Enhancing Safety in the material handling area with Linde Reverse Assist Radar for Forklifts
Forklifts are essential to the efficiency of warehouse operations, often moving heavy loads and navigating through narrow aisles. However, operating forklifts comes with inherent risks, especially when reversing. Studies have shown that more than half of all industrial truck accidents happen when the vehicle reverses. This is primarily due to the driver’s limited view of the rear and blind spots. The challenge intensifies when forklifts maneuver in busy and cluttered areas, where pedestrians, shelves, and other machinery create a complex environment. Addressing safety concerns about material handling equipment, Linde has introduced the Linde Reverse Assist Radar, a sophisticated assistance system designed to minimize the risk of collisions and ensure safer operations in intralogistics. The system’s high-precision sensors, intelligent detection algorithms, and active braking interventions provide robust protection for drivers, pedestrians, and the infrastructure around them. How Linde Reverse Assist Radar Works The Linde Reverse Assist Radar is a state-of-the-art system that leverages radar technology to monitor the area behind the forklift continuously. This solution detects both stationary and moving obstacles, evaluating the level of risk in real-time based on multiple factors, such as travel speed, steering angle, distance to the obstacle, and lifting height. When the system identifies a potential hazard, it initiates a multi-stage response. First, the driver receives acoustic and visual warnings, prompting them to check the surroundings. If the risk persists or escalates, the system actively intervenes by automatically applying brakes, bringing the forklift to a standstill. This automated braking is highly effective, with a deceleration force of up to 3 m/s², significantly more potent than comparable systems. A unique feature of the Linde Reverse Assist Radar is its ability to distinguish between relevant hazards and harmless objects. For example, the system disregards goods and static fixtures positioned near the path, like in a block warehouse. This precision minimizes unnecessary warnings and prevents unplanned stops that could disrupt workflow. The detection range is customizable to adapt to various warehouse layouts and safety requirements, allowing operators to fine-tune the system for optimal performance. The system can also be tailored to monitor specific areas at different speeds. It detects moving objects, such as pedestrians, when the forklift is traveling at walking speed, while static obstacles can be identified at speeds of up to 15 km/h. The Linde Reverse Assist Radar maintains high reliability across diverse environmental conditions, accurately detecting obstacles even in low-light or foggy settings. Its ability to recognize objects at knee height enhances safety by identifying partially hidden or crouched-down people. A Safer Working Environment with Linde Reverse Assist Radar In fast-paced and often congested warehouse environments, safety should never be compromised. The Linde Reverse Assist Radar is more than just a safety feature; it’s an intelligent system that proactively prevents accidents, protects people, and reduces damage to goods and infrastructure. With this advanced solution, Linde Material Handling sets a new standard for safety in intralogistics, providing operators and business owners with the peace of mind they need to focus on productivity without sacrificing safety. By minimizing the risk of reversing accidents and supporting drivers in challenging situations, this system not only safeguards human life but also ensures operational continuity and efficiency. About the Author: Yauhen Krutsko is the Editor-in-Chief at Truck1, a European marketplace for commercial vehicles and machinery. With extensive experience in the transportation and logistics sector, Yauhen is dedicated to providing expert insights, industry trends, and in-depth analyses to help businesses and professionals stay informed on the latest developments. To reach Yauhen, his email address is eugene_k@truck1.eu. This article was created with support from Truck1.
ASSP revises key standard ahead of World Standards Week
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has updated a key national voluntary consensus standard for construction and demolition sites, which are among the most hazardous work environments. The revised standard is helping to elevate World Standards Week, an event held Nov. 12-14 by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to promote best practices in workplace safety. ANSI/ASSP A10.1-2024 Pre-Project and Pre-Task Safety and Health Planning establishes effective elements and activities for pre-project and pre-task safety and health planning in construction and demolition work. “The primary purpose of this standard is to assist construction owners, project constructors, and contractors in making pre-project and pre-task safety and health planning a typical part of their overall planning process,” said subcommittee Chair Wesley Wheeler, SMS, CESCP, MSP, of the National Electrical Contractors Association. “There must be a formal process in place to evaluate the safety and health performance of constructor candidates.” The standard requires each potential contractor to provide a report detailing the safety staff assigned to the project, the time allotted for safety and health training, a substance abuse program, personal protective equipment, and other anticipated resources for the project. Safety training should include new hire orientation, job-specific and task-specific training, on-site safety meetings, and regular re-training. “The revised standard also recommends the use of leading indicators to more accurately gauge workplace safety and health performance,” Wheeler said. Organizations that make worker safety a core value help reduce the economic and reputational costs of incidents involving their workers. These costs may include medical care, equipment repair, liability, lost productivity, environmental impacts, and damage to the company’s reputation. World Standards Week is the standardization community’s premier annual gathering in Washington, D.C. It features issue-based conferences and special events designed to inspire open dialogue about standards and conformity assessment. Nearly 400 people attend ANSI’s multi-day event each year, representing industry, government, standards-developing organizations, trade associations, consumer groups, and academia. Voluntary consensus standards provide the latest expert guidance and fill gaps where federal standards don’t exist. Companies rely on them to drive improvement, injury prevention, and sustainability. With government regulations being slow to change and often outdated, federal compliance is insufficient to protect workers. “We are a leader in the development of workplace consensus standards that reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatalities,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP. “We form credible groups that have the collective technical expertise to ensure our standards reflect the latest industry advancements and best safety practices.” In its last fiscal year, ASSP created, reaffirmed, or revised 15 standards, technical reports, and guidance documents, engaging 1,400 safety experts representing 500 organizations. The Society also distributed more than 14,000 copies of standards. To obtain A10.1-2024 or other workplace safety standards, visit the online ASSP Store.
Vestil Manufacturing announces major expansion
Vestil Manufacturing, a manufacturer of industrial and safety products market, just announced a major expansion project. The development will include a building expansion, cutting-edge capital equipment, and adding at least 20 jobs, further strengthening Vestil’s role as an industry leader. The expansion, set to add approximately 120,000 square feet of operational space at 351 Pokagon Trail, will enable Vestil to meet increasing demand, particularly for its plastic product lines. With the installation of advanced rotational molding equipment and a larger, highly skilled workforce, Vestil is positioned to serve customers better and to continue leading in the industrial product marketplace. Additionally, the project represents a significant investment in advanced technology and production resources, including a fiber tube laser, two robotic welders, additional lift trucks, and a sophisticated ERP software system. These investments aim to boost production capacity, streamline operations, and advance the company’s technological capabilities. “This expansion reflects our commitment to innovation, quality, and growth,” said Barry Trine, Vestil president. “By investing in our facilities, our technology, and our team, we’re not only positioning ourselves to meet future demand but are also creating opportunities for employment and contributing to the economic development in our community,” added Trine. The groundbreaking came two months after the passing of Ralph Trine, who had run Vestil since the company moved to Angola in the early 1980s. A moment of silence was held in Mr. Trine’s memory at the start of the ceremony. Vestil has partnered with Wagler & Associates, a locally owned & operated business, as the construction company leading this project. The expansion is scheduled for completion by September 2025. The project at Pokagon Trail includes a $1.5 million 120,000-square-foot addition and $3.2 million in new equipment, such as robotic welders and an enterprise resource planning system.
ASSP revises key standard to elevate motor vehicle safety
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has revised a national voluntary consensus standard that defines core elements of a fleet safety program to help organizations protect workers on the road. There are 3.5 million fleets in North America, and 32 million commercial vehicles are used. ANSI/ASSP Z15.1-2024 Safe Practices for Motor Vehicle Operations outlines industry best practices for the safe management and use of motor vehicles owned or operated by an organization. The standard provides guidance to fleet managers and safety professionals on creating written programs and policies, enhancing safety through speed management and driver training, addressing impaired and distracted driving, implementing routine vehicle inspections and maintenance, and conducting proper incident reporting. “This safety standard is significant because motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of work-related fatalities,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP. “These tragic incidents are avoidable. Employers need expert guidance on identifying and managing risks their workers face on the road.” The revised standard strengthens incident reporting and analysis requirements and includes modifications that address today’s vehicles, technologies, and operating environments. “The best way to manage workplace hazards and keep workers safe is to incorporate a structured, proactive approach that assesses risks, identifies system gaps, and implements best practices,” Walaski said. Organizations that make fleet safety a core value also help reduce the economic and reputational costs of crashes involving their workers. That may include medical care, vehicle repair, liability, lost productivity, environmental impacts, and damage to the company’s reputation. The Z15.1 subcommittee that revised the standard comprised 11 safety and health experts from insurance, academia, government, and other fields. The inclusive process took 2½ years. Voluntary consensus standards provide the latest expert guidance and fill gaps where federal standards don’t exist. Companies rely on them to drive improvement, injury prevention, and sustainability. Government regulations are slow to change and often outdated, so federal compliance is insufficient to protect workers. ASSP leads the development of voluntary consensus standards for the workplace. In its last fiscal year, ASSP created, reaffirmed, or revised 15 standards, technical reports, and guidance documents, engaging 1,400 safety experts representing 500 organizations. The Society also distributed more than 14,000 copies of standards. To obtain Z15.1-2024 or other workplace safety standards, visit the online ASSP Store.
ALAN Tropical Storm Helene Situation report
As Tropical Storm/Hurricane Helene approaches landfall on the Florida Gulf Coast, ALAN is busy preparing, and we are encouraging all of our partners to do the same. With that in mind, we’d like to share five pre-storm takeaways that we feel are essential for you and your organizations to be aware of. They’re listed below, and we hope you’ll find them informative. Below these takeaways, you’ll find the current situation report. We’ll update these resources frequently on our Disaster Micro-Site (https://www.alanaid.org/operations/) and will send another situation report as conditions warrant. The Disaster Micro-Site is also where we share key details about ALAN’s storm activation measures and how you can support our relief efforts. Because this storm has the potential to be especially destructive, we encourage you to visit ALAN’s Supply Chain Intelligence Center (https://www.alanaid.org/map/). There, you’ll find resources to keep you in the loop about everything from Helene’s latest path to how local and regional transportation infrastructure is being affected. “As always, all of us at ALAN hope that this storm will be much less severe than predicted and that any damage to life, health, and property will be minimal. At the same time, we are grateful for the many good people like you who continue to invest in our work, said Kathy Fulton, Executive Director of ALAN. ” We ask that you help us prepare to respond by making a financial donation today. Even a seemingly small contribution can go a long way in ensuring we can deliver critical aid to those who need it most. ALAN’s five key takeaways for your organization 1) Make personal safety a priority. If you or your locations are anywhere near Helene’s path, monitor the National Hurricane Center and your local National Weather Service forecast for real-time details. And please, don’t ignore any safety warnings that pertain to you or your personnel. This is expected to be a major hurricane with estimated winds of up to 115 miles per hour, so its potential impact is not to be taken lightly. 2) For the latest detailed information about storm-related road closures, facility closures, and other supply chain impacts, visit ALAN’s Supply Chain Intelligence Center at https://www.alanaid.org/map/. It should tell you most of what you need to know. But should you need additional information, don’t hesitate to contact us at https://www.alanaid.org/contact/. Time permitting, we will do our best to work with our emergency partners to get you an answer. 3) View the latest requests for logistics support by going to the “Active Logistics Needs” section of our Disaster Micro-Site at https://www.alanaid.org/operations/ Over the past few weeks, ALAN has communicated with various emergency management and non-profit partners regarding hurricane needs for Beryl, Debby, and Francine. Although there are no “open” requests for Tropical Storm/Hurricane Helene, this situation could quickly change as the storm makes landfall. In previous years, most of our requests have come several days or weeks after hurricanes. So stay tuned and ready – as requests for transportation, warehousing, volunteers, and material handling equipment come in, we will post them promptly. 4) Request or offer support. If you are a non-profit, please tell us what you anticipate needing by requesting alanaid.org/request-support. If you are a business, tell us how you can help by making a “pre-offer” for transportation, warehouse space, equipment, expertise, or services at https://www.alanaid.org/how-to-help/. Such information is hugely helpful because it helps us better plan our response. Knowing what is needed and who can help allows us to move quickly to support the most urgent needs. We’ll confirm the information with you and match offers with fit needs. 5) Be mindful and demure in your support of disaster relief activities. Don’t self-deploy to disaster-affected sites; please don’t participate in product collection drives. Although the intention behind both of these activities is good, they often create more challenges than they solve because they tend to get in the way of responders who are working to save lives – and add confusion to an emergency supply chain that is already under tremendous strain. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to help, consider making a financial contribution to ALAN or a humanitarian organization. Such donations will be much more helpful and efficient – and far more likely to reach storm survivors.
NRF Foundation launches Customer Conflict De-escalation training for front-line workers
Today, the NRF Foundation launched a new Customer Conflict De-escalation training program for front-line retail employees. The latest offering is part of the RISE Up educational training program. It focuses on fostering a safe and positive environment for retail employees and the millions of customers they serve. “As the nation’s largest private-sector employer, retailers help millions of customers find the items they want and need on a daily basis,” NRF Foundation Executive Director Adam Lukoskie said. “The Customer Conflict De-escalation program provides customer-facing employees with the knowledge and training to identify situations of potential conflict, and, most importantly, abate them successfully and ensure an enjoyable shopping experience for all.” The NRF Foundation partnered with the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) to create a 30-minute online de-escalation training program. Explicitly developed for front-line, customer-facing, and distribution center employees, the course teaches associates how to identify and manage customer conflict within a retail environment. “At CPI, we understand that retail employees face unique challenges on the front lines every day. Our partnership with the NRF Foundation to develop the Customer Conflict De-escalation training ensures that these vital skills are accessible to those who need them most, fostering safer and more positive environments for both employees and customers,” said Susan Driscoll, president of Crisis Prevention Institute. In 2023, the NRF Foundation earned more than 58,000 RISE Up training credentials. For more information, visit here.
ASSP unveils new membership model and management system
Occupational safety and health professionals can now find even more value in being a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). The Society’s membership model has been restructured to add key benefits while a new association management system simplifies member engagements. “More than ever, an ASSP membership is a smart investment in the continued growth of safety and health professionals,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP. “It’s also an important investment in helping to keep workplaces safer in all industries worldwide.” ASSP members can now join common interest group and practice specialty communities at no additional cost. This free enhancement is geared to enrich member experiences through a greater sharing of resources and best practices with colleagues on a global scale. ASSP offers four common interest groups and 18 practice specialties, such as construction, manufacturing, ergonomics and transportation. “Our vibrant communities advocate for our profession and help individuals grow personally and professionally through education and networking,” Walaski said. “There is tremendous value in being part of a community at any career stage. Our communities also reflect our commitment to a diverse, equitable and inclusive Society.” In 2023-24, ASSP communities delivered more than 80 online workplace safety webinars, and nearly half offered free continuing education units (CEUs) to help safety professionals maintain certifications. As ASSP expands the value of membership, a modest dues increase will be phased in over the next three years to ensure the Society’s sustainability in providing top-tier services and resources. ASSP membership dues have not kept pace with inflation and have not changed in more than five years. The current rollout of the new membership model is aligned with the launch of ASSP’s new association management system, which streamlines how members engage with the Society when renewing memberships, registering for events and courses, and making purchases. “All of these changes are research-based and designed to support member needs while helping ASSP remain strong in advancing the safety and health profession,” Walaski said. “We are thoughtful in everything we do.” ASSP members have convenient access to a global network of more than 35,000 safety professionals and receive monthly issues of the Society’s award-winning flagship journal, Professional Safety. Discounted member-only pricing is available on industry-leading conferences, continuing education, voluntary national consensus standards and technical publications.
Every Step Matters … and So Does Every Sponsor
Ladder Safety Month: American Ladder Institute offers sponsorships for 2025 campaign This past March, the message of National Ladder Safety Month reached millions of people. Now, the American Ladder Institute (ALI) is seeking sponsors for the 2025 campaign, so it can reach even more. The sponsorship is a valuable brand extension for any company invested in the manufacture of ladders OR in their safe use. Companies with employees working at heights understand the value of emphasizing safety and its impact on accident prevention and saving lives. Observed every March, National Ladder Safety Month is the only program dedicated exclusively to promoting ladder safety at home and work. Each year, tens of thousands are injured and hundreds die in accidents caused by improper ladder usage. The reach of National Ladder Safety Month only expands with the support of its sponsors. They are the driving force behind helping to raise awareness on safe use and decreasing these tragic numbers. ALI, the only approved developer of safety standards for the U.S. ladder industry, is the present sponsor for National Ladder Safety Month. Other major sponsorship opportunities are also available and can be found by reading the 2025 prospectus. Sponsorship packages are available at a variety of participation levels, each with a slate of promotional benefits for sponsors, including logo appearance on materials, tagged recognition in social media posts, social media mentions, listings in press releases, dedicated email blasts to ALI’s database of more than 23,500, web banner ads, and more. The 2024 campaign delivered to sponsors more than 900,000 social media impressions, more than 264 million press release impressions, and an email open-rate of 38%, which is 13% higher than the industry average. The Top Cap sponsor (limited to one) earns the most benefits, for a participation level of $25,000. There are also opportunities for Middle Rung Sponsors, First Rung Sponsors, Supporting Partners, Associates, and more, with participation levels starting at just $500. The theme of National Ladder Safety Month 2025 is “Every Step Matters.” It serves as a reminder of the necessity to be present and mindful at all times on a ladder, as well as the importance of making ladder safety part of regular safety training. The goals of the campaign are to raise awareness of ladder safety, decrease injuries and fatalities caused by ladder misuse, and increase the number of people certified in Ladder Safety Training.
Safety 2024 attendance in Denver soars above previous record
The signature event of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) attracted 6,758 workplace safety and health professionals this month to set a new attendance record for the global event. An additional 217 people joined a livestream session while 4,360 exhibitor representatives populated the expo hall, ultimately involving more than 11,000 people at the sold-out Safety 2024 Professional Development Conference and Exposition in Denver. “We saw an overwhelming desire from safety professionals to network with colleagues and stay current on best practices, industry trends and the latest product innovations,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP. “The turnout was beyond our wildest dreams. Safety 2024 was an incredible success.” The registered attendance at the Colorado Convention Center from Aug. 7-9 far surpassed ASSP’s previous record of 5,937 attendees from Safety 2023 in San Antonio. It is one of America’s largest annual conferences for the advancement of workplace safety and health that began in Chicago in 1962. Boosting Safety 2024’s popularity was a dynamic expo with more than 650 vendor booths that covered nearly 120,000 square feet. The extensive product showcase was a key element of the overall experience, incorporating new and expanded elements such as tech talks, flash sessions and a career advancement center. “Our expo is so engaging that we get some safety and health professionals coming only for that,” Walaski said. Safety 2024 welcomed more than 3,500 first-time attendees, making up more than half of the total attendance. About one-third of the record crowd was non-members. Those who had never been an ASSP member received a free year of membership. The extraordinary results signal future growth for ASSP and the occupational safety and health profession. “We’re proud to be a global leader in providing professional development for the workplace safety and health community,” Walaski said. “Our event shares case studies and new safety approaches along with vast networking opportunities that help practitioners solve safety challenges and advance their careers.” The conference surpassed its $25,000 fundraising goal as participants donated nearly $27,000 to the ASSP Foundation, including a $10,000 match from Liberty Mutual. The ASSP Foundation promotes occupational safety and health as a career choice and works to build a sustainable talent pipeline in the profession that will help make all industries safer worldwide. Looking ahead to next year, ASSP’s Safety 2025 will take place July 22-24 in Orlando at the Orange County Convention Center, the second-largest convention facility in the nation. Orlando is known for its sunny weather and world-famous theme parks. The city is also home to The Orlando Eye, a stunning 400-foot Ferris wheel at Icon Park that ranks among the 10 largest in the world. The attraction is only 1 mile from the convention center.
ASSP recruiting presenters for Safety 2025 in Orlando
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) is seeking a diverse group of occupational safety and health professionals to present at the Safety 2025 Professional Development Conference and Exposition in Orlando. The submission deadline is Sept. 11. Safety 2025 – scheduled for July 22-24 at the Orange County Convention Center – will be attended by more than 6,000 occupational safety and health professionals looking for solutions to today’s workplace safety challenges. Industry experts share best practices that can help protect workers and enhance business operations in every industry worldwide. ASSP’s call for presenters involves one-hour concurrent sessions that focus on business and leadership skills, fall protection, risk assessment and management, prevention through design, standards, emergency action plans and many other topics. Prospective speakers must identify emerging issues, develop strategies for overcoming safety challenges and aim to expand attendee knowledge and professional skills. “It’s a terrific opportunity for safety and health experts to contribute to the development of their colleagues while advancing our industry,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP, who has been a conference speaker every year since 2005. “Being a safety presenter is truly a rewarding experience.” ASSP members serving on the Society’s Conference Planning Committee will evaluate all speaker proposals against the following criteria: Degree to which the session meets ASSP’s education objectives. Interest and need for the topic within the occupational safety and health profession. Speaker’s presentation skills and experience. Interested presenters must submit a separate application for each session, with a maximum of two proposals. Please direct questions to ASSP’s professional development team at PDCspeaker@assp.org. Session proposals for Safety 2025 must be submitted online by Sept. 11. ASSP will notify successful applicants through email by the end of February.
KEEN Utility athletic-level work sneaker
New for Fall ‘24, KEEN Utility’s Overton is a modern work sneaker built with a wide toe and snug heel for a workday-enhancing fit. The Overton boasts an athletic-level KEEN.ReGEN cushioning provides up to 50% energy return with every step, lightweight carbon-fiber safety toes to protect without holding you back, and a slip-resistant, EH-rated rubber outsole for dependable footing on hard surfaces. A versatile, throwback-inspired work shoe, the Overton is available in several collar heights and colorways for men and women.
J. J. Keller and Juno Jones announce collaboration to provide safety footwear
J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. has partnered strategically with Juno Jones Safety Boots, the National Safety Council Award-winning safety shoe company. This alliance aims to elevate workplace safety and comfort for workers across various industries. Juno Jones makes award-winning safety footwear by working people for working people. Founders Emily and Ryan Soloby, with roots in the trucking and footwear industries, created Juno Jones after they noticed a gap in the safety footwear market around inclusivity issues. The brand launched with women’s footwear made especially for female foot measurements and style, and its viral popularity quickly grew the brand to include men’s durable safety footwear built for all-day comfort. “The combination of Juno Jones, with roots in trucking and adjacent industries, and J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc., serving the safety needs of these industries, was a natural fit,” said Juno Jones CFO Ryan Soloby. “We look forward to helping J. J. Keller’s customers stay safe and comfortable, even when they’re on their feet all day.” J. J. Keller, a family-owned company, has served the safety market since 1953, protecting people and the businesses they run. Today, more than 500,000 companies across North America rely on J. J. Keller’s expertise to safeguard workers, reduce risk, and build operational confidence. “At J. J. Keller, we’ve conducted studies on the challenges of finding safe, well-fitting PPE in women’s sizing, and it is clearly a challenge for those working every day on job sites and those who purchase PPE for their companies,” said Lisa Karpinski, executive vice president of marketing at J. J. Keller. “We were inspired by Juno Jones’ focus on inclusivity in safety footwear. And we’re excited to offer both the Juno Jones women’s and men’s lines.” In addition to the new Juno Jones boots, J. J. Keller offers a wide selection of quality, comfortable personal protective equipment under its proprietary SAFEGEAR®️ line of PPE. SAFEGEAR offerings include high-visibility apparel and accessories, safety gloves, hard hats and helmets, safety glasses and goggles, and hearing protection in both traditional and women’s sizes. You can shop J. J. Keller and Associates’ products, including the new Juno Jones line, at www.jjkeller.com. To learn more about Juno Jones and its mission of diversity in safety, go to www.junojones.com.
American Logistics Aid Network urges caution during preparation for Hurricane Debby
As Hurricane Debby makes landfall in Florida, the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) is urging residents of the Southeast to heed emergency management officials’ warnings about everything from safely evacuating to sheltering in place– and asking members of the logistics community to be ready to help. “In addition to high winds and a significant storm surge, Hurricane Debby has the potential to bring huge amounts of rain and significant flooding to many parts of Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. That has us especially concerned because flood waters are often the deadliest and most underestimated effect of a hurricane,” said Kathy Fulton, ALAN’s Executive Director. According to Fulton, ALAN has already begun meeting with many of the non-profit agencies that will lead early relief efforts, and it is poised to provide them with logistics support as needed. “As always, most of their requests for support will arrive after the storm has passed because that’s when safety officials and first responders will have a chance to get into the area, assess the damage, and determine what’s needed,” she said. “We’ll be posting these requests on our Disaster Micro-Site as soon as we receive them, and we encourage people to visit it often in the days and weeks ahead.” Businesses that wish to offer assistance can now visit ALAN’s website at https://www.alanaid.org/offer-inkind-services-or-equipment/ or make a financial donation to ALAN. They can also view current information about Hurricane Debby’s path and the storm’s supply chain impacts via ALAN’s Supply Chain Intelligence Center or the Helpful Links portion of ALAN’s Disaster Micro-Site. “We’ll provide more specific updates, including information about what’s needed most, as the storm progresses,” Fulton said. “Meanwhile, please join us in holding good thoughts for the many people who are in Hurricane Debby’s cone of concern.”
Safety 2024 in Denver features session with OSHA’s Parker
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) will welcome Doug Parker, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health, at next month’s Safety 2024 in Denver. Parker will discuss the latest Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) activities before taking questions from attendees and media members. The special session at ASSP’s professional development conference and exposition will start at 10:30 a.m. MT on Friday, Aug. 9, in front of thousands of workplace safety and health professionals in the Mile High Ballroom at the Colorado Convention Center. Parker will present “An OSHA Update” with insights on regulatory priorities, enforcement actions, and outreach initiatives. The 60-minute session will include an interactive Q&A with questions submitted via text by audience members. Afterward, Parker will meet with members of the press at 11:45 a.m. MT in Room 505. “It’s always an honor to welcome Mr. Parker to our signature event where safety and health professionals appreciate hearing from him directly about important workplace safety developments,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP, who will moderate the live Q&A on stage. Parker became the 13th assistant secretary of labor for Occupational Safety and Health on Nov. 3, 2021. He has participated in similar ASSP sessions at Safety 2022 in Chicago and Safety 2023 in San Antonio. The OSHA session is a dynamic three-day program to inform and inspire occupational safety and health professionals. Safety 2024 is the 63rd annual conference of the world’s oldest professional safety organization. ASSP is headquartered in the Chicago suburb of Park Ridge. Safety 2024 attendees can register online, with groups of eight or more from the same company qualifying for a discount.
Ergonomic Protection from Brass Knuckle® helps fight musculoskeletal disorders
Knee pads and back support reduce injury risk, minimize joint fatigue According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, musculoskeletal disorders are the most frequently recorded injuries in construction, masonry, and many occupations. Tasks requiring kneeling and bending can put an employee at significant risk. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as knee pads and back support can help reduce the risk of injury and minimize joint fatigue. Brass Knuckle® ergonomic protection, including knee pads and back support, is designed to help alleviate musculoskeletal disorders resulting from risk factors at work, including heavy lifting, bending, reaching overhead, kneeling for prolonged periods of time, pushing and pulling heavy loads, and working in awkward body postures. Ergonomic Knee Pads (BKKN100 and BKKN200). When work brings you to your knees—literally—Brass Knuckle® has you covered with knee pad solutions that offer excellent protection and varying degrees of stability, flexibility, and comfort. BKKN100 is a light-duty cushioned and adjustable knee pad, while BKKN200 is heavy-duty protection with a hard contoured cap. Ergonomic Back Support (BKBS). Brass Knuckle BKBS back support offers reinforcement that can help workers avoid back injuries and fatigue in occupations that require stooping, lifting, carrying, or even holding static positions for long periods of time. These supports feature elastic suspenders to distribute body stress and tapered abdominal panels to better conform to the body. When engineering the hazard away cannot be easily done, Brass Knuckle offers modern, lightweight, ergonomic protection products in styles designed to keep workers in compliance.
Hikvision launches new 4 MP DeepinView Varifocal Bullet Camera
The ultimate surveillance solution features ten switchable AI functions and advanced vehicle detection Hikvision, a global manufacturer and supplier of security products and solutions that deliver the ideal combination of high performance and extreme value, is excited to introduce the new 4 MP DeepinView Varifocal Bullet Camera, a cutting-edge addition to its product lineup. This innovative camera is packed with functionality, featuring ten switchable AI functions, including Road Traffic and Vehicle Detection capabilities, making it an essential tool for modern surveillance needs. “Our new DeepinView Varifocal Bullet Camera is designed to meet the diverse needs of our customers by combining multiple AI functionalities with advanced imaging technologies,” said John Xiao, Vice President of Marketing, Hikvision USA. “This camera represents a significant step forward in security technology, offering unparalleled versatility and performance across applications, including LPR.” Equipped with embedded deep-learning-based license plate capture and recognition algorithms, this camera captures and recognizes plates without additional hardware. It offers a range of advanced features, including 25x (4.7 mm -118 mm) optical zoom for capturing details in remote areas, clear imaging against strong backlight with 140 dB WDR technology, and efficient H.265+ compression technology to save bandwidth and storage. The camera includes a built-in heater on the front viewing window for clear images in snow or cold, a built-in gyroscope for stable image output, water and dust-resistant (IP67), and a vandal-proof rating (IK10). The switchable AI functionality encompasses many features that support advanced analytics and business intelligence. These include: Face authentication Perimeter detection Multi-target type detection Queue management Regional people counting Multi-dimensional people counting Hard hat detection On/off duty detection Heat mapping License plate recognition
ASSP expands alliances to advance worker safety
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) recently signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with three safety organizations that will expand the Society’s efforts to advance worker safety and health. The Society extended an existing alliance with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and created new strategic partnerships with the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) and the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA). The three alliances are among many joint agreements ASSP now has in place to improve the well-being of workers in all industries. “We recognize the benefits of collaboration to improve occupational safety and health practices while elevating the voice of our profession,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP. “Together, we strive to strengthen advocacy efforts, implement programs, and create standards that reduce worker illnesses, injuries, and fatalities.” Over several years, ASSP and NIOSH have worked cooperatively on conducting and implementing workplace safety research, promoting best practices and professional development opportunities, and encouraging employers to use safety and health management systems that are the cornerstone of successful businesses. ASSP’s work with ISEA will better connect the Society to leading businesses and corporate leaders involved in the manufacturing, testing, and application of personal protective equipment and safety products. The agreement will also support the development of voluntary national consensus standards. ASSP’s work with MCAA will widen the Society’s access to safety professionals through greater involvement in MCAA’s safety and health conference – one of the longest-running construction conferences. The annual event offers training and education courses designed to improve safety practices among mechanical contractors. “Our mutual interests in improving the well-being of workers create valuable opportunities to work together,” Walaski said. “Our MOUs with a range of organizations enhance our ability to engage in more stakeholder meetings and safety education events throughout the year and expand the safety profession’s influence in optimizing organizational performance.” ASSP is the world’s oldest professional safety organization, with 35,000 members who have advanced worker well-being and the safety and health profession since the Society’s inception in 1911. ASSP provides member communities, serves as a trusted advisor, and elevates safety through workforce development.
ASSP statement on OSHA’s proposed heat rule
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), the world’s oldest professional safety organization with 35,000 members around the globe, releases the following statement in response to OSHA’s proposed rule on heat injury and illness prevention. This statement is attributed to ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP: “ASSP is a strong advocate of OSHA’s efforts to safeguard workers who face high heat and humidity hazards. While we must first analyze the proposed rule once published in the Federal Register, we know there are significant benefits to having work practice standards that help employers manage heat-related risks. That guidance includes training, rest breaks, access to shade and water, heat acclimatization, and emergency response plans. Employers must have the tools and resources to identify and prevent work hazards before incidents occur. The use of standards is an effective way to implement controls that improve occupational safety and health while saving workers’ lives. “This past February, ASSP published the first voluntary national consensus standard addressing heat stress for workers in construction and demolition operations. ANSI/ASSP A10.50-2024 offers guidance on protecting workers, explains how to acclimate workers to high heat conditions, and provides requirements for training employees and supervisors. Our guidance can be adapted to protect workers performing other outdoor jobs as well. We hope the proposed OSHA rule aligns with the industry best practices we have established to help prevent the thousands of heat-related injuries and illnesses on job sites every year.”
Meritech highlights Sole Clean Low-Moisture Automated Footwear Sanitizing Pan for dry environments
Unmatched efficacy, convenience, and compliance with food safety regulations Meritech, the provider of automated hygiene technology, highlights its innovative Sole Clean Low-Moisture Automated Footwear Sanitizing Pan, setting a new standard for footwear hygiene in dry manufacturing environments, providing unmatched efficacy, convenience, and compliance with food safety regulations. This groundbreaking solution attaches to the CleanTech EVO Automated Handwashing Stations, effectively sanitizing any style of footwear in just 12 seconds, with a fast-drying footwear sanitizer specifically catering to dry or semi-dry production facilities. Proper footwear cleaning is a crucial aspect of any food safety program within a facility. Pathogens like Listeria and Salmonella can easily spread and contaminate surfaces due to inadequate footwear hygiene practices. The Sole Clean Low-Moisture Automated Footwear Sanitizing Pan features a fast-evaporating alcohol-quat sanitizing solution that eliminates pathogens from footwear and evaporates quickly post-application, reducing moisture introduction into production zones. The Sole Clean Low-Moisture Automated Footwear Sanitizing Pan offers customizable auto-start functionality, allowing users to adjust the start time and frequency of sanitizer dispensing throughout the day. This ensures that all employees receive optimal footwear hygiene from the first employee at the start of the shift to the end of the day. By combining hand and footwear hygiene into a single step, it saves valuable space and time in busy production environments. Additionally, the system guarantees that footwear receives twelve seconds of contact time with the sanitizing chemical in the footwear pan, a feature unmatched by most other methods of footwear hygiene. This guarantees thorough sanitation and peace of mind, knowing that stringent hygiene standards are consistently met. Additional highlights of the Sole Clean Low-Moisture Automated Footwear Sanitizing Pan include quick disconnects for easy cleaning, highly visible caution markings for safety, an easy reprime button to refill the pan after cleaning or at start-up, and a solutions empty indicator light. Compatible with all types of footwear, the EVO handwashing station with Sole Clean Low-Moisture Footwear Sanitizing Pan ensures consistent and effective hand and footwear hygiene in one easy step.
New Hikvision 4MP Panoramic Turret Camera: Smart monitoring with great flexibility
Hikvision, a manufacturer and supplier of security products and solutions that deliver the ideal combination of high performance and extreme value, introduces its latest innovation: the 4 MP Panoramic Turret Camera, designed to elevate surveillance with its smart monitoring capabilities and flexible installation. It takes the functionality of two turret cameras and merges them into one effective, high-performance panoramic camera. “Our new 4MP Panoramic Turret Camera sets a new standard in surveillance technology. It combines the functionality of two cameras into one, providing superior image quality and advanced features at a great price-performance ratio,” said John Xiao, Vice President of Marketing, Hikvision USA. “This product is perfect for those who need comprehensive security solutions without the complexity of multiple devices.” This state-of-the-art camera offers a 180-degree horizontal field of view, effectively doubling the surveillance area with just one cable and one IP address. Utilizing Hikvision’s advanced image fusion technology, it minimizes distortions through precise image stitching to provide a natural panoramic view. Enhanced by AcuSense technology, it accurately filters human and vehicle alarms, ensuring the utmost protection for valuable assets. 2-in-1 Combination: Great Price-Performance Ratio with Add-On Features The Hikvision 4MP Panoramic Turret Camera integrates the functions of two Hikvision AcuSense Turret Cameras into a single, efficient form factor. Its enhanced capabilities include a 180-degree field of view and built-in two-way audio, offering unparalleled detail with a flat view that reduces curvature for enhanced imaging details. Added features include: Excellent low-light performance powered by DarkFighter technology. One seamless image covering all scenes monitored by the camera. Clear imaging even in strong backlight due to 120 dB true WDR technology. Focuses on human and vehicle target classification based on deep learning. Active strobe light and audio alarm to deter intruders. Real-time security via built-in two-way audio. Water and dust resistant (IP67). The new Hikvision 4MP Panoramic Turret Camera is an essential addition for anyone seeking efficient and high-quality surveillance solutions. With its innovative features and reliable performance, it ensures comprehensive coverage and enhanced security.