More than 700 fatalities occur in work zones in the United States each year. Whether traveling for the upcoming holidays or commuting to and from work, we must be particularly cautious while driving through work zones. According to the U. S. Department of Transportation, the top causes of work zone accidents are: Following other vehicles…
Individually and collectively, our ability to recognize and appropriately respond to change plays a critical role in personal and workplace safety. The end of daylight savings time is an example of a change we face this week. Shorter days with less sunlight and potential fatigue can create hazards. Driving Conditions Driving at night is more…
Daylight saving time will end at 2 a.m. on November 2. While we may enjoy the extra hour of sleep, the time change can present challenges. Research indicates that fewer daylight hours can lead to an increase in traffic accidents. It is also believed to be associated with mental health issues such as seasonal affective…
A pinch point occurs when two objects come together to create an area where a body part, most commonly fingers or hands, can be caught, crushed, or pinched. Pinch points can cause minor bruises and cuts to severe crushing injuries, broken bones, amputations, permanent nerve damage, and life-threatening injuries. Common pinch points include: Gates, doors,…
The most common type of injuries at UCOR this year are associated with hands. With 11 hand injuries so far, these injuries have more than doubled from the previous year. Two of these events resulted in lacerations that required medical attention beyond first aid. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, an estimated 1…
Distractions that divert attention from a task compromise safety by impairing attention, reaction times, and decision-making. Statistics suggest that being distracted makes us nearly 50% more susceptible to accidents. Distractions can make us not pay attention and fail to see hazards, which can lead to injury. Every day, our brains juggle countless tasks while navigating…
Nationwide, approximately 25 million students start and end their day with a trip on a school bus. Because school buses are designed for safety, with flashing lights, giant mirrors, stop-sign arms, and that bright yellow color, students are far more likely to get to school safely on a school bus than traveling by car. The…
Take Cover. A Take Cover protective action (Y-12 uses “Shelter for Severe Weather”) is issued when a tornado or other threat has the potential to cause physical harm. When you hear a take cover announcement, move to the nearest take cover location in a strong, sturdy part of a building on the lowest level. Ideally,…
Energy remaining in machines and equipment after shutdown can expose workers to risk during maintenance or servicing. If not properly controlled, this energy can lead to serious injuries or fatalities (SIFs). Before starting work, consider potential sources of stored energy that may include: Mechanical – objects under tension or compression (springs/bungees) Hydraulic – pressurized liquids…
Distractions make it easy to miss important details and potential hazards that can negatively impact safety. As our focus decreases, the chances of being injured increases. Have you tripped over or struck against something you did not see? Have you been startled by someone you didn’t know was in your area? Have you ever driven…
