SafetyBlog
Protecting Against Arc Flash Injuries in the Workplace
An arc flash, also known as a flashover, occurs when an electrical circuit products a short blast of light and heat. The "arc" travels from the conductor to either another conductor or the ground. Lighting is a common example of an arc flash, though this phenomenon can occur in nearly any electrical environment.The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) explains that arc flashes are often caused by the following:DustMetal toolsCondensationMaterial failureRust/corrosionFaulty electr
…
Sep 4th 2017
Study: Employers to Spend $10k on Employee Healthcare
Employers in the Unite States can expect to pay more for the healthcare of their employees. According to a new study, the cost of employee healthcare will increase by approximately 5% beginning next year. This means employers will pay $13,482 in premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.Employers aren't responsible for paying 100% of the employee's healthcare costs, however. Normally, employers pay 70% of the cost, while the employee pays the remaining 30%. Following this formula, employees can expect
…
Aug 30th 2017
OSHA's Online Injury Tracker Hit By Cyber Attack
Cyber attacks are becoming increasingly more common, with organizations in all sectors being targeted. It's not just privately held companies that are being targeted, either. Even government organizations are feeling the effects of cyber attacks. Earlier this month, for instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) online injury reporting website was hit by a cyber attack.As you may already know, OSHA launched its online injury tracking application on August 1 as part of i
…
Aug 29th 2017
NIOSH and OSHA Update New Version of Heat Safety App
Heat-related illness is a serious problem among outdoor workers. In 2014, more than 2,600 U.S. workers died from heat stroke and related illness. And with summer upon us, workers will continue to place themselves at risk for such illness.In an effort to reduce these numbers, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Occupational Safety an Health Administration (OSHA) have released a new version of their heat safety app.The free-to-use app is available for compatibl
…
Aug 28th 2017
Want to Lose Weight? Step on the Scale
A recent poll found that more than half of Americans want to lose weight. Whether it's for better health, more energy or improved self-confidence, millions of men and women are looking to shed those unwanted pounds. And while there's no substitution for dieting and exercise, weighing yourself every day may help individuals achieve this goal.According to a new study, people who weigh themselves on a daily basis have an easier time losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight than their counterp
…
Aug 23rd 2017