december

Why Workplace Wellness: December 2018 Safety & Hygiene Corner

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Provided by the Ohio BWC safety consultants.

Question: Why should I bother with a Wellness Program at my Company?

Answer: There is a lot of talk recently about wellness programs in the safety world.  Especially in Ohio,since the BWC has rolled out the Better You, Better Ohio free wellness program for Ohio Employees that work in high risk industries. 

 So, a big question is: Why should a company want a wellness program?  Employees are your most important asset – so you want them healthy! Let’s review just a few other reasons you want healthier employees: 

  1. Fewer injuries and if injured they recover quicker
  2. Less absenteeism and more presenteeism – Boost Productivity!
  3. Boost morale, reduce stress, create a sense of accomplishment, reduce depression and build community at work
  4. Lower healthcare costs and good return on investment.  Studies show for every $1 spent on health intervention employees recoup $1.40 to $4.60 in avoided medical cost and productivity losses.

 These are just a few reasons and they sound pretty good!  If you are eligible, consider promoting the BWC Better You, Better Ohio free wellness program. If you are a larger company, it still makes sense.  You can also talk with your insurance carrier, they may have programs to assist you as well. 

 

December 13, 2018 – The Real Cost of Safety

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All members (including prepaid members) please RSVP online.

Greetings Safety Council Members!

Our next meeting is Thursday, December 13, 2018, 11:30am-1:00pm, at the Ravenna Elks Club which is located at 776 N Freedom St in Ravenna.  The official meeting notice is attached.

Our topic for this month is…

The True Cost of Safety, Rich McElhaney, Health & Safety Keynote Speaker.

You’re invited to a candid discussion with Mr. Richard McElhaney as he talks about the effects of traumatic injuries not only on the employee but on the family, coworkers, and the company.

Mr. McElhaney will also speak about six accident reduction techniques that had the greatest impact over his 26 years in the health and safety field.  He will reveal what the real costs are of being safe.

He will revisit the importance of the Job Safety Analysis (JSA) as a preplanning tool.  “JSA’s have been around for many years, but they have become complacent on many projects globally.”  Mr. McElhaney will review in detail an injury that occurred on one of his projects and how the use of JSA’s would have prevented the injury and how the JSA process turned things around.

This training is ideal for CEO’s, safety managers, HR and all staff!

Please RSVP no later than 12pm on Monday, December 10, 2018.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP NOW 

Please make your check payable to: “Portage County Safety Council.” Cost for lunch is still just $15/person for members and $20 for non-members (there’s a $5 fee for walk-ins including members who do not RSVP by deadline).

HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE!!!

Please consider donating non-perishable food items to help those in need this holiday season! Receive 1 drawing ticket for a $25 restaurant gift card for every item donated! Donations will go to Kent Social Services.

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS!!!

Just for fun, let’s celebrate the holiday by wearing your favorite ugly sweater, Christmas/holiday shirt, Santa hat, etc.

This Meeting is Sponsored By Ving!

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Carbon Monoxide: December 2017 Safety & Hygiene Corner

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Question:

The cold season is around the corner—should we be concerned with carbon monoxide?

Answer:

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas which interferes with the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood. CO is non-irritating and can overcome persons without warning. Many people die from CO poisoning, usually while using gasoline powered tools and generators in buildings or semi-enclosed spaces without adequate ventilation.

Effects of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

  • Severe carbon monoxide poisoning causes neurological damage, illness, coma and death.

Symptoms of CO exposure

  • Headaches, dizziness and drowsiness.
  • Nausea, vomiting, tightness across the chest.

Some Sources of Exposure

  • Portable generators/generators in buildings.
  • Concrete cutting saws, compressors.
  • Power trowels, floor buffers, space heaters.
  • Welding, gasoline powered pumps.

Preventing CO Exposure

  • Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces such as garages, crawl spaces, and basements. Opening windows and doors in an enclosed space may prevent CO buildup.
  • Make sure the generator has 3-4 feet of clear space on all sides and above it to ensure adequate ventilation.
  • Do not use a generator outdoors if placed near doors, windows or vents which could allow CO to enter and build up in occupied spaces.
  • When using space heaters and stoves ensure that they are in good working order to reduce CO buildup, and never use in enclosed spaces or indoors.
  • Consider using tools powered by electricity or compressed air, if available.
  • If you experience symptoms of CO poisoning get to fresh air right away and seek immediate medical attention.

U.S. Department of Labor

http://www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA

Brought to you by Ohio BWC safety consultants.