Toxic exposure in the health care field
Oklahoma workers in the medical field have the right to have their health protected as they care for the health of others. Although the dangers to medical workers from blood borne pathogens are common knowledge, it may be less known that a health care workplace contains any number of dangerous and toxic substances. If they […]
Staying safe at work in the winter
The winter months tend to present a unique set of challenges to employers and employees in Oklahoma. Cold temperatures, slippery conditions and an increase in customer traffic may increase the risk of injury to workers. However, there are no excuses for allowing a worker to suffer an injury on the job regardless of how cold […]
Dangers for microwave popcorn, flavorings plant workers
Some Oklahoma workers in plants that make microwave popcorn or flavorings may be vulnerable to a type of lung disease known as obliterative bronchiolitis. This disease causes scarring of small airways in the lungs. Shortness of breath during exertion and a cough without phlegm are symptoms of the disease, but in some cases, a mild […]
Employers need to protect workers during holiday sales
Black Friday is the traditional kickoff to the holiday shopping season, and retailers in Oklahoma and across the country likely had strategies to protect their employees from the big crowds that will be flowing in and out of their stores. To help businesses keep their workers safe, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration offers […]
Deadly construction fall reveals safety hazards
Plastering jobs in Oklahoma can be dangerous due to the altitudes at which employees often work. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides safety standards to govern the management of such projects. An Arizona-based contractor is facing more than $400,000 in fines in connection with 12 violations for which it was cited by OSHA on […]
Work-related hand damage from vibrating tools
Although Oklahoma construction workers may use gloves to keep their hands warm during the winter, they may not realize that there are more risks than just a loss of comfort when their gloves are off. One of the most common neuromuscular disorders for construction workers is also believed to be very costly and significantly underappreciated. […]
Construction noise risks
While many professions in Oklahoma can involve significant exposure to loud noises, one of the most serious and complicated settings is the construction site. Construction workers who operate loud equipment might be able to use earplugs or muffs to protect themselves from permanent damage. However, some situations can be more dangerous when such equipment is […]
Oklahoma health care workers and OSHA guidelines
Oklahoma health care workers and their employers should be aware of a recent OSHA initiative that focuses on improving working conditions in inpatient care facilities. It applies to nursing homes, psychiatric care facilities, substance abuse clinics and any other institution that admits patients for residential or inpatient care. These changes were introduced in a Guidance […]
The dangers of combustible dust explosions
According to the U.S. Chemical Safety Board, there were 281 combustible dust explosions in workplaces around the country between 1980 and 2005. These accidents killed 119 workers and injured 718. In order to reduce the number of such incidents in Oklahoma and across the United States, the National Fire Protection Association has released a new […]
Workplace safety lockout programs
Maintaining lockout programs is an essential part of creating a safe workplace in Oklahoma. Employers with effective lockout programs can prevent a lot of accidents that take place when machinery is mistakenly left on before cleaning or maintenance. However, there are many workplaces where lockout programs do not prevent injuries like they are supposed to. […]