Warehouse Safety is on the rise through training and technology
When it comes to warehouse safety, training is a key piece in building the foundation. That line of thinking was echoed by several businesses and organizations interviewed by Material Handling Wholesaler this month, as those in the industry work to ensure safe warehouse spaces. At TrainMOR, which offers forklift training in any class of truck as well as a scissor and boom lift training program, options to train in person and online are both in use, according to Russ Niedzwiecki, the corporate safety trainer. “About four years ago, we began to produce our own online training program. We basically matched it to the live program,” said Niedzwiecki, of TrainMOR, whose parent company is Morrison Industrial Equipment. The timing of the online training development proved advantageous. “We happened to have our program just started before COVID started,” said Niedzwiecki, who said throughout the waxing and waning pandemic, the online training progressed into a natural component of the business. Niedzwiecki added that TrainMOR is now doing lots of live training again but the expectation is that the use of online training will continue. “The popularity of (online training) right now may be at the ground level, but we feel the ground is rumbling,” he said. Niedzwiecki said training can be done on a regular basis, noting TrainMOR offers a library of safety short videos to help keep information fresh as well a unique program that includes sharing a small poker chip with customers containing a QR code that can be scanned daily to access pieces from the video library. “It’s fresh training right in their hands,” he said. “Safety administrators can use it from their desk.” TrainMOR’s approach is to take on a consultant role for each customer in determining specific needs, according to Niedzwiecki. “Imagine someone being in front of a forklift. Where do you think the biggest expense is on this truck? The biggest expense is in the seat. We want to make sure that even though there are lots of advances, it still boils down to the operator being trained,” he said. Safety events Brian Feehan, president of the Industrial Truck Association, agreed. “We know that operator training is a critical component” of warehouse safety, he said. “First, it’s a requirement from OSHA. Second, we know that it works. You can never tell that message too many times.” ITA will host its annual National Forklift Safety Day on June 14, 2022, with an emphasis on the importance of the need for operator training. “In today’s environment, where you’ve got labor shortages everywhere, there may be a lot of people relatively new to the industry,” said Feehan, who said Forklift Safety Day serves as an opportunity for a national round table on forklift training that can work in conjunction with events on the local level. “We provide our members and subsequently their sub-groups information on how to conduct their own events,” said Feehan, who said although local events marking the forklift safety day mostly ground to a halt during 2020 and 2021, the hope is they will be reinstated this year. ITA’s online events for safety day over the past two years drew a large attendance, so this year both in-person and online components will be included, according to Feehan. Another focus of the event will be on the increase of automated vehicles in the warehouse and how to effectively train employees to operate them safely. “We embrace that technology, but there’s training required,” Feehan said. National Forklift Safety Day also offers an opportunity for industry members to focus on a shared objective. “It’s an excellent opportunity for the industry at large to support safety,” Feehan said. “With safety, everybody puts on the same hat.” At Raymond, the emphasis on training is also key. “Training is our number one priority,” said Dave Norton, vice president of customer solutions and support. He said online training is helping complement hands-on training, noting that more people can start with baseline training and can continue watching a truck’s progression through a warehouse. Raymond is able to train operators on real-life trucks or through simulations. Norton envisions training options continuing to evolve with the workforce, especially as the pace of hiring and retention changes. “We’re always working with customers investigating and helping how they can improve operator training,” he said, adding that he believes operator assist technology will continue to evolve. OSHA will also host its Safe + Sound week from Aug. 15 to 21. The nationwide event recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe, the website said. Safety products In addition to training procedures, products are also being developed to enhance warehouse safety. At Raymond, a Pick2Pallet™ LED Light system helps operators identify pallet placement correctly, with an aim of enhancing efficiency and productivity, according to Norton. Telematics in the Raymond iWAREHOUSE™ allows for monitoring operator behavior. The technology also includes a daily checklist for product operation. “It’s randomized so they can’t just click ‘yes’ all the way through. It will make them read the question and answer appropriately,” Norton said. The data also allows Raymond customers to coach and work with operators, Norton added. The company offers products like a truck system that communicates with the warehouse system to direct an operator to the next pick phase. “So, they don’t have to figure out where in the aisle the pick location is,” Norton said. “You can also incorporate that system with end-of-aisle stops.” At Wildeck, Inc. a variety of products help ensure safety, according to Cory Thomas, products manager of guarding products. Wildeck is a subsidiary of Holden Industries and is a U.S. manufacturer of industrial steel work platforms, vertical lifts, rideable material lifts, safety guarding products, industrial ladders, crossovers, and more, according to the website. “Wildeck has three different levels of protection,” said Thomas in describing the company’s guard rail gate systems, noting an LT line, an MT Medium Duty line, and an XT Heavy Duty line. The heavy-duty XT line offers a 13,000-pound impact rating at 4 miles per hour, the MT is 10,000
Stahlin Enclosures contributes to the success of an outdoor emergency device
Stahlin® Enclosures, a brand of Robroy Enclosures®, a global manufacturer of fiberglass electrical, instrumentation, and industrial enclosures — announces the availability of a case study showcasing how Stahlin® helped Metis Secure Solutions with modified enclosures that provide reliability and durability in a new emergency warning product line: the MS-6100 Emergency Help Station. This innovative alerting device is housed in a weatherproof, vandal-resistant exterior Stahlin® enclosure that expands the application of the emergency notification system to locations such as outdoor parks, bus, train and subway stations, parking garages, parks, and courtyards. In addition to enabling the transmission of wireless signals, the enclosure containing the MS-6100 Emergency Help Station had to be able to handle the demands of an outdoor environment and be highly visible. Metis Secure Solutions selected Stahlin® DiamondShield® — a fiberglass enclosure that can be molded in a bold yellow color, remains watertight over time, and is easily modified to ensure the quick installation of components including an emergency light and heating element. Additionally, fiberglass DiamondShield® enclosures allow the transmission of wireless signals. Typically, an exposed metal enclosure would require an external antenna to ensure signals could be sent and received. Metis Secure Solutions systems are placed in extreme urban environments and the company anticipated that damage to antennas would compromise the functionality of the device, consequently posing a safety risk and creating an ongoing maintenance and service issue. Metis Secure Solutions, a Mircom Group Company, determined that Stahlin’s Non-Metallic DS (DiamondShield®) Series would meet the needs specific to protecting their product. The Stahlin® DiamondShield® Series was developed for design, flexibility, and pleasing aesthetics. Applications include high-end electronics, harsh corrosive environments, and industrial applications both indoors and out. The complete case study is downloadable at no obligation by visiting: https://stahlin.com/case-study/stahlin-non-metallic-enclosure-modifications-contribute-to-a-new-outdoor-emergency-device-with-added-functionality-and-increased-reliability/
Ferri named ASSP’s Safety Professional of the Year
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has named Abby Ferri, CSP, its 2022 Safety Professional of the Year. The risk management and safety consulting expert has been an ASSP member for 20 years and has helped advance occupational safety and health in many ways. Ferri played a key role in a recent ASSP governance change that involved creating a diverse advisory group to replace the Society’s House of Delegates and enable the Board of Directors to fully govern the organization. She served on the Governance Task Force that researched association governance trends, interacted with ASSP members, and developed the recommendations that were later adopted to strengthen the Society. Over the past decade, Ferri has been a speaker at more than 100 regional, national and international events while appearing on dozens of safety and health podcasts. In 2020, she co-founded a podcast called “The Safety Justice League,” which has been influential in exploring a wide range of safety and health issues. It consistently ranks on Apple Podcasts’ Top 200 business and career charts. “Even with a demanding career, Abby makes time to give back to her fellow safety professionals and the future of the profession through volunteer leadership, standards development, and innovation in how safety professionals interact with each other,” said Kristin Herman, CSP, CHMM, CPEA, chair of the Awards and Honors Committee for ASSP’s Women in Safety Excellence (WISE) Common Interest Group. “Abby enthusiastically leverages her experience and knowledge to advance occupational safety and health in countless ways.” Ferri led WISE from 2018-20 as the group’s administrator. Her continued involvement in WISE, including mentoring safety professionals and identifying future leaders, has increased the inclusion and advancement of women in the safety and health industry. In 2021, Ferri was named Safety Professional of the Year in four ASSP groups: WISE, Council on Practices and Standards, Region V, and the Northwest Chapter. “Abby continues to build and strengthen relationships with industry groups that aim to reach women and recruit the next generation,” said Jen Ellinwood, CSP, president of ASSP’s Northwest Chapter. “Her leadership has been instrumental, especially for those who have not had a voice or adequate representation.” Ferri is the author of two Kindle books, “The Safety Habit” published in 2020, and “The Safety Consultant’s Toolkit” published in 2021 that shares her knowledge of starting and running a safety consulting firm. “I have worked with Abby on several occasions, and the goals she accomplishes are accompanied by a passion, dedication, and can-do attitude,” said Tim Page-Bottorff, CSP, CIT, member of ASSP’s Board of Directors. “She clearly is committed to being a leader, and her mentoring has definitely influenced my leadership skills.” Ferri is a senior risk control consultant at Gallagher, which provides insurance, risk management, and consulting services. She works with clients in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, education, real estate, hospitality, and restaurants. She resides in Eden Prairie, MN, with her husband, Andrew, and daughter, Moselle. Each year, ASSP honors an occupational safety and health professional who demonstrates outstanding achievement in the safety field while making significant contributions to advancing the profession. Visit the ASSP website to see past recipients of the Society’s Safety Professional of the Year Award.
ASSP announces 2022 Outstanding Safety Educator
Lora Cavuoto, a widely respected educator in the occupational safety and health field and a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) for seven years, is ASSP’s 2022 William E. Tarrants Outstanding Safety Educator. Cavuoto, Ph.D., CPE, is an associate professor in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) at the University at Buffalo in New York. She has been the director of the university’s occupational health and safety training program since 2017. Cavuoto has written nearly 70 journal articles, more than 30 conference proceedings, and many technical reports, in addition to delivering technical presentations at national and international conferences. Her research promotes healthier and more productive work environments by integrating human factors and ergonomics principles. A resident of South Wales in suburban Buffalo, Cavuoto joined the university in 2012 to strengthen its ergonomics research to prevent occupational injury and illness, and to teach courses in human factors engineering. In 2020, she received the school’s highest award for undergraduate teaching and mentorship. “Dr. Cavuoto not only embodies scientific excellence, creativity, and a commitment to education – she is also a leader and collaborator,” said Ann Bisantz, Ph.D., dean of undergraduate education at the university. “Her student evaluations are typically among the highest in the department, and among the best at the university overall.” Each of Cavuoto’s industry-funded research projects over the last five years has involved students, providing them with practical experience and exposure to the challenges faced in industries worldwide. “Dr. Cavuoto is one of the most impactful occupational safety and health scholars of her generation,” said Victor Paquet, Sc.D., professor, and chair of the university’s ISE department. “She has made significant educational and research contributions in ergonomics and biomechanics, assessment of work-related injury risk, use of wearable technologies to prevent injuries, and the improvement of patient safety through robotics and surgery design.” Cavuoto has mentored more than 40 students on senior capstone projects and dissertations aimed at solving occupational safety and health engineering challenges and better protecting workers on the job. “She instills an enthusiasm for student learning by carefully guiding students toward the right answers to complex problems,” Paquet said. “She strongly believes that being approachable and accessible are vital components of a successful learning environment. The way that Dr. Cavuoto operationalizes her teaching philosophies and dedication to her students has enabled her to become the exceptional teacher and mentor that she is today.” Cavuoto will be honored at ASSP’s Safety 2022 Professional Development Conference and Exposition, held June 27-29 in Chicago. The global event will bring together thousands of safety professionals to learn about best practices, industry trends, and the latest product innovations in the occupational safety and health field. Each year, ASSP honors a member who demonstrates outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health education. These top instructors help students reach their full potential and become results-producing safety professionals. ASSP’s Outstanding Safety Educator Award is named after William E. Tarrants, a pioneer in safety education who was an ASSP Fellow and president (1977-78).
KEEN Utility advances women in the trades through $1M pledge
She Builds Grants initiative supports nonprofits that empower and educate women pursuing careers in the trades KEEN Utility, the work boot division of KEEN Inc. (KEEN), launched the She Builds Grant Program to champion the next generation of tradeswomen. The program pledges $1M in much-needed product and financial support over the next five years to trailblazing nonprofit organizations in the United States and Canada dedicated to the empowerment and education of women seeking a career in the skilled trades. KEEN Utility announced the 2022 She Builds grants, selected by KEEN Utility and their fans, will go to Black Women Build-Baltimore, Girl’s Garage, Vermont Works for Women, Oregon Tradeswomen, and British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Trades Discovery for Women. Grants will help provide hundreds of thousands of hours in trade skills education, expansion of workplace inclusivity training, as well as women’s specific safety footwear. “Women are essential to the future of the skilled trades,” said Robin Skillings, VP/General Manager at KEEN Utility. “ Supporting organizations that are deeply dedicated to the empowerment and advancement of women in the trades is critical. Through the She Builds Grant Program, we are solidifying our commitment to their future, and the growth of the trades, one step at a time.” The She Builds Grant is funded through The KEEN Effect, part of KEEN’s larger mission to make Outside and the Trades accessible to all. KEEN has committed millions of dollars toward social and environmental justice since 2003. A leader in women’s safety footwear, KEEN Utility is uniquely positioned to champion the cause of welcoming more women into the trades and encouraging skills acquisition. The Tradeswomen Tested collection from KEEN Utility enlists the insights of tradeswomen working in a variety of professions from initial conception all the way through final product release and incorporates on-the-job feedback into future designs. By creating more inclusive and adaptive footwear built for and inspired by women in the trades, the brand established early on that the future of the trades is diverse and demands support. More information about KEEN Utility’s women’s specific styles can be found by visiting https://www.keenfootwear.com/work-tradeswomen-tested-collection/.
What the wave of retiring machinists means to plant safety
Within the next decade, approximately 2.7 million “Baby Boomers” (b. 1946-1964) will retire, thereby ensuring that tens of thousands of skilled, well-paid positions will become available without a ready supply of American workers to fill them. Statistics paint an especially gloomy picture for the manufacturing sector, a widening of the skills gap, and a possible dilution of existing training programs. Compared to the rest of the economy, the impact on manufacturing of this generational shift is oversized owing to two factors: One, despite increased efforts by colleges and vocational schools to train new manufacturing workers, available jobs still outpace qualified employees. And two, the existing manufacturing workforce is considerably older than the national employee average of 42 years. Currently, the average age of highly skilled manufacturing employees is 56, and nearly a third of all manufacturing professionals are over 50. As they retire, knowledge goes out the door with them. What are the implications of these trends for your plant’s productivity? How will it impact employee safety? What can you do to transfer knowledge from one generation to the next? Safety Knowledge Gap Besides having less experience operating machinery correctly, workers new to the job are often unsure about their safety rights and responsibilities or might feel uncomfortable speaking out about a potential hazard. They may also not have the proper training, so they underestimate the risks involved with operating high-speed machinery. A recent survey of machinists in North America exposed that 70% couldn’t recall receiving any formal training when they were first hired on. Equally troubling, the Millennials (b. 1980-1996), who are replacing baby boomers, are more apt to job hop — 90 percent expect to stay in a job for less than three years — leaving manufacturers with heightened turnover and a badly depleted knowledge base, especially when it comes to safety. The so-called “Great Resignation,” the unprecedented mass exit from the workforce spurred on by Covid-19, also has reduced the pool for skilled labor. Given all this, it probably comes an as little surprise that employees under the age of 25 are twice as likely to visit the emergency room for an occupational injury than those over 25. The dangers facing younger workers underscore the critical importance of machine safeguarding. The lathe, press or saw on the plant floor considered “safe” solely on the basis of being accident-free for many years is no guarantee that modern safety regulations and standards are being met. A machine mistakenly perceived as “safe” may be the most dangerous in your maintenance shop, or on your production floor. Safeguarding Assessment Faced with the wave of Baby Boomer retirements, many manufacturers are trying to hold on to their older workers, persuade some to return after retirement, or recruit those retired from other companies. Unfortunately, these steps only postpone the inevitable. A more meaningful first step is to conduct a thorough machine safeguarding assessment on your machinery. A machine safeguarding assessment draws on the expertise and experience of an outside company to identify and address machine hazards before they cause accidents. Over the course of a machine safeguarding assessment, detailed information is collected concerning each machine, how the operator interacts with the machine, and the process it is tied to. Hazardous areas are pinpointed on the machine and a hazard level is assigned to each machine. Evaluating this hazard level helps determine which safeguarding methods should be applied to each machine to make it safe. If a risk is not tolerable, safeguarding measures need to be applied that will reduce the risk to an acceptable level that is in accordance with applicable regulations and standards. The assessor should also accurately identify all costs associated with the final project. After installing safeguards, a follow-up assessment will be conducted to verify that risk levels have either been eliminated or reduced to a tolerable level. Transferring Tribal Knowledge Retirees won’t leave behind every bit of knowledge they’ve gained over the years, but capturing a majority of the important operational details will be beneficial down the road. Your organization needs to find ways of both learning and sharing this “tribal” knowledge before experienced machinists retire. One common way of doing so is implementing a structured training and mentoring program pairing young workers with senior people who are technically experts in complex machinery. Along with face-to-face training on the machinery, the experienced worker is there to answer questions about operating procedures, and to help the young worker learn how to operate the machinery correctly. Recognizing hazards and learning safe work practices must be a central part of training and mentoring programs so make sure they are given equal billing with productivity during conversations. Training and mentorship also play an important role in informing young workers about OSHA, every worker’s right to a safe workplace, as well as the right to refuse unsafe work. Once retired, the mentor can return on a part-time or as-needed basis to continue training new hires. Outside Training While older machinists certainly have the experience and technical knowledge, they may not know how to teach because they aren’t professional trainers or they can’t communicate effectively with a younger generation. Others may feel that training is an additional obligation that has been hoisted upon them when they are already crunched for time. Hiring an outside firm to teach your team about machine safety regulations and standards is another step toward overcoming dilution in training. Rockford Systems offers a variety of safety training courses, including Machine Safeguarding Seminars, Combustion Safety Training, NFPA 70E, and other courses at its Training Center in Rockford, Illinois. The popular 2-day seminars combine classroom discussion with live demonstrations to give the hands-on experience that new employees need. Once the seminar is complete, the employee will be better able to interpret the OSHA 29 CRF and ANSI series standards as they relate to their specific machine applications and production requirements. Can’t make it to Rockford? No problem. The seminars can be presented at your company and tailored to the types of machinery found at your plant.
ASSP honors Lyon for work on safety standards
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has named Bruce K. Lyon, P.E., CSP, SMS, ARM, CHMM, the recipient of the 2022 Thomas F. Bresnahan Standards Medal for his extensive work in developing and advocating occupational safety and health standards. Lyon is vice president, of risk management services, at Brown & Brown Inc., an independent insurance brokerage firm. He also is an adjunct safety science professor at the University of Central Missouri. Lyon has more than 40 years of experience in directing safety and risk management for organizations in various industries. He specializes in risk assessment and management, safety management systems, ergonomics, and team-based problem-solving. “Bruce’s impact on workplace safety and health standards is significant, and thousands of people are safer on the job today due to his broad contributions,” said Georgi Popov, professor, and chair of the occupational risk and safety sciences program at the University of Central Missouri. “I can’t say enough about his value to the safety profession.” Lyon’s recent work in safety standards has been through his roles as chair of the U.S. Technical Advisory Group to TC 262 for the ISO 31000 Risk Management standards and vice-chair of the ANSI/ASSP Z590.3 Prevention Through Design Committee. Voluntary consensus standards help organizations in all industries become safer. An ASSP member since 1989, Lyon is working on a proposal to develop a technical report on prevention through ergonomics that will complement the popular prevention through design standards. He influenced many concepts and methods in that existing standard, ensuring it aligned with other global risk-based standards. Beginning in 2019, Lyon led the U.S. Technical Advisory Group in the development of the ASSP TR-31010-2020 Technical Report: Risk Management – Techniques for Safety Practitioners, published the following year. The technical report is specifically for safety professionals and includes 50 risk management tools. Lyon is a widely respected author who has written three books and many technical articles on risk. His books and articles are used by countless safety professionals and in university safety sciences and risk management courses, in addition to having appeared in ASSP’s flagship publication, Professional Safety. He has earned six technical writing awards from the journal’s editorial review board. “As a result of his extensive involvement in standards research, development, and consulting, Bruce has created several innovative techniques that are now registered with the U.S. Copyright Office,” Popov said. “His advanced methods are being used by occupational safety and health professionals around the world.” In 2021, Lyon was named Safety Professional of the Year in ASSP’s Risk Management Practice Specialty. He continues to present webinars, podcasts, and training courses on risk management principles and the application of safety standards. The Bresnahan Standards Medal recognizes ASSP members who actively participate in developing voluntary consensus standards that advance worker safety. The award is named in honor of Thomas F. Bresnahan, a former ASSP staff member and Fellow who reinvigorated the Society’s standards development program and helped position the organization for growth in this strategic area.
Smooth as Glass, Strong as Brass
Brass Knuckle® SmartCut™ BKCR404 gloves are Strong and Grippy for tough applications that require a tender touch Glass handling is an application that requires a perfect balance of toughness and tenderness. A glass worker’s tools must be strong enough to repel the potential for cuts, but also well-equipped to prevent product breakage when handling. This includes the protective gloves they wear. Safety Today, a dedicated safety distributor founded in 1946, is a proud distributor of Brass Knuckle® and its SmartCut™ BKCR404 Gloves for glass handling and other applications requiring toughness and a sure grip. Brass Knuckle SmartCut 404 combines ANSI cut level A3 protection and a smooth-grip polyurethane coating. They are available now from Safety Today with special promotional pricing. The toughness of SmartCut 404 begins with high-performance HDPE knit fiber that provides protection without bulk and a strength-to-weight ratio 8 to 15 times higher than steel. Next comes the polyurethane coating on full fingers and palm. Soft and flexible polyurethane coatings are excellent for dry-grip applications, but also perform well in light oil conditions (they are not recommended for heavy liquid environments). The smooth texture enhances the glove’s abrasion resistance — important for handling glass and other heavy-yet-fragile material. In addition to glass handling, ideal applications include construction, electrical assembly, general assembly, HVAC, manufacturing, vehicular construction, receiving areas, and sheet metal. SmartCut 404 has the cut and slip resistance these applications demand, plus a coating that won’t mar product surfaces. Available in five sizes and with color-coded wrists to simplify sizing and re-issuing, these gloves are the total package!
KION North America announces the opening of its brand-new Aftermarket Distribution and Training Center
KION North America has opened its brand-new Aftermarket Distribution and Training Center in Summerville, South Carolina. This new location is just five miles from KION North America’s production facility, tripling the warehouse space for high-demand spare parts. The new location also offers a state-of-the-art Sales and Service Training Center for in-person and live events, which will support over 1,600 dealer technicians and sales representatives in 2022. The distribution warehouse increases floor space by 86%, vertical storage by 80%, high rack storage by 64%, and small parts storage by 30%. This allows KION North America to increase the total number of parts in stock to more than 30,000 SKUs to best serve its customers. The Aftermarket Distribution Center utilizes brand new Linde Material Handling warehouse equipment for a highly efficient storage and picking process. The opening of this new location has also provided additional jobs in the Summerville, South Carolina area. Daniel Schlegel, Vice President of Customer Service, says, ”the new Aftermarket Distribution Center and the new Sales & Service Training Facility are important milestones of our North American growth strategy. It puts the necessary foundation in place to provide state-of-the-art aftermarket support to our high-performing Sales & Service Dealer Network. The entire project execution took 11 months from planning to launch, and it also substantially improved the work environment for our Customer Service team.” The new training center will support roughly 400 dealer technicians and sales representatives in 2022. In addition to in-person training, the training center will produce up to 20 live webinars in the new virtual studio. KION North America will support an additional 1,200 service technicians and sales representatives throughout North America through live webinars in 2022. Bob Menges, Customer Service Technical Training Manager, says, “the new Training Center is specifically designed for service and sales/product training. It features a state-of-the-art classroom and a dedicated hands-on training lab where trainees, whether service technicians or sales representatives, can seamlessly move between classroom training and hands-on training to optimize the training environment and experience.” KION North America understands that immediate access to parts and experienced technicians to address customer issues quickly is essential to keep businesses running in these highly demanding times. With a continued focus on its customers, KION North America is proud to expand its offerings, including products, parts, training, and solutions to its dealer network.
New standard helps organizations prevent workplace injuries
Organizations typically measure safety and health performance by tracking incidents after the fact with lagging metrics. To improve that method, the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has published a voluntary national consensus standard that outlines a balanced measurement approach, using leading, lagging, and impact metrics. The new standard can help organizations prevent injuries, illnesses, and many other incidents from occurring in the first place. ANSI/ASSP Z16.1-2022, Safety and Health Metrics and Performance Measures, incorporates a balanced evaluation of risk management factors and safety management systems that empowers a business to take a more comprehensive and effective approach to safety and health. “Relying solely on lagging metrics does not improve workplace safety,” said Alexi Carli, M.S., CSP, chair of the Z16 committee. “We need a complete, systematic method to influence what happens while understanding how and why it happens. This standard’s balanced approach measures actions that drive improvement. It’s a major development that can help businesses thrive, especially in today’s challenging environment.” Find more information on ANSI/ASSP Z16.1-2022 on the ASSP website. “Occupational safety and health professionals are strategic business partners,” Carli added, “and the new standard enables them to help corporate leaders achieve greater organizational efficiencies and improve resilience.” In addition to introducing a new standard, ASSP revised two standards that will also help advance workplace safety and health. Z117.1-2022, Safety Requirements for Entering Confined Spaces, provides minimum safety requirements to be followed while entering, exiting, and working in confined spaces. Confined space safety standards are critical across all industries because first responders may not have the capability to perform a rescue in all circumstances. Proactively implementing a standard such as Z117.1-2022 reduces risks such as oxygen deficiency, which is a leading atmospheric hazard in confined space incidents. ANSI/ASSP A1264.2-2022, Reducing Slip Missteps on Walking-Working Surfaces, provides guidance for adequate slip resistance. Falls are the leading cause of accidental deaths in the United States. While these hazards exist in many work environments, organizations can take simple steps to mitigate or eliminate them. Voluntary national consensus standards provide the latest expert guidance and fill gaps where federal regulations don’t exist. Companies rely on them to drive improvement and injury prevention. With regulatory requirements being slow to change and often out of date, compliance is not sufficient to protect workers. ASSP is a global provider in the development of workplace safety and health standards, helping employers minimize on-the-job risks. The organization’s broad collection of new and revised standards focuses on psychological safety and health, fall protection, construction and demolition operations, and prevention through design. In addition to implementing safety and health standards, all employers are encouraged to regularly conduct workplace risk assessments, which are effective in combatting many safety and health issues across all industries.
New DENIOS Lithium-Ion Battery Stations provide safe storage and transport
Lithium-ion batteries are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to deliver power from a compact size. Although they are used in a vast range of equipment, from handheld devices to cars, they are not as harmless as they appear, requiring special handling and care. DENIOS, a worldwide provider in the design and manufacture of storage containers for hazardous materials, introduces Lithium-Ion Stations. Designed specifically for storing lithium-ion batteries, they are ideal for storing new, questionable, damaged, defective, or End-of-Life lithium-ion batteries typically found in small handheld devices. Available in two standard sizes, they allow the storage storing and transportation of batteries from 1 KG to 10KG up to 100W, which are typically used in power tools, e-bikes, medical devices, laptops, tablets, mobile devices, forklifts, cars, and more. With two hours of fire resistance and integrated forklift pockets for easy relocation, these purpose-built containers protect against fire hazards due to thermal runaway, deep discharge, mechanical deformation, or chemical reaction. Each unit includes thermo-dissipative media (class D fire), and visual identification on all sides to alert emergency personnel of contents and hazards. These Li-Ion Battery Stations protect employees, facilities, and the environment. They follow guidelines within NFPA 704, IFC 608, FM 5-55, and applicable EPA regulations. DENIOS Lithium-Ion Battery Stations are ideal for manufacturers incorporating Li-ion batteries into their products, as well as facilities using them. Every DENIOS Lithium-Ion Battery Station features solidly welded construction for long service life, with integrated vents for passive ventilation. Lockable, hinged lid and doors keep the contents safe from unauthorized personnel. Shelving and fire extinguishers are optional. The worldwide leader in hazardous material storage, DENIOS has extensive experience with lithium-ion batteries. They are the only supplier with a comprehensive range of solutions to store, charge, recycle, and test lithium-ion batters of all sizes. With products including large storage buildings, cabinets for small storage and battery charging, spill kit caddies for an immediate response, and more, DENIOS has a solution to safely handle any lithium-ion battery need. A comprehensive guideline for the storage of Lithium-Ion Batteries is available at https://www.denios-us.com/expertise-advice/help-advice/safe-storage-of-lithium-ion-batteries/.
Wildeck Inc.
Lift-O-Flex
Emerson introduces environmentally Robust Control Stations and Tumbler Switches for hazardous locations
The Appleton Contender 4/4X Series factory sealed design significantly reduces maintenance and replacement costs lowering the total cost of ownership compared to traditional market solutions Processing hazardous materials require reliable power distribution and controls to operate efficiently and supply the world with the important commodities it needs, yet these electrical control devices are challenged by exposure to harsh weather, corrosion, moisture, and other foreign materials. To solve this problem, Emerson has announced its Appleton™ Contender™ 4/4X Series control stations and tumbler switches featuring a superior gasket design offering Type 4, 4X, 12, and IP66 ingress protection. This introduction brings more cost-efficiency, performance, and reliability to oil and gas, wastewater, grain milling, and other processing industries operating in harsh environments including Class I, Division 2, Zone 2, Class II, and Class III locations. “Explosionproof, Division 1 rated control stations and tumbler switches lack sufficient ingress protection, leading to device failure, high maintenance costs, and more frequent replacements, especially when exposed to corrosive elements,” said Donald LaCombe, Sr. Product Marketing Specialist for Emerson. “Leveraging a gasketed design and a superior material finish, the Appleton Contender 4/4X Series offers a protective barrier from harmful corrosion and prolonged exposure to the elements, adding value and lowering total cost of ownership.” LONG-LASTING ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Unlike Explosionproof, Division 1 rated control stations and tumbler switches, the Appleton Contender 4/4X Series utilizes a gasket cover and devices as well as O-rings supplied on captive stainless steel screws. Additionally, this series comes standard with iron back boxes utilizing the Appleton patented triple-coat finish, in addition to a durable epoxy powder coat finish supplied on device covers and optional aluminum back boxes for Type 4X rating. These design enhancements prevent ingress that leads to device failure and component corrosion over time. Replacing corroded units can be difficult and time-consuming, especially in scenarios when severely corroded cover screws strip during cover replacement or discovering the backbox is compromised resulting in more costly full unit replacement. The Contender 4/4X Series design addresses these issues by reducing future maintenance and replacements so that time can be spent on more vital tasks. The Appleton Contender 4/4X Series also represents a cost-effective alternative to non-metallic control products. Non-metallic enclosures are typically fabricated from fiberglass-reinforced polyester that inhibits corrosion yet costs more than their metallic counterparts. RETROFIT CAPABILITY Device covers are available for facilities looking to upgrade to the Appleton Contender 4/4X Series that have an existing install base of Appleton EDS Series back boxes. Furthermore, Contender 4/4X Series device covers are UL Classified to mount on existing Crouse-HindsTM EDS Series back boxes and don’t require the use of grease or installation of plastic cover accessories for equivalent environmental protection. HIGHLY CUSTOMIZABLE Depending on the application there are a variety of control station devices and device options for a tailormade solution, including momentary and maintained mushroom head pushbuttons, 2 or 3 position selector switches, Vac or Vdc LED pilot lights, 1 or 2 N.O./N.C. contact blocks, and custom legend plates among others.
KEEN Utility Kansas City+ new this Spring
Building on the success of its predecessor, KEEN Utility’s Kansas City+ is a standout introduction for Spring ‘22. Heavy on tech, light on weight, and loaded with performance features, the Kansas City is an all leather boot that seamlessly transitions between indoor and outdoor work. The Kansas City+ boasts KEEN.BELLOWS Flex technology is an ergonomically engineered system designed to offer multidirectional flexion making bending, squatting, kneeling, and knee-down work up to three times easier. Other highlights include a KEEN.ReGEN performance cushioning midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam, as well as an oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking lugged outsole tread design for optimal traction. Additional safety features of this medium-duty boot include asymmetrical carbon fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel, KONNECTFIT heel-capture system to lock the heel down for sure-footed stability, and a completely non-metallic construction combined with EH rated protection underfoot from live electrical circuits.
Martins gets tough about safety with Checkpoint
MARTINS a household name in the North American tire equipment industry recently acquired the UK-based Checkpoint, a global provider in wheel safety. With Checkpoint, Martins adds to its extensive line of products a host of wheel safety solutions, namely a variety of visual indicators of nut movement. Checkpoint also comes with 30 years of expertise that started with its founder, CEO, and inventor, Mike Marczynski. The renowned expertise and superior quality of Checkpoint are what motivated the acquisition. It will undoubtedly prove to be a valuable addition to the Martins brand and will enable them to offer even more quality products to their customers. “We’re proud to now count in our ranks the extensive know-how and knowledge of the Checkpoint team, as well as the reputation for quality the brand has justly acquired over the years,” said Martin Dépelteau, CEO of Martins. The plan moving forward is to integrate Checkpoint within the Martins world in the most seamless way possible, and without changing anything that makes the wheel safety brand great. For any Checkpoint team member, partner or client, this means it’s business as usual in terms of operations, distribution, quality, and personality. Martins wants to continue to fully support B2B distribution for Checkpoint and the excellent work the team is doing and believes adding this dynamic to their existing lines of products reinforces their presence in the market in every aspect. This will certainly lead to plenty of opportunities to grow down the road. Martins Industries offers innovation and reliability. They design, manufacture, and sell high-quality supplies and equipment for all types of tires and wheels to improve safety and efficiency in the workplace. With numerous distribution centers, a foothold in North America, Europe, Australia, and other parts of the world, they’re ever ready to drive results. Shops around the world trust Martins to support them on their paths towards efficiency.
KEEN Utility Cincinnati Wellington pull-on style boasts durability
With the introduction of the Cincinnati Wellington, KEEN Utility incorporates modern, lightweight materials into a time-tested pull-on style for heavy-duty performance. Constructed with a Goodyear welt, the Cincinnati Wellington boasts a durable, Barnyard Resistant full-grain leather upper to resist many caustic minerals, oils, and chemicals. Product highlights include an air-infused KEEN Luftcell midsole as well as a removable, dual-density PolyAer footbed with an aerated pillow-top cushioning. Safety features include non-metallic asymmetrical carbon-fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel while offering an unobtrusive fit as well as a slip-resistant, EH-rated rubber outsole to provide dependable traction in wet or oily environments while also giving protection from accidental contact with live electrical circuits. From the farm to the worksite, the Cincinnati Wellington is built to grind through tough job site conditions while still looking great.
Continental enhances vehicle camera line with innovative platform AHD Camera Systems
Continental, a global supplier of systems, components, and tires to automobile, truck, and agriculture/construction equipment manufacturers, has expanded its line of vehicle camera systems. Continental’s new Platform AHD (Analog High Definition) Camera Systems are designed to enhance the driver’s view and improve fleet efficiency. Built to support drivers when navigating complex situations such as tight warehouse aisles, busy constructions sites, or crowded shipping facilities, these camera systems provide vehicle operators with the extended visibility they need to get a better view of their surroundings and make their operations safer. Continental’s AHD Camera Systems feature 2 Mega Pixel cameras with high image clarity and infrared lights for enhanced night vision. The camera line includes rearview and front and side-view cameras. The displays work with both CVBS and AHD camera inputs. Video can be stored in a DVR for future driver analysis and training. Offered with 7” and 10.1” AHD displays, the AHD Camera Systems can integrate seamlessly with Continental ultrasonic sensors to deliver backup detection that warns the operator of obstacles behind the vehicle. The cameras feature IP67 enclosures that are waterproof and dust-tight. The systems are available with dual voltage (12V and 24V) and offered in different cables sizes. Continental is a leading aftermarket supplier of OE-engineered parts for HVAC and engine cooling, door systems, tire pressure monitoring systems, engine management, fuel systems, and instrumentation, as well as automotive diagnostic systems, and premium wiper blades, brake system parts, and fluid.
ASSP elections highlighted by Sullivan’s upcoming move to president
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), the world’s oldest professional safety organization, has announced its new leaders for the 2022 Society elections. All terms begin July 1. Christine Sullivan, CSP, ARM, will serve as ASSP president for 2022-23. “Our Society’s strength is rooted in our dedicated volunteers and their desire to take on key leadership positions,” said ASSP President Brad Giles, P.E., CSP, STS, FASSP, GIOSH, whose term ends June 30. “Engaged safety professionals have always defined ASSP, keeping it vibrant and advancing worker safety and health everywhere.” ASSP’s top elected positions – all part of its Board of Directors – are president, president-elect, senior vice president, vice president of finance and directors-at-large. Each is a one-year term, except for the three-year terms of the vice president of finance and directors-at-large. The succession of leaders from senior vice president to president-elect, and from president-elect to president, is automatic. Following are snapshots of ASSP’s newly elected leaders, whose influence and contributions will help shape the Society and the profession while sustaining the organization as a global leader for workplace safety and health. • President Christine Sullivan, CSP, ARM, is senior vice president and risk control director at Sompo International. She has 30 years of safety experience and holds a bachelor’s degree in human factors engineering from Tufts University. Her Society honors include the Charles V. Culbertson Outstanding Volunteer Service Award and Risk Management and Insurance Practice Specialty Safety Professional of the Year. She is a past vice president of the Council on Professional Development. A member since 1996, she resides in Glastonbury, CT. • President-Elect James Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA, is a former EHS director at Huntington Ingalls Industries, the nation’s largest military shipbuilder. He is an ASSP Fellow with a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from Auburn University and a master’s degree in industrial hygiene from Texas A&M University. He earned the Society’s President’s Award and twice received the Charles V. Culbertson Outstanding Volunteer Service Award. A member since 1998, Thornton will be president in 2023-24. He resides in Hampton, VA. • Senior Vice President Pam Walaski, CSP, is a senior program director with Specialty Technical Consultants, Inc., and an adjunct faculty member for the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Safety Sciences Department. She was a director-at-large on ASSP’s Board of Directors from 2018-21. Her Society honors include the Charles V. Culbertson Outstanding Volunteer Service Award and Region VIII Safety Professional of the Year. An ASSP member since 2003, Walaski will be president in 2024-25. She resides in Templeton, PA. • Director-at-Large Steven Gray, CSP, CHST, is the senior site workplace health and safety manager at Amazon. He has held numerous leadership positions within ASSP, including vice president, Council on Region Affairs. He holds a bachelor’s degree in fire protection and safety engineering technology from Oklahoma State University. A member since 2001, Gray has earned Safety Professional of the Year at the Society, region and chapter levels and received the Charles V. Culbertson Outstanding Volunteer Service Award. He resides in Virginia Beach, VA. Joining these four leaders on ASSP’s 2022-23 Board of Directors are Vice President of Finance Linda Tapp; Directors-at-Large Maribeth Anderson, Tim Page-Bottorff and Daniel Snyder; and Public Director Ken Rueter. Jennifer McNelly, CAE, has served as the Society’s CEO since 2018. Candidates for the board must be professional members who possess specific qualifications. The criteria include involvement in an ASSP committee or task force, a record of positive contributions to the occupational safety and health profession, support and understanding of the Society’s vision, and being an effective motivator who is results-driven. Find a complete list of the Society’s 2022 election results on the ASSP website.
How to prevent Bench Grinder accidents
Statistics indicate more than half of grinder accidents result from operator error Because bench grinders are everyday machinery in workplaces nationwide, many operators become complacent about their hazards. However, bench grinders are very dangerous when used improperly. Statistics show that more than half of grinder injuries, such as fingers caught in the machine, or eye and face lacerations, are the result of operator error. Rockford Systems, LLC, a provider of machine safeguarding products and services, offers this primer on grinder safety regulations to help prevent accidents. First off, it is important to be fully versed in the regulations that outline safe grinder installation, maintenance, and operation. The workplace regulations that apply to grinders are OSHA 29 CFR SubPart O 1910.215, a “machine specific” (vertical) regulation with a number of requirements, which if left unchecked, are often cited by OSHA as violations. ANSI B11.9-2010 (Grinders) and ANSI B7.1 2000 (Abrasive Wheels) also apply. Carefully review these sets of regulations before operating any grinding machinery. Work-Rests and Tongue-Guards OSHA specifies that work rests be kept adjusted to within 1/8-inch of the wheel to prevent the workpiece from being jammed between the wheel and the rest, resulting in potential wheel breakage. Because grinders run at such high RPM, wheels actually explode when they break, causing very serious injuries, blindness, and even death. In addition, the distance between the grinding wheel and the adjustable tongue guard — also known as a “spark arrestor” — must never exceed 1/4-inch. Because the wheel wears down during use, both these dimensions must be regularly checked and adjusted. Grinder safety gauges can be used during the installation, maintenance, and inspection of bench/pedestal grinders to ensure work-rests and tongue-guards comply with OSHA’s 1910.215 regulation and ANSI standards. To do so, wait until the wheel has completely stopped and the grinder is properly locked out before using a grinder safety gauge. Grinder coast-down time takes several minutes, which may tempt an impatient employee to use the gauge while the wheel is still rotating. This practice is very dangerous because it can cause wheel breakage. Other advice: where grinders are concerned, personal protective equipment (PPE) usually means a full face shield, not just safety glasses. The fact is, an employee cannot be too careful with a machine that operates at several thousand RPM. Remember to document any safety requirements set forth by OSHA as that is the best evidence that safety procedures are being followed. Ring-Testing OSHA requires that grinding wheels be ring tested before mounting them. This simple step prevents the inadvertent mounting of a cracked grinding wheel. Ring-Testing involves suspending the grinding wheel by its center hole, then tapping the side of the wheel with a non-metallic object. This should produce a bell tone if the wheel is intact. A thud, or a cracked-plate sound, indicates a cracked wheel. For larger grinders, grinding wheels are laid flat on a vibration table with sand evenly spread over the wheel. If the wheel is cracked, the sand moves away from the crack. To prevent cracking a wheel during the mounting procedure, employees must be very carefully trained in those procedures. This starts with making sure the wheel is properly matched to that particular grinder, using proper blotters and spacers, and knowing exactly how much pressure to exert with a torque-wrench, just to mention a few things. Wheel Covers This OSHA-compliant Wheel-Cover allows no more than a total of 90 degrees of the wheel left exposed. (65 degrees from the horizontal plane to the top of the wheel cover). Never exceed these wheel-cover maximum opening dimensions. Larger wheel-cover openings create a wider pattern of flying debris should the wheel explode. A well-recognized safety precaution on bench/pedestal grinders is to stand well off to the side of the wheel for the first full minute before using the machine. Accidents have shown that grinding wheels are most likely to shatter/explode during that first minute. OSHA Instruction Standard #STD 1-12.8 October 30, 1978, addresses the conditional and temporary removal of the “Work Rest” for use only with larger piece parts based on the condition that “Side Guards” are provided. Grinder Do’s Always handle and store wheels in a careful manner Visually inspect all the wheels before mounting for possible damage Make sure the operating speed of the machine does not exceed the speed marked on the wheel, its blotter, or container Check mounting flanges for equal size, relieved as required, and correct diameter Use mounting blotters when supplied with wheels Be sure work rest is properly adjusted on the bench pedestal and floor stand grinders Always use a safety guard that covers a minimum of one-half the grinding wheel Allow newly mounted wheels to run at operating speed, with the guard in place, for at least one minute before grinding Always wear safety glasses or some type of approved eye protection while grinding Turn off the coolant before stopping the wheel to avoid creating an out-of-balance condition Grinder Don’ts Don’t use a wheel that has been dropped or appears to have been abused Don’t force a wheel onto a machine or alter the size of the mounting hole – If a wheel won’t fit the machine, get one that will Don’t ever exceed the maximum operating speed established for the wheel Don’t use mounting flanges on which the bearing surfaces are not clean, flat, and smooth Don’t tighten the mounting nut excessively Don’t grind on the side of conventional, straight, or Type 1 wheels Don’t start the machine until the safety guard is properly and securely In place Don’t jam work into the wheel Don’t stand directly In front of a grinding wheel whenever a grinder is started Don’t grind material for which the wheel Is not designed Rockford Systems offers a wide variety of safeguarding products for grinders including motor starters, disconnect switches, and shields.