by Brittany Willes, contributing editor Plastics Business An operator in a rubber molding facility is hard at work. He uses a steel hook to help move the newest batch of product down the conveyor. As he works, the steel hook assist device gets caught on the conveyor and nearly pulls his arm down the line. Further down the conveyor, a chopper knife cuts the steel hook in … [Read more...] about Visual Management for Safety in Manufacturing
Safety & Compliance
Reducing the Risks of Combustible Dust
provided by Grainger Combustible dust, as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is "a solid material composed of distinct particles or pieces, regardless of size, shape or chemical composition, which can present a fire or deflagration hazard when suspended in air or some other oxidizing medium over a range of concentrations." The presence … [Read more...] about Reducing the Risks of Combustible Dust
Lockout/Tagout Procedures
by Jen Clark, Plastics Business Any manager whose company has ever been the target of an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) investigation knows the process can be pretty stressful. Most inspections are conducted without prior notice, but there are a few instances in which OSHA may give notice to the employer – normally less than 24 hours, however. Among … [Read more...] about Lockout/Tagout Procedures
OSHA Inspections: A Planning and Survival Guide
by Felix C. "Pete" Wade, Ice Miller LLP OSHA inspections can add a level of stress and frustration to any workplace. Be prepared with this information from ICE Miller LLP. How does OSHA arrive at your workplace? The worst possible way is that you have had a death or hospitalization of three or more employees. You have to report the incident within eight hours to OSHA. The … [Read more...] about OSHA Inspections: A Planning and Survival Guide
The Real Truth about Safety: Creating a Culture of Buy-In
by Garrison Wynn, CSP Knowing that safety is important clearly is not enough to create (or even put a dent in creating) incident-free environments. Most of us have heard the messages "Safety First" and "Target Zero." I've even heard one earnest, dedicated guy in rural Louisiana put it this way: "We ain't toleratin' any more dead dudes!" As powerful and eloquent as these … [Read more...] about The Real Truth about Safety: Creating a Culture of Buy-In