Juno Jones wins prestigious national award from NSC
The National Safety Council, the nation’s leading nonprofit safety organization, has honored Juno Jones boots with a prestigious Best in Show Award at the 2023 Safety Congress and Expo held in New Orleans, Louisiana. The National Safety Council held its annual conference, which is the world’s largest annual gathering of safety professionals, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center from October 22-24, 2023. Prior to the Wednesday morning keynote, the winners were announced before an audience of thousands. Of over 70 new safety products, the Juno Jones Women’s Steel Toe Meti II Boot was declared a winner and called onto the stage. Juno Jones Founder and CEO Emily Soloby was on hand to accept the award from NSC CEO Lorraine M. Martin. Juno Jones specializes in ASTM safety footwear made especially for a woman’s foot shape, creating a safer, more comfortable, and more stylish boot. “This is a win for women’s safety in the workplace, and a win for inclusion in the workplace. It shows that the tides are turning. Pink it and shrink it is out, and inclusion is in,” said Juno Jones Founder Emily Soloby. You can find Juno Jones at retailers like Duluth Trading Company, as well as on their website at www.junojones.com. Juno Jones partners with leading distributors to help bring women’s PPE to female employees at corporations and organizations around the country. To learn how to bring Juno Jones boots to your company, email info@junojonesshoes.com.
ASSP’s McNelly appointed to ANSI Board of Directors
CEO Jennifer McNelly of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has been appointed to the board of directors of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which provides a framework for safety standards development and conformity assessment systems. Her three-year term as a director-at-large begins Jan. 1. McNelly, CAE, will continue her full-time role at ASSP during her time on the ANSI board. She will attend ANSI’s board meeting and year-end event as a guest on Dec. 6-7 in Washington, D.C. “I look forward to helping advance ANSI’s and ASSP’s valuable work developing voluntary national consensus standards,” McNelly said. “Our longtime collaboration with ANSI has been an important element of our successful efforts to elevate workplace safety standards.” ANSI accredits standards that are developed by government agencies, consumer groups and other standards organizations such as ASSP, which is a global leader in creating voluntary national consensus standards to protect workers. The standards provide the latest expert guidance and fill gaps where federal regulations don’t exist. Companies rely on voluntary consensus standards to drive improvement, injury prevention and sustainability. Since regulatory requirements are slow to change and often out of date, compliance is not sufficient. A standards-based approach to workplace safety also improves productivity and boosts a company’s bottom line. “With Jennifer giving ASSP a voice on the ANSI board, it will improve our alliance and support the standards process in today’s changing world of work,” said ASSP President Jim Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA.
KEEN Utility introduces the Lansing Chelsea with pull-on convenience
With the release of the Lansing Chelsea, KEEN Utility brings its go-to work hiker with pull-on convenience while still providing essential protection and support. Made with a durable, water-resistant leather upper that’s as good-looking as it is hard-working, the Lansing Chelsea steel-toe boot offers elastic panels in the ankle area that make it easy to pull on, while a reflective safety feature runs from heel to toe for added visibility on the job. Other product highlights include an EH-rated outsole to provide a secondary source of protection when accidental contact is made with live electrical circuits and an oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking, multidirectional lugged rubber outsole. New for Fall 2023, the Lansing Chelsea is available for men.
Take safety to new heights
The American Ladder Institute (ALI) is seeking sponsors for next year’s National Ladder Safety Month. New for 2024, the enhanced Top Cap Sponsor becomes a leading voice on ladder safety at work and at home. The sponsorship is a valuable brand extension for any company invested in the manufacturing of ladders or their safe use. Companies with employees working at heights fully 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 thrives 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 presenting sponsor for National Ladder Safety Month. Other major sponsorship opportunities are also available and can be found here. The Top Cap Sponsor will be designated as the exclusive title sponsor of National Ladder Safety Month and will receive an array of promotional consideration, media impressions, and other perks. These include recognition on the National Ladder Safety Month virtual Save the Date (sent to over 3,000 safety managers and professionals), logo placement on all event promotional materials, a dedicated press release, including a quote, in March 2024 (average views of 2,000 per release), and recognition in the February 2024 press release (average views of 2,000 per release). This is in addition to a dedicated email blast to ALI’s database of more than 23,500+ contacts, dedicated social media posts (audience of 2,000+) with tagged recognition on ALI and National Ladder Safety Month channels (Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn) between January and March 2024, the company logo and link on National Ladder Safety Month website, a 300-word article on the ALI website, and a company video hosted on the National Ladder Safety Month website. To become Top Cap Sponsor or other level sponsor, contact marketing@laddersafetymonth.com. For a list of other National Ladder Safety Month sponsorship levels, visit https://www.laddersafetymonth.com/.
ASSP welcomes new chief financial officer
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has welcomed a new chief financial officer. Steven M. Lothary, MBA, will lead the Society’s finance team as of Nov. 1. He will replace Bruce Sufranski, who is retiring at the end of October after more than 14 years of service. Lothary joins ASSP’s leadership team, working with the CEO and Board of Directors to align resources with the organization’s strategic direction. He will oversee all financial functions of ASSP and the ASSP Foundation. His responsibilities include accounts payable and receivable, cash management, annual budgets and audits, financial and tax reporting, risk management, insurance, and headquarters office building operations and maintenance. Lothary brings more than 20 years of experience in the not-for-profit and association industry. “We’re excited to bring Steve on board to continue the competent work and valuable contributions that Bruce has provided for many years,” said ASSP President Jim Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA. “Steve will play a significant role as we continue to grow post-pandemic and strengthen our position as a global leader in occupational safety and health.” Lothary will create and manage a long-term financial sustainability plan and work to increase reserves. He also will oversee human resources, which includes compensation and benefits, organizational planning and talent management. “This is a terrific opportunity that is meaningful to me because it helps protect worker safety and health,” Lothary said. “My background and career experiences align well with ASSP’s objective of increasing its financial health and stability. I look forward to helping the Society build on its history of success.” Lothary most recently served for six years as senior director of finance at the Emergency Nurses Association in Schaumburg, IL. The professional medical association provides education for more than 50,000 emergency department nurses. He led the redesign of their budget process and implemented an automated budget system. Prior to that, Lothary was director of finance and facilities for the American Society of Anesthesiologists – also in Schaumburg – from 2008 to 2012 and again from 2014 to 2017. The professional medical association provides education and lobbying support for more than 50,000 members. He implemented monthly dashboard reporting that focused on major revenue sources to better enable the organization’s leaders to pursue strategic initiatives.
Raymond introduces industry’s first wireless Integrated Tether System
System provides controlled slowdown functionality and valuable data to help reinforce operator training for very narrow aisle lift trucks Continuing a long tradition of industry-leading innovation, The Raymond Corporation introduces the Integrated Tether System, a first-of-a-kind operator assist tool designed to alert operators and managers and to limit lift truck functionality* if an operator is not properly tethered. The wireless connection in the Integrated Tether System is compatible with Raymond® lift trucks, is unique in the marketplace and offers valuable data-gathering capabilities that can help reinforce best practices with all operators, enhancing security and confidence. “Over the last several years, facility owners and managers have had to deal with increasing the number of operators in the warehouses and the need to reinforce and monitor best practices,” said Shannon Curtis, product manager at The Raymond Corporation. “As a result, managers are looking for technology-based offerings that can help assist managers with these ever-increasing demands. This solution comes at a perfect time to support the new U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration national emphasis program and reinforces Raymond’s dedication to providing secure solutions for operations.” The Integrated Tether System features a smart tether that uses a sensor to connect to and communicate with the lift truck and offers audio and visual notifications to alert the operator of tether status — connected or disconnected. When operators pair Raymond lift trucks and Raymond iWAREHOUSE® and iMONITOR® Telematics, the lift truck will respond in one of two ways: when the operator’s harness is properly connected to the self-retracting lanyard (SRL), the lift truck retains full travel speed and full lift-height capability; or if the operator is not properly connected, the lift truck limits travel speed to 1 mph and disables lift capability. Offering a single-source solution for those facilities with mixed fleets or facilities without iWAREHOUSE Telematics, the comprehensive system will still share audio and visual notifications to operators if a tether connection has not been properly made. In addition to controlling lift truck functionality, the Integrated Tether System offers valuable reporting capabilities through iWAREHOUSE and iMONITOR Telematics, allowing managers to simplify workforce management and training by providing data and metrics on operator connection histories, system involvements, and more. “That’s what sets the Raymond Integrated Tether System apart,” Curtis said. “Wireless integration with iWAREHOUSE Telematics means the tether is less expensive to integrate and there are fewer parts to maintain. Factor in the data-reporting capabilities,* and the Integrated Tether System becomes an easy choice for facilities that frequently hire new or inexperienced operators.” The Integrated Tether System offers full functionality when used with iWAREHOUSE Telematics and Raymond Very Narrow Aisle Equipment; 5300, 5400, 5500, and 5600 models and the Raymond 9600 and 9700 Swing-Reach® Trucks. Operators can use the Integrated Tether System with a full-body harness and an SRL.
ASSP president will help dedicate Triangle Fire Memorial
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) is anchored to the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire that killed 146 garment workers in New York City more than 100 years ago. ASSP President Jim Thornton will join Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, New York Governor Kathy Hochul and other dignitaries in honoring those workers on Oct. 11 when a memorial is dedicated at the original building in Manhattan. The event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET. The Triangle fire revealed great negligence in worker safety when the tragedy occurred on March 25, 1911. A few months later came the creation of the United Association of Casualty Inspectors, now known as ASSP, the world’s oldest professional safety organization. “The memorial will stand as a symbol to forever remember our nation’s legacy of reform while paying tribute to the workers who died,” said Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA. “It’s a significant achievement by the Remember the Triangle Fire Coalition, whose members worked tirelessly over the past decade to bring the project to fruition.” The main body of the stainless-steel memorial is on a corner of the Brown Building at Washington Place and Greene Street, resembling a ribbon that descends from the 9th floor where most deaths occurred. It evokes the appearance of mourning ribbons that were draped on buildings in times of public grief. Twelve feet above the sidewalk, the memorial splits horizontally to flank the building’s facades, where the names and ages of the victims are stenciled into the ribbon and appear in a reflective panel at street level. ASSP contributed $32,519.11 to the memorial’s construction, connecting the seven digits of the fire’s date (3/25/1911) to emphasize the significant moment in U.S. history. The ASSP Foundation donated an additional $25,000 to the project. Both names will be listed on a donor plaque affixed to the building near the memorial. “The Triangle fire inspired our country to address workplace safety in an organized way that didn’t previously exist,” Thornton said. “The horrific incident led to a series of laws and regulations that better protected workers. And ASSP continues to advance worker safety and health to this day.” During the Triangle disaster, fire exit doors were locked and other doors only opened inward, making it impossible for the onrush of workers to get out. The fire escape was poorly constructed and didn’t meet weight requirements. Fire department ladders couldn’t reach the upper floors of the 10-story building. Many workers died by jumping out of windows and into an elevator shaft as they tried to escape the flames. From its inception on Oct. 14, 1911, ASSP has grown into a global membership organization of more than 35,000 occupational safety and health professionals whose efforts reduce workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities. But the work of safety organizations, employers and federal agencies is never complete. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 5,000 people were fatally injured on the job in 2021. “We have always championed the need to protect workers because safety, health and well-being are inherent rights of every worker,” Thornton said. “History must continue to motivate us to do better. It takes all of us working together to make sure that tragedies like the Triangle fire never happen again.” Find more information about the Triangle Fire Memorial and the upcoming dedication ceremony on the Remember the Triangle Fire Coalition’s website at rememberthetrianglefire.org.
KEEN Utility Cincinnati 90 Degree heavy-duty work boot
With the introduction of the Cincinnati 90 Degree, KEEN Utility now offers the fan favorite heavy-duty work boot with a 90-degree heel for a dependable grip on ladders or soft surfaces. Featuring an air-infused Lufttcell midsole for unbeatable comfort, an EH-rated rubber outsole to improve traction and barnyard resistant leather to protect feet from variables on the work site, this heavy duty boot is a stand-out for wet conditions with varied terrain. Additional safety features include carbon fiber toes that provide an unobtrusive fit and are 15% lighter than steel, along with continuous goodyear welt construction for enhanced durability under harsh work conditions. To maximize comfort, the Cincinnati also offers shellback heel support and a removable, PolyAer PU footbed with pillow-top cushioning. The Cincinnati 90 degree is available for men in two different colorways.
Free technical report helps employers protect temporary workers
Many businesses are increasingly using temporary workers during the holiday season and throughout the year, making it challenging to provide safe environments without proper planning and guidance. The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has published a free technical report that can help employers in all industries better protect workers who are hired on a short-term basis. The digital report is titled “ASSP TR-Z590.9-2023 Technical Report: Protecting Temporary Workers: Best Practices for Host Employers.” The document was originally published by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), but ASSP has turned it into an ANSI-registered technical report to bring the guidance to a wider group of occupational safety and health professionals. “When a workforce involves temporary and short-term work arrangements, the likelihood of an injury or fatality can increase,” said ASSP President Jim Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA. “It’s important for businesses to implement safeguards in non-standard circumstances to ensure the safety and health of all workers.” The technical report enables organizations to integrate best practices into their safety and health management systems, going beyond regulatory compliance to achieve safer working conditions and a competitive advantage. The content in the document is organized into three sections: 1) Evaluation and contracting, 2) Training for temporary workers and their work site supervisors, and 3) Injury and illness reporting, response and recordkeeping. The technical report is focused on temporary or contract workers located in the same facility. That includes a construction site, which often involves multiple subcontractors. “Single work sites may include workers who are employed by different companies, so the supervising employer needs to manage the safety of everyone,” Thornton said. “That includes warehouses during the holiday season where temp agencies will help place a number of workers.” A related resource for businesses that use short-term workers is ASSP’s recently published book, “Safety Management Systems in a Joint-Employer Environment.” The book explains the escalation of risk in a joint-employer setting and describes how the traditional approach to managing hazards has not kept pace with the speed of today’s changing world of work.
Mezzanine Safeti-Gates hires Jerry O’Neill to head its sales team
Mezzanine Safeti-Gates, Inc., an innovator in the design and manufacturing of pallet drop safety gates that provide fall protection in distribution centers, warehouses, manufacturing and material handling facilities, has announced the hire of Jerry O’Neill to head the sales team. The material handling sales veteran will lead the efforts in North America, including focus on systems integrators, distributors and consultants. Jerry joins the Mezzanine Safeti-Gates team from InCord, where he worked for over 13 years as a custom safety netting representative serving the Eastern United States and Canadian territories. At InCord, he proved to be an integral team member, helping to spur the company’s rapid growth. “We’ve always emphasized working with material handling distributors to promote pallet drop safety,” said Aaron Conway, president of Mezzanine Safeti-Gates, Inc. “Jerry will be a great addition to our team as we continue to expand our safety gate product line and custom-engineered solutions.” Prior to joining the material handling industry, Jerry spent over 20 years in the printing industry, sharpening his service-oriented problem solving skills. A graduate of Kutztown University, Jerry resides in the Philadelphia area with his family. Used in thousands of locations throughout the world, pallet drop safety gate systems offered by Mezzanine Safeti-Gates are available in single and double wide pallet widths, rack supported configurations, and can be customized to accommodate specific pallet widths, depths and heights. Safety gates can be purchased with manual or power operation, and fully comply with OSHA’s Walking Working Surface Fall Protection Standard, ANSI fall protection guidelines and IBC standards. All models, including safety gates for the loading dock and lifts, are available in powder coated mild steel or electro-polished stainless steel.
The A4 Glove for cut resistance and much more
Brass Knuckle® SmartCut™ (BKCR4420) adds grip, moisture protection, and high dexterity Application specific cut standards remain the only way to specify cut-resistant protective gloves; however, A4 cut resistance has quickly become the de facto minimum standard for work gloves used in many applications. Foremen and plant managers alike trust its performance and feel confident putting their people in it when setting out for another hard day at work. Brass Knuckle® SmartCut™ (BKCR4420) offers this highly desirable A4 cut resistance PLUS a whole lot more, making it a value-added glove with plenty of upside. SmartCut starts with a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) knit shell to provide ANSI cut level A4 protection without bulk, with a strength-to-weight ratio 8 to 15 times higher than steel. But then SmartCut adds superior grip, moisture protection, and a high degree of dexterity. Come for the cut protection; stay for the comfort and grip. To achieve this winning combination, SmartCut has a water-based polyurethane (WBPU) coating as a palm and finger base coat. This helps reduce penetration of liquids, including light oil. Then it secures grip with a foam nitrile top coat, perfect for working with oils, petrochemicals, fuels, and most acids. Then, a sandy grip finish further enhances abrasion resistance and cut protection. It’s why SmartCut is the choice of so many industries, from metal work and stamping to automotive, oil and gas – and any application that needs a sturdy, hardy safety glove. It provides excellent medium-to-high cut resistance with layered protection that is the most breathable and flexible in its class.
ASSP recruiting presenters for Safety 2024 in Denver
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) is seeking a diverse group of occupational safety and health professionals to join its team of presenters now being formed for its Safety 2024 Professional Development Conference and Exposition. The world’s oldest professional safety organization is an industry leader in promoting best practices that make safety an integral element of business. Safety 2024 will be held Aug. 7-9 in Denver. Presentations should address key occupational safety and health issues as well as emerging matters and innovations relevant to the profession. Speakers have until Sept. 13 to submit their proposals to contribute to next year’s event. “Our annual conference is a dynamic learning and networking experience that helps attendees expand their knowledge, find solutions to challenges and learn about the latest trends,” said ASSP President Jim Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA. “Whether you’re an industry newcomer or seasoned practitioner, there’s always something more to learn to better protect workers at your organization.” All speaker proposals for Safety 2024 will be reviewed by ASSP’s Conference Planning Committee. The group’s evaluations consider a range of factors such as a speaker’s presentation skills and experience, desirability of the topic, and alignment with conference objectives. Presentations are in person for one hour, including 15 minutes for questions. The committee will consider no more than two proposals per speaker. “Presenting at our conference is a terrific opportunity to contribute to the career development of your colleagues while advancing our profession,” Thornton said. “It’s truly a rewarding experience.” Successful applicants will be notified by March 1, 2024. For more information on submitting a proposal to present at Safety 2024, please visit http://www.assp.org/call-for-presenters.
Protective eyewear for workers who need corrective lenses
A worker who wears corrective lenses is not exempt from wearing proper eye protection. Typical corrective eyeglasses don’t provide the necessary impact and side protection of work-grade spectacles and goggles. These workers could wear over-the-glasses (OTG) protective eyewear. But, for a less-bulky, maximum-comfort solution, there is Brass Knuckle® Read (BKREAD-6010). Read is great-fitting, cost-effective, super-light bifocal eye protection available in five diopter strengths: 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0. A durable polycarbonate frame provides extra side protection and all-day comfort. And of course, the clear lenses are ANSI-rated hard-coated polycarbonate with BK-Anti-FOG. BK-Anti-FOG lasts a full two minutes, 15 times longer than European EN 166/168, the only current documented standard in the world. It is permanently bonded to the lens, will not wear off or wash off, and retains its anti-scratch, anti-static, and UV protection properties. The number of Americans between the ages of 55 and 64 in the workplace will increase by nearly 44 percent over the next decade. These workers will continue to read gauges and valve settings, set machinery controls, and monitor production screens on the plant floor. They will calibrate, cut, and tune. And they will take their protective eyewear off and slide on their readers to make this close work easier — unless we see the problem before the accident happens. Even the revised ANSI/SEA Z87.1-2015 standard recognizes the need for protective readers that offer magnification for the wearer. Brass Knuckle® meets this need with Read BKREAD-6010.
Kenzen achieves GDPR Certification for Revolutionary Heat Safety Product
Kenzen, an innovator in the field of heat safety solutions and occupational health, has announced that its flagship product has received GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) certification, further solidifying its commitment to data privacy and protection. This certification underscores Kenzen’s dedication to ensuring the highest level of privacy and security for its users across the globe and adheres to privacy regulations in the European market. By obtaining GDPR certification, Kenzen ensures the highest level of data protection for its users and adheres to stringent data privacy practices, ensuring the secure collection, storage, and processing of personal information. The GDPR certification is a significant milestone for Kenzen, validating its compliance with the rigorous regulations governing the protection of personal data within the European Union. This achievement reflects Kenzen’s unwavering commitment to data privacy, user rights, and ethical business practices. The certified product represents a breakthrough in heat safety technology, designed to safeguard individuals working in high-temperature environments. By integrating sophisticated algorithms to analyze the physiological data and provide insights, Kenzen provides real-time data and vital signs. These insights enabling proactive, timely intervention and prevention of heat-related injuries or illnesses while improving worksite safety and productivity. Kyle Hubregtse, CEO of Kenzen, expressed his enthusiasm about achieving GDPR certification, stating, “We are thrilled to receive this certification, which further demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding personal data. With this achievement, we aim to improve individual health outcomes for individuals working in high-risk environments while ensuring their privacy and data protection rights are respected.” Kenzen’s GDPR-certified heat safety product is now available for deployment across Europe, offering industries such as mining and metals, manufacturing, energy, and emergency services a robust solution to mitigate heat-related risks.
Active intelligence groundbreaking ASTRATM Video Anomaly detection now available
ASTRA™ delivers a true gateway to proactive video security Active Intelligence, pioneer of AI-powered anomaly detection software for physical security just announced that its groundbreaking ASTRA™ Autonomous Video Anomaly Detection solution is now available for sale. The decision to initiate the official availability of ASTRA comes after a series of user trials and evaluations in mission critical applications across multiple vertical markets. “We performed extensive field tests with ASTRA and listened very carefully to scores of respected security professionals over the last 18 months, ensuring that we were bringing the best possible solution to market,” said Ken LaMarca, CEO, Active Intelligence. “The concept of commercially viable autonomous anomaly detection is new to this industry, so it was imperative that we got it right from the get-go. We’re extremely excited to bring this technology to market and help businesses tangibly improve the security of their facilities.” A breakthrough in proactive security technology, ASTRA™ delivers real-time anomaly detection for a virtually unlimited number of security, safety, compliance, and commercial/industrial applications across the enterprise. Unlike conventional video analytics, ASTRA eliminates the need for pre-configured rules to detect virtually any anomaly within a scene. This unique capability allows ASTRA to automatically distinguish acts of violence, individuals in distress, disruptions to assembly lines… the possibilities are limitless. Further, ASTRA detects anomalies using statistical data analysis without any bias or human judgement. A highly cost-effective solution, ASTRA allows for hundreds of video streams to efficiently run on a single server, significantly reducing the cost of implementation compared to conventional video analytics software. The lightweight application also creates little to no load on the user’s network. ASTRA’s anomaly detection transforms any video security system from purely reactive into a truly proactive, automated imaging solution, putting eyes on the entire system 24/7. For ease and speed of deployment, ASTRA integrates with the industry’s leading video management system (VMS) platforms, including Milestone XProtect, Qognify Ocularis, Genetec Security Center and Salient in the near future.
KEEN Utility footwear new Arvada safety-toe sneaker is a perfect blend of athletic-level cushioning and style
New for Fall ‘23, KEEN Utility’s Arvada is designed for jobs requiring constant movement and long hours on your feet. A perfect blend of athletic-level cushioning and style, this safety-toe work sneaker series features the lightweight, compression-resisting KEEN.ReGEN midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam and a sneaker-like ultra-breathable mesh upper. At the same time, the Arvada does not sacrifice when it comes to safety offering asymmetrical carbon-fiber safety toes that are unobtrusive and 15% lighter than steel and an EH-rated oil-and-slip-resistant rubber outsole provides dependable footing. Offering energy-returning jobsite performance with all-day style, the Arvada will be available for both men and women in several colorways.
Traffic and Parking Control Co., Inc. (TAPCO)
TAPCO launches extension to LegendViz product line
Traffic and Parking Control Co., Inc. (TAPCO), manufacturer, distributor and service provider of roadway safety innovations is excited to announce the launch of a LegendViz® line extension. The new additions to the LegendViz® line are the 36-inch-by-36-inch Stop and 48-inch-by-48-inch Do Not Enter signs. The new sizes are MUTCD-compliant and suitable for use on multi-lane roads, expressways and in states where oversized sign applications are desired. LegendViz® technology can also be applied to private roadways. Initially launched in 2021, the LegendViz® line was driven by customer feedback requesting traffic signs that motorists could see without headlights. Ever since, the innovative, LED-illuminated design has quickly become a popular addition to TAPCO’s range of traffic sign offerings. The latest extension is designed to address the growing need for larger-sized traffic signs that are highly visible regardless of factors such as speed or traffic volume. “We are excited to expand our product line to align with state standards and regulations nationwide,” said Amanda Schulz, TAPCO’s Director of Sales. “By providing larger signs that comply with Federal and State MUTCD standards, we are meeting the demands of our customers and continuing to increase safer roadways for all.” The new 36-inch-by-36-inch Stop and 48-inch-by-48-inch Do Not Enter signs are now available to purchase. As with all LegendViz® signs, the new sizes are designed for simple, single-person installation and offer the flexibility of AC or solar power options.
Dematic reduces noise of supply chain facilities which enhances worker experience with 3D Noise Mapping audit
Dematic announced the global launch of its Noise Reduction Portfolio, a comprehensive solution to address loud work environments across supply chain facilities. The offering includes before and after 3D noise mapping audits throughout a facility, enhanced rollers, slats, and belt conveyors that can reduce noises at their source by up to 15 decibels. “The well-being of our customers and their employees is a high priority that includes protecting hearing when working in loud environments like distribution centers,” says Andy Randles, Senior Director, Global Lifecycle Support. “By implementing this portfolio of technology, our customers can take the noise levels down in their facilities from a concert hall to a classroom chat. It’s a huge step forward in improving work environments.” To diagnose noise levels, Dematic uses 3D noise mapping to conduct on-site testing at customer facilities that visually identifies acoustic hazards, similar to the way a heatmap identifies temperature hazards. Dematic then builds a noise model to simulate how upgrading equipment would reduce noise levels. The company recommends upgrades and installs quiet rollers, slats, and conveyors as needed. Dematic conducts a second test after installation to demonstrate the difference before and after the upgrade was made. “We’re proud to provide such a comprehensive noise reduction portfolio,” says Randles. “Reducing noise levels in facilities is not only meaningful for worker health and safety, but also to job satisfaction. We’ve heard from customers that morale and productivity among workers goes up when noise levels are lower.” According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), approximately 22 million workers in the U.S. are exposed to noise loud enough to damage their hearing each year. Similarly, studies in Europe have found up to 30 million workers are exposed to occupational noise that endangers their hearing. Results of research studies like these underscore the importance of furthering technology and solutions that protect worker hearing and improve safety. The new portfolio continues Dematic’s focus on reducing noise levels in customer facilities so workers can better communicate and hear safety sounds. In 2022, Dematic introduced new noise reduction features on its linear sorter that included quiet shoes, merge wedges, and slider belts.
Common questions on forklift training and trainers
OSHA doesn’t list qualifications for forklift operators, requiring only that the employer certify the operator. The operator need not possess a driver’s license, but must be at least 18 years old under child labor laws. Beyond that, the operator must go through training under a qualified trainer. Unfortunately, OSHA’s criteria for trainers are somewhat vague. Below are some common questions on forklift training. Does OSHA require a certified trainer? No, OSHA does not require that trainers take certain classes, hold a particular certification, or get re-certified at specified intervals. The Powered Industrial Truck Standard states that “all operator training and evaluation must be conducted by persons who have the knowledge, training, and experience to train operators and evaluate their competence.” The employer must ensure that trainers meet these qualifications. An OSHA compliance directive says: “An example of a qualified trainer would be a person who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by knowledge, training and experience, has demonstrated the ability to train and evaluate powered industrial truck operators.” The trainer need not operate a forklift as part of his or her job, but must have driving experience. Employers may use more than one trainer, or could bring in trainer from outside the company. However, training must cover hazards specific to the workplace. Can we use online or computer-based training? Operators must receive a combination of formal and practical training. Formal training may include a lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning, video, written material, and so on. Employers may use online or computer-based training for this portion. However, operators must also receive practical training, which means demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee. Also, operators must receive an actual performance evaluation where they operate the equipment and get evaluated. What training is needed to use attachments? Before using an attachment, operators must understand the limitations and potential hazards. Common attachments include fork extensions, barrel clamps, carpet poles, and personnel baskets. The trainer must have experience using the attachments. An OSHA letter of interpretation dated July 23, 2003, notes that “if the employer uses certain truck attachments and the trainer has never operated a truck with those attachments, the trainer would not have the experience necessary to train and evaluate others” to safely use those attachments. Note that modifications affecting the truck’s capacity must be approved in writing by the equipment manufacturer. Employers must obtain this approval before using the attachment. The unit’s data plate must identify the attachment, and the operating instructions must be updated so operators know how the attachment affects the unit’s load capacity. For example, fork extensions allow carrying a load further from the vehicle body, which reduces the weight capacity. What if someone operated a forklift at a previous job? Some operators may have experience from previous employment. However, they may still need training on the specific types of forklifts used, the particular hazards or conditions in the operating environment, and the use and limitations of attachments. Employers may consider previous operating experience when delivering training, but the employer is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the operator is qualified and can operate safely in the work environment. Is retraining required every three years? No, but an evaluation of the operator’s performance is required every three years. If that evaluation identifies deficiencies, additional training may be required. These evaluations must be conducted by someone who is qualified to train operators and evaluate their competence. Related Video About the Author: J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. is the most respected name in safety and regulatory compliance. Since its beginning as a one-man consulting firm in 1953, the company has grown to over 1,500 associates serving more than 600,000 customers — including over 90% of the Fortune 1000® companies. The company’s subject-matter expertise spans nearly 1,500 topics, and its diverse solutions include training via online courses, streaming video or DVD; online management tools; managed services; consulting services; online and print compliance manuals and instructional publications; ELogs and mobile technology, forms and supplies. Safety professionals rely on J. J. Keller’s in-house expertise and wide selection of products and services to reduce risk and improve regulatory compliance, performance management, and operational efficiency. For more information, visit JJKeller.com.