5/31/2011 Extreme Heat at Work



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EXTREME HEAT AT WORK 

Wow! What a scorcher! You knew it was going to be a hot day but with this humidity it has to be 105o F outside. You reach for your ratchet to tighten up the last bolt to finish your job and start to feel lightheaded. It's probably because you haven't eaten much this morning. But, you think you can make it until lunch!

Time passes and your condition hasn't gotten any better-in fact it's worse! Your breathing has increased, you're sweating profusely, and your mouth is dry. Something's wrong! You start to climb out of the vehicle you’re working on but you're almost too weak to move. You feel like you're going to be sick. With no control over your movements, you fall to the ground below. The workers standing above you are trying to get your attention but you can't understand them. You yell, "Help me up guys!" but they don't respond. Can't they hear? All you can see is black…what's happening…?

Heat Exhaustion! That is what's happening. Heat exhaustion can occur when you are subjected to hot environments and fail to take in enough fluids, salts, or both. And even worse, this can lead to a life threatening condition known as a heat stroke. Sun stroke or heat stroke happens when the body's internal mechanism fails to regulate its core temperature. At this point, the body stops cooling itself through perspiration and can't get rid of excess heat. Unfortunately, the end result can be death if the body temperature isn't lowered immediately! So, especially if you work in hot environments, it's critical to recognize when you're suffering from a Heat Stress Disorder.

SYMPTOMS OF HEAT STRESS DISORDERS:

• Heat Cramps - Symptoms are painful spasms of the muscles. Heat cramps are caused when workers consume large quantities of water but fail to take in enough salt to replace the salt their body lost through sweating. Tired muscles are most susceptible to cramping.
• Heat Exhaustion - Symptoms for this disorder are moist, clammy, pale skin; profuse sweating; extreme weakness or fatigue; dry mouth; dizziness; fast pulse; rapid breathing; muscle cramps and nausea.
• Heat/Sun Stroke - Symptoms are a very high body temperature (104o F or higher); lack of sweat; mental confusion, delirium, or hallucinations; deep breathing and rapid pulse; hot, dry, red or mottled skin; and dilated pupils. Seek medical help at once for this condition.

TIPS FOR PREVENTION:

• Acclimatization - Adjust yourself to the heat through short exposure periods followed by longer exposure until your body is accustomed to the heat. It may take 5-7 days of hot weather exposure before the body undergoes changes that make heat more bearable.
• Drink lots of Water/Liquids - Replenish the fluid that your body is losing though sweating. Not only water, but critical electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and calcium are lost through sweating, so consider using electrolyte drinks to combat heat related disorders.
• Education - Know the signs and symptoms of heat stress disorders and act quickly.
• Use Your Head - Do not ignore possible symptoms of heat stress disorders. If you feel very hot, dizzy, nauseous or if your muscles cramp, stop and cool off!

Heat Stress Disorders are serious. Workers who have ignored the symptoms have lost their lives. Humans have an ingenious system for regulating body temperature-a personal, "natural" air conditioner. We sweat, it evaporates through our skin, and we're cooled off. But this personal air conditioner can fail, and often does if we overexert when environmental temperatures are high.

Be Cool. Know what you have to do to Beat the Heat!



5/27/2011 Hand Washing Safety

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Wash your hands to control infection 

We’ve been getting safety talks our whole life. They started with our moms and dads. Look both ways before you cross the street, don't play with matches…do this, don’t do that. I am sure that regular hand washing may have been one of these early safety topics. You probably even frequently heard, “It’s dinner time; go wash your hands.”

For some reason, many of us don’t take the time to wash our hands…and we pay the consequences by getting sick. The following points are brought to us by Barbara Manning Grimm from an article she published in October of 2007. Ms. Grimm is the editor for Bongarde Media and a safety talk writer for more than 20 years.

Why Hand washing Really Is Important
If I tell you that it's important to wash your hands thoroughly and regularly, I'll probably come off sounding like a mother hen. After all, you've no doubt heard the message a million times from your parents; and you've probably delivered it another million times to your own kids.

So I want to ask you not to just turn me off. Give me a few minutes and let's really think about what's at stake here.

What's the Danger?
This planet is inhabited by literally billions of deadly agents. "Germs" is the common name for microbes, the organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites that cause disease. They are too small to be seen without a microscope; but the harm they inflict is out of all proportion to their size.

Germs do their damage covertly. They enter your body when you touch your mouth, nose or eyes. Germs are in the foods you eat, the fluids you drink and the air you breathe. They're on other things that touch your body such as dishes, glasses, utensils, cigarettes and cosmetics.

But perhaps the biggest spreader of germs is other people. Germs live in and on the body. They're spread through hand-to-hand contact and by coughing or sneezing.

How Should You Protect Yourself?
Your mom and dad probably weren't biologists or lab scientists. But when they nagged you about hand washing, they were onto something. You see, washing your hands frequently and well is the single most effective way to prevent illnesses from germs. Hand washing keeps you from getting sick; just as importantly, it keeps you from spreading germs to other people - like your spouse, children and co-workers. In a sense, washing your hands is just as much about being a good and responsible person as it is about staying well.

All of us encounter germs on the job. And all of us carry germs that can spread to those we work with and around. So hand washing is important for all jobs. But certain occupations will have more exacting standards than others. For example, surgeons and food service workers must wash their hands especially well because they touch our bodies and the foods we eat. Sewer workers and trash collectors are at a high risk of exposure to contamination. Hand washing is also of particular importance in jobs that involve housekeeping, handling money and caring for children.

Some safety precautions are one-time operations. Take the precaution and you're covered at least for several hours. Unfortunately, hand washing isn't like this. It requires constant repeating. You need to make it a point to wash your hands at certain critical points in the day or during a shift, such as:

• Before eating;
• Before preparing food (Wash before you handle each different food. For example, wash between cutting the raw chicken and dicing the vegetables.);
• After using the toilet;
• Before using the toilet if you've been handling chemicals;
• Before handling contact lenses; and
• Before putting on makeup.

How to Wash Your Hands
All right, let's get down to the nitty gritty, literally. I want to tell you about the proper way to wash your hands. Don't roll those eyeballs. I know you've been washing your hands since childhood. But I'll bet you're not doing it right - or at least as well as you should be. If everybody knew how to wash properly, infection wouldn't be nearly as big a problem. So, even though it might sound like nagging, a good lesson on hand washing is something we all can use.

To wash your hands effectively, follow these steps:
• Remove rings and other jewelry.
• Use hot water.
• Wet your hands and forearms thoroughly.
• Use soap and lather up well.
• Scrub all over your hands, between your fingers, as well as your wrists and forearms for 15 seconds. That's longer than you would think, so count one-Mississippi, two-Mississippi up to 10 before you finish.
• Clean under your fingernails.
• Rinse well under warm running water.
• Dry your hands completely with a hot air dryer or a single-use towel.

This is the tricky part: Avoid contaminating your hands again as you leave the washroom. For instance, use a paper towel to open the door and hit the light switch (and to turn off the water tap.)

If your work requires you to wash your hands frequently you might develop problems with dry, irritated skin. Skin excessively dry from washing is prone to infection. Apply moisturizers frequently to prevent chapping. Talk to me or another supervisor about the use of protective gloves and barrier creams if appropriate for your work.

Beyond the Hand washing Basics
Hand washing is one of the most important ways to avoid picking up germs and spreading them to others. But I would be remiss if I didn't end this safety talk by offering you some other tips:

• Cuts and sores are a magnet for germs. So if you have any cuts or sores cover them with bandages and wear gloves or other protection.
• Artificial nails also attract germs. So, take extra care to clean hands properly if you wear them.
• Keep your hands away from your face.
• Use liquid soap in disposable containers if possible. Reusable containers should be washed and dried before refilling. Bar soap should be set on a rack to drain and dry between uses.

Conclusion
Infection control researchers keep coming to the same conclusion: We don't wash our hands often enough or well enough. Let's wash our hands of this bad habit.



5/26/2011 Safety & Hard Hats-Why Use Head Protection?



Safety & Hard Hats-Why Use Head Protection?

Head injuries are very serious. Over 100,000 occupational head injuries are reported every year! 84% of workers who suffered impact injuries to the head were not wearing head protection!!

Your head is a very delicate part of your body. Seeing, hearing, smelling, eating, drinking, tasting, speaking, thinking, and controlling all of the involuntary functions, like your heartbeat, throughout the rest of your body, all take place in the head.

Potential Hazards
Hard Hats are extremely versatile and can protect employees from a multitude of potential hazards. For example:

Impacts to the Head
Falling, flying or thrown objects, including road debris, are common causes of head injuries, as well as falling or walking into hard, fixed objects. These injuries include scrapes, lacerations, neck sprains, concussions, skull fractures, and even fatalities.

Electrical Shocks
Accidents involving electricity result in electrical shocks and burns. The Hard Hats that meet ANSI 89, 1-1997 Type 1 and are rated in Class E, G and C are dielectric. Classes E and G relate to high and low voltage specifications, in addition to impact and penetration protection.

Splashes, Spills, and Drips
Hard Hats provide coverage from potential splashes, spills and drips of toxic liquids such as acids, caustics, and molten metals that can burn or irritate skin, scalp, and eyes.

Other - Flammability
Hard Hats that meet ANSI Z89, 1-1997 also are tested for flammability resistance.

Inspection & Maintenance for Hard Hats:

Outer Shell - DO's & DON'TS

DO:

• Inspect headwear before each use for any visible signs of dents, cracks, gouges, penetration, chalking, loss of gloss or any other signs of damage prior to use that might reduce the degree of safety originally provided. Users are cautioned that if unusual conditions occur, such as extreme high or low temperatures or if there are signs of abuse or mutilation of the hard hat or any component, the margin of safety may be reduced. Where damage or defects are detected, the Hard Hat should be discarded and replaced with a new unit.
• Replace Hard Hat even when hairline cracks start to appear.
• Replace Hard Hat that has been struck by a forceful object, even if no damage is obvious.
• Remove and destroy any hard hat if its protective abilities are in doubt.

Note: Safety headwear will deteriorate over time from exposure to sunlight and other chemicals. The normal service life of a hard hat is considered to be 5 years from the date of manufacture which can be found permanently marked on the inside surface of the hard hat shell.

DO NOT:

• Do not drill holes, alter or modify the shell. Alterations may reduce the protection provided by the hard hat.
• Do not use paint, solvents, gasoline, chemicals, or harsh cleaning materials on the shell. These can make plastic headwear brittle, more susceptible to cracks and reduce protection by physically weakening it or negating electrical resistance. Paint can also hide cracks that may develop.
• Do not use winter liners that contain metal or electrically conductive material under Class G or E Hard Hats.
• Do not use metal labels on Class G or E Hard Hats.
• Do not transport headwear in rear windows of vehicles since sunlight and extreme heat may adversely affect the degree of protection.
• Do not draw the chin strap over the brim or peak of the Hard Hat.
• Do not wear Hard Hat backwards. The peak should always face forward. Do not attach any product not specifically approved by the hard hat manufacturer.

The Suspension - DO's & DON'TS

DO:

• Inspect suspension before every use. Its life span is affected by normal use, heat, chemicals and ultraviolet rays. Where damage or defects are detected, the suspension should be discarded and replaced with a new unit. Hard Hat Suspensions will deteriorate over time from exposure to sunlight and other chemicals. The normal service life of the Suspension is considered to be 1 year of regular use. Where use is intermittent, the suspension may last longer.
• Look closely for cracked, torn or frayed suspension material or adjustment slots.
• Check the suspension lugs carefully. Long periods of normal use can damage the Suspension. Perspiration and hair oils can speed up the deterioration of Suspension materials.
• Replace the Suspension if it has torn or broken threads.
• Adjust headband size so that headwear will stay on when the wearer is bending over, but not so tight that it leaves a mark on the forehead.
• Ensure that the Suspension is in good condition. The main purpose of the Suspension is to absorb energy.

DO NOT:

• Do not put anything between the Suspension and the shell. There must be clearance inside the headwear while it is being worn. In case of a blow to the head, that space helps absorb the shock.
• Do not mix different manufacturer Suspension types and hard hats. Replacement suspension harnesses shall be from the same manufacturer and for the same model of hard hat.

Cleaning:
Clean Hard Hat shell and suspension regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Immerse in hot water (Approximately 140°Fahrenheit/60° Celsius) with mild anti-bacterial detergent for one minute. Scrub and rinse in clear hot water.

5/25/2011 Avoiding West Nile Virus & Mosquito Bites



Spring and Summer months here in the Mid-Atlantic area can often be associated with hot muggy days and mosquito infested nights. Today’s safety topic comes from the Center for Disease Control on how to avoid West Nile Virus, which, if left unchecked, could develop into more serious illnesses such as West Nile Encephalitis or West Nile Meningitis.

Fight The Bite!

Avoid Mosquito Bites to Avoid Infection

When dealing with West Nile virus, prevention is your best bet. Fighting mosquito bites reduces your risk of getting this disease, along with others that mosquitoes can carry. Take the common sense steps below to reduce your risk:

• avoid bites and illness;
• clean out the mosquitoes from the places where you work and play;
• help your community control the disease.

Something to remember: The chance that any one person is going to become ill from a single mosquito bite remains low. The risk of severe illness and death is highest for people over 50 years old, although people of all ages can become ill.

Avoid Mosquito Bites:

• Use Insect Repellant: Apply Insect Repellent Containing DEET (Look for: N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) to exposed skin when you go outdoors. Even a short time being outdoors can be long enough to get a mosquito bite.
• Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites: When possible, wear long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors. Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spraying clothes with repellent containing permethrin or DEET will give extra protection. Don't apply repellents containing permethrin directly to skin. Do not spray repellent containing DEET on the skin under your clothing.
• Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours: The hours from dusk to dawn are peak mosquito biting times for many species of mosquitoes. Take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing during evening and early morning -- or consider avoiding outdoor activities during these times.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

• Drain Standing Water: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by getting rid of items that hold water.

• Install or Repair Screens: Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having well-fitting screens on both windows and doors.

Help Your Community

Report Dead Birds to Local Authorities: Dead birds may be a sign that West Nile virus is circulating between birds and the mosquitoes in an area. Over 130 species (http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/birdspecies.htm) of birds are known to have been infected with West Nile virus, though not all infected birds will die. It's important to remember that birds die from many other causes besides West Nile virus. By reporting dead birds to state and local health departments, you can play an important role in monitoring West Nile virus. State and local agencies have different policies for collecting and testing birds, so check the Links to State and Local Government Sites (http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/city_states.htm) page to find information about reporting dead birds in your area.

Following these safety tips will help you Fight The Bite!

5/24/2011 Jack Safety



Jack Safety: Using a floor jack and jack stands


When I was younger, I once changed the oil myself in my 1992 Nissan Sentra. I used the standard scissors jack it came with, jacked up the front right side, and slid underneath to do the work. Nothing bad happened, but I had no idea of the danger I had put myself in…and in this case, what you don’t know can kill you! Today’s safety topic comes from Mike Bumbeck, the author of http://www.clunkbucket.com/. This is what he has to say on the subject:

While the scissor jack in your trunk is fine for emergency wheel changes, when it comes time to working underneath your vehicle, a floor jack and two or more sturdy jack stands are the tools for the job. A heavy-duty floor jack used in conjunction with jack stands will provide safe vehicle support. Never work under a vehicle supported by a jack alone.

Jack Types

Floor jack and jack stand sets are more affordable than ever. Everything from smaller lightweight 1-ton to super duty 5-ton models can be found for a reasonable price. Determining which setup you need depends largely on the weight of your vehicle. There's no need to get a 5-ton set if you drive a compact import, and a 1-ton set won't cut it for lifting a full size SUV.

Another important factor to consider is vehicle ground clearance. Low-profile floor jacks are designed to squeeze into tight spaces. Some sportier cars and trucks have ground hugging front, rear, and side mounted aerodynamic body panels that require a low-profile floor jack for clearance. If you can't get the jack under the vehicle you're back to square one.

Procedure

The procedure is to raise the vehicle high enough to get the jack stands underneath, and then slowly lower the vehicle onto the stands. Once the vehicle is secure on the stands, the jack can be removed, allowing you to work safely underneath. The very first step is to park the vehicle on solid, level ground such as a concrete or paved surface. Place the vehicle in park, set the emergency brake, or use a wheel chock to prevent the vehicle from moving.

Jacking and jack stand support points are also extremely crucial. A jack or jack stand in the wrong location can cause vehicle or bodily damage. Your owner's manual is a good place to find safe jacking locations for your vehicle. Never jack up a vehicle from a point not designed to handle the load. If unsure about where to place a jack or jack stand, the best strategy is to stop. Do not attempt to guess at a good location. You can easily put holes in your floorboards or worse—yourself!

Lowering

When lowering the vehicle onto the stands or back onto the ground it is important to g-e-n-t-l-y release the hydraulic pressure inside the jack. Before lowering the vehicle always double check your jack stands, or make sure the area is clear by looking and loudly saying "clear!" Slow lowering of the vehicle not only prevents damage, but gives you time to see any potential hazards before they occur. Practice raising and lowering the jack to get a good feel for how it operates before attempting the real deal.

After the vehicle is up and on the jack stands always check for solid support before attempting to work underneath. The best way to do this is to grab onto the bumper and give the vehicle a quick back and forth shake. It's much better to determine if the vehicle is solidly supported while you're above it then when underneath. The wheel chock is a good idea for an extra margin of safety once you have performed this test. Take it slow the first time around and soon you will be raising and lowering your vehicle like a pro.

5/23/2011 Learning About Depression



Until I had my own negative experience with depression, like many people who don’t understand it, I used to think that being depressed was just a bad mood or a negative outlook, and that all someone had to do was to change their mind and they should feel better. That’s how I was raised. Being depressed was a sign of weakness. I have since learned that being depressed could actually be an outward sign of a seriously distracting disease caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. If left unchecked, a downward spiral into darker mental states could ruin your life. Today’s brief, from the National Institute of Health, may help you identify some of the things to watch out for.

Learning About depression

URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000325.htm

Depression is feeling sad, blue, unhappy, or down in the dumps. Most people feel this way once in a while. Clinical depression is a mood disorder. It is when these feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration get in the way of your life for a long period of time. It also changes your body’s function. Depression is a disease caused by changes in the chemicals in your brain. Depression may begin during or after a painful event in your life. It may happen when you take certain medicines. For women, it can start after pregnancy. Sometimes there is no clear trigger or reason.

What are the signs of depression?

Most people will sometimes notice the problems described below. If several of the following symptoms last for 2 weeks or longer, talk to your doctor. When you are depressed, you may:

• Feel sad or blue most or all of the time
• Feel bad-tempered or irritable most of the time, with sudden bursts of anger
• Not enjoy activities that normally make you happy, including sex
• Feel hopeless or helpless
• Not feel good about yourself, or have feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and guilt

Normal daily activities are also changed when you are depressed. You may:

• Have trouble sleeping or sleep more than normal
• Have a hard time concentrating
• Move around more slowly or seem "jumpy" or agitated
• Feel much less hungry than before, or even lose weight
• Feel tired and lack energy
• Become less active or stop doing usual activities

A dangerous sign of depression are thoughts of death or suicide. Always talk to a friend or family member and call your doctor when you have these feelings.

Taking care of your depression at home

Whether or not your doctor gives you medicines to treat your depression, you can do a lot at home:

• Get enough sleep.
• Follow a healthy, nutritious diet.
• Take medicines correctly, and learn how to manage side effects.
• Learn to watch for early signs that depression is getting worse. Have a plan if it does.
• Try to exercise more. Look for activities that make you happy. Have good sleep habits.

Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs. These can make depression worse over time. They may also impair your judgment about suicide. When struggling with depression, talk to someone you trust about how you are feeling. Try to be around people who are caring and positive. Try volunteering or getting involved in group activities. If you are depressed in the fall or winter, ask your doctor about light therapy. It uses a special lamp that acts like the sun.

Taking medicines for depression

Some people with depression may feel better after taking antidepressants for a few weeks. But many people need to take medicines for depression for 4 - 9 months. They need this to get a full response and prevent depression from coming back. If you need them, you should take antidepressant medicines every day. Your doctor may need to change which medicine you are taking or the dosage. Don’t stop taking your medicine on your own, even if you feel better or have side effects. Always call your doctor first. When it is time to stop your medicine, you and your doctor will slowly reduce the dose instead of stopping suddenly.

Talk therapy

Talk therapy and counseling can help many people with depression. Talk therapy is a good place to talk about feelings and thoughts. It also helps you learn ways to deal with them. There are many different types of talk therapy. Often, the most effective treatment will include all of these:

• Talk therapy
• Lifestyle changes
• Medicine



5/20/2011 Compressed Air Safety



Compressed Air Safety

Compressed air is dangerous and must be used in a safe manner. So before grabbing an air hose and going into action, there are a number of safety guidelines which should be followed.

First, check to be sure the air hose is in good condition. An air hose is designed to withstand pressure, but it becomes weakened at the places where it is bent, where it is attached to the shut off valve and to the nozzle and wherever it has been kinked. Such weak points may swell like a balloon and burst, throwing pieces of hose in every direction. This may also cause the hose to thrash about dangerously. These precautions should be followed:

• Keep air hose off the floor where it is a trip hazard and subject to damage by trucks, doors, and dropped tools.
• Prevent sharp objects—even hose fittings that have been burred—from rubbing against the hose.
• Always coil the hose—without kinks—and hang it over a broad support, not over a hook, nail, or angle iron, when not in use.

Whenever you can choose the pressure, use the lowest possible pressure that will get the job done. There are many good reasons for this and here are a few:
Air pressure in excess of 30 lbs. can drive chips, as well as scale from inside the piping, into your face and eyes with the force of shrapnel. Such air driven missiles still do damage when they bounce off a surface, spinning much like a high speed cutting head.

Air pressure against the skin may penetrate deeply to cause internal hemorrhage and intense pain.

Air that enters a body opening can burst internal organs and cause slow, agonizing death.

Air in excess of 30 lbs. can blow an eye from its socket, and/or rupture an eardrum.

Certainly no one would intentionally cause such injuries. Yet every so often someone does, either accidentally or in ignorance, thinking it's a joke.

The nozzle of an air hose is a deadly weapon. Don't point it at anyone, not even yourself. Use safer, better ways of cleaning dust from your clothes—by vacuum cleaning or brushing. Dust blown from anything merely rises a little and then settles again to become a nuisance. Some of the dust blown into the air ends up in our lungs, and that's not where we want it.

In a few cases, standard safe procedures are set up for trained employees using equipment with known safety factors and observing approved safe practices. These include the following instances:

Removing dust or particles from jigs, fixtures, deep holes in parts: Use low pressure, 30 lbs. or less, and the right nozzle. Wear cup-type goggles and set up shields to protect passers-by and others in the area.

For transferring liquids from properly rated pressure vessels, check air pressure, attach hose connection tightly, remain at the control valve to shut it off in an emergency, and make sure bleed-off valves and pressure relief valves work. Never use compressed air to transfer flammable liquids.

Compressed air must be treated with respect. It's a valuable tool but it must be used intelligently and in a safe manner.

5/19/2011 Avoiding Athlete's Foot

Avoiding Athlete's foot

Athlete's foot is an infection of the feet caused by fungus. The medical term is tinea pedis. Athlete's foot may last for a short or long time and may come back after treatment.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body. Others may, under certain conditions, multiply rapidly and cause infections. Athlete's foot occurs when a particular type of fungus grows and multiplies in your feet (especially between your toes) or, less commonly, your hands.

Of the fungal infections known as tinea infections, Athlete's foot is the most common. It may occur at the same time as other fungal skin infections such as ringworm or jock itch. Putting your socks on before you put on your briefs is a good way to avoid jock itch. These fungi thrive in warm, moist areas. Your risk for getting athlete's foot increases if you:

• Wear closed shoes, especially if they are plastic-lined
• Keep your feet wet for prolonged periods of time
• Sweat a lot
• Develop a minor skin or nail injury

Athlete's foot is contagious, and can be passed through direct contact, or contact with items such as shoes, stockings, and shower or pool surfaces.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is cracked, flaking, peeling skin between the toes. The affected area is usually red and itchy. You may feel burning or stinging, and there may be blisters, oozing, or crusting. In addition to the toes, the symptoms can also occur on the heels, palms, and between the fingers.

If the fungus spreads to your nails, they can become discolored, thick, and even crumble.

Treatment

Over-the-counter antifungal powders or creams can help control the infection. These generally contain miconazole, clotrimazole, or tolnaftate. Continue using the medicine for 1 - 2 weeks after the infection has cleared from your feet to prevent the infection from returning.

In addition:

• Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between your toes.
• Wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water and dry the area very carefully and completely. Try to do this at least twice a day.
• Wear clean, cotton socks and change your socks and shoes as often as necessary to keep your feet dry.
• Athlete's foot almost always responds well to self-care, although it may come back. To prevent future infections, follow the steps listed in Prevention.

Severe, ongoing infections that don't respond to 2 - 4 weeks of self-care, and frequently recurring athlete's foot, may require further treatment by your health care provider. Stronger, prescription antifungal medications may be needed. These include topical medicines, like ketoconazole or terbinafine, and pills. Antibiotics may be necessary to treat secondary bacterial infections that occur in addition to the fungus (for example, from scratching).

Expectations (prognosis)

Athlete's foot infections range from mild to severe and may last a short or long time. They may persist or recur, but they generally respond well to treatment. Long-term medication and preventive measures may be needed.

Complications

• Recurrence of athlete's foot
• Secondary bacterial skin infections such as cellulitis
• Lymphangitis, lymphadenitis
• Systemic side effects of medications (see the specific medication)
• Calling your health care provider

Call your doctor right away if:
• Your foot is swollen and warm to the touch, especially if there are red streaks. These are signs of a possible bacterial infection. Other signs include pus or other discharge and fever.
• You have diabetes and develop athlete's foot.

Also call your doctor if athlete's foot symptoms do not go away within one month of using self-care measures.

Prevention

To prevent athlete's foot, follow these measures:
• Dry your feet thoroughly after bathing or swimming.
• Wear sandals or flip-flops (aka “shower shoes”) at a public shower or pool.
• Change your socks often to keep your feet dry. This should be done at least once a day.
• Use antifungal or drying powders to prevent athlete's foot if you are susceptible to getting it, or you frequent areas where athlete's foot fungus is common (like public showers).
• Wear shoes that are well ventilated and, preferably, made of natural material such as leather. It may help to alternate shoes each day, so they can dry completely between wearings. Avoid plastic-lined shoes.

Athlete’s foot can be painful and unsightly. Follow these steps to avoid damaging your feet.

5/17/2011 Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls

Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls

Did you know that slips, trips, and falls are second only to automobile accidents in causing personal injury? On stairways alone, falls result in almost two million disabling injuries yearly. There are thousands more minor injuries caused by slips, trips, and falls each year. Most alarming of all is the fact that industrial falls cause over 1000 deaths each year. Today's safety topic discusses what can be done to prevent slips, trips and falls. Most of the suggestions in this article can be used on the job and at home.

Slips occur when there is too little friction between a person's feet and the walking surface. Many factors can cause a slip. Ice, oil, water, cleaning fluids, and other slippery substances are probably the most obvious causes. However, the flooring may be inappropriate-perhaps it is a slick material-or the person who slips may not be wearing proper shoes. To prevent slips, avoid walking in areas which pose slipping hazards if at all possible. Always promptly clean up spills of slippery substances. Better yet, prevent the spills in the first place. If an area is a chronic problem, re-route foot traffic in order to avoid it. If flooring is a problem, replace it or coat it with a non-slip surfacing material. Always follow your company's safe shoe policy. Most safe shoe policies require a slip-resistant sole.

Trips occur when a person's foot contacts an object and they are thrown off balance. The main cause of tripping is obvious--anytime something is in a walkway it could cause someone to trip. Another culprit is an object which projects into the walkway--perhaps material stored low on a shelf. Poor lighting and uneven walking surfaces also cause tripping. Prevention of trips is simple but does require diligence. Keep objects that could cause someone to trip out of the way. Repair uneven flooring and install proper lighting if required.

Falls can be caused by a number of things. Slips and trips frequently result in a fall. Falls also occur for other reasons. Improper use of ladders and scaffolding can result in a fall-usually a very serious one. Falls also happen when people climb objects without using fall protection equipment. Don't risk serious injury by taking shortcuts. If you are working on a ladder, scaffold, or other elevated platform, make sure you know the requirements for using them safely. Always use fall protection equipment when it is required.

Slips, trips, and falls cause numerous injuries every day. But they are among the easiest hazards to correct. Take the time to look around your worksite for these hazards and work to prevent them. Take care not to cause any slip, trip, or fall hazards as you go about your daily activities. Follow the instructions set in your safety program. Don't let a slip, trip, or fall keep you from enjoying all that life has to offer.

5/16/2011 Sleep Injuries

Ever wake up with a neck pain that you didn’t go to bed with? Having a stiff neck can be a painful distraction at work. Today’s brief is from a 2009 Harvard Medical School Special Health Report, Say “good night” to neck pain:


As with so many things, when it comes to neck pain, an ounce of prevention may be worth a pound of cure. It’s true that some causes of neck pain such as age-related wear and tear are not under your control. On the other hand, there are many things you can do to minimize your risk. One place to start is to look at how you sleep and what effect this may have on neck pain.

Getting in the best position

Two sleeping positions are easiest on the neck: on your side or on your back. If you sleep on your back, choose a rounded pillow to support the natural curve of your neck, with a flatter pillow cushioning your head. This can be achieved by tucking a small neck roll into the pillowcase of a flatter, softer pillow, or by using a special pillow that has a built-in neck support with an indentation for the head to rest in. Here are some additional tips for side- and back-sleepers:

1. Try using a feather pillow, which easily conforms to the shape of the neck. Feather pillows will collapse over time, however, and should be replaced every year or so.

2. Another option is a traditionally shaped pillow with “memory foam” that conforms to the contour of your head and neck. Some cervical pillows are also made with memory foam. Manufacturers of memory-foam pillows claim they help foster proper spinal alignment.

3. Avoid using too high or stiff a pillow, which keeps the neck flexed overnight and can result in morning pain and stiffness.

4. If you sleep on your side, keep your spine straight by using a pillow that is higher under your neck than your head.

5. When you are riding in a plane, train, or car, or even just reclining to watch TV, a horseshoe-shaped pillow can support your neck and prevent your head from dropping to one side if you doze. If the pillow is too large behind the neck, however, it will force your head forward.

Sleeping on your stomach is tough on your spine, because the back is arched and your neck turned to the side. Preferred sleeping positions are often set early in life and can be tough to change, not to mention that we don’t often wake up in the same position in which we fell asleep. Still, it’s worth trying to start the night sleeping on your back or side in a well-supported, healthy position.

Beyond sleep position

Emerging research suggests that not just sleep position, but sleep itself, can play a role in musculoskeletal pain, including neck and shoulder pain. In one 2008 study, researchers compared musculoskeletal pain in 4,140 healthy men and women with and without sleeping problems. Sleeping problems included difficulty falling asleep, trouble staying asleep, waking early in the mornings, and non-restorative sleep. They found that people who reported moderate to severe problems in at least three of these four categories were significantly more likely to develop chronic musculoskeletal pain after one year than those who reported little or no problem with sleep. One possible explanation is that sleep disturbances disrupt the muscle relaxation and healing that normally occur during sleep. Additionally, it is well established that pain can disrupt sleep, contributing to a vicious cycle of pain disrupting sleep, and sleep problems contributing to pain.

5/13/2011 Setting a Good Example

Setting a Good Example

We sometimes seem to be living in a copycat world. If one automaker’s leasing offer attracts consumer interest, every other car company will soon be riding the same bandwagon. No sooner does the latest buzz-word appear on one food or detergent label than the shelves are filled with products proclaiming "no trans-fat," "low calorie," or "organic and biodegradable." It’s clear, though, that what they’re really trying to copy is success and profit.

Why mention this in a talk about safety? Because although we may occasionally be tempted to take an unsafe shortcut just because we’ve seen someone else do it and get away with it, we’re more likely to do things safely because we’ve seen others doing them that way. That’s one of the fringe benefits of doing things the safe way. We all profit from each other’s good examples.

"Don’t do as I do; do as I say" is a pretty tired expression. It became tired because we all have repeated it many times—not just verbally but in our actions, which we all know speak louder than words.

When we leave our safety glasses resting on our foreheads rather than in place over our eyes, or when we kick an empty sports drink bottle under a bench rather than pick it up, we’re not selling safety effectively. Our actions are saying: "I believe in wearing eye protection but not in protecting my eyes. And I know that trash can cause a tripping accident, and a hygiene problem, but it isn’t important enough to make me pick it up."

There’s another angle to good examples. Too often people dress to impress others with their good taste rather than their knowledge of safety. Wearing rings, bracelets, and other ornaments is dangerous around machinery and on jobs in which it’s possible for jewelry to catch on objects and cause injury to the wearer. Long sleeves, floppy pant legs, and long hair can be hazardous on some jobs, too.

So we should always dress for the job. Our image as a fashion expert may suffer, but it’ll give way to the more important and more beneficial image of safety.

Some of us probably feel we have already set good examples for safety, and perhaps we have. But consider just for a moment how, when we think about an accident, it’s usually in regard to someone else. Accidents are a reality. Make your personal safety just as real, and you’ll have a good chance of not becoming that "other person" to whom accidents are always happening.

5/12/2011 Save Your Back When Working In Awkward Positions

 

SAVE YOUR BACK WHEN WORKING IN AWKWARD POSITIONS

 

 

We have all been told to avoid back injury by bending our knees when we lift, keeping the load close and avoiding twisting motions. These safety rules may be appropriate for simple, direct lifting of materials, but what about back care when you are working in awkward positions? Work tasks that require you to reach or stretch away from your body while handling materials can also put excessive strain on the vertebral discs and soft tissues in the back. An awkward position is a work posture that distorts the spine from its natural curves, puts unbalanced pressure on the discs, and can strain arm, leg or back tissues if held for any length of time.

 

What are some work situations that may put you in "awkward" positions?

1. Jobs that require you to bend and reach into bins or containers to retrieve or place material.
2. Overhead work, installing or servicing equipment, pulling wire, cleaning ceilings, etc.
3. Floor or ground level jobs such as installing or servicing equipment, cleaning, etc.
4. Work tasks in confined or small spaces where there is limited range of motion such as boilers, hatches, pipes, tanks, vaults, crawl spaces, etc.
5. Jobs on ladders, work platforms or scaffolding where you may over-reach to adjust, clean, install or service.
6. Pulling loads, instead of pushing them, when removing equipment or other materials.
7. Repetitive tasks that require twisting of the back such as loading or handling material 90 deg. to 180 deg. from the starting point.

How can you avoid injury when working in awkward positions?

• Raise bins and containers off the floor and/or tilt them to reduce bending and over-reaching.
• When working overhead, stand on a steady and adjustable platform. Keep your back posture in its natural curve to avoid uneven spinal loading.
• If working on the floor, avoid bending over to work. Squat down using your leg muscles and wear cushioned knee pads if you have to kneel at work.
• In confined spaces, plan your work, and reduce clutter in the area which confines you further and increases the need to twist or overreach. Also arrange for adequate illumination.
• Don't hold an awkward position for too long. Pause often to stretch and straighten out.
• When leaning forward to work, support the weight of your upper body on your free hand and arm, whenever possible. This greatly relieves pressure on your lower back.
• Position yourself as close as possible to the job, avoid overreaching and/or use tools with longer handles when working on ladders or scaffolding.
• Never lift heavy loads that are far from your body's center of gravity. Get help in such cases.
• Position your work below the shoulder and above the knees to minimize over-reaching.
• Push, rather than pull, loads to help maintain the spine's natural curve.
• Remember that a back support belt may remind you to lift correctly, but it will not protect your spine if you overreach or twist with a load.

What specific awkward positions do you face in your work?

 

How can you "work smarter instead of harder" to prevent injuries?

5/10/2011 Cuts and Burns

Hello Safety blog followers.  Today I had a really tough time getting the words to come out.  At times during the presentation it felt as though I had a mouthful of peanut butter and a brain stuck in neutral.  So you might want to just read this one as opposed to listening to it, but I added the link to the audio anyway.  I apologize for the poor audio quality, and can only attribute this to poor sleep last night...but the show must go on, right?  Thanks for your patience with this one! -- As always, your comments are welcomed and appreciated...even today!

CUTS AND BURNS

Nicks, cuts, scratches and burns are minor injuries that can occur to any one of us no matter how careful we are; minor injuries to the skin that are often ignored. But it must be remembered that skin is a vital organ; one that should not be ignored. Not only is skin the largest bodily organ, it also keeps the good stuff in and the bad stuff out. So what do you do when you get a minor injury? If you are like many, you realize a doctor's visit is not necessary and try to treat the injury yourself. How do you know when and when not, to seek professional treatment? How do you treat injuries that do not require a doctor's visit?

Cuts: Cuts require immediate professional attention if:

• There is severe bleeding, especially arterial wounds, which literally pump blood from the body.
• Puncture wounds, such as those caused by a rusty nail or animal bite. These will require a tetanus booster shot.
• Cuts more than one half inch long and one quarter inch deep, which will require stitches.

To treat any cuts, first stop the bleeding and then treat to prevent infection. Place a sterile gauze (or if you do not have any gauze, a clean cloth) over the wound and hold it until the bleeding stops. Apply pressure continuously. If the gauze or cloth soaks through, simply place another cloth over the first and resume the pressure. When the bleeding has stopped, wash the cut with soap and water, followed by a disinfectant. If the bleeding does not stop, get professional treatment. After the cut is clean, look for any foreign object(s) in the cut and remove them. If you do not, a threatening infection may set in. To aid in keeping the wound clean while it heals, you can cover it with a bandage. However, if you use a bandage, remember it will need attention too. Change it twice daily and use an antibiotic cream to prevent further infection. Keep in mind that wounds exposed to air heal faster. But it is also very important to keep a wound clean and dry to prevent infection.

Treatment for a scrape is the same, except you do not have to worry about stopping blood flow as there is very little.

Burns:

Burns are classified as first, second, or third degree. A first degree burn causes redness. Blistering is caused by a second degree burn. Charred, blackened or blanched skin are signs of a third degree burn. Furthermore, burns can be caused by heat (thermal burns) or by contact with chemicals. Seek professional, medical treatment for:

• All third degree burns.
• Second degree burns involving more than one fifth of the body or if the burn has affected the face, hands, feet, or genitalia.

First aid treatment for a burn involves relief of pain, infection prevention and treatment or prevention of shock. If a burn begins to blister, cool it by placing your hand or foot in cold, still (not running) water. You will need to use an ice pack on any other part of the body. Gently clean the burn and cover the area with a sterile, non-stick gauze. Change the dressing twice a day. Never puncture a blister. This just opens the door for infection. Never use butter, oils, or petroleum jelly on burns.

If the burn is due to a chemical exposure, flush the burned area with running water for at least 15 minutes. While you flush, remove any contaminated clothing, especially clothing in the area of the burn. Check the first aid instructions for the chemical. These are found on the container and/or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Treat as specified. Cover the burn with a clean dressing and call a doctor.

• If a third degree burn is involved, get professional medical treatment quickly. Call an ambulance first. While awaiting professional help, make sure any fire is out and/or remove the victim from the burn source. DO NOT REMOVE ANY CLOTHING OR APPLY ANY DRESSINGS. Treat for shock and make sure the victim is still breathing.

Use common sense in all situations. Maintain a well stocked first aid kit and be familiar with first aid procedures. Being knowledgeable and prepared may be the smartest first step of all.

5/09/2011 Spider safety in Mid-South is serious business!

Spider safety in Mid-South is serious business!

by Dean Davis, Safety Specialist, Memphis District, USACE

Overview

Most spiders are absolutely harmless to humans. In fact, of the 20,000 different species of spiders that inhabit the Americas, only 60 are capable of biting humans. Within that small group, only four are known to be dangerous to humans: brown recluse, black widow, hobo or aggressive house spider, and the yellow sac spider. Within this select group, only the brown recluse and the black widow spider have ever been associated with significant disease and very rare reports of death.

These spiders are not aggressive and bite only when threatened, usually when pressed up against the victim's skin. They seek out dark, warm, dry environments such as attics, closets, porches, barns, basements, woodpiles, and old tires. Its small, haphazard web, found mostly in corners and crevices, is not used to capture prey. Most bites occur in the summer months.

Outlook

The majority of brown recluse bites cause little permanent skin damage, although, in some cases, moderate to severe tissue destruction is possible. The full extent of damage to tissues is not known for days. It may take many months for the wound to completely heal. Brown recluse bites are noted for somewhat slow development and often take up to 12 hours to reveal themselves. Necrosis of skin (death of the skin), if it occurs, does so in the first 96 hours. Bites older than this not revealing tissue death have not been reported to worsen.

Black widow spider bites result in a halo lesion consisting of a pale circular area surrounded by a ring of redness. The initial bite of the black widow spider is usually painful and the victim will often note the spider during the bite. This bite can result in numbness, tingling, rashes, sweating, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, cramps, rigid abdominal muscles, chest tightness, weakness, and difficulty breathing. The abdominal pain due to the spider bite can be so severe that it mimics abdominal medical conditions such as pancreatitis.

Spider Bite Treatment

If a black widow spider or brown recluse spider bite is suspected, you should see your doctor or go to an emergency department immediately. Wash the bite with soap and water and remove all jewelry. Swelling can occur and will make it difficult to remove some jewelry. The pain resulting from a black widow spider bite is usually so severe that it will require strong pain medications such as opioids. Definitely DO NOT cut into the wound or apply suction.

Prevention

Reducing the possibility of an encounter with a brown recluse spider starts with eliminating known spider habitations. Perform routine, thorough house cleaning and reduce clutter in garages, attics, and basements. Move all firewood, building materials, and debris away from the foundation, install tight-fitting window screens and door sweeps, and clean behind outside shutters. Consider installing yellow or sodium vapor light bulbs outside entrances because these lights are less attractive to insects and draw fewer spiders to the area, and if needed consider professional pest elimination.

Identification

Brown recluse                                        Black widow

 

 

                       courtesy photo                                              Jon Wilson photo

Brown recluse spiders are notable for their characteristic violin pattern on the body part to which the legs attach. The violin pattern is seen with the base of the violin at the head of the spider and the neck of the violin pointing to the rear. These small non-hairy spiders are yellowish-tan to dark brown in color with darker legs. They measure with legs about 1 inch in length.

The black widow spider is a shiny, inky black spider with a large round tail segment (abdomen). Including its legs, the black widow generally measures from one-half inch to one inch in length. Red to orange-colored markings, usually in the shape of an hourglass, are found on the underside of the belly.

5/6/2011 Eye Protection: Preserve Your Vision!

EYE PROTECTION: PRESERVE YOUR VISION

Today's brief is going to require some effort on your part! I'm assigning everyone a homework task. But don't panic, this homework will be a piece of cake! What I'd like you to do on your way home today is spend the evening observing the many beautiful things in this world! For just one evening, stop taking your eyesight for granted! Let me suggest the following:

As you leave the shop today, look up, down and all around, observing the beauty around you. See the blue sky, the many shades of leaves in the trees, and the different birds that occupy them. When you get home, watch your children playing in the yard and pay attention to how their eyes light up when Daddy or Mommy gets home. Have you ever stopped to think how wonderful your eyesight really is? Well, think about it. For about two minutes, close your eyes completely and contemplate how life would be if you lost your eyesight! That's it-your homework is complete! Did you come up with visions about how your life would change if you couldn't see? Did they include any of the following?

· When you and your family are on vacation, they will have to describe the scenery to you.
· You would have to be led wherever you want to go.
· Your spouse would have to describe the way your children's eyes light up when they open their presents at Christmas.
· No more leisurely activities such as hunting or fishing, watching movies or TV.
· No more driving the new truck you just bought.

Does this sound like something you want to go through? I didn't think so! Is there a way to prevent this from happening? You bet-wear your eye protection! A recent article in Safety & Health states that every day approximately 1,000 eye injuries occur in the U.S. OSHA estimates that 90% of eye injuries are preventable through the proper use of safety eye wear. What does this tell us? Many people are not wearing proper eye protection! Let's examine a few operations that present eye hazards:

· Grinding, hammering, chiseling, wood working or any other activity that might cause large fragments or small particles to fly through the air and into the eyes;
· Painting, spraying, sanding, metal working, spot welding or any process that may cause dust, fumes or tiny particulate to become airborne;
· Work tasks such as electric welding and cutting with a torch, furnace tending or operations around radiant energy or intense heat;
· Operations such as handling acids and caustics, and hot metal casting and babbitting where gases, vapors, liquids or splashing metals are generated.

Your eyesight is a precious gift. Please do not wait until it's too late to come to your senses. If your work presents an exposure to eye hazards, wear your eye protection.

Don't take chances. Open your eyes and protect your vision!

5/5/2011 Ladder Safety

LADDER SAFETY

We have all worked with ladders at some time in our lives, either at work or at home. The following are some tips that may make your interaction with ladders less hazardous:

• Before using a ladder, inspect it for faults, such as broken rungs or rails. If it is an extension ladder, inspect the pulleys, ropes and locks for excessive wear. Also, check the footings and pads to make sure they still provide a non-slip surface. If any defect is found, the ladder should be tagged unsafe and taken out of service. If it cannot be fixed, make sure it is disposed of properly.
• When setting up a ladder, make sure the ground it is set upon is level and stable. Do not set the ladder up on a muddy surface or you may find yourself falling over. Do not use bricks or other material to raise the height of the ladder. If it is not tall enough, you are using the wrong ladder.
• The ladder should reach a minimum of three feet above the "point of support" and should be secured at this point.
• When using extension ladders, abide by the 1:4 rule. This means if you are using a 12 foot ladder, the base should be three feet from the structure. Some ladders provide a picture guide on the ladder itself to assist you in this. When using a stepladder, make sure the folding cross braces are locked in the proper position before you step onto it.
• Always face the ladder when ascending or descending, and have both hands free to grasp it securely. If you need tools, they should be carried in a tool belt or pulled up with a rope once you have reached your destination.
• Remember the "3-Point Rule": At least two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, should be in contact with the ladder at all times.
• Keep your body between the side rails of the ladder. This reduces the chance of tipping it over and/or falling off.
• Do not climb higher than the third rung from the top on straight or extension ladders or the second tread from the top on stepladders.

By following these rules, you greatly reduce your chances of being injured while working on ladders. Remember, the life you save will be your own!

5/04/2011 Sun Safety



SUN SAFETY

At some point we’ve all been burned by the sun. Sunburn is the effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the skin. Ultraviolet light is beaming down on us every day, and always has. But now there’s less protective ozone in the atmosphere and risks of exposure have increased.

UV rays are more powerful than visible light rays. They’re so powerful that they can cause cancer.

Ultraviolet radiation can also cause cataracts, other eye damage, and premature aging of the skin.

When you work in the sun, especially in spring and summer, you need to minimize the hazards of UV exposure.

1. Wear a shirt and long pants to cover most of your skin.

2. Protect the rest of your skin with sunscreen. Use SPF 30 or higher. Follow the instructions about how often to reapply. Don’t forget your ears. The more you sweat, the more often you need to reapply sunscreen.

3. Protect your eyes. Wear safety sunglasses if the tint doesn’t interfere with vision. (Most safety glasses—clear or tinted—decrease your UV exposure.)

4. Avoid contact with substances known to cause photosensitization, such as coal tar.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor.

Multiply the SPF number by 10 to know how many minutes you can stay in the sun without burning.

Use a UV-blocking lip balm too.

Sunlight doesn’t have to be direct to do damage. Light reflected off surfaces such as sand, water, concrete, and snow can also cause UV exposure.

Weather reports now include a UV index. This gives you an idea of how intense the ultraviolet radiation will be under clear sunshine or light clouds.

When the index is high (7 or higher) you can get sunburned in only 15 to 20 minutes.

The highest exposure of the day is from noon to 2.

Sunscreen should be standard equipment for anyone working outside during spring and summer. Be sure to keep a bottle handy in your toolbox.

5/3/2011 Allergies, Antihistamines & Drowsiness

ALLERGIES, ANTIHISTAMINES & DROWSINESS

Spring is here! It is time to put away the heavy coats and break out the sunglasses. But the weather conditions that lead to "spring fever" also give rise to another affliction that affects many of us-hay fever.

Hay fever can make those who are sensitive to pollen miserable, interfering with work and play. Fortunately, modern medicine has developed drugs which give temporary relief from hay fever's common symptoms. As users of antihistamines and decongestants know, however, there are side effects to these over-the-counter drugs. The side effect most often experienced is drowsiness.

A Gallup survey of allergy sufferers was conducted several years ago. This survey found that the package warnings against driving or operating heavy machinery while taking the medicine are largely ignored. If you think about it, this shouldn't be surprising-since people take the medication so that they can continue with their normal activities, and they attempt to do so.

We hope that people will be aware of the drowsiness problem and watch out for it while working or driving. However, a recent article in the Cal-OSHA Reporter indicates this is not the case. A University Medical Center research team conducted an allergy workshop and concluded that most workers who are trying to control their allergies with over-the-counter drugs are not aware that they are sedated. In addition to feeling drowsy, other side effects of being sedated are reduced coordination, slowed reaction time and impaired judgment. These may be even less recognizable than drowsiness, but any of this can happen when a person is not fully alert. The use of allergy medication can also affect one's ability to focus on the work to be done by causing dizziness, nervousness, nausea or headaches.

Working in a hazardous industry is dangerous enough in itself. You must be alert at all times and able to react to production issues, recognize safety hazards, and be an asset to the crew. So what can be done to reduce the discomfort of hay fever season, yet keep you effective at work? The following tips may be helpful:

• Consider taking the medication for only significant allergy attacks-particularly if your job involves operating machinery or power tools.

• If you need the medicine, take the smallest dose possible that will still provide a level of relief that you need.

• Before taking the medication, read not only the warnings on the outer package, but also on the product insert. This small piece of paper, with equally small print, usually has much more detailed information about the product and possible side effects.

• Follow the recommended dosage. More is not necessarily better. Taking "extra doses" may only provide more side effects-and not more relief.

Finally, if you have any questions about allergy medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Some products may be less troublesome than others. Spring allergies can be very uncomfortable, but an accident or an injury could bring an even greater problem into your life.