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Worksite NEWSVOLUME 23 NUMBER 6 June 2015 Canada’s premier occupational health, safety and environment E-Magazine
The prediction that Canada's mining industry is entering a period of growth is putting company HR reps in recruitment mode- with emphases on talent, diversity and reputation.Globally it's estimated that over the next decade, at least one third of the current mining workforce will retire. This is particularly important in Canada, where mining represents 4.5 per cent of the GDP—and 23 per cent of Canadian exports.New challenges require new strategiesHistorically, the industry has relied on high wages to attract talent. However, as mining companies look into the future, it's clear that they need to find new strategies to engage and appeal to a broader set of prospective employees. In addition to the milllennial challenge, diverse groups such as women, immigrants, and Aboriginal Peoples, remain under-represented in the industry. Women represent only 16 per cent of Canadian mining, falling short of other natural resources sectors such as manufacturing, energy, oil and gas, utilities, and forestry.From our perspective, there are five ways mining companies can close the talent gap: Build reputation from the inside out: An organization's reputation is essential to attracting and retaining a new generation of employee talent. Reputation starts with current employees. With Gallup noting that employee engagement is at record lows (13 per cent globally), organizations should consider how their brand can be an accelerator, a filter to guide innovation and creativity, and a vehicle that inspires discretionary effort as a means to higher productivity, safety, and performance. Tell your story proactively—not reactively: Whether mining companies value it or not, reputation matters. With demographic shifts, millennials entering the workforce, and the game-changing impact of technology, the industry needs to do a much better job telling its story transparently and doing so through non-traditional methods, like social media. While many companies engage public relations firms during a crisis, the real opportunity is for mining companies to go on the offensive. Mining companies have the opportunity to intentionally create, shape, develop, and manage their brand proactively, rather than let happen by accident. Focus on millennials: In their careers, members of the millennial generation expect rapid progression and exposure to different facets of an organization to remain stimulated and engaged.Attracting and retaining millennials requires a different strategy, as they also place more emphasis on authenticity.
Mining forManpowerMINE SAFETY
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The Lost GenerationBy Ethan Smith Graying of the workforce. The Great Crew Change. Ever since the US shale boom started more than five years ago, the single greatest challenge in the upstream industry was a lack of skilled labor, and the forthcoming retirement of a large percentage of geophysicists and petroleum engineers. The solution? Create a bubble of college graduates that will struggle to find openings in their field of choice. In response to perceived insatiable demand for oil & gas positions, petroleum engineering enrollment at universities has skyrocketed. Texas Tech increased enrollment 134% over past 10 years. Texas A&M increased enrollment 137% over the same period of time. And University of Oklahoma has quadrupled its enrollment over the past decade. By paying colleague graduates with petroleum engineering degrees more than any other major, market forces have driven students towards oil & gas fields in an extraordinary fashion. While this should help develop a deep bench for producers and oilfield services companies, the timing is unfortunate. US layoffs in Oil & Gas recently exceeded 100,000. ExxonMobil acknowledged they would slow hiring in order to avoid future layoffs. What does this mean to the pool of engineers attending their commencements this month? For
those fortunate to line up a job in the industry, they join at a most uncertain time. For the rest? Perhaps they return to school for another year or two. Or they could apply their STEM skills in other high tech fields. The automotive industry is going through a resurgence. The integration of sensors, software, and data analytics has created a large demand in advanced manufacturing. Silicon Valley will be calling. The very reason for the barbell effect in the upstream industry (large concentration of engineers approaching retirement and also entering the workforce) was muted E&P activity between the 1983 oil bust and the shale boom starting in 2010. The meet the demands of the shale oil revolution, the upstream industry paid petroleum engineers up to 50% higher than other science and engineering degrees. If this pattern tapers off due to depressed crude prices, this generation of talent may be lost to the upstream industry forever. Engineering students approaching graduation are part of the Millennial generation. Millennials are the largest age group ever in the US (even outpacing Baby Boomers) making up 27% of the population. They prefer to live in cities. They place a greater focus on corporate social responsibility. Benefit packages, rather than the highest salary, are keys to them staying with an employer. Does this sound like a positive trend for the oil & gas industry? 100,000 pink slips say otherwise.Ethan Smith, Vice President, Oil & Gas at Frost & Sullivan, Houston, Texas
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MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
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MINE SAFETY www.worksitenews.com
By Peter Kavanagh
Mining companies in Canada have invested millions of dollars in developing safety management systems to support personal safety, process safety and literally transform workplace culture. Hazard and identification risk assessment (HIRA) is a core process. A strong, verifiable and audited management system supporting health and safety is an absolute must, both morally and from a regulatory standpoint.And this investment has paid off. We are arguably one of the safest mining jurisdictions in the world. In Ontario, according to the Ontario Mining Association (OMA) there has been a 96% improvement in lost time injury frequency over the last 30 years. Other mining provinces can boast similar statistics. But despite the regulatory framework, the culture and the safety management systems, accidents and disasters happen. The eight fatalities on Canadian mine sites in 2014 and the Mount Polley tailings breach in B.C. brings this point home very clearly.That's why health and safety programs have to include response as well as prevention.All Canadian mining companies have emergency response procedures. Most have wider emergency response plans and crisis management plans – the Mining Association of Canada (MAC) Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) program requires a crisis management plan in place and exercised. But yet, a common complaint within health and safety business areas is that emergency management is not exercised enough and that this component in the health and safety management program is not given the same priority as prevention.Management teams are extremely busy leading safe production. It is a real challenge coordinating all team members to be in the same place at the same time and focus on yet another activity that is not directly linked to their core roles.But there are several reasons why management teams should take the time to exercise emergency and crisis response plans.Emergencies and crisis can escalate rapidly and the need for immediate decision and rapid development of action plans is greatest at the time when information management and situational awareness is most challenging. In other words, having to make decisions that could impact safety of people, environment and assets without having all the information needed to do it. This is not skill that comes through day-to-day leadership experience. Emergency events are tense and emotions are heightened. Exposure to the challenges of developing situational awareness and triaging numerous critical decisions in a short period of time is difficult. Familiarization with plan, process and procedure goes a long way to preparing for a response role but this familiarization doesn't come from just reading the plan and then putting it on the shelf. It can only come from using it. Training saves lives. If an event occurs that threatens safety, the people that need to identify strategies to stabilize a situation will be more efficient if they've trained to the event – or similar event – than a team who has little training in problem solving and high stakes decision making. Emergency exercises often reveal vulnerabilities and exposures not picked up in risk assessments. That supports more effective prevention and mitigation. Procedural deficiencies in response plans are also detected and the procedures themselves validated. You cannot get this without exercising the plan.Any analysis of companies that have suffered emergency and crisis clearly shows that those with management teams who were trained and exercised were more competent, took care of their people more efficiently and led their organizations to recovery more rapidly than those companies who had teams that had not exercised. Research by Oxford University also shows that companies who respond to emergencies and crisis effectively are more likely to actually increase market value over the long term, while companies that don't, lose value. Of course, this kind of evidence makes the argument that supporting the response side of a health and safety management system is the smart thing to do. Not just the right thing to do.WSN
Health and safety are aboutprevention and response
Canadian mining operations on foreign soil are always a high risk situations. No one denies. But it has become a high stakes game involving the workers as primary pawns. During the first four months of this year alone, kidnaping incidents have touched Torex Gold Resources in Mexico's Guerrero state, and Pan African Minerals' Tambao manganese mine in Burkina Faso. The headlines have been alarming for miners and investors, especially since many kidnaping go unreported. “For every incident that you see in the press, there are numerous that never make it to the light of day,” global product manager for kidnap and ransom and crime insurance at Chubb Insurance Group Christopher Arehart says. Mining companies are uniquely exposed to kidnaping risks because they often operate in remote areas in countries with low political stability, and attract attention by bringing in big equipment and hiring locals. The risks vary from country to country, and even from region to region within countries. But kidnaping are much more common in countries with low political stability, where law enforcement is corrupt, inept, ill-trained or underfunded, and where the judicial system may also be corrupt, and laws not as stringent. Not surprisingly, Mexico is a hot spot for kidnaping activity — Chubb estimates there are at least 10,000 kidnaping each year, while the Mexican government says there are up to 100,000 “express kidnaping,” where people are taken to ATMs to empty out their bank accounts. Wes Odom, executive vice-president of operations for the Ackerman Group, a security firm that handles kidnap and extortion cases for Chubb clients, says that while there are dozens of Canadian companies with mines and projects in Mexico, which he calls “the kidnap capital of the world,” expats are rarely targeted. In Goldcorp's case, four employees were kidnaped off-site as they were travelling home (the transportation was not supplied by the company) after a shift. In Torex Gold's case, an employee and three contractors were taken as part of a group of 13 people from a local community. “We're not sure totally as to why they shy away from Americans and Canadians, but we think part of the reason is because of our law enforcement communities, whether it's the FBI or the RCMP,” Odom says. “The Mexican kidnap gangs, which are often colluding with the police down there, they know that if you kidnap an American or Canadian, you're going to bring in really high-level law enforcement on top of you, and they don't want any part of that.” The Ackerman Group responds to 10 to 12 kidnaping incidents a year for Chubb clients across various industries. Chubb's Arehart adds that kidnappers often operate as a business of sorts, in low-risk, high-reward environments. “They're really looking for money,” Arehart says. “So they operate in places where they're not going to get caught and where they can actually get ransom or extortion money paid to them.” In fact, Odom confirms that ransoms are almost always paid out in kidnap for ransom cases, and kidnappers are rarely caught. Even so, the ransoms being paid out to kidnappers in Mexico have declined dramatically in recent years, as more middle class and lower middle victims have been targeted. “A lot of the kidnaping now in Mexico is being done by criminal gangs who are offshoots from the big drug cartels,” Odom says. “So it's more often penny-ante criminal gangs and the victims are much lower level, and the ransoms could range anywhere from $15,000 up to maybe $100,000 — which would probably be a very large ransom these days in Mexico.” Recent incidents in Mexico have been in Guerrero state, where 37 student teachers were kidnaped from the city of Iguala last September and murdered. However, neither Torex Gold nor Goldcorp appear to have been the targets.In Torex Gold's case, 12 people were kidnaped in February in Cocula, a community near the El Limon-Guajes gold mine being built at its Morelos property. One of the victims was a Torex employee, while three others worked as company contractors. Ten of the 13 were reported freed by the Mexican army and one was released by his captors. “The violence and security risk, locally in Guerrero state and in Mexico as a whole, is underpinned by the lawlessness in certain areas due to a combination of cartel-induced criminal activity and an elevated level of corruption,” Canaccord Genuity mining analyst Joe Mazumdar said in an emailed response to questions. “This combination has reduced Mexico's desirability as a location for investors.”Mazumdar points to the kidnaping, the Iguala murders, recent mid-term election violence in Guerrero and the robbery of McEwen Mining's El Gallo mine in Sinaloa state as examples of Mexico's lawlessness.WSN
Kidnaping increases for mining
operations in volatile regions
Peter Kavanagh; Principal Consultant North America for Dynamiq
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CONSTRUCTION SAFETY
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Reduce Fall Injuries With Fall Arrest Roof AnchorsBy Brian Vancleve
One of the most critical aspects in construction or maintenance works at hazardous height is having fall protection systems that are not only efficient but at par with industry safety standards and compliant with existing state rules and regulations. It becomes significant to know that it is the employer's duty to provide these safety equipment and accessories, whether the construction is commercial, industrial, and residential works as well.
An element of fall protection systems is the roof anchor. If installed and used properly can assure safety and avert any hazardous or untoward injury that may arise in the future. There are various kinds of roof anchors like temporary, temporary concrete anchor, permanent, disposable, re-usable, and flat roof anchors, among others, that can be easily installed on roofs and similar surfaces. There are available solutions and products that can be purchased from your local hardware store. These tools for fall protection are very cost-efficient and suitable for any type of roofing material. There are various brands to choose from and can be purchased from great suppliers.It is likewise quite vital for a roof fall protection system to afford continuous hands-free attachment allowing free movement around the roof area. Picture a mountain climber without his hooks and harness. He has not only restricted himself of movement but has put his life at risk as well.This accessibility character of good and sturdy fall arrest roof anchors allow a worker or repairman to carry out all the necessary inspection and maintenance jobs like checking of gutters, chimney, installations, seaming, and other roof works. There have been many instances in the past of injuries and casualties due to hazardous construction environments. These incidents continue to rise in numbers because of the failure to provide complete and efficient fall arrest protection systems. These provisions should be the concern of the contractors during the initial stages of the construction.It is not only the construction industry that relies on fall protection systems. The oil and gas and power generation industries also depend on fall protection systems. There is indeed on-
going research by manufacturers to better improve the quality of fall protection systems. These innovations focus either on more load-absorption capacity of the system during a fall, durability, the possibility of using other materials, among others.WSN
SGS Galson Showcases Innovative Sampling Vest and Industry-Leading Programs at Safety 2015SGS Galson Laboratories, a world leader in industrial hygiene analysis and monitoring solutions, will feature its Personal Exposure VestTM (PEV) and other groundbreaking programs at the American Society of Safety Engineers' (ASSE) Safety 2015 Professional Development Conference & Exposition in Dallas, TX, June 7-10, Booth #1425. SGS Galson joined SGS, the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company, in 2014.As a Safety 2015 special, SGS Galson will offer free use of up to three of its Personal Exposure Vests in the month of June. The PEV guarantees improved sampling safety and accuracy, can be configured with a company's own equipment or paired with SGS Galson's FreePumpLoan™ and Equipment Rental programs. The vest holds up to six pumps or real-time instruments for noise, dust, gases, fumes and more. In addition to the PEV, SGS Galson will be displaying the many services and programs that have helped their clients for so many years. To allow quick access to the company's client service team, Galson recently introduced “IH Text Service” for mobile phones and tablets, as well as having “IH Live Chat” for online messaging for a number of years. SGS Galson recently unveiled a new pre-populated On-line Chain of Custody. Galson will also display its other innovative programs for hazardous exposure testing that have become industry staples, including FreePumpLoan™, IH Equipment Rental and FreeSamplingBadges™. SGS Galson Vice President of Industrial Hygiene, Joe Unangst, said, “We look forward
as always to meeting our long-standing clients at Safety 2015, as well as introducing ourselves to new prospects who will benefit from our great programs and services.“ About SGS Galson Laboratories, Inc.SGS Galson Laboratories is ISO/IEC 17025:2005 accredited by the American Industrial Hygiene Association. Headquartered in Syracuse, NY, Galson Laboratories has facilities in Charleston, SC, Irvine, CA, Houston, TX, Stevens Point, WI, Anchorage, AK and Mississauga, ON, Canada. For more information call toll-free, (888) 432-5227, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.galsonlabs.com
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CRANE SAFETY
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By Laura Hatton Training and the subsequent certification is vital in helping to improve work site safety and proper training and certification dramatically reduces the risk of having an accident on the job site. Jim Headley, Crane Institute of America president and Crane Institute Certification CEO, explains how, “Attending a good training programme ensures that operators, riggers, inspectors and other applicable personnel have at least the minimum amount of knowledge and skill required to perform their jobs safely and correctly.” Since training was first introduced in the USA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) fatality and injury rate for operators and ground personnel has dropped, Brian Hough, Crawford Custom Consulting, adds. In addition, further studies in Canada show that training dramatically lowers the number of fatalities.Graham Brent, National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) chief executive officer, says, “Studies conducted by the Province of Ontario and Cal-OSHA have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that professionally developed and internationally accredited certification works. Construction Safety Association of Ontario and the government of Ontario, Canada, have kept data over a 40 year period. Between 1969 and 1978, 85 deaths were reported. While the province of Ontario had a licensing requirement, comprehensive training was not a required component until 1979. Training was implemented in 1979 and between 1979 and 1992, 43 deaths were recorded, a 50 % reduction.” Training and certification is, however, only the first step on the ladder to becoming a competent operator. Alan Johnson, Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers (ALLMI) technical director, points out that other activities, such as product- and task-specific training in the workplace, product familiarisation, in-house periodic monitoring and periodic refresher re-training and re-assessment, must also take place. This approach to regular re-assessment and training is welcomed by many training providers and operators. When asked about the attitude towards training, Brian Hough told IC that even operators with many years of experience have said that they were surprised at just how much they can need training. Manufacturers, such as Terex, also feel strongly about the subject. A spokesperson from Terex explains, “Training has always been beneficial and impacts safety directly. We are aiming to bring the awareness of the positive impact that training can have and offer a number of training services, including theory and practical learning. The more operators and technicians understand our models, technologies, and systems, the safer they will be in all crane aspects.” Ghislaine Journay, Manitowoc Crane Care EMEA, Potain tower crane training centre manager, adds, “An adequate training course helps to improve proficiency, jobsite awareness and best practices because the crane operator learns the appropriate procedure to complete the job from start to finish with the crane. It is also important to keep experienced operators up to date with the latest technologies and provide them with the required information at least every 10 years.”National standards Levels of training and certification vary throughout the world. In the USA, OSHA enforces state and federal regulations that cover cranes, rigging, and other material handling equipment. Some cities, however, can have requirements that are even more stringent than state and federal OSHA.Varying standards are also seen in Europe, where at present there is no standardised qualification for training and qualification, and companies tailor training to suit individual country requirements. Mini crane specialist GGR Group, for example, which worked with the Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) and the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) in developing the A66 training category, offer various training courses depending on country requirements. “Our German Unic dealer, Mini & Mobile Cranes Korner, for example, currently offers two types of training to its German customers: a one day Mini Crane Operating course and a three day Mini Crane Driving Licence that includes of one day of classroom based theory and two days of practical training,” a spokesperson from GGR Group says. “Our Italian Unic dealer, Levo, is in the process of developing and launching training courses for crane operators.” The general issue is that there is not one certification to cover every crane model, tonnage, attachments, LMIs and operating systems, and as a spokesperson from Terex points out, this is an essential topic that needs to
be addressed. Brent adds, “Without a national standard for crane operator skills an employer cannot be sure of the qualifications of crane operators.” Harmonising standards around the world is a complex and time consuming task; however, associations have begun taking the first vital steps into making a national standard a reality. In Europe, for example, there have been discussions regarding the introduction of the European Crane Operators Licence.
Further developments are also happening in Italy, where from March 2015, it will be compulsory for operators to hold a valid crane licence. In addition, a new crane operator certification is being developed in France by the French health and safety institute INRS, which is due to be implemented in 2017.
SAFE SLINGING & RIGGING ONLINE TRAINING
OVERHEAD CRANE ONLINE TRAINING
RAISING THE STANDARDS FOR TRAINING
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CRANE SAFETY
By Judy Mellot Companies can easily reduce all related non-tangible costs for all of their Overhead Traveling Lifting Equipment, Rigging Hardware & Material Handling. To achieve this, companies need to train all applicable Supervisory and HSE personnel who have a responsibility for monitoring workers prior to training personnel that operate this equipment.Presently it is common Industry practice to provide this safety training to only those workers who utilize this equipment to perform their designated job tasks. In order to meet production requirements the safety training received begins is dissipate very quickly as the workers revert back to their familiar practices. A direct result of this type of safety training is an increase in all related non-tangible costs, i.e. worker injuries, WCB rate increases, downtime due to misuse and abuse of equipment, costly repairs, loss of production, fines, lawsuits, etc. Loss of production time alone can run into tens of thousands of dollars per hour, without taking in consideration the cost of parts and repairs.These costs could easily be reduced by 10% or more per location in the first year, as cranes only breakdown when they are in high production. When there is a reduction in all related non-tangible costs there will be an equal improvement with product production.The only way this can successfully be achieved is by beginning this safety training from “The Top Down”. Best practice then also dictates that unless an employer's representative is competent in the safe work practice. The best way to attain that competency is that they too attend the same training as their workers. This way the employer's representative can apply the safe work practice criteria as a part of their programmed or incidental observations. This is a proven way to ensure worker competency on the jobsite, anything less is only a compliance safety certificate. National legislated requirement States all employers and their supervisory representatives are responsible for monitoring workers at a frequency that ensures workers are working in accordance with safe work practices. To ensure worker competency, employer representatives need to monitor workers performing these safe work practices. Best practice dictates that this monitoring (observations/internal audits) be programmed or incidental and be documented. This documentation should be at frequency that satisfies external scrutiny such as regulatory authorities and corporate auditors. To be able to apply the test, employer representatives need to have a level of safe work practice competency. If the company has and ISO 9000 management system they already have a section on Training” that includes the Scope, Procedure for training and monitoring. All they need to include are the unique instructions that ACTi teaches in our “Supervisor” course.ACTi Safety Training programs and our Train-The-Trainer programs are engineer audited annually to ensure we meet all applicable compliance in Canada as well as the United States.For further information regarding ACTi'S in-house Train-The-Trainer program go to our website @ www.actisafety.ca
Reducing related non-tangible cost,provides production improvement
The Importance of
Crane Safety and the
Steps You Should TakeBy Tony Hodgison Cranes have come a long way from what they once were. No longer are they the clunky, rickety machines of the past. Technology has most of all improved their speed, strength, and capacity, over the years, at the same time making them lighter and easier to operate. Cranes have become an absolute necessity in several industries. They can make your job easier; however, cranes are more commonly the cause of on-the-job accidents than any other heavy equipment. They account for more than 20% of all deaths associated with construction jobs.The truth is, many of these fatalities are preventable. With a little more awareness, proper equipment maintenance, and less carelessness on the job, we might just see a drop in the crane-related deaths.Crane safety is a key issue in jobs requiring such equipment. Job supervisors and crane operators must be knowledgeable about everything that concerns the mechanics and functions of their assigned crane. It is highly advisable that everyone involved in the hands-on use of the crane read the manual and receive thorough instructions prior to using the machine on their own. They also need to be well aware of crane safety and its maintenance. The crane itself must be adequate for the task at hand. If your load exceeds the crane's weight limit, then you are using the crane in a dangerous manner. This equipment needs to be operated as directed by the manufacturer. Improvisation is not advised.To ensure crane safety, all overhead obstacles must be removed for adequate clearance. The crane must be set up on a solid and level surface, capable of supporting the equipment and added payload. Crane use and operation requires advanced and careful planning. All tools and equipment at the workplace should be placed in an area that is not prone to causing injuries. These tips should not be neglected nor should it be approached haphazardly.Crane operation must be closely watched, to ensure that plans and procedures are not being modified nor ignored. An unqualified person should never be allowed to operate the crane. The operator needs to have adequate training and experience to guarantee crane safety. They should be well oriented with the equipment, especially on how to read and use the instruments and charts, and should also have the math skills for calculating
the loads. The crane operator needs to have good judgment and an ability to pay attention to detail, since he is the one in charge in deciding when and how to change crane speed and loads based on conditions at the site.If all these conditions are met, the crane will always remain an important part of the job and will once again prove to be a safe and efficient piece of equipment.There are many kinds of hoists and lifts that can improve our life and make both work and play easier. Find out more about the uses of car hoists and engine hoists by visiting my site: www.hoistandlift.com
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VIOLENCE IN THE WORKPLACE
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What Every Target of Workplace
Bullying Needs to Know...Find Out What You Need To Know Today To
Effectively Deal With Workplace Bullying
Anton Houtwww.OvercomeBullying.org
If you are being bullied at work this information is for you. When I started this project I wanted to do everything I could to help raise awareness about a plague that was affecting workplaces around the world. But awareness is one thing, knowing what to do about it is another... So, I've put together an ebook (along with many other expert contributors) for targets of bullying at work who want to stop bullies from wreaking havoc with their career, ruining their health and destroying their lives. If you are dealing with workplace bullying I hope this ebook proves to be of benefit to you and it helps you avoid the unnecessary pain and suffering that so many targets of workplace bullying are made to endure.For Targets of Workplace Bullying...When you order this ebook: There is NO RISK. You are 100% protected...If you have any problems with your download just email me directly and I'll be happy to help.
Anton Hout - [email protected]
Workplace bullying can lead to
long-term employee illnesses Bullying is not just a problem in schools. It is also a threat to employees in workplaces across North America. According to a recent study by the U.S. Workplace Bullying Institute, bullies on the job can cause serious health problems in their victims. In some cases, bullied employees are temporarily or even permanently disabled because of cruel treatment at work. By learning more about the dangers of workplace bullying, workers and employers can reduce the risk of serious consequences.What is workplace bullying?Workplace bullying is a complex set of behaviors that can have a devastating effect on its targets, as any workers' comp attorney in Chicago knows. These forms of abusive conduct may include all of the following:* Threats* Intimidation* Verbal or physical abuse* Deliberate humiliation* Sabotage* Withholding of necessary resourcesMany bullies use a combination of these techniques to create fear and uncertainty in their victims. The cumulative effect of active abuse, passive mistreatment and withheld resources can cause workers to lose their health and their livelihood.Long-term illnesses caused by bullyingWhen an employee is bullied for months or years, extreme stress may lead to serious health conditions. Many bullied workers develop psychological disabilities that can cause long-term loss of employment. Other workers may develop physical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome and other circulatory or digestive disorders. A wide range of medical conditions are linked to the effects of abuse in the workplace. In some extreme cases, mistreatment on the job can be as harmful to health as domestic abuse.Post-traumatic stress disorder One of the most common conditions linked to severe workplace bullying is post-traumatic stress disorder. This syndrome is traditionally associated with veterans who experience combat stress on the battlefield. In recent decades, doctors have also recognized PTSD in civilians who live through experiences such as rape, assault, natural disasters, domestic violence and workplace abuse. PTSD may result from a single traumatic event. If the trauma is ongoing for a substantial period of time, PTSD can become especially complex and debilitating. According to the most recent statistics compiled by the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, a branch of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, more than 5 million people in America are currently living with PTSD.PTSD and workplace bullyingWhen workplace bullying escalates to the level of constant abuse, humiliation or sabotage, it can cause PTSD symptoms in workers. These symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, partial or total insomnia, exaggerated startle reactions, digestive or nervous system malfunctions, inability to discuss the traumatic events, drug abuse and alcohol abuse. In severe cases of PTSD, the patient may attempt suicide or lash out at others with violent acts.PTSD can develop gradually in bullied workersSome bullied workers may endure mistreatment on the job for months or even years before noticing symptoms of PTSD. Every workers' comp attorney in Chicago is aware that PTSD can develop gradually when an employee is forced to endure abusive conditions. In today's challenging economy, workers are often afraid to report abuse for fear of losing their job and their family's means of support. This situation can lead to years of cumulative abuse in the workplace and disabling medical consequences.Bullying and pre-existing medical conditionsIf an employee is suffering from a pre-existing medical condition, bullying can make it worse. In some cases, a previously manageable ailment may become a fully disabling illness under the stress of long-term workplace mistreatment. In these cases, the disabled worker is eligible for benefits as long as the work-related disability lasts. If the disability is permanent, Illinois workers' compensation law provides benefits for the duration of what would have been the employee's career.Public opinion on U.S. workplace bullying Bullying on the job has begun to receive more publicity as employers and employees become conscious of its risks. For the majority of Americans, bullying is no longer acceptable behavior. According to key findings of a 2014 survey carried out by the Workplace Bullying Institute, 72 percent of people are now aware of the dangers of workplace bullying. 93 percent of survey respondents are in support of legislation to make American workplaces safer for victims and potential victims of bullying on the job.Disturbing statistics from the WBI survey Unfortunately, not all of the statistics from the recent WBI bullying survey are encouraging. While more than one in four American employees currently report direct experience with abuse on the job, a full 72 percent of employers have allegedly denied, rationalized, defended or even encouraged this kind of abuse. These statistics show that bullying education still has a long way to go in America. Until employers are willing and able to cooperate with anti-bullying efforts, many employees will remain at risk. Anti-bullying initiatives are good for employers as well as workersWhen employers make the effort to implement anti-bullying initiatives, they benefit along with their workers. A healthier workplace environment can lead to fewer missed days of work, less conflict among workers and a sharp drop in employee turnover. WSN
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PSYCHOPATHS AMONG US
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TRANSPORT SAFETY
Worksite News ServiceAmtrak's Northeast Regional Train 188 was traveling at 106 mph, more than double the speed limit, when it derailed on a sharp curve in Philadelphia, killing eight and injuring more than 200. The cause of the crash is unclear and the subject of investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the federal agency responsible for investigating crashes of planes and trains. Whatever the reason, many have pointed to the deadly accident as another example of why trains should be equipped with Positive Train Control (PTC), a system that allows a train to receive information about its location, including current speed zones and signaling, as well as information about other trains and switches in the area. Equipment on the train forces adherence to speed limits and signals, preventing unsafe operation. Congressman Robert A. Brady (D-PA) said in a hearing earlier this week that if PTC had been installed and operational in Philadelphia, “there wouldn't have been this accident.” This technology has been in the works for more than half a decade. The Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, which followed the deadly crash of a passenger train with a freight train in Southern California, mandates the installation of PTC in railroads across the country by the end of 2015. Though it seems like it would be straightforward to have a train that's aware of what's going on—after all, the thing is on tracks and its routes are known well in advance—PTC is actually an incredibly complicated and expensive system. It's based on extensive electronic communication with
dispatchers, rail switches, and lights. It coordinates with other trains on the system and other rail carriers on the nation's interconnected rail networks. It requires numerous antennas and trackside units to be installed, along with special equipment in locomotives. The Association of American Railroads estimates the full rollout will cost some $9 billion, with $5.2 billion spent as of this past January. And it's long been obvious that the full rollout won't occur by the end-of-year deadline. As of January, half of the required trackside control units had been installed, along with a third of the wireless antennas and radios. Just 60 percent of locomotives are fully or partially equipped for PTC, and it doesn't look like many railroads will meet the end-of-year deadline.Once complete, PTC has the potential to be a fantastic system. It will know the status of other trains on the track, whether switches are thrown appropriately, and speed limits (whether fixed or temporary, as in a work zone). But until then, its benefits are limited at best.So why not provide a stopgap solution, a simpler set of technologies that can help prevent danger on the tracks, until PTC is fully ready? For that, the railroads can look to the auto industry, which is working toward the self-driving car. The plan from companies like Audi, Nissan, and Mercedes-Benz is not to jump right to a car that handles itself 100 percent of the time (though that is what Google wants to do). It's a stepping stone approach, gradually rolling in features that do more and more of the driving, with each addition making the roads safer by eliminating human error.
CALGARY—U.S. requirements for new braking systems on trains carrying flammable liquids would mean additional costs without any guarantee of improved safety, top executives at Canadian Pacific Railway said May 14.Adding electronically controlled pneumatic (ECP) brakes is meant to reduce the pileup effect in the event of a derailment, but railway chief operating officer Keith Creel said the notion that they must be installed is not based on “valid science.”“I just think that there's money better spent to get a better safety impact for the public,” he told shareholders at the company's annual general meeting.Creel was replying to a shareholder who raised concerns about how new rail safety rules following the fiery crash in Lac-Megantic, Que., nearly two years ago would affect the railway's bottom line. The ECP brake rule was announced earlier this month at a news conference with Canadian Transport Minister Lisa Raitt and U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. By 2021, there will be a 48 km/h speed limit in the U.S. on trains where a single car lacks new brakes. Not only may tank car manufacturers face higher costs, but railways would need to retool locomotives to run the ECP-equipped trains, Creel said. On top of that, slower train speeds may also hurt its customers' business, he added.The Foxx-Raitt announcement also set out a phase-out plan for the model of tank cars involved in the Lac-Megantic disaster.WSN
Trucks hauling cargo from Canada through the United States to Mexico and back navigate border crossings without the need for passports, visas or even a driver to steer them.It's an idea that's not too far-fetched, says a group that met in North Dakota recently. Marlo Anderson with the Central North American Trade Corridor Association says members are working to turn the idea into reality. The plan is for an autonomous vehicle corridor along Route 83, which runs north-south through Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and North Dakota. The road then continues into Manitoba.* Freightliner Inspiration self-driving truck OK'd to drive on Nevada highways* Self-driving cars: 5 ways they could change city lifeA study into the feasibility of the project is being planned and Anderson says the group wants to travel to communities along the corridor to gain support. "One of the challenges we have here in North Dakota is that we have a lot of energy production going on right now, but not enough pipelines to carry the oil from North Dakota to its destination point," he said. That means other commodities, such as grain, need to fight for space on trains. A separate corridor could relieve that pressure, he said."We're hopeful that, working with the Canadian government, the Mexican government, the United States, we can create some kind of automated way ... (to) streamline that process of border crossings."The technology, though experimental, already exists in driverless vehicles that use tools such as GPS to navigate roads, Anderson said.More efficientUnmanned vehicles are more efficient, he suggested."They don't need to worry about a driver having too many hours in a day or in a week. Those types of things go by the wayside because the vehicle doesn't care."* Autonomous cars could save Canadians $65B a year* Self-driving cars: How they could take over our roadsAnderson said he understands why the idea is unnerving for some, but noted that unmanned vehicles have the potential to remove human error from driving. "What we have to do is to educate people."One of the concerns Anderson hears most often is that a vehicle's system could be hacked and taken over. "There have to be security measures in place so that doesn't happen."
Driverless truck route south
Getting a handle on train controlPassenger train derailment sparks new safety codes New braking systems to slow railcars
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TRANSPORT SAFETY
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HEALTH & WELL-BEING
BE SMART: STAY SAFE
EMPLOYEE HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Bro, How's My Posture?By Ethan Wollmann
know this is a little overdue, but as I mentioned in one Iof my previous articles, here's part II of my cardio discussion: the functionality (it's application to real
life) of steady state cardio vs sprint interval training (SIT). After that, we'll look at how both modalities can influence that sexy thing we call posture. So if my last article hasn't convinced you that high intensity interval training trumps steady state cardio all day every day, here's one last reason (until I feel it's appropriate to harp on the subject again): It 's transferability to real life. Can you give me three examples throughout your week where you will need to jog at a steady pace for 45-60 minutes? If you can, I apologize. You can disregard this article and go back to running on your treadmill. If you can't, well, your training just isn't that applicable to your life. Now, you may be saying you don`t sprint three times a week either - but I can guarantee you use the same energy system as sprinting multiple times a week: carrying groceries while hopscotching the landmine of potholes to your car, scrambling over patio furniture to stop your 3 year old from nose diving off the deck, getting so excited you do 15 squat jumps with emphatic fist pumps when your team scores, lighting up the competition in your rec league / beer league - you get the point. My point is, if you're spending the majority of your precious training hours in this boring ass aerobic zone - how transferable is it to your real life? Many of our daily
activities involve strenuous movements which aggressively tax our anaerobic system. I've had many new clients who spend hours on a treadmill each week, but become fatigued or short of breath after simple daily events like the ones above. Unlike aerobic exercise, anaerobic exercise (anything you cannot sustain for more than 2 minutes) strengthens the energy systems used for daily and random events alike. You can't get more functional than that.Sticking with the theme of jogging on a treadmill - let's break down the movement (or lack thereof) and how it relates to your life. Essentially, it's the same as walking on a treadmill with an extra inch or two in your range of motion (ROM). The restrictive ROM of jogging isn't doing you, your hip flexors, lower back, core or rounded shoulders any favors. It's actually making it worse, leading to kyphotic monsters (aka hunchbacks) looming around every corner. To start, your hip flexor's full ROM isn't optimized while jogging. This isn't a serious problem, unless this motion becomes tedious; which is exactly what jogging is: a steady pace for an extended period of time. For your hip flexors, this sucks. The constant and steady shortening (contracting) of this muscle while jogging will lead to tightness, which exacerbates the already shortened cramping that's happening during your desk job. This can also lead to excessive lordosis of the lumbar spine (exaggeration of the lower back's natural curvature) which could be one of the causes for that lower back pain. Then we have our core, which is more often than not, completely disengaged. This can cause our chest to flare which would promote further arching of our lower back. If you want to
pick up a hobby which helps promote dysfunctional posture, then start jogging on a treadmill. In comparison, the SIT modality of anaerobic training minimizes or eliminates those problems completely. During an "all out" sprint, lasting between 10-15 seconds, your limbs (don't forget about your arms) move through a much greater ROM. The engagement of your upper body in a sprint creates active core and posterior chain involvement which helps keep your shoulders back. Hunchbacks begone! Now don`t think sprinting alone will fix posture imbalances, but it will definitely point you in the right direction, which is the opposite direction that steady state cardio would bring you.I will warn you, sprinting is not for everyone. But that doesn't mean you can't target the same energy system. In this instance, a sprint is subjective to each individual's current fitness capacities. A 65 year old male will most likely have a much slower 'sprint' pace than a 25 year old professional athlete. If sprinting is something new to you, it might not be the best idea to jump right into it. It's one of the most intense forms of exercises there is. Use your head, slowly progress your pace, and make sure you have one hell of a good dynamic warmup before going all out.Is your posture taking a beating from that office desk you sit in all day? Maybe sprint training is exactly what your body needs to give those rusty joints back their range of motion and functionality. Not to mention the amazing benefits it can do for your body composition and metabolism. If you're interested in trying some sprint training protocols visit: www.empoweredfitness.wordpress.com
By Deepthi J Accidents cause some kind of destruction. No one wants to have accidents. However, when one occurs we must learn how to prevent future occurrence. The idea is to find the root cause of the accident and implement corrective action so that the accident will not happen again.The first step towards investigating an accident is to confirm that such an incident has taken place for this you must need a clear and efficient accident reporting written procedure.Information Needed for Accident InvestigationFor successful accident investigation the following information must be obtained: Who is injured? Where or when did the injury occur? What is the type of injury? What part of the body is affected by the injury? What object, substance, exposure or bodily motion inflicted or contributed to the injury? How did the injured person come in contact with the source of injury? What hazardous
condition or circumstance caused or permitted the occurrence? Where is the hazard source? Once the investigation concludes, the next vital step is to implement proper corrective actions, without delay.Corrective Actions to be taken after an Accident After an accident has occurred, you will need to do everything within your power to see that it doesn't re-occur. You will need to develop procedures to promptly correct deficiencies and act on recommendations, resulting from your accident investigations. The accident investigation form should hold not only suggested corrective action, but also what action was taken and when. A tracking system should be devised to make certain corrective actions are taken in a timely manner. Also, corrective actions should be examined, after a time, to ensure that they are really effective.Steps in Safety Performance EnforcementYou are required to explain the methods by which you will
ensure that employees comply with your safety rules and work practices. Your program will only be effective if all employees and managers are held accountable for their responsibilities and safety performance. To achieve this, develop a clear procedure that explains: Who will be responsible for disciplinary actions? What disciplinary actions will be taken? And where will disciplinary records be maintained?Be sure that the "punishment is apt for the criminal act." It may not be appropriate to take a progressive disciplinary action where very serious infractions have occurred. Use your discretion, but be sure that your policy is clear, and that all employees understand it and it is uniformly enforced.To learn more on workplace safety issues, and other FDA related regulations, regulatory compliance training, OSHA compliance, EH&S compliance, 510(k) regulations and more visit http://www.onlinecompliancepanel.com
Investigating Workplace Accidents What do you need to know?
Worksite NEWS June 2015 Page 16
HEALTH & WELL-BEINGLONE WORKER SAFETY
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The new millennium has brought with it rapid changes in politics, economy, and technology. With these changes, new jobs that were not even fathomable 20 years ago are on the rise, and company structures can undergo massive changes in short periods of time. Technology has liberated the workforce: processes can be streamlined and optimized at a scale never seen before, whole teams can work remotely with little disturbance to a company's end product, and individuals can have more autonomy to work alone than ever. From a healthcare worker driving alone to visit a client, to a remote oil site check-up conducted by a single engineer, lone workers in organizations are far from a rare occurrence in today's work climate. However, lone workers have a unique set of risks and hazards that are not always obvious, such as poor access to communication or difficulty getting an emergency response.Considering our change-prone economic climate, the prevalence of lone workers in today's work force, and the unique risk factors associated with lone workers, it is important to utilize a safety solution that keeps up. In order to keep up with today's quick-moving economy and technology, companies need to employ a safety monitoring solution that is scalable, future-proof, and has a positive ROI. Keep your workers safe and your company finances in check with the RIGHT safety solution. Any monitoring system for lone workers should support worker check-ins at set intervals, as well as proactive emergency notifications in the event workers are unable to alert help themselves. However, ensuring that lone workers are protected while maintaining the financial well-being of the organization can be difficult. Outdated solutions that do not fully utilize innovative technology can be an unnecessary drain on organizational resources, with heavy upfront capital costs, constant upgrades, and processes so cumbersome that they interfere with the productivity of work staff. Not only do these systems put your company in a worse financial position, but they fail to protect staff in the most effective way possible.Keys of a modern lone worker monitoring system equipped to take on the challenges of a 21st century work force include: * Scalability to fit fluctuating or rotating staff.* Device ubiquity to allow for system utilization in multiple work environments and situations.* Future-proof technology that will remain relevant despite changes to equipment or systems.
Additionally, an effective safety solution should help yield a high ROI due to limited interference with staff, no additional cost for maintenance or system upgrades, as well as low financial barrier to purchase. Therefore, a good lone worker safety solution can not only help keep workers safe and ensure regulation compliance, but also have a positive impact on an organization's fiscal bottom line.Look to the cloud. Cloud-based software protocols are emerging as an industry standard among many sectors, with software giants such as Microsoft and Adobe moving to this delivery model for programs like Office and Photoshop, respectively. Also known as Software-as-a-Service, or SaaS, this type of solution can easily be integrated into most existing hardware, and even future devices, to provide instant access and active updates. SaaS also eliminates high upfront capital costs, as well as any costs associated with hosting, upgrading or maintenance. Quickly adapting to a fluctuating team is also possible, as all that is required is subscribing or unsubscribing to user licenses when the need arises. SaaS models are also quickly becoming best practice for lone worker safety monitoring, and are the ideal successor to more traditional solutions. Cloud-based safety monitoring solutions are easy to implement, and ensure that critical information can be accessed from any location on any device during an emergency. They are designed to facilitate rapid adoption by management and employees alike, and can quickly reduce the burden of monitoring systems on internal personnel.In today's fast paced, technologically driven economic climate, it is necessary to employ safety solutions for lone workers that keep up. A lone worker monitoring system equipped to take on modern challenges must be scalable and adaptable to meet the needs of the growing enterprise, have the ability to be utilized in a variety of working conditions, and remain relevant even into the future. Due to their rapid scalability, maximum compatibility, and future proof technology, SaaS lone worker monitoring systems are the new industry standard for the 21st century work force. Larissa Cox is a Lone Worker Market Analyst for SafetyLine Lone Worker. SafetyLine is an automated, cloud-based lone worker solution, that can help companies get a full safety network across their devices in one simple package. Safetylineloneworker.com 1-888-WRK-ALNE
Protecting Lone Workers in the 21st CenturyNew industry standards and Best Practices for the modern workforce
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WORKSAFE BCwww.worksitenews.com
Cone Zone season is approachingSlow down and respect roadside workers
Richmond, BC– Hundreds of roadside work zones will be set up around British Columbia this summer. Thousands of drivers will travel through those “cone zones”, and it is likely that many roadside workers will be hit and seriously injured by speeding or distracted drivers. The responsibility for roadside worker safety lies with employers, workers and drivers. With proper training and resources, roadside workers can keep themselves and others safe. A new work zone safety tool kit for employers, supervisors, and workers is available on the www.ConeZoneBC.com website. The resources are intended for short-term roadside work, such as landscaping and utility repairs, where a Traffic Control Person is not required. The tool kit includes information about roadside hazards, work zone preparation, and safe work procedures. Drivers can do their part by slowing down, paying attention and being respectful when travelling through a “cone zone”. The ConeZoneBC.com website has tips to help drivers navigate work zones and reduce the delays caused by roadside work. Cone zones may have a flagger directing drivers, or simply be marked by small orange cones on the road. No matter the set-up, employers, workers and drivers have a role in roadside worker safety. Mark Ordeman, WorkSafeBC Industry and Labour Services Manager, said employers and employees have to work together to make road travel safe for everyone. “Safety in roadside work zones, or “cone zones”, depends on everyone paying attention and being respectful. Employers and workers are encouraged to educate themselves and practice safe work procedures for roadside work, and drivers should always be alert and follow the directions of workers and road signs.”
The Cone Zone campaign is a joint provincial initiative supported by organizations committed to improving the safety of roadside workers. They are Ambulance Paramedics of BC, Automotive Retailers Association, BCAA, BC Construction Safety Alliance, BC Flagging Association, BC Landscape and Nursery Association, BC Municipal Safety Association, BC Road Builders and Heavy Construction Association, City of Prince George, City of Surrey, IBEW258, Insurance Corporation of BC, Justice Institute of British Columbia, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, RoadSafetyBC, RCMP, SafetyDriven, Shaw Communications Inc., SNC-Lavalin Graham Joint Venture (Evergreen Line Rapid Transit Project),Telus, Vancouver Police Department and WorkSafeBC. Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour, Shirley Bond, says, "Every worker has the right to a safe workplace and that certainly includes the people working on our province's roadways. When you're in a "cone zone", slow down and pay attention to your driving so we can help prevent injuries and foster safe working environments for all B.C. workers." Adds Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Todd Stone: “In the ten-year period from 2004 to 2013, 238 workers in our province have been hit by motor vehicles while working on or beside the road, and tragically 15 of these workers died. These deaths and injuries are preventable: I urge all drivers to take care when people are working on our highways and roads.”
VANCOUVER — Oil pipeline opponents have developed computer-animated models illustrating how rapidly Vancouver's inlets and beaches could become coated in crude under a worst-case oil tanker spill scenario. Crews on spill-response vessels work to contain bunker fuel
leaking from the bulk carrier MV Marathassa last month in Vancouver's Burrard Inlet. The analysis, which claims between 50 per cent and 90 per cent of spilled oil could spread to shorelines within 24 hours, will be submitted in a bid to block the expansion of Kinder Morgan's Trans Mountain pipeline. The City of Vancouver, City of Burnaby and Tsleil-Waututh Nation commissioned the analysis based on their view that the pipeline infrastructure firm has failed to adequately study potential consequences of a spill. The National Energy Board will consider evidence that will determine the project's future. “We hope that (the models) will help both the NEB and all the residents of the region better understand the risks of oil spills,” said John Konovsky, a technical adviser with the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. “Our position is that we oppose the expansion.” One animation shows a cluster of black dots spewing out from a theoretical ground zero, surging into open water and then dispersing into flecks that settle into dark outlines along the land. The ebb and flow projected by the 72-hour time-lapse, driven mainly by tidal currents and winds, looks like a swarm of blackflies spreading across Vancouver's English Bay and harbour. “Watching it, it's hard not to feel concerned,” said Vancouver city councillor Andrea Reimer, who drew a link between the animation to a much smaller spill in Vancouver's harbour. The MV Marathassa leaked about 2,700 litres of bunker fuel into the waters of the city last month. The coast guard has estimated at least 90 per cent of the spill was recovered. The city has said a cleanup response by federal agencies was insufficient. “When you look at the time delay (in this model), this oil, up to 90 per cent could be on shorelines within hours? The response wasn't even in place within hours,” Reimer said. It took more than four hours for an emergency response team, directed by the Canadian Coast Guard, to arrive after the fuel leak was first reported on the evening of April 8.
Internet for the oilpatch
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ERGONOMICS & THE ADJUSTABLE WORKPLACE
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Fighting Health Risks With Ergonomics
By Mark P Watson Sitting for long periods of time is not just bad for your body, but you are also exposing yourself to several physical and yes even mental ailments. The best solution for avoiding such health risk factors is to find the perfect adjustable solutions that let you work comfortably in your environment. Walking is one of them, but you cannot walk around the office all day long after every hour or so, as you will be wasting a lot of time.So what can you do about this? Find the right ergonomics solutions, of course. Here are two which can prove quite useful.Active Sitting ChairSitting is not a crime, but doing so for a long time can result in debilitating conditions. Sitting in offices and other work places is common and cannot be avoided, which is why ergonomics has designed chairs which do not just let you sit comfortably, but also make sure you are not opening yourself to health risks. The chairs are designed to give the users comfort, as well as to prevent muscle damage.If a person keeps sitting for a long period of time, the electrical signals the muscles receive get cut off. This can lead to back pain, headaches, neck stiffness, swellings, and also diabetes, obesity, and other cognitive problems as well. The active sitting chairs keep the posture aligned thus effectively blocking muscular or spinal pain. Along with that, the individual can move their legs to get exercises and can feel more productive.Standing Desk Conversion Kit Sitting is not just bad for the health of a person; it is not good for the company or work place they are working for either. An individual's health, actions, etc are directly proportional to their performance in the workplace. If an individual is suffering back pain from too much sitting, and has to take a leave of absence, it might lead to cancelled projects and disgruntled clients. All of this can be waylaid with the right ergonomic solutions though. So how can work places ensure that their employees remain healthy? By ergonomics! Let us take an example by using the standing desk conversion kit. Suppose that this kit is brought into the workplace, now, employers will be able to see the difference between those who sit and work for hours in one place, and those who use this kit. Not only does the kit improve the user's productivity levels, it keeps the body pain free as well. Since the desk is adjustable as well, it is not hard to find a position that is comfortable. Users can also easily change position if they feel like it and make themselves even more comfortable and thus, happier and more productive at the same time. For more information regarding Active Sitting Chair and Standing desk conversion kit Please visit: www.uncagedergonomics.com
In Canada, overuse and “wear and tear” injuries continue to be among the most costly work related injuries. The symptoms can range from mild discomfort or lead to severe pain and disability. Whether you are a novice worker or a veteran employee, Office Ergonomics is a critical health and safety issue facing all Canadian businesses. This office ergonomics course identifies the risk factors associated with poor ergonomic positioning, but more importantly, the controls necessary to prevent Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) and other disorders from occurring.Reduce training costs, minimize lost time injuries, and reduce the cost of compliance by having your employees complete Office Ergonomics training online! A training certificate is issued and emailed to the Account Supervisor upon completion. Additional copies of certificates are available at any time in the future.The course covers:Introduction & Legislation:* Ergonomics defined (Physical, Emotional and Environmental)* Cost of ergonomic injur ies to industry* Lost t ime claims statisticsMusculoSkeletal Disorders (MSDs)* Identifying Risk Factors* MSD's - Types of injuries* Symptoms of MSDs* Tendonitis,Tenosynovitis, Epicondylitis EtcErgonomic Guidelines & Workstation Layout:* Elements of Office Ergonomics and avoiding injuries* Office setup for desk, chair, standing, monitors, keyboards, mouse, lighting, etc* Heavy lifting procedures and work habits * Office exercises/stretches: wrist, arms, back neck etc.Overview & Summary: * Conclusion and Review of topics covered in this courseInteractive exercises, tests & certificate Trainees can login and out of their training course as many times as they need, their work is saved automatically. For Administrators, a free Course Administration site is provided. Yow Canada
Office ergonomics
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Tips for avoiding electrocution hazards
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WORKSITE DIRECTORY
Acorn SafetyP.O. Box 3527 City of Industry, CA 91744 Contact Robert BowlesPh: (775) 284-7212 Fax (626) 961-2200 [email protected]
Alberta Construction Safety Association (ACSA)Head office:#101, 225 Parsons Road SWEdmonton, AB T6X 0W6Tel: 780-453-3311 or1-800-661-2272Fax: 780-455-1120 or1-877-441-0440Executive Director: Dan [email protected] Calgary:#101, 292060 Wagon Wheel LinkRocky View, AB T4A 0E2Tel: 403-291-3710 or1-800-661-6090Fax: 403-250-2852 [email protected] Fort McMurray:Nomad Inn Hotel10006 MacDonald AvenueFort McMurray, AB T9H 1S8Tel: 780-715-2157Fax: [email protected]
Alberta Employment, Immigration and Industry9th Flr, 10808-99 AvenueEdmonton, Alberta T5K 0J5Ph: (780) 427-5585Fax: (780) 427-5988
Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA)3660-Blackfoot Trail S.E. Calgary Alberta T2G-4E6Ph: (403) 214-3428
Alberta Specialty Services Ltd.Rear Bay 4, 2705 5 Ave NECalgary, AB T2A 2L6Ph: (403) 225-2759 Toll Free: (877) 347-5588Fax: (403) 253-4560info@albertaspecialtyservices.comwww.albertaspecialtyservices.com
Canadian Industrial Training River City Centre Mall620B 8600 Franklin AvenueFort McMurray, Alberta T9H 4G6Contact: Lori BurkePh: (780) [email protected]
Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC)14920-118 AveEdmonton, Alberta T5V 1B8Ph: (780) 454-6181Fax: (780) 451-3976www.clac.ca
BC Construction Safety Alliance#400, 625 Agnes StreetNew Westminster, BC V3M 5Y4Ph: (877) 860-3675Fax: (604) 636-3676Contact: Alicia [email protected] www.bccsa.ca
Creative Wellness SolutionsPO Box 3061Tantallon, NS B3Z 4G9 Ph: (902) 820-3096 Toll Free: (877) 480-9355 Fax: (902) 820-3097Contact: Dr. Lydia Makrides [email protected]
CTK Safety Consulting79 Eastbrook Way E Brooks, Alberta T1R 0H9Ph: (403) 501-5686 Cellular: (403) 363-9304 Fax: (403) 793-8030
Electrical Contractors Association of Alberta11235 120 StreetEdmonton, AB T5G 2X9Ph: (780) 450-1777Contact: Pat Barnes [email protected]
Electrolab Training SystemsPO Box 320 335 University AveBelleville, ON K8N 5A5 CanadaPh: (800)267-7482 Fax: (613) 962-0284
Contact: Claire Stewart [email protected]
Enform Safety and Training 1538 - 25 Avenue NECalgary, Alberta T2E 8Y3Ph: (800) 667-5557Fax: (403) 250-1289Contact: Tanya [email protected] Grant MacEwan UniversityPO Box 1796Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2P2Ph: (780) 497-5796Fax: (780) 497-4593
GRB College of Welding9712—54 AvenueEdmonton, AlbertaPh: (780) 436-7342Fax: (780) [email protected]
Institute for Work & Health 481 University Avenue Suite 800Toronto, ON M5G 2E9 CanadaPhone: (416) 927-2027 x 2131 Fax: (416) [email protected]
ITF Association40 Scenic Drive NW Calgary, Alberta T3L 1C2Ph: (403) 241-8443Contact: Tes Bewick
KnowledgeWare Communications #204, 20475 Lougheed HwyMaple Ridge, B.C. V2X 9B6Contact: Ron McNuttPh: (800) [email protected] Manufactures Health & Safety Association (MHSA)#201 292060 Wagon Wheel Link Rocky View, Alberta T4A 0E2Fax: (403) 279-1993 Toll Free: (888) 249-2002Contact: Lorne Kleppe [email protected]
Moldex-Metric Inc.10111 West Jefferson BoulevardCulver City, CA 90232
Contact: John AmbrosioPh: 800-421-0668Fax: (310) 837-9563Team -1 Academy780 Pacific Road, Unit 19Oakville, ON L6L 6M5Ph: (905) 827-0007 X 26Fax: (905) 827-0049www.team1academy.com
The Checkerby Dectra Inc.CA - PO Box 265, 146 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville, ON L6K 0A4US - 2316 Delaware Ave, # 611, Buffalo NY 14216-2687Ph: 800.291.4719 Fax: [email protected]
Turning Technologies Canada 35 Cedar Pointe Drive, Suite 39 Barrie, ON, L4N 5R7Toll Free in Canada: 1.888.522.8689 x 212 Ph: 705.726.8876 x 212Fax: 1.866.552.8935Contact: Peter FerreiraNational Sales [email protected] Unique Products(E-Zee`Lock Outs)16865 - 110 AvenueEdmonton, Alberta T5P 1G8Contact: Pat HanlonPh: (780) 974-7039Fax: (780) [email protected]
Work Authority 415 Thompson DriveCambridge, ON N1T 2K7 CanadaPh: (416) 896-3525 Fax: (519) [email protected]
Worksafe B.C.Toll Free: 1-800-663-9509www.worksafe.bc.com
YOW Canada Inc.1306 Algoma RoadOttawa, Ontario K1B 3W8Contact: Marie-Chantale PerronPh: 1-888-288-0489Fax: 1-613-248-0711
Worksite NEWS June 2015 Page 24www.worksitenews.com
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