by Liz Stevens, contributing writer Plastics Business Marijuana now is legal, in some form, in 33 US states. Marijuana use still is illegal at the federal level, but attitudes and laws are changing. That’s partly because medical marijuana is being used legally in many states for the treatment of a variety of conditions, with pain topping the list. And, lawmakers in nearly a … [Read more...] about Workplace Implications for Marijuana Use
Safety & Compliance
Health and Safety in the Plastics Industry: Processors in the Spotlight with Best Practices
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor Plastics Business Creating a safe work environment takes the effort of every person in a plastics processing facility, whether in the front office or on the production line. Training and awareness are key to keeping safety procedures at the top of the priority list, and the companies profiled in this article have implemented best … [Read more...] about Health and Safety in the Plastics Industry: Processors in the Spotlight with Best Practices
Hearing Conservation in the Plastics Industry
by Katy Ibsen, contributing writer Plastics Business Over the past two decades, more attention has been given to the effects of increased noise within the manufacturing environment, which can lead to hearing loss. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), "noise, or unwanted sound, is one of the most pervasive occupational health … [Read more...] about Hearing Conservation in the Plastics Industry
Finding an Alternative to Lockout/Tagout Procedures
by Joseph Gross and Alan Rothenbuecher, Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP Although no one wants to trade off safety for productivity, plastics manufacturers cannot help but consider the implications. Although exceptions certainly exist, procedures focused on safety generally cause productivity concerns, at least in the short term. For instance, lockout/tagout … [Read more...] about Finding an Alternative to Lockout/Tagout Procedures
Fan Filters Reduce Dust at Toyota Material Handling
by Lara Copeland, contributing editor Plastics Business A typical Midwestern town, Columbus, Indiana, is known not only for its unique architecture throughout the downtown area, but also as the hometown of basketball player turned shoe salesman Chuck Taylor and Vice President Mike Pence. It also is the location of Toyota Material Handling USA, Inc., a forklift … [Read more...] about Fan Filters Reduce Dust at Toyota Material Handling