Hazard Alert for Fall Protection

A new hazard alert from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries is intended for employers and workers who use personal fall arrest systems positioned near exposed edges.

Issued in response to separate fatalities involving workers whose fall protection lifelines were cut by exposed edges, the alert states that “any open side or edge of a floor, roof, deck, platform, or formwork creates a condition in which a lifeline could contact an edge and be severed in the event of a fall.”  Learn more.

Falls from Roof (Safety in 60) Video

In a far-too-common situation, a worker recently slipped and fell 20 feet from a roof while delivering materials to the foreman. Watch the video.

Winter Weather is Here—Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention

Winter creates the perfect conditions for slips, trips and falls. So, to help avoid injury when walking on wet or slick surfaces, below are some simple tips. Read the full story.

• Wear boots or other slip-resistant footwear (bring your work shoes to change into once safely indoors).
• Take the safest route to your destination and make the time for it. Try to avoid slippery surfaces, don’t rush and use handrails along the way, if possible.
• Don’t text or surf the web while walking—it’s distracting.
• Walk deliberately. Bending your knees and taking slow, short steps, increases traction and lowers the odds of falling.
• If you have to walk on slippery surfaces, also remember to keep your center of balance under you.
• Look out for “black ice.” Dew, fog or water vapor can freeze on cold surfaces and form an extra-thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that can look like a wet spot on the pavement. It often shows up early in the morning, or in areas that are shaded from the sun.
• Use caution when getting in and out of vehicles and use the vehicle for support.
• When entering a building, remove as much water (or snow) from your boots as you can, and watch for wet and slippery floors.
• Keep hands empty so arms are free to move for stabilization. If you must carry items, use backpacks if possible.
• When walking on steps, always use the hand railings and plant your feet firmly on each step.

Safe Winter Driving

Winter driving can be hazardous and scary, especially in areas of the country with snow and ice. Additional preparations can help make a trip safer, or help motorists deal with an emergency. OSHA provides a safety information sheet to help prevent motor vehicle injuries due to winter storms. Download the Safe Winter Driving PDF from OSHA.

OSHA 300 Electronic Reporting Rules

The DOSH proposed changes to chapter 296-27 WAC: Recording and Reporting Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, adopts the same or similar language under federal revisions to OSHA Title 29 CFR Part 1904. The proposed changes to DOSH’s rule are required in order to be at least as effective as OSHA. Learn more.

OSHA 300 e-Reporting Webinars

Employer Resources Northwest is holding several webinar sessions on OSHA 300 Record Keeping, covering both the “Nuts and Bolts” of record keeping, and “Electronic Reporting.”  you have questions about OSHA 300 record keeping or are new to record keeping requirements, this would be a great opportunity to learn. Go to ERNwest.com/training to choose the session that best fits your needs.

GRIP Safety

Access Toolbox Tips and general safety resources. Learn more.

GRIP Safety Survey

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