Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common occupational hazard for American workers, and yet many of us are not very concerned about the effect noise can have on our hearing. We assume that we will only lose our hearing if we are exposed to extremely loud noises over a long period...

In today’s healthcare reality, there is improved sanitation and public health, greater access to preventative care and vaccinations, and increased life expectancy for patients. New technology and more intensive care units also mean that healthcare facilities are able to treat...

We all look forward to enjoying newly improved facilities after construction and renovation. But before the work can begin, we must consider how it will affect building occupants, especially when it comes to their health and safety. One of the biggest risks construction and...

Lockout/Tagout. Sounds like a game, right? But it’s really serious business. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures ensure that employees who are servicing or maintaining machines and equipment are not harmed by the unexpected release of hazardous energy.  Injuries can be serious or fatal...

During hospital construction/renovation and maintenance work, the presence of dust, mold and bacteria can create serious problems. Since many people visit and spend time in hospitals every day (whether it be for a surgery, illness or to visit a patient), any construction or...

Frequent discussions regarding the applicability of the EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair & Painting (RRP) Rule, of April, 2010, are centered around defining a “Child Occupied Facility”. Such a designation triggers compliance requirements for building owners, managers and...

When guards or devices cannot be used, there are some other methods that are effective for keeping the employee safe. Some other methods such as: safe opening, safe holding, and safe position of controls are methods of safeguarding that can be used for machines that create unique...

Every healthcare facility faces risks associated with dissemination of fungal, bacterial, viral and chemical contaminants on a daily basis. While daily operations present many risks; the potential risks escalate during maintenance, renovation and construction projects. According to...

The medical surveillance provisions are part of the lead standard’s comprehensive approach to prevent lead-related disease. The lead standards goal is to supplement the primary agents of disease prevention, the reduction or elimination of airborne concentrations of lead and sources...

The purpose of machine guarding is to protect the machine operator and employees in the work area.  Machine guards prevent hazards created by rotating parts, sparks, in-going nip points and flying chips.  Some examples of this are barrier guards, two-hand operating devices and light...