Bruce Bender’s Post

Safety First: Power Up Your Basic Workshop Practice: Did you know basic workshop duties can still pose safety risks? Even seemingly simple tasks can lead to accidents. Absolutely, safety in workshops is crucial for ensuring the well-being of everyone involved. Let's dive into some additional details on each point mentioned: Pre-Workshop Planning: Conducting a thorough risk assessment involves identifying potential hazards specific to the workshop activities planned. This includes assessing the workspace layout, equipment safety, materials used, and any potential environmental factors. Develop mitigation strategies such as implementing engineering controls (e.g., machine guards), administrative controls (e.g., work procedures), and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements. Consider the experience level of participants and tailor the workshop accordingly. For example, beginners may require more guidance and supervision. Clear communication: Before the workshop begins, provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of safety procedures. This includes familiarizing them with emergency exits, first aid kits' locations, and how to report incidents. Demonstrate the proper use of equipment and tools, emphasizing safety precautions and potential risks associated with misuse. Encourage an open dialogue where participants feel comfortable asking questions or expressing concerns about safety. Personal Protective equipment: Ensure that all participants have access to and wear appropriate protective equipment throughout the workshop. This may include safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, and sturdy footwear. Provide guidance on selecting the right PPE for specific tasks and ensure that it fits properly to offer effective protection. Open Communication: Foster a culture where participants feel empowered to speak up if they notice unsafe conditions or behaviors. Emphasize the importance of reporting near misses or potential hazards to prevent future accidents. Designate a safety officer or point of contact who participants can approach with any safety concerns during the workshop. Post-Workshop Review: After the workshop concludes, conduct a thorough review of any incidents or near misses that occurred. Identify root causes and discuss preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future. Solicit feedback from participants regarding their perception of safety during the workshop and any suggestions for improvement. Use this feedback to refine safety protocols and enhance future workshop experiences. In addition to these practices, consider integrating hands-on safety demonstrations, interactive exercises, and scenario-based discussions to reinforce safety principles effectively. Remember, safety is a continuous process, and ongoing vigilance is key to maintaining a safe workshop environment.

Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls with Effective Workplace Safety Practices 🚶♂️ Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of workplace injuries, but they are also highly preventable. Implementing effective safety practices can significantly reduce the risk of these incidents and keep your employees safe. Let’s explore how to improve slip, trip, and fall prevention in your workplace in Malaysia. 🇲🇾 1. Keeping Walkways Clear and Well-Maintained 🚧 Ensure that all walkways, stairs, and work areas are free of clutter, debris, and obstacles. Regularly inspect and maintain these areas to address issues such as loose flooring, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting that could lead to slips or trips. 2. Using Proper Signage to Warn of Hazards 🛑 When spills, wet floors, or temporary obstructions are present, use clear and visible signage to warn employees and visitors of the potential hazards. Promptly clean up spills and remove obstacles to minimize the risk of falls. 3. Providing Slip-Resistant Flooring and Footwear 👢 In areas prone to wet or oily conditions, install slip-resistant flooring materials or mats to improve traction. Additionally, provide employees with slip-resistant footwear that is appropriate for their work environment. Take Action Now! Prevent slips, trips, and falls in your workplace with comprehensive prevention strategies. At Thinker Resources, we offer training and resources to help you implement effective safety measures that protect your employees from common workplace hazards.

🔒 Essential Workplace Safety Regulations: A Summary for Professionals 🔒 Ensuring a safe working environment is crucial. Here are key highlights from Ontario's safety regulations (O. Reg. 213/91 & O. Reg. 61/23): Section 21: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Workers must wear appropriate PPE to protect against workplace hazards. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 21 (1). Employers must require workers to comply with PPE requirements. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 21 (2). Workers must be adequately trained in the use and care of PPE before use. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 21 (3). PPE provided must be a proper fit, considering all relevant factors including body types. O. Reg. 61/23, s. 1. Section 22: Protective Headwear Workers must wear protective headwear at all times on a project. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 22 (1). Protective headwear must: Consist of a shell and suspension adequate to protect against impacts and small objects. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 22 (2)(a). Withstand a dielectric strength test at 20,000 volts. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 22 (2)(b). Section 23: Protective Footwear Workers must wear protective footwear at all times on a project. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 23 (1). Protective footwear must: Have a box toe that can resist at least 125 joules impact. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 23 (2)(a). Have a sole/insole that can resist a penetration load of 1.2 kilonewtons. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 23 (2)(b). Section 24: Eye Protection Workers must use appropriate eye protection when there is a risk of injury. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 24. Section 25: Skin Protection Workers must use appropriate protection when there's a risk of injury from noxious substances, punctures, cuts, hot objects, or radiant heat. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 25. Section 26: Fall Protection Regulations apply where there's a risk of falling from heights over 3 meters, into machinery, water, hazardous substances, or through openings. O. Reg. 145/00, s. 12; O. Reg. 85/04, s. 4; O. Reg. 345/15, s. 4. Prioritize safety and ensure compliance with these regulations to protect yourself and your team. 👍 #WorkplaceSafety #PPE #ConstructionSafety #WorkerProtection #SafetyRegulations

There ya have it folks... You don't need nerves of steel to get a good grip on safety, in fact it's quite the opposite. Getting a grip on safety" means taking proactive steps to actively manage and prioritize safety in a particular situation or environment, often focusing on identifying and mitigating potential hazards, especially related to slips, trips, and falls, by ensuring proper awareness and taking necessary precautions to prevent accidents; essentially, taking control of safety measures to minimize risks. Key points about "getting a grip on safety": Focus on prevention: The phrase emphasizes actively preventing incidents rather than just reacting to them. Slip and fall awareness: Many safety programs using this phrase specifically target hazards like wet floors, cluttered walkways, and improper footwear which can lead to slips and falls. Workplace application: This phrase is often used in workplace safety initiatives to encourage employees to be mindful of potential hazards and take appropriate actions. Example scenarios where "getting a grip on safety" might be used: Construction site: Implementing regular safety inspections, ensuring workers wear proper safety gear, and providing training on fall prevention measures. Manufacturing facility: Implementing procedures to clean up spills immediately, marking potential tripping hazards, and ensuring proper lighting in work areas. Home environment: Removing clutter from walkways, securing loose rugs, and using non-slip mats in high-risk areas.

Ensuring Safety through Effective Supervision in Manufacturing At True North Lean, we believe that safety is the cornerstone of productivity and success in the manufacturing industry. Yet, it's often overlooked that supervisors play a crucial role in maintaining a safe working environment. Many supervisors are unaware that their responsibilities extend beyond overseeing operations—they are also accountable for the safety and well-being of their workers. Supervisors, here's why your role is vital: when you take an active stance on safety, you not only protect your team from harm but also contribute to a culture of vigilance and care. Understanding and implementing safety measures is a key aspect of your leadership. Let’s delve into two critical areas: slips and falls, and machine guards and lockout procedures. Preventing Slips and Falls Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common workplace incidents. They can lead to serious injuries and impact productivity. As a supervisor, you can prevent these incidents by ensuring that: ⭐Walkways are Clear: Regularly inspect and clear walkways of obstructions and spills. Implement a routine housekeeping schedule. ⭐Proper Footwear: Ensure workers wear appropriate, non-slip footwear. ⭐Signage: Use clear signage to highlight wet or uneven surfaces. ⭐Training: Conduct regular training sessions on safe walking practices and immediate spill cleanup. Implementing Guards and Lockout Procedures Machine-related accidents can be devastating. Ensuring that guards and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures are in place is essential for preventing such incidents. Here’s what you need to do: ⭐Machine Guards: Verify that all machines have appropriate guards and that they are in good working condition. Guards should cover moving parts to prevent accidental contact. ⭐LOTO Procedures: Implement and enforce strict lockout/tagout procedures. Ensure that all employees understand and follow these protocols when performing maintenance or repairs. ⭐Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with safety protocols. Address any discrepancies immediately. ⭐Training and Communication: Continuously train your team on the importance of guards and LOTO. Encourage open communication so workers feel comfortable reporting any safety concerns. By focusing on these areas, supervisors can significantly reduce the risk of workplace accidents. At True North Lean, we are dedicated to empowering supervisors with the knowledge and tools they need to create safer work environments. Your proactive approach to safety will not only protect your workers but also foster a culture of care and responsibility. Stay safe, stay vigilant, and let’s work together to ensure a safer future for all. Visit us at True North Lean to learn more about our training programs and resources. #SafetyFirst #ManufacturingSafety #Leadership #TrueNorthLean

Workplace Safety Tip of the Week: Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls! 🚧 Keep your workplace safe and accident-free by taking simple steps to reduce slip, trip, and fall hazards: Keep walkways clear: Ensure aisles and pathways are free of clutter, cables, and other obstacles. Clean up spills immediately: Use appropriate signage to warn others of wet floors and clean up any spills as soon as they occur. Wear appropriate footwear: Choose non-slip shoes, especially if you work in areas prone to spills or wet surfaces. Use proper lighting: Ensure all work areas and walkways are well-lit to help identify potential hazards. Report hazards: If you notice any loose carpeting, uneven flooring, or other risks, report them immediately to your supervisor or maintenance team. Remember: Preventing slips, trips, and falls not only protects you but also helps create a safer work environment for everyone. Stay alert and stay safe! 🛡️ By staying mindful of these everyday safety practices, you can help maintain a safe and efficient workplace. 🌟

One of the most essential items of PPE where you have moving machinery.

Safety Discussion/ Topics for Daily Toolbox Meeting and Prep Talks Safety Focus/ Topics: Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls Slips, trips, and falls are frequent workplace risks that can result in significant injuries. To avoid these incidents, it’s crucial to ensure all pathways are free from clutter and spills. Employees should wear(provided from employer)appropriate footwear with solid traction, and any unsecured cables or tools should be fastened. Any uneven or damaged flooring should be reported promptly and must be rectified with an Immediate action.Furthermore, staff should remain attentive and avoid hurrying to lessen the likelihood of falls. Implementing safety measures is key to reducing these risks and ensuring a secure work environment.

Safety Guidelines for Cutting and Grinding Machines Introduction Cutting and grinding machines are critical tools in many industries but pose serious safety risks if not handled properly. Objective: Ensure the safe use of cutting and grinding equipment to prevent injuries and equipment damage. --- 1. General Safety Guidelines 1. Understand the Machine: Read the user manual and manufacturer’s instructions before use. Understand the operating controls, emergency stop, and safety features. 2. Inspection Before Use: Check for damage, loose bolts, or worn-out components. Ensure the cutting/grinding disc or blade is appropriate for the task and is free from cracks or damage. 3. Work Environment: Keep the workspace clean, dry, and well-lit. Ensure the machine is on a stable surface. --- 2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Mandatory Gear: Safety goggles or face shields to protect against flying debris. Ear protection for noise levels exceeding 85 dB. Gloves for handling sharp materials (avoid loose gloves near rotating parts). Dust mask or respirator for dusty environments. Clothing: Avoid loose clothing and jewelry. Wear non-slip, closed-toe footwear. --- 3. Specific Safety Practices Cutting Machines (e.g., Saws, Laser Cutters) 1. Setup and Operation: Use the correct blade or tool for the material being cut. Secure the workpiece firmly to prevent movement during cutting. Do not apply excessive force; let the machine do the work. 2. Hazards to Watch For: Kickbacks: Keep a firm grip and use anti-kickback features. Flying Sparks: Keep flammable materials away from the cutting area. 3. After Use: Turn off and unplug the machine before making adjustments or changing blades. Clean and store the machine in a safe place. --- Grinding Machines (e.g., Bench Grinders, Angle Grinders) 1. Setup and Operation: Use the correct type of grinding wheel for the material. Inspect grinding wheels for cracks or defects before installation. Adjust the tool rest to within 1/8 inch (3 mm) of the wheel. 2. During Use: Hold the material securely and move it steadily across the grinding surface. Avoid side grinding unless the wheel is specifically designed for it. Keep hands and fingers away from the rotating wheel. 3. Common Hazards: Wheel Explosions: Ensure wheels are mounted correctly and not over-speeded. Sparks and Debris: Use guards to contain sparks and particles. 4. After Use: Turn off the machine and wait for the wheel to stop completely before leaving the area. Clean the machine and inspect for wear or damage. --- 4. Electrical Safety Ensure the machine is properly grounded. Inspect power cords and plugs for damage. Do not use machines in wet conditions unless specifically rated for such use. 5. Emergency Procedures

Safety shoes play a crucial role in various industries by providing multiple layers of protection for workers. Here are some key reasons why safety shoes are important in industrial settings: 1. **Protection from Falling & Flying Objects**: In environments where workers handle heavy materials or work in dynamic environments where many people, machines, and vehicles are operating at once, falling and flying objects are common hazards. Safety shoes with steel toes or composite materials can shield against impact injuries. 2. **Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls**: Slip-resistant soles on safety shoes provide traction on slippery industrial floors, reducing the risk of accidents. This is especially important in industries like food processing, petrochemical, and pharmaceuticals, where floors may be slick. 3. **Prevent Punctures**: Safety shoes often have thick materials and soles that prevent sharp objects like nails or screws from puncturing the shoe and injuring the foot. This is essential in construction and manufacturing where such hazards are prevalent. 4. **Electrical Protection**: In industries where electrical hazards exist, safety shoes can be designed to protect against electrical risks. Some shoes are made from non-conductive materials, insulated to protect against electrical shock. 5. **Prevent Burns**: Safety shoes made from durable materials can prevent burns from metal splashes, chemicals, or cement in industries such as welding, construction, and chemical manufacturing. 6. **Reduce Fatigue**: For workers who stand all day, especially on hard surfaces like concrete, safety shoes can also help in reducing fatigue. Good quality shoes provide arch support, cushioning, and can promote better posture, reducing strain on muscles and joints. 7. **Alleviate Weather Conditions**: Waterproof or insulated footwear protects against cold, wet conditions, helping to keep the worker’s feet warm and dry, essential in outdoor industries such as construction and logging. 8. **Compliance with Safety Standards**: Many industries are required by safety regulations to provide their employees with foot protection. Safety shoes are a key part of compliance with workplace health and safety legislation. Overall, safety shoes are an integral part of personal protective equipment (PPE), significantly reducing the risk of severe injuries and enabling a safer working environment in various industrial settings.