Bloodborne pathogens

Employer responsibilities

Bloodborne Pathogens Standard has provisions for

• exposure control plans

• engineering and work practice controls

• Hepatitis B vaccinations

• hazard communication and training

• recordkeeping

The standard imposes requirements on employers of workers who may be exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials such as certain tissues and body fluids.

The Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act, signed in 2000 revised the bloodborne pathogens standard to include specific additional definitions and requirements. Due to the act, employers are required to:

• Evaluate

• Select

• Use engineering controls

(e.g., sharps with protection or needleless systems) to eliminate or minimize exposure to contaminated sharps.

KNOWLEDGE KEY (summarize)

You, as a worker, have legal protections against health hazards related to bloodborne pathogens. Among other things, these protections require that employers provide PPE, use controls to prevent injury, label hazards correctly, and provide Hepatitis B vaccinations, as well as free medical evaluations should an injury involving bloodborne pathogens occur.

Common Bloodborne Disease Risks

Most common pathogens: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B virus, and Hepatitis C virus.

You could be exposed to bloodborne diseases in one of two ways. First, via a skin injury in which you are injured by a sharp object. Second, via contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin with blood, tissue, or other potentially infectious bodily fluids.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

The most common bloodborne pathogens are HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Exposures to these diseases can occur via (1) a skin injury or (2) contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin with blood, tissue, or other bodily fluids.

Bloodborne Diseases

Hepatitis C - This disease causes serious damage to the liver and can be fatal. Infection can occur without symptoms or only mild ones. Chronic disease develops in 75 to 80 percent of infected patients, and 70 percent of these individuals get active liver disease. Of those with active liver disease, 10 to 20 percent develop cirrhosis and 1 to 5 percent develop liver cancer.

HIV - This bloodborne disease disables the body's immune system until it is no longer capable of fighting infection. It does this by attacking and destroying the infection-fighting CD4 cells of the immune system. The loss of CD4 cells makes it difficult for the body to fight infections and certain cancers.

Once a person becomes immunocompromised, he or she can exhibit symptoms of weight loss, persistent low-grade fever, night sweats, and flu-like symptoms. The person is also more vulnerable to pneumonias, intestinal disorders, and fungal infections.

Hepatitis B - This disease can cause serious liver damage and death. Symptoms include jaundice, fever, nausea, and abdominal pain. Approximately 5 to 10 percent of patients develop chronic infection with this disease, which carries an estimated 20 percent lifetime risk of dying from cirrhosis and 6 percent risk of dying from liver cancer. The chance of becoming infected with this disease from a sharps injury is estimated to be between 6 and 30 percent.

The CDC recommends that all healthcare workers, emergency personnel, and other individuals who are exposed to blood or bodily fluids on the job, should be vaccinated against this disease. The vaccine is safe and effective and can protect you for a lifetime.

https://campus.careersafeonline.com/media/7653/116184/media/activity.pdf

Reducing Exposure Risks

Infectious Materials: human blood, semen, vaginal secretions, saliva

NOT transmitted by: sweat, urine, tears, feces

• PPE - Use appropriate PPE when you may be exposed to blood

• Sharps - HANDLE NEEDLES WITH CARE. ONLY PROPERLY TRAINED INDIVIDUALS SHOULD DRAW BLOOD OR ADMINISTER INJECTIONS TO PREVENT EXCESS BLOOD LOSS AND RESULTING EXPOSURE.

• Disposal - DISPOSE OF ALL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT IN A BIOHAZARD BAG.

• Sanitization - WASH AND SANITIZE HANDS FREQUENTLY AND KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM EMES, NOSE, AND MOUTH UNTIL THEM ARE WASHED AND SANITIZED.

• Avoidance - AVOID EATING, DRINKING, SMOKING, OR APPLYING COSMETICS OR CONTACT LENSES IN AN AREA WITH A LIKELY SOURCE OF A BLOODBORNE PATHOGEN.

You must be responsible for the device you use by activating safety features after use, disposing of devices in rigid sharps containers, not overfilling containers, and keeping fingers away from the opening of sharps containers.

Requirements for sharps containers -

Containers for contaminated sharps must be puncture-resistant. The sides and the bottom must also be leak-proof. They must be appropriately labeled or color-coded red to warn everyone that the contents are hazardous. Containers for disposable sharps must be closable (that is, have a lid, flap, door, or other means of closing the container), and they must be kept upright to keep the sharps and any liquids from spilling out of the container.

The containers must be replaced routinely and not be overfilled, which can increase the risk of needlesticks or cuts. Sharps disposal containers that are reusable must not be opened, emptied, or cleaned manually or in any other manner that would expose workers to the risk of sharps injury.

Disposal of Sharps

Employers must also ensure that contaminated sharps are disposed of in sharps disposal containers immediately or as soon as feasible after use. Sharps disposal containers must be readily accessible and located as close as feasible to the area where sharps will be used. Containers also must be available wherever sharps may be found, such as in laundries. Contaminated sharps must never be sheared or broken. Recapping, bending, or removing needles is permissible only if there is no feasible alternative or if such actions are required for a specific medical or dental procedure. Contaminated broken glass must not be picked up by hand, but must be cleaned up using mechanical means, such as a brush and dust pan, tongs, or forceps.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

You can protect yourself from exposure to bloodborne pathogens by treating all body fluid as infectious, wearing PPE, disposing of PPE correctly, keeping your hands clean, and avoiding eating, drinking, applying cosmetics or contact lenses around potential bloodborne pathogens, Sharps, such as needles, must be disposed of in a designated sharps container. Sharps containers must be emptied by professional biohazard removal services. Never empty a sharps container yourself.

In case of Exposure

1. Wash with soap and water

2. Flush splashes to the nose, mouth, or skin with water

3. Irrigate eyes with clean water, saline, or sterile irrigants

4. Report the incident to your supervisor

5. Immediately seek medical treatment

Post-exposure medication for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, when medically indicated, must be offered to you after an exposure according to the current recommendations of the U.S. Public Health Service. The post-exposure follow-up must include counseling about the possible implications of the exposure and your infection status, including the results and interpretation of all tests and how to protect personal contacts. The follow-up must also include evaluation of reported illnesses that may be related to the exposure.

Your employer must also provide you with a copy of the evaluating healthcare professional's written opinion within 15 days of completion of the evaluation.

According to OSHA's standard, the written opinion should only include: whether Hepatitis B vaccination was recommended for you; whether or not you received the vaccination, and that the healthcare provider informed you of the results ofithe evaluation and any medical conditions resulting from exposure to blood or other potentially infectious material which require further evaluation or treatment. Any findings other than these are not to be included in the written report.

After an exposure incident, such as a needlestick, OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens standard requires your employer to provide you with an immediate confidential medical evaluation and follow-up care. This evaluation and follow-up must be: made available to you at no cost and at a reasonable time and place, performed by or under the supervision of a licensed physician or other licensed healthcare professional, and provided according to the recommendations of the U.S. Public Health Service current at the time the procedures take place. In addition, laboratory tests must be conducted by an aceredited laboratory and also must be at no cost to you.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

If you are exposed to infectious material via a needlestick or sharps injury or are exposed to blood or other bodily fluids, immediately wash the area with soap and water, flush splashes to the nose, mouth or skin with water, or irrigate the eyes with water, saline or sterile irrigants. Then report the incident to your employer who is required to offer you a cost-free medical evaluation and appropriate testing.

PPE

For workers to be protected from hazards, employers must follow the hierarchy of hazard control.

First, if possible, eliminate the hazards from the work environment. If the tasks can be completed without a hazard, then that is the safest solution.

Second, if feasible, substitute the hazard with a safer alternative if the hazard cannot be removed. For example, an employer can replace a harsh cleaning chemical with one that has fewer potential side effects on the workers who use it.

Third, if there is no feasible substitute for the hazard, implement engineering controls. Engineering controls ultimately isolate people from the hazard.

For instance, a guard on a rotating blade prevents a worker from touching the blade.

Fourth, if engineering controls do not sufficiently protect workers from hazards or cannot be implemented, administrative controls are the next step. This means that the way people work is changed to create a safer work environment.

This can involve safe lifting practices being implemented in manufacturing plants or warehouses in addition to many other techniques.

Finally, if the previous steps still allow workers to be exposed to potential hazards, personal protective equipment (PPE) must be selected and implemented in the work environment. PPE includes respirators, hearing protection, face shields, gloves, boots, and other protective clothing.

Remember that this is a hierarchy: eliminating the hazard is always the most effective way to guarantee workers' safety, and PPE is the least effective.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Your employer is responsible for conducting a hazard assessment at your workplace, selecting and providing the appropriate PPE for the hazard present, making sure the PPE fits you properly and you know how and when to use it, and training you on the limitations of your PPE as well as how to care for and dispose of it.

Eye protection

KNOWLEDGE KEY

In this section you learned that you must use eye protection to prevent injuries to your eyes from splashes, dust, flying particles, and intense light. The type of eye protection you use depends on the hazard you will be exposed to.

Ear and Head Protection

Class G hard hats are made to protect you from

• Falling objects

• Electrical shocks up to 2,200 volts.

Class E hard hats are made to protect you from:

• Falling objects

• Electrical shocks up to 20,000 volts.

Class C hard hats are made to protect you from:

• Bumping your head against fixed objects, but do not protect against falling objects.

• Unlike class G and E, class C hard hats do not protect you from electrical shocks

• Class C hard hats are designed for comfort and offer limited protection.

You can check the type of hard hat by looking at the inside of the helmet and reviewing the label. The label should indicate that it is compliant with the ANSI standard Z89.1 as well as its type and class.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

In this section you learned that there are different classes of hard hats. The type of work you will be doing determines of which type of hard hat should wear. Class C pffers the lowest propection, just providing protection from minor bumps. Class E and G provide protection from falling objects as well as varying degrees of protection from electrical shocks, Class G offers protection from up to 2,200 volts while Class E provides protection up to 20,000 volts.

Hearing Protection

Foam earplugs provide the most hearing protection. If the earplugs are not inserted into the ear canal correctly, you are not getting the full benefit of using them.

PVC earplugs are more comfortable in hot environments.

Earmuffs fit over the outside of the ears. Earmuffs can be worn in combination with earplugs for added hearing protection.

Earmuffs should be cleaned regularly and, like all PPE, they should be inspected before use and discarded if damaged or defective.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Wearing earplugs or earmuffs correctly can preserve your hearing when you are on a jobsite with high noise levels. The longer you’re exposed to noise, the more likely it is that hearing damage will occur. Be sure to select the type of hearing protection that will best protect you based on your work environment.

Hand and Foot Protection

Vinyl or neoprene gloves protect your hands from hazardous chemicals.

Anti-vibration gloves are used to protect your hands from vibration.

Latex gloves are used to protect your hands from germs and bacteria.

Heat resistant gloves are used to protect your hands from heat and flames.

Leather palm gloves are used to protect your hands from sharp edges, slivers, and dirt.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Gloves protect your hands from a variety of hazards, but it's important that you use the right gloves for the job and that the gloves fit your hands correctly, Be sure to use your gloves property and inspect them for any damage to protect your hands from any hazards on your worksite.

Foot protection

Footwear with reinforced soles has metal reinforcement to protect the bottom of your foot from penetration.

Steel-toed shoes protect your toes from falling objects and from being crushed.

A metatarsal shoe protects your entire foot.

Rubber boots protect you from chemicals and provide extra traction on slippery floors.

When considering foot protection, as with any PPE, it is important that you

• Select the right footwear for the job

• Be sure the footwear fts properly

Also, before you begin work that requires the use of protective footwear, you should

• Inspect your footwear for damage of excessive wear

• Replace footwear that would not provide adequate protection for your feet

KNOWLEDGE KEY

You need to protect your feet at your workplace from any hazards that may be present, such as falling objects, sharps, slippery areas, or hazardous liquids. Use the foot protection that best protects you from the hazards you may encounter on a daily basis. Be sure to inspect your foot protection regularly and keep it in good condition.

Respiratory protection

A Supplied-air respirator (S-A-R) provides clean air to the user of the respirator. An example is a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus or S-C-B-A.

An air-purifying respirator (A-P-R) is a system of chemical filters which remove specific gases and vapors before they are inhaled by the user of the respirator. An example is filtering face piece or gas mask.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

There are two types of respirators: one which filters air and one which supplies clean air. The type you use depends on the work you're doing. Remember that respirator use requires that you have a medical evaluation and additional training.

Full body protection

Level A full-body protective clothing is gas-tight, chemical-resistant coveralls used with a supplied-air respirator or SCBA. It provides the highest level of protection and is required when the greatest potential for exposure exists and the greatest level of skin, respiratory, and eye protection is required.

Level B full-body protective clothing is chemical-resistant coveralls used with a supplied-air respirator or SCBA. It provides the highest level of respiratory protection and a lesser level of skin protection.

Level C full-body protective clothing is normal work clothes or Tyvek ® coveralls used with an air-purifying respirator. This level is required when the concentration and type of airborne substances are known and the criteria for using an APR is met.

Level D refers to normal work clothes. Level D protection may be sufficient when no contaminants are present or work operations preclude splashes, immersion, or the potential for unexpected inhalation or contact with hazardous levels of chemicals.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

There are many varieties of clothing which protect against different hazards. It's your employer's responsibility to provide PPE appropriate for the work being done.

Walking Working Surfaces

Fall Hazard prevention methods

• Using fall protection equipment, such as guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, and more.

• Using ladders safely.

• Obtaining adequate training.

Slip and trip hazards

Know where to find the written housekeeping policies in your workplace. A written housekeeping policy can help ensure the quallty and consistency of housekeeping procedures

The policy should include:

• Contact information for the housekeeping department

• The location and use of cleaning products

• Storage and use of wet floor signs and barriers

• When specific areas of the facility should be cleaned and the proper method of cleaning-for example, is the area cleaned after specific events or after each client?

• Cleaning methods for different areas and surfaces

Passageways and aisles

All permanent aisles and passageways should be kept clear of obstruction. Permanent aisles or passageways should be clearly marked. Typically, permanent passageways are marked with a painted line. The line should have a width between 2 and 6 inches.

Where painted lines are impossible or impractical, the passageways must still be clearly indicated, and employees should be trained in how to identify them.

Aisles and passageways must be at least four feet wide, and three feet wider than the largest piece of equipment that will be utilized there so that both the equipment and foot traffic may safely pass.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Poor housekeeping creates additional slip and trip hazards. Employers are responsible for maintaining the work area, but you have a responsibility to follow your employer's guidelines. In some cases, the work area has some slip and trip hazards which cannot be removed, and workers must use the correct footwear and be aware of their surroundings in order to remain safe.

Employer Responsibilities

Providing Fall protection

A guardrail system is a barrier erected along an unprotected or exposed side, edge, or other area of a walking-working surface to prevent workers from falling to a lower level.

A safety net system is a horizontal or semi-horizontal barrier containing a netting to stop falling workers before they make contact with a lower level or obstruction.

A Personal Fall Arrest System stops a fall before the worker contacts a lower level. The system consists of a body harness, anchorage, and connector, and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or a suitable combination. OSHA strictly prohibits the use of body belts as a part of a personal fall arrest system.

A Positioning System contains connectors that, when used with a body harness, allows a worker to be supported on an elevated vertical surface, such as a wall or window sill, and work with both hands free.

A Travel Restraint System is a combination of an anchorage, anchorage connector, lanyard (or other means of connection), and body support to eliminate the possibility of a worker going over the unprotected edge or side of a walking-working surface.

A Ladder Safety System attaches to a fixed ladder to eliminate or reduce the possibility of a worker falling off a ladder. This system consists of a carrier, safety sleeve, lanyard, connectors, and body harness. Cages and wells are not considered ladder safety systems.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Your employer is responsible for providing working conditions which are free from fall dangers, including keeping floors and work areas in a clean and sanitary condition. Your employer is also required to provide PPE at no cost to you and to train you about the job hazards in a language you can understand.

Portable Ladder Requirement

To decrease the number of falls and accidents using portable ladders at the workplace, OSHA requires employers to ensure that:

• Rungs and steps are slip resistant.

• Ladders used on slippery surfaces are secured and stabilized.

• Ladders are not moved, shifted, or extended while a worker is on them.

• Top steps and caps of stepladders are not used as steps.

• Ladders are not fastened together to provide added length, unless designed for such use.

• Ladders are not placed on boxes, barrels, or other unstable bases to obtain added height.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Employers must keep ladders in good condition for their workers to use and must also ensure that their workers use the ladders correctly.

Ladders

Fixed ladders are permanently attached to a structure, building, or equipment. These include individual-rung ladders, but not ship stairs, step bolts, or manhole steps.

Employers are required to have ladder safety or personal fall arrest systems for fixed ladders that extend more than 24 feet, rather than cages or wells for fall protection.

OSHA has issued a timeline for the implementation of this rule for work performed using fixed ladders in outdoor advertising. This will include the following changes:

• Outdoor advertising employers have two years to install a cage, well, ladder safety system, or personal fall arrest system on billboard fixed ladders that are not equipped with any fall protection.

• Outdoor advertising employers have twenty years to install a ladder safety or personal fall arrest system on billboard fixed ladders that have a cage or well.

• Outdoor advertising employers must equip new billboard ladders with a ladder safety system or personal fall arrest system.

• Outdoor advertising employers must equip billboard ladder and section replacements with a ladder safety system or personal fall arrest system.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Fixed ladders are permanently attached to a structure, a building, or equipment. Your employer is required to have ladder safety or personal fall arrest systems for fixed ladders that extend more than 24 feet, and any worker ascending these ladders must be a qualified climber with additional training.

Portable Ladders

A portable ladder is any ladder that:

• Can be readily moved or carried

• Is not permanently attached to a structure, building, or equipment.

The most cited OSHA ladder violations include not having a portable ladder extend three feet above the landing, lack of worker training, and improper use of the top of step ladders.

Factors contributing to falls from ladders, include:

• Failure to safely position a ladder each time a person uses it which can result in a loss of balance

• Ladder slips from the top or bottom

• Overreaching

• Slipping on rungs or steps

• Moving or slipping from a ladder's supports

• Using defective equipment

• Selecting the wrong type of ladder for a given task

Keys to preventing a fall from a ladder include:

• Choosing the right ladder for the job.

• Tying the top and bottom of the ladder to fixed points when necessary.

• Keeping your hands free of carrying tools or other materials when climbing a ladder.

Point of contact

When you climb a ladder, it's important that you maintain at least three points of contact at any time to safely ascend or descend the ladder. But what is a point of contact?

A point of contact on a ladder is where one of your hands or feet touches the ladder. In the case of climbing, your hand needs to be gripping the sides or rungs to be considered a point of contact.

So, having three points of contact with a ladder means that two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand are all properly touching the ladder while you climb or descend.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Just because ladders are found both at work and at home doesn't mean they're safe. Be sure to use ladders safely by choosing the right ladder for the job, tying the top and bottom of the ladder to fixed points when necessary, and keeping your hands free and always maintaining three points of contact with the ladder while climbing. Remember to never use the top of a step ladder as a step.

Guardrails and Stairs

A standard toeboard blocks an opening along the base/floor of stairs or other walking or working surfaces where materials or body parts might otherwise inadvertently fall through. It should be 4 inches high, with not more than ¼ inch clearance above the floor.

A standard railing consists of a top rail, mid rail and posts. The height from the upper surface of the top rail to the floor level is 42 inches. Mid rail height is one-half as high as the top rail (21 inches).

A wall opening is an opening in a wall or partition that is at least 30 inches high and 18 inches wide, and through which persons may fall.

Areas that need guarding

Floor openings which are 12" or more in its least dimension, in a floor, platform, or yard, through which persons may fall must be guarded.

Floor holes less than 12" but more than 1", through which materials but not persons may fall must be guarded.

Wall openings at least 30" high and 18" wide in any wall or partition through which persons may fall must be guarded.

Guardrails must be placed around every open-sided platform, floor, or runway that is 4 feet or higher off the ground or next level.

Regardless of height, if a worker can fall into or onto dangerous machines or equipment there must be guardrails installed.

Floor openings

A typical floor opening is an opening measuring 12 inches or more in its least dimension, located in a floor, platform, pavement, or yard. Falling through a floor opening could cause serious injury. To be properly guarded, a floor opening should have both a standard railing and a standard toe board.

Floors may also be covered with a hinged or non-hinged cover. Covers should be designed to support two times the weight of the person or equipment that may cross it. Holes should always be covered or guarded when not in use. When the holes are open, they should be guarded by removable guardrails or a human attendant.

Stairway floor openings occur when there is a stairway that descends below the floor level. Stairway floor openings must be guarded by a standard railing on all exposed sides, except at the entrance.

Ladder way floor openings occur when a ladder descends below floor level. Ladder way floor openings must be guarded with a standard railing and toeboard on all exposed sides, except the entrance.

Guardrails

The top rail is secured to a guardrail's vertical posts and must:

• Be at least ¼ inch thick to prevent cuts and lacerations

• Be 39-45 inches from the working surface

• Withstand at least 200 lbs. of force

The mid-rail is secured to a guardrail's vertical posts and must:

• Be installed when there are no walls at least 21 inches high

• Withstand at least 150 lbs. of force

The toeboard is the barrier along the floor or base of a platform that keeps materials from falling over the edge.

Guardrails requirement

Guardrail Openings Size cannot exceed 19 inches.

Guardrail Construction Must be smooth enough to protect workers from cuts and avoid snagging their clothes.

Guardrail Screens and mesh must extend from the top rail to the working level.

Guardrails close to holes at points of access, like a ladder way, require a gate to prevent someone from falling through the hole, or be offset preventing someone from walking into the hole.

Wire rope guardrails must be flagged with highly visible materials at least every six feet.

Stairs

OSHA requires that stairs in your workplace must meet certain standards.

• Stairs must have handrails if they have four or more steps. These handrails must be 36 to 37 inches above the stairs themselves.

• Stairs must not be used to store items permanently or temporarily.

Even on correctly constructed and maintained stairs, you can still be at risk for a fall. To keep yourself safe follow these guidelines.

• When you climb or descend stairs, be sure to maintain 3 points of contact.

• You should never jump down any steps on a set of stairs. Always walk up or down the stairs.

• You should never carry heavy things while walking down the stairs. If something must be moved to a lower level, find an alternative method.

Fixed industrial stairs, such as stairs around tanks, machinery, equipment, platforms, pits, etc., must be strong enough to carry five times the anticipated live load with a minimum of 1,000 lbs.

They must be at least 22 inches wide and must be installed at angles between 30-50 degrees.

Fixed industrial stairs must have at least 7 feet of vertical clearance above any tread.

All stairs are required to have proper lighting for safe use.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Guardrails prevent falls by acting as barriers along open sides of stairways, platforms, and other hazards involving floor or wall openings. Your employer is responsible for installing and maintaining any guardrails where you work. Any staircase extending more than 4 steps is required to have a handrail in order to allow you to maintain 3 points of contact while walking along the stairs. Stairs should not be used as a storage area, and you should never carry heavy items while using stairs.

Scaffolds

All scaffolding used in general industry must comply with OSHA's construction scaffold standards under 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart L.

The OSHA standard covers the proper use of scaffolds and required training for workers using scaffolds, and ensures that employees are protected from common hazards such as falls, falling objects, structural instability, electrocution, or overloading.

The OSHA standard also covers specific load capabilities and design requirements.

Each scaffold shall be designed by a qualified person, and should be constructed according to the design.

Scaffold Hazrds

Falls from scaffolds pose a serious danger to workers. This hazard can result from slipping, a lack of proper fall protection, or unsafe scaffold access. Remember, you are most vulnerable to fall hazards when climbing on or off of a scaffold. Always be aware of your surroundings while working on a scaffold and report any fall hazards that you see.

Workers can be injured on scaffolds by being struck by falling objects. This can include tools that fall from one level to the next or debris that can come loose while work is ongoing.

Scaffolds too close to power lines increase the risk of injuries and/or death to workers on the scaffolds. You and your employer should make sure the scaffold system, your tools, and the materials you are working with stay at least 10 feet away from power lines or 3 feet away from insulated power lines.

Scaffolds which are not properly constructed can lead to a scaffold collapse. Take the time to look the scaffold over before you use it and report damage if you identify defective components. Damaged components must be replaced before use. Scaffolds must be assembled and used according to the manufacturer. All components such as braces and pins must be present.

If your employer uses bad planking or sets up a partially-planked or -decked scaffold, this increases your risk of falling.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

In this section, we learned that the main causes of deaths and injuries on scaffolds are falls, being struck by objects, electrocution, scaffold collapse and bad planking.

Avoiding Electrocution Hazards

Conductor vs Insulator

Metal, wet skin, and water with small amounts of salt or other minerals are all examples of conductors. Electrical current can easily move through these materials. This means that anyone working with electricity in a damp or wet environment needs to exercise extra caution to prevent electrocution.

Pure water, plastic, and dry skin are all examples of insulators. They prevent the electrical current from traveling easily through them. Because electric currents will always follow the path of least resistance, these currents will choose any other more conductive material rather than attempt to move through insulators. Other examples of insulators include rubber, wood, cloth, glass, and the earth.

Model of electrical circuit

In order for current to flow through a conductor, three things must be present:

1. A source of electrical current to flow -- AC electrical current comes from a power generating station, DC current comes from a battery. AC current cannot be stored in a battery like DC current, so there are electrical generators to replace current as it is used by consumers.

2. Something to transport the electrical current - A conductor allows current to move through it. This statement applies to all current, whether it is AC or DC. An example is a metal wire.

3. Something that causes current to flow through the conductor. Voltage pushes current through metal wires in a circuit.

The voltage that pushes DC current depends on the size of materials in a battery. The voltage that pushes AC current depends on the electrical power plant, and can be very large.

Electrical circuit

The electrical circuit is accessed through receptacles. In other words, when tools or equipment wires are plugged into a wall socket, those tools and pment become part of the circuit.

When we plug in an electrical device, we are using the current of electrons that is generated at the power plants and placed onto the national electric er grid.

People can become part of a circuit. When a person becomes part of an electrical circuit, that person can be shocked. electric shock can result in anything from a slight tingling sensation to immediate cardiac arrest. The severity depends on the:

• Amount of current flowing through the body.

• Current's path through the body.

• Length of time the body remains in the circuit.

• Current's frequency.

Major electrical hazards

The acronym BE SAFE is a reminder of the most common types of hazards or injuries due to electricity.

An electrical hazard is defined as a serious workplace hazard that exposes workers to any of the following:

• Burns

• Electrocution

• Shock

• Arc flash

• Fire

• Explosion

Types of electrical burns

Electrical burns are among the most serious burns and require immediate medical attention. They occur when electric current flows through tissues or bone, generating heat, and causing damage.

Entrance Wound: Because skin is an insulator, it transforms electrical energy into heat, which produces burns around the entrance point (dark spot in center of wound).

Exit Wound: Current flows through the body from the entrance point, until finally exiting where the body is closest to the ground This foot suffered massive internal injuries, which weren't readily visible, and had to be amputated a few days later.

Arc or flash burns result from high temperatures caused by an electric arc or explosion near the body.

An example of an arc flash is a lightning bolt. The electrical current travels through air. This type of arc flash generates enough heat to melt metal. The same process can happen with any electrical device. In fact, cauterization tools are used to create arc flashes that the surgeon can use to intentionally fuse tissue. When an arc flash is not intended, a burn injury is the result.

Thermal contact burns are caused when the skin touches hot surfaces of overheated electric conductors, conduits, or other energized equipment. Thermal burns also can be caused when clothing catches on fire, as may occur when an electric arc is produced.

Electrocution

Electrocution means to injure or kill with electricity and occurs when a person is exposed to harmful amount of electrical energy.

In 2014, 141 people died from electrocution. Construction workers have the highest risk for electrocution.

Electrical shock

Electrical shock is the body's reflex response when electric current passes through the human body. Electrical shock happens when electric current enters the body at one point and leaves through another.

Shock refers to the physiological reaction or injury caused by electric current passing through the human body. Electric shock can have minimal effects or can be life threatening, depending on the amount of current encountered and the length of contact.

Arc flash

An arc flash is the sudden release of electrical energy through the air that gives off thermal energy, or heat, and bright, intense light that can cause burns. Temperatures have been recorded as high as 35,000 °F. A lightning bolt is an example of an arc flash.

Electrical fire

Fire can be caused by fixed wiring-electrical wires inside the walls of buildings-especially when the wires are old or the outlets are faulty. Fire can also be caused by flexible wiring such as extension cords, appliance cords, or by plugs, receptacles, and switches.

Explosions

Explosions can occur when electricity ignites explosive gases in the air, such as pure oxygen, methane, or natural gas.

In one case, an oxygen tank exploded in a hospital and the sound of the blast was heard up to three floors away. A nurse was critically injured, and at least two patients were treated for smoke inhalation and other injuries.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

There are several types of electrical hazards, all of which can cause injury or death. For this reason, you need to be aware of the dangers involved with working around electricity.

Power lines and energized source

People who come in contact with high voltage power lines can be injured and may die due to electrocution. Some overhead power lines have a protective covering that protects power lines from exposure to the elements. However, the covering does not protect workers from electrocution. If you touch a power line, covered or bare, death is probable. Touching or grabbing powerlines, even downed power lines, is not safe. If death does not result from touching a powerline, severe injuries are probable.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

In almost all cases, touching power lines or coming into contact with energized sources will result in severe injuries or death.

Employers’ Responsibilities

OSHA has standards and regularly inspects workplace environments for violations of those standards. Employers are required to follow standards in order to protect workers from electrocution hazards.

How do OSHA's standards minimize electrical hazards? OSHA standards focus on the design and use of electrical equipment and systems. The standards cover only the exposed or operating elements of an electrical installation such as lighting, equipment, motors, machines, appliances, switches, controls, and enclosures, requiring that they be constructed and installed to minimize workplace electrical dangers.

Consider all the exposed or operating elements in an electric installation:

• Lighting found throughout the building

• Appliances such as freezers or refrigerators

• Switches used with generators

• Controls on equipment and machinery in the workplace

KNOWLEDGE KEY

OSHA's standards require your employer to ensure that lighting, equipment, motors, machines, appliances, switches, controls and enclosures are constructed and installed to minimize electrical dangers.

Protection against electrical hazards

• Do not overload circuits.

• Tools and other equipment must operate properly. Make sure that switches and insulating parts are in good condition.

• Never use a three-prong grounding plug with the third prong broken off. When using tools that require a third-wire ground, use only three-wire extension cords with three-prong grounding plugs and three-hole electrical outlets. Never remove the grounding prong from a plug! You could be shocked or expose someone else to a hazard. If you see a cord without a grounding prong in the plug, remove the cord from service immediately.

• Remove cords from receptacles by pulling on the plugs, not the cords.

• Use extension cords properly. If an extension cord must be used, choose one with sufficient ampacity for the tool being used. An undersized cord can overheat and cause a drop in voltage and tool power. Make sure the insulation is intact. To reduce the risk of damage to a cord's insulation, use cords with insulation marked "S" (hard service) rather than cords marked "SJ" junior hard service). Make sure the grounding prong is intact. In damp locations, make sure wires and connectors are waterproof and approved for such locations. Do not create a tripping hazard.

Using ground fault circuit interrupters

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is designed to:

• Protect people from severe and sometimes fatal electrocution by monitoring for electrical leakage to ground.

• Detect when the current leakage is greater than 5 mA.

• Interrupt the flow of electric current by tripping quickly enough to prevent electrocution from leakage.

In a case where electrical current leakage from the circuit occurs, the GFCI would:

1. Sense the current leakage.

2. Trip the circuit.

3. Cut off the electricity.

Your employer should ensure that the GFCls are tested monthly using the "test" button.

Ground faults

A ground-fault occurs when there is a break in the low-resistance grounding path from a tool or electrical system. The electrical current may then take an alternative path to the ground through the user, resulting in serious injuries or death.

The ground-fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, is a fast-acting circuit breaker designed to shut off electric power in the event of a ground-fault within as little as 1/40 of a second. It works by comparing the amount of current going to and returning from equipment along the circuit conductors.

When the amount going differs from the amount returning by approximately 5 milliamps, the GFCI interrupts the current.

GFCIs

The GFCI is rated to trip quickly enough to prevent an electrical incident. If it is properly installed and maintained, this will happen as soon as the faulty tool is plugged in.

If the grounding conductor is not intact or of low voltage, the GFCI may not trip until a person provides a path. In this case, the person will receive a shock, but the GFCI should trip so quickly that the shock will not be harmful.

Line contact hazards

The GFCI will not protect you from line contact hazards (i.e. a person holding two "hot" wires, a hot and a neutral wire in each hand, or contacting an overhead power line). However, it protects against the most common form of electrical shock hazard, the ground-fault. It also protects against fires, overheating, and destruction of wire insulation.

Lockout/Tagout

Many accidents occur because workers fail to lockout/tagout equipment properly. Lockout/tagout is an essential safety procedure that:

Protects workers from injury while working on or near electrical circuits and equipment.

Locks the device or power source and prevents anyone from turning on the hazardous power sources while someone is performing maintenance or servicing work.

Requires workers to place a tag on the locked device indicating that it should not be turned on. When using a tag, other energy isolation techniques may be necessary to maintain worker safety.

Prevents contact with operating equipment parts such as, blades, gears, shafts, etc.

Prevents the unexpected release of hazardous gases, fluids, or solid matter in areas where workers are present.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

There are several ways you can be protected from electrical hazards. These are using tools and power cords safely, understanding how a GFCI can protect you, and following lockout/tagout procedures.

Hazard Communication

Importance of chemical safety

Chemicals, ranging from water to acid, can be found just about everywhere. As you probably know, some chemicals are more harmful than others.

Be aware of chemical hazards at all times, especially in the workplace. Your exposure to chemicals is likely to be greater, as chemicals used in the workplace are higher in concentration and the exposure time is longer.

Wherever you are, working safely with chemicals is very important. Chemical exposure may cause or contribute to disorders ranging from skin rashes to more serious conditions like cancer or heart problems. It is also important to know that some chemicals have the potential to cause fires, explosions, and other serious incidents.

HAZCOM basics

Chemical safety - routes of entry

• Inhalation (breathing) -Chemicals can be inhaled, entering your body through your airways.

• Ingestion (by mouth) -Chemicals can enter your mouth directly or be transferred through actions, such as hand to mouth contact.

• Absorption-Chemicals can be absorbed into your body thro your skin or eyes.

• Injection (puncture wound) -Chemicals can enter your body through penetration by needles and other sharp objects contaminated with hazardous materials.

Exposure types

• Acute Exposure is a short term of brief exposure that may create an immediate health hazard. For example, if you come in contact with a surface that has a chemical irritant, you could break out in a rash.

• Chronic Exposure is a repeated or prolonged exposure (over months or years) that may bring about slowly developing symptoms. These exposures do not cause immediate, obvious harm, and a person may not see, feel or smell the danger. Effects, however, may be permanent. An example is developing cancer from a long-term exposure to asbestos or lead.

Chemical safety - physical hazards

In addition to health hazards, chemicals can also present a potential physical hazard in the workplace. A physical hazard occurs when the physical properties of a chemical create hazards such as fires, explosions, or dangerous chemical reactions. Exposure to chemicals that are health hazards or physical hazards can lead to serious consequences, such as illnesses, injuries, and even death.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Now that you have learned a few of the basics, remember that any chemical in the workplace can potentially enter your body through inhalation, ingestio injection, or absorption. Some chemicals can cause short term exposure effects, while others can cause chronic exposure that lasts years.

Right to know

Right to know law

The official name of the "Right to Know" law is the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) developed and regulated by OSHA. This regulation has requirements for manufacturers, importers, and distributors of chemicals, as well as for employers.

In the HCS, chemical manufacturers, importers, and distributors are required to provide standardized hazard information by way of Safety Data Sheets and labels on containers. Additionally, the standard requires employers to develop, implement, and maintain a written hazard communication program, which is commonly called the HAZCOM program.

HAZCOM Employer responsibilities

As you have learned, you have the right to be safe in your workplace. The "Right-to-Know" law requires your employer to have a written HAZCOM program. This program must, at a minimum, include:

• A list of all hazardous chemicals known to be in the workplace.

• A Safety Data Sheet for each hazardous chemical.

• A warning label on each container of a hazardous chemical.

• A training plan to communicate hazard information to you and other employees.

Safety Data Sheets for any chemicals in the workplace should always be available AND easily accessible so you can know what your potential risks are at any time.

The chemical label on this container is a standard label used to communicate hazards and warnings for this specific cleaning chemical.

Employee training

When hazardous chemicals are present, you must be trained:

• Before you start an assignment for the first time.

• Whenever a new physical or health hazard is introduced into your work area.

1. Requirements of the "Right-to-Know" Law (OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard).

2. Details and location of the written hazard communication (HAZCOM) plan.

3. Instructions for working safely in areas where hazardous chemicals are present.

4. A list of hazardous chemicals in the workplace.

5. Location, availability, and explanation of SDSs.

6. Physical and health hazard information for the chemicals in your work area.

7. Methods to detect the presence or release of a chemical (includin monitoring equipment, visual appearance, or odor).

8. Specific procedures for personal protection.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

The Right to Know law requires anyone who produces or uses chemicals to provide you with the right information to know how to protect yourself, including the potential harm each chemical can do to you. The standard ways of communicating chemical information are safety data sheets and labels.

Your employer must also maintain a list of all chemicals you may be exposed to AND provide training to minimize exposure to these chemicals.

Safety data sheets

HAZCOM program

An easy way to remember the differences is that an SDS is a document that each chemical manufacturer, distributor, or importer must provide for each hazardous chemical. It contains detailed information such as the properties of each chemical; the physical, health, and environmental health hazards; protective measures; and safety precautions or handling, storing, and transporting the chemical. SDSs are typically documents that are stored in the workspace but are likely not attached to the container containing the chemical.

Labels provide information regarding the hazards of the chemical in question, but their physical size limits the amount of information they contain. Labels are typically affixed to the container of the hazardous chemical.

Safety data sheets

An SDS is designed to identify the hazards of a chemical and explain how you can protect yourself from those hazards.

Your employer must have an SDS for every hazardous chemical in the workplace. The SDS for chemicals in your work area must be fully accessible and available to you the entire time you are at work.

For example, they can be kept in a binder or on a computer as long as the employees have immediate access to the information without leaving their work area when needed and a back-up is available for rapid access to the SDS in the case of a power outage or other emergency.

Safety data sheets requirements

OSHA requires each SDS to be:

• Completely legible.

• Updated when new information is available.

• Printed in English (other languages may be provided, but English must be provided).

SDS sections

Sec 1: Identification includes product identifier; manufacturer or distributor name, address, phone number; emergency phone number, recommended use; restrictions on use.

Sec 2: Hazard(s) identification includes all hazards regarding the chemical; required label elements.

Sec 3: Composition/information on ingredients includes information on chemical ingredients; trade secret claims.

Sec 4: First-aid measures includes important symptoms/ effects, acute, delayed; required treatment.

Sec 5: Fire-fighting measures lists suitable extinguishing techniques, equipment; chemical hazards from fire.

Sec 6: Accidental release measures lists emergency procedures; protective equipment; proper methods of containment and cleanup.

Sec 7: Handling and storage lists precautions for safe handling and storage, including incompatibilities.

Sec 8: Exposure controls/personal protection lists OSHA's Permissible Exposure Limits (PELS); Threshold Limit Values (TLVs); appropriate engineering controls; personal protective equipment (PPE).

Sec 9: Physical and chemical properties lists the chemical's characteristics.

Sec 10: Stability and reactivity lists chemical stability and possibility of hazardous reactions.

Sec 11: Toxicological information includes routes of exposure; related symptoms, acute and chronic effects; numerical measures of toxicity.

Sec 16: Other information, includes the date of preparation or last revision.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

An SDS is a document that each chemical manufacturer, distributor, or importer must provide for each hazardous chemical, It contains detailed information such as the properties of each chemical; the physical, health, and environmental health hazards; protective measures; and safety precautions for handling, storing, and transporting the chemical. An SDS must be in a uniform format and there must be an SDS for every hazardous chemical in the workplace.

Chemical container labels

Warning labels

The HCS requires that each container holding a hazardous chemical have a warning label. The warning label must be easily seen and must provide the identity of the chemical, along with the appropriate warnings for employee protection.

You should always read the label before you use any chemical. There are many different types of warning labels.

Each label must contain the following information:

• Name, Address, and Telephone Number

• Product Identifier

• Signal Words

• Hazard Statements

• Precautionary Statements

• Pictograms

KNOWLEDGE KEY

All hazardous chemicals in the workplace must contain a label that includes critical information you need to identify what the chemical is and the warnings you need to be aware of. The label should be clearly legible and marked on the container.

Pictograms

There are nine pictograms or images which convey health, physical, and environmental hazards. The HCS requires eight of these pictograms, with the exception being the environmental pictogram, as environmental hazards are not within OSHA's jurisdiction.

OSHA's required pictograms must be in the shape of a square set at a point and include a black hazard symbol on a white background with a red frame sufficiently wide enough to be clearly visible. A square red frame set at a point without a hazard symbol is not a pictogram and is not permitted on the label.

Pictogram meanings

The Flame pictogram represents the following hazards:

• Flammables

• Pyrophorics

• Self-Heating

• Emits Flammable Gas

• Self-Reactives

• Organic Peroxides

The Health Hazard pictogram represents the following hazards:

• Carcinogen

• Mutagenicity

• Reproductive Toxicity

• Respiratory Sensitizer

• Target Organ Toxicity

• Aspiration Toxicity

The Exclamation Mark pictogram represents the following hazards:

• Irritant (skin and eye)

• Skin Sensitizer

• Acute Toxicity (harmful)

• Narcotic Effects

• Respiratory Tract Irritant

• Hazardous to Ozone Layer (Non-Mandatory)

The Gas Cylinder pictogram represents a hazard from Gases Under Pressure.

The Exploding Bomb pictogram represents the following hazards:

• Explosives

• Self-Reactives

• Organic Peroxides

The Corrosion pictogram represents the following hazards:

• Skin Corrosion/Burns

• Eye Damage

• Corrosive to Metals

The Skull and Crossbones represents Acute Toxicity (fatal or toxic).

The Flame Over Circle hazard represents a hazard from oxidizers.

The Environment Hazard represents aquatic toxicity. Displaying this pictogram is not mandatory.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Become familiar with all nine standard pictogram symbols to easily identify the types of hazards in chemicals in your workplace, including those that pose chemical, physical, health, and environmental hazards. Beware that the environmental pictogram is not required according to the GHS so be cautious when using any chemicals in the environment.

Employer responsibilities

How hazard communication works

Chemical manufacturers and importers classify the hazards of chemicals they produce or import and prepare labels and safety data sheets based on the classifications.

All employers receive labeled containers and safety data sheets with shipped chemicals. All employers must prepare a written hazard communication program, including a list of the hazardous chemicals in the workplace.

Employers must ensure that all containers of hazardous chemicals are labeled, safety data sheets are maintained for all hazardous chemicals, and that workers are trained on program elements, hazards, protective measures, etc.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

It's your employer's responsibility to develop, implement, and maintain a written hazard communication program. That means keeping a list of all chemicals in the workplace, making sure each chemical has a Safety Data Sheet that is easily accessible, that each container has a label that is not defaced, and that you are trained on the chemicals with which you will be working.

Preventing Workplace Violence

Define workplace violence

What is violence?

Violence may include abusive language, which is defined as swearing and insults.

Violence can also include harassment, which is defined as any behaviors that demean, embarrass, humiliate, or alarm.

Intimidation, which can include such aggressive acts as fist shaking, throwing objects, or yelling, is also unacceptable.

Any form of physical assault such as hitting, kicking, squeezing, stabbing, or shooting is not just wrong, but also a criminal act.

Threats of assault, which are defined as any expressed intention to do harm of any kind, are another from of violence.

What is workplace violence?

When violence ecours at your place of employment, or while working for your employer at any other location, this is considered workplace violence.

Violence in the workplace may come from a stranger, customer, eo-worker, acquaintance, or intimate person (such as current or ex-boyfriends, girfriends, or spouses)

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Most people think of violence as some kind of physical attack, but that's not always the case. Violence can also be a verbal or non-verbal attack. Any time someone is threatened in a way that results in physical, emotional, or mental harm, it could be considered violence.

Who is at risk?

Some of the jobs with the highest rates of workplace violence exist in jobs that involve:

• Making deliveries, whether it be pizza or packages, increases your risk of being harmed while at work.

• Working alone, especially during late-night and early-morning hours, raises your chances of being harmed while working.

• Handling money or other valuables while at work also increases the risk of a violent incident occurring.

• Having extensive public contact has also been shown to escalate your chances of harm.

• Working in high-crime areas is another factor in upping the likelihood of workplace violence.

• Working in places where alcohol is served inflates the risk of danger while at work.

The broader impact

It's not just victims of violence that suffer. Co-workers, employers, families, and friends may also feel the pain caused by violence.

Additionally, society must pay a financial price for violence. Billions of dollars in lost wages, health care costs, legal damages, and other expenses result from acts of workplace violence.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Workplace violence can affect anyone, but individuals working in certain occupations such as delivery drivers, those working alone, and those working with money all face an inherently greater risk of workplace violence.

Safety strategies

Common sense

There is no simple solution to protect you and others from workplace violence. However, you can use the common sense strategies:

Understand the things you can do to help protect yourself and others from violence.

Think about how you will put safety first, always staying aware of your surroundings.

Plan what you will do if you are caught in a dangerous situation.

Stay safe

1. Use your knowledge of violence prevention strategies to spot warning signs and master coping skills.

2. Practice safety by being alert for warning signs and reporting aggressive behavior to your employer.

3. Share safety by working with your employer and co-workers to make your workplace secure.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Though some danger in life is inevitable, there are common sense strategies to be aware of to help you stay safe. Spot warning signs and know how to manage dangerous situations, report aggressive behavior before it escalates, share safety tips with your coworkers, and help make safety a meaningful part of your work culture.

Prevention strategies

What to do

A safe work environment should include:

• Providing good outside lighting.

• Keeping only small amounts of cash on hand.

• Installing surveillance cameras.

• Regularly maintaining worksite vehicles.

• Establishing a "buddy system" for nighttime work shifts.

• Increasing the number of staff on duty.

In order to stay safe and prevent workplace violence, everyone must do their part. Expectations for employers include:

• A written policy that informs employees about violence, harassment, and other unacceptable behaviors, along with consequences of those behaviors must be available.

• Training on preventing workplace violence should be provided to all employees.

• Providing and maintaining a safe work environment.

To do your part as an employee:

• Be familiar with your employer's workplace violence policy.

• Take responsibility for making sure your workspace is secure.

• Report warning signs, threats, or aggressive behaviors so they don't persist or escalate to more violent acts.

• Treat co-workers with respect and be tolerant of different points of view.

• Learn how to recognize, avoid, or defuse potentially violent situations.

Warning signs

Apart from the type of violence you might experience during a robbery, you could also be exposed to violence due to your interactions with customers, co-workers, or partners of co-workers.

Violence rarely "comes out of the blue." Usually, an individual exhibits several warning signs in advance. Leaming to recognize these signs can help you anticipate and avoid possible violence. Warning signs may include:

• Aggressive actions.

• Swearing or using obscene language.

• Excessive complaining.

• Hostility or threats toward customers, co-workers, or supervisors.

• Frustration or irritability.

• Using drugs or alcohol, especially on the job.

• Sabotaging company equipment or property.

• Ignoring company policies and procedures.

3 prevention strategies:

1. Management & Employee involvement -Preventing workplace violence is a group effort involving both management and employees. Having a written workplace violence policy; assessing and securing the workplace with better lighting and stronger locks, and actively reporting aggressive behavior by co-workers all help lessen the chances of workplace violence.

2. Warning signs - Violence often escalates. Aggressive or hostile behaviors such as excessive complaining, hostility, threats, swearing, and sabotage frequently precede more violent incidents.

3. Coping skills - In the midst of a violent incident, remember to stay calm, listen, don't argue or resist, and don't try to disarm the person.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Preventing workplace violence takes involvement from management and employees. Remember to watch out for warning signs that could indicate a person or a situation may become violent.

Coping skills

If you observe a co-worker, customer, or stranger in your workplace exhibiting any of the warning signs, you should talk to a supervisor about your concerns and ask them to intervene.

It is also helpful for you to have some skills for coping if a situation were to become violent. The first thing to know is that if you are in a violent or potentially violent situation, your primary concern should be for your own safety and the safety of those around you. If possible, you and others should safely leave the situation and get help, either by contacting a supervisor or co-worker better trained to handle the situation, or by calling 911.

If, however, you are in a situation where you must deal with a person who is behaving violently, remembering some simple "Do's" and "Don'ts" may help you and others to stay safe.

Do’s

1. Stay calm. Speak quietly and slowly. Be polite. Show respect.

2. Listen. Let them talk and show interest in what they are saying.

3. Keep in mind potential routes of escape. Don't allow the aggressor to block your escape route.

4. Acknowledge their feelings. (For example: I can see that you're angry. I understand how you'd be frustrated.)

5. Set limits. (Such as: Please don't touch me, and please don't use profanity.)

6. Calmly describe the consequences of any violent behavior. (For example: I'll have to call 911 if we can't resolve this peacefully.)

7. If a weapon is involved, calmly ask the individual to put it in a neutral location while you continue to talk.

Don’ts

• React with hostility, condescension, or apathy.

• Touch them..

• Assume challenging postures (such as: crossed arms, hands on hips, hostile staring)...

• Immediately reject their demands..

• Make any sudden moves that might seem threatening.

• Argue or threaten.

• Stop the individual from leaving.

• Try to disarm the individual.

KNOWLEDGE KEY

Anticipating and preventing workplace violence is the first step, but it is also important to be prepared to endure and manage the situation if workplace violence should occur.