace.  Workers exposed to hazardous materials have a higher risk of suffering from adverse health effects due to increased exposure to radiological, biological, and chemical hazards. Let’s discuss some key points that would contribute to reducing the risks related to the shipping of hazardous materials while increasing the ability of shippers and carriers to safely transport hazardous materials and other dangerous goods. #1. Understand which materials and goods are classified as Hazardous Materials and Dangerous Goods There are different laws and regulations when shipping hazardous materials. These vary from country to country, by type of hazardous material being shipped, and the type of transportation being used – highway, rail, aircraft, or vessel.  In the U.S., the DOT governs the transportation of hazardous materials through its Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) under the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 49 – Transportation, Parts 100-185. Implementation of these regulations is handled by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). The CFR 49 also encompasses specific regulatory requirements by other bodies such as the U.S. Coastguard, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSR), and the Federal Railroad Administration, to name a few. Additionally, air transportation of hazmat must adhere to the International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s Dangerous Goods Regulations, and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code must be consulted to meet the requirements of shipping hazardous materials by vessel.  Hazardous materials are classified under nine (9) hazard classes by the DOT. They are: Class 1: Explosives Class 2: Gases Class 3: Flammable Liquid and Combustible Liquid Class 4: Flammable Solid, Spontaneously Combustible, and Dangerous When Wet  Class 5: Oxidizer and Organic Peroxide  Class 6: Poison (Toxic) and Poison Inhalation Hazard Class 7: Radioactive Class 8: Corrosive Class 9: Miscellaneous Thus, all shippers, carriers, and their employees must understand the minute details of hazardous materials regulations, how different regulatory bodies classify hazardous materials, and the specifics of the different types of hazardous materials. Remember, something as simple as the quantity of a specific hazardous material could classify it as either a hazardous material or a non-hazardous material. Our 10-Hour DOT Advanced General Awareness Training course is an ideal learning tool for employers and employees involved in shipping hazardous materials and dangerous goods. #2. Use Packaging as Specified in Regulations For hazardous materials containers to remain leak-proof or spill-proof during transportation, shippers and carriers must ensure both inner and outer packaging of the hazardous materials meet the packaging requirements as stated in the DOT regulations, IATA DGR, and IMDG Code. These guidelines include the type of packaging used, the thickness of packaging materials, the types of closures to be used, and even the number of packages inside the outer packaging. Often, the DOT HMR recommends UN-specified packaging materials, and manufacturers and shippers must follow these guidelines. If regulations require other types of packaging, then this must be complied with as relevant.   By following packaging regulations, shippers are safeguarding hazardous materials from spills, leaks, or damage that can lead to a hazmat incident. For a detailed understanding of DOT packaging requirements for shipping hazardous materials, enroll in our 2-Hour DOT Function-Specific Packaging Training course. #3. Ensure the Hazmat Package is Properly Marked and Labeled Using packaging as per regulations is not enough. Once the hazardous materials are packaged for transportation, these hazmat packages must then be labeled and marked as per the requirements explained in the HMR. The marking and labeling requirements are specific and can vary depending on the mode of transportation being used.  Employees involved in the shipping of hazardous materials must understand the meanings of these labels and marking to ensure the safe transportation of hazardous materials and goods via highway, rail, air, or water. Our 2-Hour DOT Function-Specific Markings Training and our 2-Hour DOT Function-Specific Labeling Training courses give information that is specific to these two job functions.  #4. Placarding of Transportation Vehicles When shipping hazardous materials by highway or rail, the DOT requires appropriate placards to be fixed to tanks, trucks, freight containers, other vehicles, rail cars, and tank cars. When shipping hazardous materials by air, aircraft unit load devices must also be placarded. Placarding helps to clearly announce the presence of hazardous materials. Placarding directs handlers and transporters to easily identify the primary and subsidiary hazards of the hazardous materials being shipped, thereby ensuring suitable precautions are taken when working in and around these vehicles or during an emergency. Hence, employees involved in the hazmat transportation process should ensure that vehicles carrying hazardous materials are correctly placarded. Our 2-Hour DOT Function-Specific Placarding Training course provides general and carrier-specific information for placarding when shipping hazardous materials. #5. Communicate the Importance of Safe Shipping of Hazmat to Employees Apart from ensuring meeting the regulatory requirements, employers must communicate to employees the importance of safely shipping hazardous materials. Employees must understand the risks to themselves, their colleagues, the public, their property, and the environment. Employees must comprehend the importance of correctly handling hazardous materials. They must understand that DOT HMR training is necessary for maintaining workplace safety. Employers should know that in addition to any online or classroom training given to employees on the DOT Hazmat Regulations, regular awareness programs and other in-house practical training will improve safety practices and enhance the workplace safety culture. Moreover, the transportation of lithium batteries is rising due to their increased usage in many devices. Therefore, shippers and carriers must provide specific training to employees on shipping lithium batteries as regulated by the DOT HMR, IATA DGR, and the IMDG Code to ensure they understand the hazards they face as part of their jobs and the ways to minimize them.  Furthermore, vehicle drivers and their assistants operating vehicles carrying hazardous materials must be given training not only on the DOT HMR, IATA DGR, and the IMDG Code requirements but also on safe driving principles and ways to avoid security risks. Today, smartphone usage has made communication with personnel in vehicles transporting hazardous materials more accessible and real-time. #6. Ensure Safety and Security during Transportation  Today, safety and security are a grave concern when shipping hazardous materials. Ensuring hazardous materials are not hijacked while in transit for use in nefarious purposes has increasing become a concern for shippers and carriers. To reduce such risks, technology, such as GPS, can be used to track hazmat shipments and ensure their safety during transportation. Personnel responsible for driving vehicles carrying hazmat should be aware of these risks and trained on implementing processes and procedures in emergencies.  The DOT also explains the best safety and security practices while shipping hazardous materials. Our 2-Hour DOT Function-Specific Security Awareness Training course provides relevant information.  Reference: Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). (2022). Yearly Incident Summary Report. Website. https://portal.phmsa.dot.gov/PDMPublicReport/?url=https://portal.phmsa.dot.gov/analytics/saw.dll?Portalpages&PortalPath=%2Fshared%2FPublic%20Website%20Pages%2F_portal%2FYearly%20Incident%20Summary%20Reports

Workers Battle 13 Fires in 2 Years as Employers Disregard Fire Safety Measures in Lieu of Profits The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited a Clayton, Ohio-based company with proposed penalties of $271K on the grounds of exposing workers to fires and failing to train them on initial stage fire identification and the use of fire extinguishers.The citation comes because of a tip-off from a local fire department after they were called on-site 13 times in just the last 2 years to respond to fires that broke out at the automotive part manufacturing plant.The frequent fires at Woodbridge Englewood Inc. ­– which goes as Hematite Inc., were caused by the polyethylene material used for making automotive parts catching fire. The highly flammable material would burst into flames in the ovens while being heated to produce molten plastic for vehicle parts. Employees were forced to use portable fire extinguishers to douse the fire or minimize its spread until the sprinkler system activated. Investigations by OSHA further revealed that company management encouraged workers to employ fire extinguishers to subdue the blaze rather than wait for the sprinklers to activate. This practice cut down repair costs and production times but put Hematite workers at serious risks related to fire hazards. The auto-parts manufacturer now faces one willful and nine serious federal safety violations with proposed penalties of $271,403.Although the incident occurred at their Clayton-Ohio facility, Woodbridge Englewood Inc., has corporate headquarters in Ontario, Canada, and automotive headquarters in Troy, Michigan. The corporation employs 7,500 workers in 50 different locations across 10 nations, providing material technologies for usage in automotive, commercial, recreational, construction, packaging, and health care products.OSHA Area Director Ken Montgomery in Cincinnati in his statement regarding the incident advised that "The company must immediately review its emergency action plans and the process for storing and handling flammable materials. Incorporating training and protective measures will help minimize fires and protect workers on the job." Risking Workers’ Safety and HealthWillful ignorance of safety guidelines and taking ‘shortcuts’ when it comes to workplace health and safety procedures due to companies’ prioritizing profits has time and again led to employees facing hazardous situations and, in some cases, even death. Hence, OSHA, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), and the Department of Transportation (DOT) have in place regulations and standards to safeguard employees at the workplace and while carrying out potentially hazardous work tasks. Furthermore, safety-training organizations like ours (HAZWOPER-OSHA Training) continuously work towards increasing awareness of safe work practices through tailored training courses related to Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) and other hazardous materials (HAZMAT) such as asbestos and silica, as well as safety aspects such as fall protection, fire safety, and more; simply because saving lives matters! In 2020 alone, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recorded 2.7 million cases of work-related injury and illness reported by employers (2020). This figure does not include numerous unreported workplace incidents that occur on a daily basis across industries in America. When statistics bear witness to the scale of the issue, the importance of health and safety training multiplies. Employers must ensure workers proactively receive the required safety training for the work they do and maintain updated safety training certifications as mandated by OSHA, the DOT, and other regulatory agencies. Companies must also implement actionable emergency plans for emergencies such as fires, chemical spills, or other contaminations while encouraging workers to complete all necessary training required to safely undertake their job tasks. Training Course to Protect Employee Health and SafetyOur OSHA, DOT, RCRA training, and EPA compliant online training courses for the construction industry, hazardous waste operations, transportation of HAZMAT, and other general industry-specific topics offer employers easy-to-use programs to safeguard their workforce. Enroll now and become an active part of OSHA’s and other regulatory agencies’ nationwide efforts to minimize occupational injuries, illnesses, and deaths. References:OSHA. (2022, September 01). Citation and Notification of Penalty. Woodbridge Englewood Inc. DBA Hematite Inc. Website. https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/OPA/newsreleases/2022/09/OSHA20221791.pdf OSHA. (2022, September 06). OSHA News Release - Region56. Ohio auto parts manufacturer cited for 10 federal safety violations after workers battle 13 fires in 2 years in plastic molding plant. Website. https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/region5/09062022 BLS. (2021, November 03). Employer-Reported Workplace Injuries and Illnesses, 2020. Website. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/osh.nr0.htm 

Hazmat Training in Compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation’s Hazardous Materials Regulations Hazardous materials shippers, carriers, transporters, packaging manufacturers, and drivers are aware that many rules and regulations must be followed when transporting hazmat and other dangerous chemicals. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a Code of Federal Regulations (Title 49 – Transportation, 49 CFR) which govern the transportation of hazardous materials (hazmat) detailed under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR). This set of regulations applies to all individuals involved in the transportation value chain and governs interstate, intrastate, and international hazmat transportation. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) oversees the implementation of the U.S. DOT’s HMR; and supports and advances the safe transportation of hazardous materials via highway and road, air, rail, and water (vessel). What are the Hazardous Materials Regulations? The Hazardous Materials Regulations often referred to as the “HMR”, are a set of rules and regulations that explicitly convey the requirements when handling, storing, packaging, labeling, and marking hazardous goods for transportation. The HMR also provides detailed guidance on general placarding requirements for cargo tankers, cargo carriers, vehicles, freight containers, rail cars, and aircraft unit load devices, among others. The special placarding requirements for highway and rail transportation are also detailed in the HMR. Additionally, the HMR also has a dedicated section for safety and security requirements to be implemented during the transportation of hazardous materials.  In the 49 – Transportation CFR, the HMR is divided into Parts 100-185. These HMR parts govern the transportation of hazardous materials across all modes of transportation, that is, highway, rail, air, and water. All individuals involved in the preparation of hazardous materials for transport and the transportation of hazmat must have a basic understanding of the HMR, and be able to implement the necessary processes that adhere to the stated requirements of the HMR.  A point to note: The HMR is not just a useful tool, but a critical success factor in safeguarding employees, the community, and the environment from hazmat disasters. The HMR is divided into four main categories: Hazardous materials identification and classification. Hazard communication – this entails the requirements for the preparation of shipping papers, as well as the marking and labeling of hazmat packages, and the placarding of hazmat transport vehicles to communicate the hazards of the materials being transported to emergency responders and those who handle hazardous materials routinely. Packaging requirements. Operational rules. What is the Hazardous Materials Table? The Hazardous Materials Table (HMT) is an integral part of the HMR, containing the information needed to ensure compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Hazardous Materials Regulations. The HMT lists all the hazardous materials for the purposes of transportation. The HMT divided into 10 columns, provides detailed guidance on the use of the proper shipping name and description of the hazmat to be transported, as well as the hazard class, packaging requirements, marking and labeling requirements, placarding needs, special provisions, quantity limitations aboard passenger and cargo aircraft, and vessel stowage requirements for each identified hazardous material or chemical.  Here's an example of lithium batteries as identified in the Hazardous Materials Table. To better understand how the HMT is organized and its requirements, our 2-Hour Function-Specific DOT Hazardous Materials Table Training course will provide adequate information to the learner.  Safety Training in Compliance with the DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations The above brief explanation of the HMR and the HMT should give the reader a general idea that following and complying with the rules and regulations related to the transportation of hazardous materials by highway, rail, air, and water can be a daunting task. However, having a good understanding of the HMR will minimize the risks involved with the transportation of hazardous materials.  To support employers to safeguard their employees, the public, and the environment during all hazmat transportation-related activities, we have prepared and presented a comprehensive 10-Hour Advance General Awareness Training program that is fully narrated and can be taken online using your iPhone®, iPad®, MacBook®, laptop, PC, or any other Android device.  We offer group discounts on our online training courses.For details call us (866) 429 6742 As our training courses are designed and developed by OSHA Certified Outreach Trainers, they are guaranteed to meet the Federal OSHA and Federal Regulations of the DOT. As such, our DOT Hazmat Transportation Series and our Shipping Lithium Batteries Series are fully compliant with the requirements of the United States Department of Transportation Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180). Additionally, our Shipping Lithium Batteries training course, meet the compliance requirements of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR, Section 1.5), and IMDG Code (Section 1.3.1). If you prefer to train your employees at your workplace as a team, we provide in-person on-site with an experienced trainer as well as instructor-led virtual training programs. For details call us (866) 429 6742 Frequency of DOT Hazmat Training Rules, regulations, and compliance needs change over time, and as new scenarios emerge. Hence, the DOT requires hazmat employers to train their hazmat employees once every three years to ensure that they remain updated and knowledgeable about the DOT HMR as it applies to the workplace and a worker’s job tasks. For employees involved in the transportation of hazardous materials by air, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) require recurrent training once every two years. Click here to view our DOT Hazmat Transportation training courses Click here to view our DOT, IATA, and IMDG Shipping Lithium Batteries training courses

9 Workers Face a Near-Miss Situation as their Companies Fail to Implement Fire Safety PlansTwo recycling companies in Sabine Pass, Texas face proposed penalties totaling $212,566 from OSHA after their failure to follow requisite safety standards resulted in nine workers encountering a serious near-miss situation.The nine workers had to be air-lifted after being trapped on a drilling platform almost 30 stories high as a fire broke out, as their employers failed to put fire safety plans into action. Welders from Carlos Arturo Guerrero LLC (CAG Professional Services) and employees of Houston-based PH Steel Inc. were cutting parts for metal scrap and making electrical repairs respectively on the main deck of the Pride Wisconsin drilling platform when the fire began. Soon thereafter, they found themselves unable to lower themselves to escape as the platform's generator wires burned down. As the situation worsened and first responders were incapable of reaching the workers, the U.S. Coast Guard carried out a rescue operation via helicopter. Investigations by OSHA into the February 25th, 2022, incident revealed that although Carlos Arturo Guerrero LLC had a written fire safety plan detailing evacuation procedures from tall jack-up platforms, they failed to use it. The company faces a sum of $140,055 in proposed penalties. The other company involved in the incident - PH Steel Inc., had no written fire safety plan. They stand to payout $72,511 in proposed penalties. For more details view the citation letters issued to PH Steel Inc. and Carlos Arturo Guerrero LLC.“In an industry where workers face potentially serious and deadly hazards every day, employers must act quickly to safely evacuate workers and must ensure workers are trained on proper safety procedures,” said Mark Briggs, OSHA Area Director for Houston in regard to the situation (OSHA, 2022, August 23).This incident brings to light the importance of fostering an effective safety culture within organizations, especially those where workers are regularly exposed to hazardous situations. Despite safety plans and procedures being in place, a lack of an active safety culture can result in companies being unable to implement effective contingency measures in emergency situations, as demonstrated by the above incident.Safety is a team effort and should receive active participation from employees at every level within an organization. Workers also require regular training on safety and health hazards and related protection measures to ensure they are up-to-date on what needs to be done in case of an adverse situation and to ensure compliance with OSHA safety standards. Depending on your industry, workers could be exposed to several different types of hazards and will require training specific to each hazard type. Our blog, The 6 Categories of Workplace Hazards, details the major hazards employees must be aware of in different industries and recommends training programs for each hazard.Start your employees on safety training today with our OSHA, DOT, and EPA-compliant training courses for the construction industry, general industry, handling and transportation of hazmat, and hazardous waste operations. Knowledge enhancement and awareness can help inculcate life-saving safety values into your business operations and create a safety culture within your company!Learn more about about OSHA Regulations for the State of Texas.References:OSHA. (2022, August 22). Citation and Notification of Penalty. Carlos Arturo Guerrero LLC. Website https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/OPA/news%20releases/Carlos%20Arturo%20Guerrero-%20Citations%20%231580441.pdfOSHA. (2022, August 22). Citation and Notification of Penalty. PH Steel Inc. Website https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/OPA/news%20releases/PH%20Steel-%20Citations%20%231580460.pdf OSHA. (2022, August 23). OSHA News Release - Region 6. Investigation finds 2 recycling companies failed to use fire safety plans to evacuate 9 workers as air rescue averts drilling platform tragedy. Website. https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/region6/08232022

Keeping Workers Safe at Heights – PPE and Fall Protection Training Whatever industry you work in, keeping your workers safe is of paramount importance. Of course, you need to keep in compliance with Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) standards. Failing to comply and allowing workers to be injured can carry stiff financial penalties. As you’re well aware, OSHA keeps a close watch on industry when it comes to the safety and well-being of employees. And OSHA believes that far too many preventable injuries, illnesses, and deaths occur in the workplace. Accidents and exposures that could have been easily prevented if proper measures and training had been implemented. But penalties aside, we need to understand the impact that workplace illnesses and injuries have, not just on the employee, but on their families as well. Nobody wants to get the call that their spouse, loved one, parent or sibling has been injured, or even killed, due to a workplace accident. Along with the financial hardships incurred—which may or may not be overcome easily—the emotional damage done will stay with them forever. OSHA’s Most Frequently Cited Workplace Standards Violations The Occupational Health and Safety Administration recently published their top 10 most recently cited standards for Fiscal Year 2021. The list was also presented at the 2021 NSC Safety Congress & Expo by Patrick Kapust, Deputy Director of OSHA's Directorate of Enforcement Programs. For the eleventh year in a row, fall protection (29 CFR 1926.501) remains at the top of the list, as presented on the official OSHA website. In Fiscal Year 2021, there were a reported 5,295 violations cited. The sixth most cited violation was fall protection training requirements, with over sixteen hundred citations issued. Why have fall protection violations remained at the top for so long? Well, it’s interesting to note that fall protection training moved up in the list, being cited as the #8 violation in 2019. It might be safe to infer that a lack of proper fall protection training has led to fall protection violation’s continuing reign at the top of the citation heap. By the way… ladders and scaffolding citations in construction came as the third and fifth most cited violations, respectively. What Your Team Needs to Know About Working at Heights Remember that number 6 on OSHA’s top 10 list addressed the lack of training for fall protection. (By the way, some websites say that lockout/tagout is #6 and fall protection training violations is #7. This article is based on the official OSHA website information. Either way… it’s a problem to address.) The fact is that you can’t just send people into situations that require fall protection knowledge without ensuring they know the score. That means workers working at heights must know everything from when to use fall protection gear to how to use it properly. OSHA construction safety training needs to be an important part of on-the-job training, and even pre-job instruction. It’s not enough to know how to perform job site tasks. Crew members must know and understand how to work safely as well. This is actually important in any general industry where employees must work at heights, as much as it is critical at construction sites. So, just what does working at heights mean, anyway? You might be picturing workers perched high off the ground on top of a multi-story building. And certainly, that’s one scenario. But according to OSHA regulations, the height where some form of fall protection is necessary is above 4 feet in general industry and above 6 feet in construction industry. And remember, that could be from the ground level, not necessarily high in the air on a platform or rooftop. Sometimes a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) isn’t required and may even get in the way. For example, you likely wouldn’t use a fall protection harness to climb stairs, walk across catwalks, or work on a stationary platform. Fall protection in the form of guardrails, hand rails, and toe-boards would provide the required protection. Note, however, that climbing some fixed ladders may require fall protection gear. Again, this shows how important properly conducted OSHA training programs are, not only to inform workers, but keep confusion to a minimum as well. Some of the topics that construction workers will need to know and understand are: How to select the correct fall protection PPE components for the job How to do a daily inspection on critical parts of a PFAS How to don and doff fall protection harnesses properly How to hook up correctly to anchorage points when working at heights Recognition and identification of fall hazards What to do in the event of a fall, either their own or that of a coworker In the first point—how to select the correct fall protection PPE—it’s necessary to know that there are different styles of safety harnesses, each designed for a particular application. For example, D-ring placement is often determined by the application in which the harness is used. Back mounted D-rings are standard, and will be used to attach lanyards, both stationary and self-retracting, as well as attachment points for fall recovery operations. If the construction worker will be routinely climbing fixed vertical ladders in which a vertical-ladder climbing system is installed, a front mounted attachment point will be necessary. D-rings attached to the sides are used for attaching positioning belts. Even the choice of lanyard is often dependent on the job site application. The two basic types are fixed-length energy absorbing lanyards, and self-retracting lanyards called SRLs. SRLs give the most possible range of movement and come in a variety of lengths. Web-style SRLs are often used indoors, while cable-style SRLs are used in outdoor environments or in areas where more durability against abrasions or high heat is required. If using shock-absorbing lanyards,  the worker must be anchored at least 17.5 to 18 feet above the next surface. These lanyards have coiled up webbing that is pulled from a pouch to slow down and absorb the shock of the fall at the end. Obviously, if a lanyard doesn’t fully deploy before the worker hits the ground, serious foot, leg, and back injuries could be incurred. Best Practices for Training Workers in Fall Protection and Other Safety Topics Training your construction crew is vitally important. And it’s important that it be done correctly and to OSHA specifications. Yes, OSHA does have specific recommendations and requirements for any type of safety training. 29 CFR 1926, Subpart C, standard number 1926.21 addresses the general requirements and employer responsibilities for safety training. As for the responsibilities: 1926.21(b)(2) The employer shall instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury. Train workers about job hazards in a language that they can understand. In almost every standard regarding training in any safety topic, you’ll find that one common theme. The training must be understandable by the employee, regardless of language, educational level, or other personal circumstances. Not only that, but, the training must also be documented properly and records retained: 1926.503(b)(2) The latest training certification shall be maintained. There are resources on the OSHA website you can use to form a qualified training program. Some companies do that. It can be time-consuming to say the least. Another option that many employers are turning to is hiring training companies that specifically specialize in compliant safety training. These companies are equipped and prepared to ensure all employees understand the ins and outs of the safety topics presented. While many in-person training programs are held at the employer’s on-site location, an increasing number of OSHA online training courses are offered that can be accessed by individuals via computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. The employees are able to study at their own pace, take certification tests online, and those tests are stored in a database to satisfy OSHA’s documentation retention requirements. The cost of these programs is minimal compared to the potential costs associated with injuries, deaths, and OSHA penalties. Safety doesn’t cost on the construction site… it pays off with huge dividends. Article provided by Fred Pineda, American Safety Associates, LLC. ASA provides its customers with quality safety products including fall protection harnesses and gear, respiratory protection products, PPE wear, and first aid products.

Failure to Use Appropriate Fall Protection Equipment Results in the Death of a 22-Year-Old Construction WorkerOSHA proposes a penalty of $249,323 to a Baton Rouge, Los Angeles based roofing contractor due to a young construction worker falling victim to inadequate fall protection measures.“Falls continue to be the leading cause of deaths in the construction industry and yet, employers like Premier South Roofing LLC repeatedly failed to protect their workers from the risk of disabling injuries or worse,” OSHA Area Director Roderic Chube in Baton Rouge is quoted saying in OSHA’s News Release about the incident.On April 2nd, 2022, Premier South Roofing LLC’s failure to employ adequate fall protection measures resulted in the death of a 22-year-old worker as they lost their footing, and fell about 30 feet through a skylight in the midst of a roofing job. Investigations have confirmed that the fatality could have been prevented if appropriate fall protection gear had been used.Premier South Roofing LLC had also received previous warnings from safety inspectors in February 2022 when five of the company’s employees were seen working on a roof without the requisite fall protection equipment. The contractor employs about 200 workers in providing residential and commercial roofing services. However, Premier South Roofing’s repeated ignorance of safety measures and employee training has resulted in major penalties and the unfortunate death of a young worker. OSHA has cited the company for two repeat violations for failing to provide fall protection and verify employee training. For more information, refer to the citation letter.“Ensuring that workers are trained on, and use proper fall protection, as required by law, can prevent tragedies such as this from recurring,” reiterates OSHA Area Director Roderic Chube about the case.Training to Support Worker Safety and Good HealthEnsuring worker safety is a fundamental aspect of any business and incidents like this bring to light the dangers employees face when required protective procedures and health and safety training are disregarded. Fall protection has been a frequently cited OSHA violation over the years, and falls remain one of the leading causes of accidents at construction sites. This is where training on the key aspects of fall protection for workers can play a fundamental role in safety at a worksite.Our OSHA Competent Person For Fall Protection training provides detailed guidance on fall protection systems and the use of body harnesses and fall arrest systems. The course also covers safety measures when working on ladders, stairways, and aerial lifts. So, don’t delay, enroll your workers in the safety training course and get them trained and certified today. This action will not only safeguard their health but also reduce fines and other penalties on your business while simultaneously improving your reputation as a concerned employer!Refer to OSHA Regulations for the State of California to gain a better understanding of the OSHA-approved State Plans for California.ReferenceOSHA. (2022). Citation and Notification of Penalty. Letter. Website. https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/OPA/news%20releases/OSHA-2%20Citations%20-%20Premier%20South_1587496.pdfOSHA. (2022). OSHA News Release - Region 6. Baton Rouge roofing contractor’s failure to heed February warning turns deadly as unprotected worker plunges through a skylight in April. Website. https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/region6/08012022 

Online Safety Training for Shipping Lithium Ion and Metal Cells and Batteries We’ve all heard of lithium batteries. We use them when we operate our mobile phones, Apple devices, and laptops. Doctors and nurses use lithium batteries when they operate wireless medical tools and equipment, and construction workers use a range of cordless power tools. Lithium batteries are also used in smartwatches and motor vehicles.  The rising dependency on lithium batteries resulting in a highly growing demand for lithium batteries in our everyday lives poses a few thought-provoking questions. Are lithium batteries dangerous or harmful? Can lithium batteries catch fire or explode? Are there other risks posed by using lithium batteries? Should people who manufacture, handle, and transport lithium batteries practice any safety measures? The simple answer is YES to all the above questions. Lithium batteries have a higher energy density and flammable electrolytes in smaller packages, Hence, if not handled properly or damaged, they can short circuit, release heat, or cause fires.  However, the undisputed fact that we use lithium batteries every day and most of us have not faced any accidents or problems, is a testament that when handled appropriately, lithium batteries are as risky as any other electrical or electronic item we use that is powered by other types of batteries. This does not mean that you can be careless. The careful use of lithium batteries is always advocated. Let’s watch the below video to better understand the dangers of lithium battery usage in our everyday lives, and what we can do to ensure we protect ourselves. People Shipping Lithium Ion and Lithium Metal Batteries and Cells For those in the business of shipping lithium batteries, ensuring their employees are protected against the hazards of explosions and fires that could result from damaged and incorrectly handled lithium cells and batteries, requires appropriate training. This is where the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code come into play. These regulations and codes advocate those individuals involved in any aspect of shipping lithium batteries by highway, rail, air, or vessel to be given appropriate training by employers to ensure safety and health as well as compliance with regulations.  In addition, workers involved in the design, manufacture, inspection, maintenance, reconditioning, repair, or test packages, containers, or packaging components that are used for the transportation of lithium batteries must also receive safety training related to shipping lithium batteries. Furthermore, personnel undertaking tasks such as marking, labeling, or packaging that indicate lithium batteries are present in a package being transported in commerce must also have appropriate knowledge of the best practices and rules and regulations related to shipping lithium batteries. Compliance officers who certify that all applicable requirements of the HMR, IMO, and ICAO are being met, and persons responsible for the safety of hazardous materials during transportation are also required to be given safety training related to shipping stand-alone, packed with, or contained in equipment lithium batteries and cells.  Importance of Safety Training When Shipping Lithium Batteries Safety training comes into play when shipping lithium batteries and cells as these are regulated during transportation due to their prevailing hazards. This is mainly due to the nature of lithium batteries, meaning their high density that can result in explosions and fires. The danger of lithium batteries is not just in the catching of fire, but also in the difficulty in extinguishing the fire. As such, lithium batteries must be handled properly during transportation, thereby reducing the risks to people, buildings, and the environment.  For a quick overview of the Dos and Don’ts of Shipping Lithium Batteries read our article here.  Below are identified some dangers that lithium batteries pose during transportation. The increased hazards of transporting lithium batteries are due to their size, type, and the chemistry of the battery make-up. For instance, lithium batteries contain a flammable electrolyte, and under certain conditions, such as a short circuit or unsuitable design, or incorrect assembly, these batteries can overhear and ignite, unlike standard alkaline batteries.  In fact, “the FAA Technical Center testing shows that oxygen starvation through depressurization in the case of cargo aircraft, common shipping containers (e.g., unit load devices), or aircraft fire suppression systems are not effective in containing or suppressing many potential lithium cell or battery fires (DOT & PHMSA, 2021, pg. 2).” As lithium cells and batteries pose both electrical hazards and chemical hazards such as corrosive or flammable electrolytes, regulations require different types and sizes of batteries to be packaged and marked so that these hazards may be minimized. Another danger of transporting lithium batteries is the batteries experiencing thermal runway. While not common, the risk does exist. And a thermal runway occurring onboard an aircraft could lead t a seriously devastating catastrophe!  “A thermal runway is a chain reaction leading to a violent release of stored energy and flammable gas. This thermal runaway can propagate to other batteries or conductive materials nearby, potentially resulting in large-scale thermal events with severe consequences (DOT & PHMSA, 2021, pg. 2).” Enroll Today! Hence employers and employees, handling and transporting lithium cells and batteries must receive the appropriate and adequate safety training. Our Shipping Lithium Batteries: Fully Regulated and Excepted Cells and Batteries Training course is designed by OSHA-approved trainers in line with U.S. DOT HMR (49 CFR Part 172.704), IATA DGR (Section 1.5), and IMDG Code (Section 1.3.1). If you prefer group training options, contact us on 1-866-429-6742 or info@HAZWOPER-OSHA.com for more details. Reference: U.S Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Association (PHMSA). 2021, September (Revised). Lithium battery guide for shippers a compliance tool for all modes of transportation. [PDF]. Website. https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/2021-09/Lithium-Battery-Guide.pdf