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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

The Dos and Don’ts of Shipping Lithium Batteries We’ve all heard of lithium batteries… after all, we use them in all our modern tech devices and even in our cars. But have you ever realized that lithium batteries are categorized as hazardous cargo due to their higher energy density and flammable electrolytes? According to the PHMSA, “lithium batteries pose a fire hazard, even when they are no longer useful in consumer equipment/products. Damaged, defective, or recalled batteries have greater potential than undamaged lithium batteries to short circuit, release heat, or even cause a fire.” Thus, the PHMSA advises that appropriate precautions be taken when shipping new lithium batteries or when shipping used, damaged, or old lithium batteries for disposal or recycling. Considering the high possibility of the hazards associated with shipping lithium batteries, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have both enacted strict regulations for the transportation of lithium batteries including packaging, marking, and specific labeling requirements. What is a Lithium Battery? The term “lithium battery” refers to one or more lithium cells that are electrically connected. A cell is a single encased electrochemical unit, while a battery consists of multiple electrically connected component cells. A battery can also only be made up of a single cell, such as the common AA, C, or coin cell. A lithium battery is like other types of battery. The lithium battery cells contain a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator, and an electrolyte solution. Atoms or molecules with a net electric charge (ions) are transferred from a positive electrode to a negative electrode through an electrolyte solution. Lithium cells store and release power by converting chemical potential energy into electrical energy using lithium ions or lithium metal. Electrolyte solutions allow ions to flow freely between the electrodes. So, what should manufacturers of lithium batteries and consumer product manufacturers using pre-installed lithium batteries in products such as watches, smartphones, tablets, laptops, cars, and various other devices and equipment know about the transportation of lithium batteries? Understanding the dos and don’ts when shipping lithium batteries is important to adhere to the regulatory requirements while safeguarding the shipment, people, and environment from fire and explosion hazards. Thus, manufacturers of lithium batteries and those using lithium batteries as a component of their products must first identify the type and size of the lithium battery being transported, the categorization of lithium batteries, how the lithium battery will be transported, and the mode of transportation to be used. Let’s check these points individually to gain a better understanding of the lithium battery transportation regulations which will guide on the dos and don’ts when shipping lithium batteries. #1 Understand the type of lithium battery being shipped Manufacturers of lithium batteries and producers of other goods utilizing lithium batteries as their power source must first identify the type of lithium battery – “lithium ion battery” or “lithium metal battery”.  What Is the Difference Between Lithium-ion and Lithium Metal Batteries? Lithium metal batteries contain metallic lithium and are primarily non-rechargeable. They have lithium metal or lithium compounds as an anode. Included in this group are lithium alloy batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable, and lithium is only present in the electrolyte in the ionic form. Included in the lithium-ion category are lithium polymer batteries. Lithium batteries are sometimes abbreviated as Li-ion batteries. (IATA, 2021) These two types of batteries are governed by different shipping regulations and hence, identifying the type of lithium battery being shipped will enable the appropriate regulations to be followed. Lithium Ion Batteries Lithium Metal Batteries #2 Know the size of the lithium battery The lithium battery size also impacts the dos and don’ts of shipping lithium batteries. The DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) specify the labeling and marking requirements for not only the different types of lithium batteries but also for the different sizes. Furthermore, the size of the lithium battery can also impact the decision on the method of transportation – highway, rail, aircraft, or vessel.  Lithium battery size is measured in Watt Hour (Wh) for lithium ion batteries and kilograms (kg) for lithium metal batteries. This leads us to point #3, which considers the transportation of lithium batteries in terms of energy density and the classification as applied by the DOT HMR. #3 Know the lithium battery classification The regulations classify lithium batteries based on their size as ‘Fully Regulated’ or ‘Excepted’. Lithium Batteries of a higher energy density would fall within the fully-regulated category and be subject to stricter regulations while lower energy density lithium batteries may gain excepted status and have lesser rules to comply with during transportation. The categorization status of lithium batteries also impacts the mode of transportation that can be used in the transfer of goods from one destination to another. Fully regulated lithium ion/metal cells or batteries for the purposes of DOT regulations include: Lithium ion cell or battery Lithium metal cell or battery ·        A cell with a Watt-hour rating greater than 20 Wh; and ·        A battery with a Watt-hour rating greater than 100 Wh. ·        A cell with a lithium content greater than 1g; and ·        A battery with a lithium content greater than 2g. Here’s a good example of the regulatory requirements changing according to the categorization of lithium batteries for air shipments of stand-alone lithium cells and batteries. As of January 1, 2022, according to IATA Packing Instructions 965 (lithium ion batteries) and 968 (lithium metal batteries), all shipments of stand-alone lithium cells and batteries will be considered fully regulated and will no longer be subject to Section II provisions for excepted lithium cells and batteries. Stand-alone lithium cells and batteries can now be shipped under Section IA and IB of PI 965 and 968. #4 How will the lithium battery or batteries be shipped Another important aspect of shipping lithium batteries is to identify how the lithium battery will be shipped. For instance, will the lithium battery be shipped separately (stand-alone), with the machine or equipment (meaning in the same outer packaging as the equipment), or inside the device? The way that the lithium batteries are going to be packed, labeled, marked, and the mode of transportation that can be used is dependent on how the lithium ion or metal batteries are going to be shipped. Stand-Alone Lithium Batteries Lithium Battery with Equipment Lithium Battery Inside the Device Important Note for air shipments of stand-alone lithium cells and batteries: As of January 1, 2022, according to IATA Packing Instructions 965 (lithium ion batteries) and 968 (lithium metal batteries), all shipments of stand-alone lithium cells and batteries will be considered fully regulated and will no longer be subject to Section II provisions for excepted lithium cells and batteries. Stand-alone lithium cells and batteries can now be shipped under Section IA and IB of PI 965 and 968. #5 Mode of Transportation – Highway, Rail, Air, or Vessel The mode of transportation also plays an important aspect in the dos and don’ts of shipping lithium batteries due it their capacity to explode and the other unique hazards associated with lithium battery transportation. Thus, depending on the mode of transporting lithium batteries; either by air, water, or ground, will impact the regulations that must be followed by manufacturers. It is worth noting that due to the size and categorization of the lithium battery, some manufacturers may face limited options for the transportation of lithium batteries. For example, Lithium-ion cells that exceed 20 Wh but do not exceed 60 Wh are forbidden for transport aboard aircraft and vessels. Thus, the only mode of transportation available are highway and rail. Training for Shipping Lithium Ion/Lithium Metal Cells or Batteries To fully understand the regulatory requirements of shipping lithium cells and batteries, we have several shipping lithium battery training courses that comply with the DOT HMR. For comprehensive training, enroll in our online DOt, IATA, IMDG Shipping Lithium Batteries - Advances General Awareness Training course. To know more about our group virtual or in-person training options as well as our SCORM package for the Shipping Lithium Batteries courses, call us or email us and we will get back to you within 24-hours! Reference: IATA. (2021, August 13). What to know about how to ship lithium batteries? Website. https://www.iata.org/en/publications/newsletters/iata-knowledge-hub/what-to-know-about-how-to-ship-lithium-batteries/

The Importance of Packaging and Labeling for Storing Hazardous MaterialsFor businesses in many industries, handling and working with hazardous materials and other dangerous substances will be an essential and unavoidable part of their day-to-day activities and operations. For some companies, this might mean the occasional use of cleaning chemicals; for others, it will mean handling dangerous industrial chemicals, acids, pesticides, or biological agents daily.As such, every organization has a responsibility to manage any risks that their employees may encounter as a result of utilizing these hazardous substances, and one of the most important ways of doing this is making sure that the correct packaging and labeling are used consistently. This is a crucial element of safe chemical handling and storage, and makes a big difference in keeping everyone safe at the worksite.Here, we will look at the factors involved in proper packaging required for the transportation and storage of hazardous substances, and the key information that good safety labeling should include to offer the best possible protection for your workers.Best practices for labeling hazardous substancesProper labeling of hazardous substances means providing everyone on-site with all of the information they will need to ensure they are always using the chemicals safely and appropriately, in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines, while informing them of any potential risks associated.Sometimes, this will be in the form of precautionary statements, which can be put on hazardous substance packaging, that tell the user what they need to do to prevent or minimize adverse effects. Chemicals may need to be labeled according to the following safety requirements:Keeping chemicals from mixing if this would create a dangerous reaction.Washing the skin thoroughly after handling.Using personal protective equipment when in contact with the chemical, including safety gloves, goggles, or respiratory protection.Keeping the product at the right temperature, or protected from sunlight or contact with air where necessary.Keeping chemicals away from ignitable materials.It is required to provide these precautionary statements where required, alongside clear instructions on how the product can be safely and correctly used, stored, and disposed of, including what to do in the event of an accidental or uncontrolled spill. In most cases, hazardous chemical products that are commercially sold will include all this information on their labeling, so care must be taken to ensure this vital information is not obscured or removed.Labels for hazardous materials will also usually contain warning pictograms, a simple and universally understandable icon-based warning system (such as the Globally Harmonized System of the Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, GHS) that allows everyone to see the potential dangers associated with a product at a glance. These pictogram warnings could include the following:⦁  Explosive (symbol: exploding bomb)⦁  Flammable (symbol: flame)⦁  Oxidizing (symbol: flame over a circle)⦁  Corrosive (symbol: test tubes causing corrosion)⦁  Health hazard (symbol: silhouette of man)⦁  Harmful to human health and the environment (symbol: exclamation mark)⦁  Acutely toxic (symbol: skull and crossbones)⦁  Gas under pressure (symbol: gas cylinder)⦁  Environmental hazard (symbol: tree and river with environmental damage) Workplaces can further improve compliance with the chemical handling guidelines by putting up safety signs and notices in the area where the dangerous substances are stored, to ensure that the information is conveyed as clearly as possible. Additionally, everyone on-site needs to receive safety training on the risks associated with these chemicals, and how to use them responsibly.What is needed from hazardous substance packaging?Unless specified otherwise, most hazardous substances can be stored safely in the packaging they are sold in, as these packaging materials will be designed specially to contain the chemical. However, if a hazardous substance needs to be transferred to another storage receptacle, it is the organization’s responsibility to make sure the packaging used is suitable for the task and meets the packaging requirements as specified by OSHA.  Enroll in our OSHA Hazard Communication with GHS Training Course to learn more Any packaging used for hazardous substances must meet the following requirements:It must be secure, easy to close/seal, and prevent any escape of the substance.It must be sturdy and robust enough to withstand regular handling, including frequent reuse and reopening, without risk of degradation.It must not be adversely affected by the hazardous substance itself.It must be clearly labeled to show the contents and offer clear information on the potential hazards associated with the substance.Where specified by regulations, the hazardous substance must be packaged in UN-graded receptacles and packaging materials.With the proper packaging, hazardous substances can be safely kept on your premises for as long as they are needed while keeping the potential health risks associated with their use to a bare minimum.The importance of getting labeling and packaging rightWorkplace health and safety legislation and labor protection laws such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) dictate that any chemical hazards and toxic substances used in the workplace must have appropriate labels and safety data sheets for the workers who use them safely. Employees must also be trained to handle the chemicals appropriately, including guidance on the specific hazards in their work area and the measures to be used to protect themselves.Packaging and labeling are also important when storing hazardous materials and toxic chemicals in the course of transporting these dangerous cargoes via highway, rail, air, or vessel. The United States Department of Transportation (DOT)’s Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) specifies general and specific labeling and requirements that must be adhered to. Enroll in our DOT Hazmat Function Specific Training: Labeling Course to learn more Enroll in our DOT Hazmat Function Specific Training: Packaging Course to learn moreFailing to get this right will increase the risk of accidents occurring, or an employee’s health being damaged by exposure to dangerous chemicals. This will have a serious impact on your entire team, and leave your organization liable for legal and/or regulatory repercussions.As such, it is essential for companies to pay close attention to the use of correct packaging and labeling when storing hazardous substances, in order to ensure they meet the consistently high standards of workplace safety that workers, consumers, and lawmakers expect of them.The article was written by: Kevin Rowe, Managing Director of SafetyBuyer.com  

Where Would Workers Encounter Hazardous Atmospheres? Definition of Hazardous Atmosphere Let us begin by first understanding what a hazardous atmosphere is. A hazardous atmosphere refers to dusts, gases, vapors, fumes, and mists that may contaminate the air around us causing people to breathe in toxins or bad air resulting in poisoning the human body. Areas with low oxygen levels are also considered hazardous atmospheres as they can lead to worker injury or death. In its Confined Spaces Standard for the construction industry, OSHA defines a hazardous atmosphere as, “an atmosphere that may expose employees to the risk of death, incapacitation, impairment of the ability to self-rescue (that is, escape unaided from a permit space), injury,” due to the presence of flammable gas, airborne combustible dust, low or high levels of oxygen in the atmosphere, or other concentrations of poisonous substances or toxic chemicals over the permissible exposure limits (PELs), or any other atmospheric condition that is immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH). For a detailed definition, see 29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA, Section 1926.1202 - Definitions. Such hazardous atmospheres can pose a danger to workers’ health and life. Hazardous atmospheres, if not identified at the outset, can result in worker injury, illness, incapacitation, inability to self-rescue; or incidents such as explosion and fire. Remember! Flammable substances, a low or high oxygen atmosphere, and toxins are the most common causes of atmospheric hazards. Causes of Atmospheric Hazards A hazardous atmosphere can be triggered by the release of excessive toxins or poisons into the atmosphere contaminating the air. Low or depleting oxygen levels, as well as excessive oxygen in the air, can also result in hazardous atmospheres. Toxic chemicals, hazardous wastes, or other poison-emitting substances that produce toxic gases, fumes, and vapors (e.g., hydrogen sulfide) result in air contamination causing personnel to inhale toxic compounds while at the worksite and exposing workers to health hazards. Furthermore, hazardous atmospheres may also occur due to natural reasons such as toxic fumes and combustible dusts released from volcanoes, areas widespread with hot springs emitting high levels of mercury, areas with various hazardous substances that can lead to the creation of sulfuric acid, or areas with natural deposits or high concentrations of dangerous chemical substances such as asbestos, silica, arsenic, and pyrite. What is an oxygen-deficient atmosphere? A work area or other space that has less than 19.5% oxygen in the atmosphere. What is an oxygen-enriched atmosphere? A work area or other space with an atmosphere containing over 23.5% oxygen by volume.   Where Would Workers Encounter Hazardous Atmospheres? May jobs and occupations can expose workers to hazardous atmospheres. Let’s discuss some of these in more detail. When Working in Confined Spaces Hazardous atmospheres are most prevalent in confined spaces. The nature of confined spaces as identified by OSHA is one of the most dangerous areas where workers would be exposed to hazardous atmospheres. The four hazardous atmospheres encountered by workers carrying out job tasks in confined spaces are: Flammable Atmosphere Toxic Atmosphere Oxygen-Deficient or Oxygen-Enriched Atmosphere Airborne Combustible Dust Particles in the Atmosphere For detailed information on the atmospheric hazards and other hazards encountered by workers in confined spaces read our blog on Inherent Dangers of Working in a Confined Space. Enroll in our OSHA Confined Space Awareness Training course to learn more. Hazardous Waste Operations Employees involved in hazardous waste operations are also exposed to atmospheric hazards. Hazardous waste can generate toxic gases and vapors exposing workers to acute or chronic health effects. As such workers employed in routine hazardous waste operations in emergencies involving hazardous substance spills must understand the inherent dangers such hazardous substance spillages can cause to the atmosphere. It is also the reason why OSHA advocates for respiratory protection when workers handle hazardous materials and work in hazardous waste operations. Some of the hazardous atmospheres that workers may encounter are: Oxygen-deficient atmosphere Toxic gas releases contaminating clean air Combustible atmosphere Flammable atmosphere Enroll in our OSHA 40 Hour HAZWOPER Training course to learn more. Working in Excavations and Trenches Excavation sites and trenching operations can often expose workers to hazardous atmospheres. As excavations and trenches are areas that are dug deep into the earth, workers may be exposed to toxic atmospheres due to the naturally occurring pockets of poisonous gases or other toxic chemicals or deposits of hazardous substances within the rock formations. These atmospheric hazards can lead to adverse respiratory illnesses and even cause workers to suffer from asphyxiation. Personnel working in excavation sites and trenches may encounter some of these hazardous atmospheres: Oxygen-deficient atmosphere Toxic atmospheres Flammable atmosphere Atmospheres with airborne combustible dusts Enroll in our OSHA Competent Person for Excavation, Trenching, and Shoring Training course to learn more. When Handling Chemicals or Other Hazardous Materials Today, many industries and manufacturing operations use chemical compounds and other hazardous materials as part of their production processes. Workers employed by the oil and gas industry, chemical industry, construction industry, laboratories, manufacturers of various goods, and even testing facilities can be exposed to atmospheric hazards due to leaks or unexpected releases and mixing of toxic chemicals or other hazardous materials. For example, construction industry workers may inadvertently be exposed to asbestos and lead without their knowledge. Thus, it is imperative that whatever the organization, the work, or the job role, employees must be made aware of existing workplace hazards, especially those related to atmospheric hazards, as contaminated air may not be containable in one area and rapidly spread the toxins within enclosed places such as buildings. Working with chemicals or other hazardous materials, enroll in a safety training course that best fits your occupation and work tasks. Minimizing Atmospheric Hazards Hazardous atmospheres can often be overlooked, and the dangers of atmospheric hazards are recognized only when it is too late. Thus, for the different occupational areas where workers can encounter atmospheric hazards or hazardous atmospheres, OSHA has incorporated recommended practices within the relevant OSHA regulations and standards. Employers can ensure employees are aware of such atmospheric hazards and the implication for their health and safety by enrolling them in adequate and suitable training courses. This will enable workers to practice recommended methods to increase personal safety and health while at the worksite while reducing accidents and injury rates occurring in the organization.Here are a few measures that OSHA recommends employers implement to reduce atmospheric hazards: Incorporating atmospheric testing within the overall workplace safety and health program. Inspecting excavation sites and trenches before work begins. Regularly testing and monitoring work areas that are prone to atmospheric hazards. Testing atmospheres before workers enter confined spaces. Making gas meters available to workers while at the job site for regular air monitoring. Job hazard analysis at HAZWOPER sites. Respiratory protection. Appropriate ventilation systems for confined/enclosed spaces. Specific control measures such as purging and inerting to minimize or remove toxic atmospheres from confined spaces.