Risk Management Bulletins

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"Root Cause" Accident Investigation - Not a Band-Aid, but a Solution

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"Root Cause" Accident Investigation - Not a Band-Aid, but a Solution

In route to repair a water main leak, a newly hired backhoe operator drifts to the edge of the road and slams into the back of a car, injuring a mother waiting for her kids to get out of school. 

The young operator is near tears, the supervisor overflows with accusations, another worker slams their hand in a door. Everything is confusion.

Eventually, when the mess is sorted out, the safety coordinator will investigate the accident. He learns the steering and brakes on the backhoe were bad. Someone will get blamed, and the equipment issues will be repaired.  The safety coordinator, overwhelmed by the demands on his time, will go off to fight the next fire. 

This is not an extreme case.  Accidents are handled like this every day. At best, this type of approach deals with symptoms and not the actual or root cause.  In a few days, another piece of equipment, perhaps a manifold at the water plant, will fail.  Someone else will be injured or maybe killed.  The plant will shut down for a while and the damage will be repaired, but the risks will remain.

To identify and control risk, an accident investigation must get to root causes. Why was a new employee operating the backhoe?  How much training had they received?  Why wasn’t the faulty equipment taken out of service immediately?  Why wasn’t it clearly tagged out of service? Reported? Was the equipment regularly inspected?  Is there a preventative maintenance program? What must be changed in maintenance, training or safety to keep this from happening again?

Accident investigation should be a critical part of overall safety program strategy. Done correctly, it can enhance safety and reduce costs.  All accident investigations should be conducted in a professional manner and should always focus on causes: the why's. Using the 5 “Why’s” of a typical Root Cause Analysis allows the employer to discover the underlying or systemic, rather than the generalized or immediate, causes of an accident.  Correcting only immediate cause may eliminate a symptom of the problem, but not the problem itself. The more incidents that are reported, the more problems can be investigated and resolved. The more problems solved, the safer and more cost effective the operation will be.

The fact is that the only difference between a near miss and a catastrophe may be chance. That's why every potential problem should be resolved. 

For more information on conducting accident investigations, and developing a Root Cause Analysis please view “Incident [Accident] Investigations: A Guide for Employers” https://www.osha.gov/dte/IncInvGuide4Empl_Dec2015.pdf

Accidents and injuries are not a cost of doing business; all are preventable!

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Keep Older Workers Safe! Tips For an Aging Workforce

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Keep Older Workers Safe! Tips For an Aging Workforce

By 2020, one in four American workers will be over 55, according the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). To raise awareness of the health and safety issues affecting older workers, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) developed a web page with information to help employers match the needs of an aging workforce (https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/productiveaging/).

According to NIOSH, older workers tend to experience fewer workplace injuries than their younger colleagues, perhaps due to their experience and their lowered likelihood to take risks.  However, when older workers are injured the health care costs are higher and the recuperation period is longer. In addition, statistically there has been a dramatic jump in fatalities around age 60.

The following are some of NIOSH’s tips for keeping older workers safe:
    Match Tasks to Abilities: Everyone benefits when workers are able to perform their jobs well.  If older workers have physical limitations, assign them to tasks that do not require them to strain beyond their ability. Consider using self-paced work and splitting physically strenuous work up with self-directed rest breaks.
    Manage Hazards: When assessing hazards in the workplace, make sure to consider whether conditions that might not be hazardous for younger employees could pose a problem for older workers.  For example, a noisy work environment might not bother a 25-year-old (though you should still assess noise levels and provide hearing protection if necessary), but an older worker in the same environment might have difficulty hearing coworkers to communicate about important safety issues.
    Consider Ergonomics: Provide and design work environments that address ergonomic concerns. Examples include better illumination, screens and surfaces with a minimum amount of glare and ergonomic sit/stand workstations.  In addition, the use of ergonomically designed tools for high frequency task should also be taken into account.
    Invest in Training: It should be a priority to build work skills at all age levels. Older and younger workers can learn from each other, with older works serving as mentors and sharing their experience, and younger workers helping older workers adapt to new technologies.
    Manage Return to Work Process: Statistics and anecdotal evidence have shown that employees   recover more quickly from injury and illness when they’re at work.  Proactively managing reasonable accommodations and the return-to-work process, is a win-win situation.
    Train Supervisors: Train specifically on the issues associated with an aging workforce and the best way to address them.

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Hearing Protection - "What Did You Say?"

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Hearing Protection - "What Did You Say?"

“Blindness separates us from things but deafness separates us from people.” – Helen Keller

Human beings are social creatures: we drive in packs on the highway, we constantly use social media and we enjoy family and friend get-togethers.  A major part of our ability to socialize involves our ability to hear and communicate.  We all have someone in our family, or know of someone, that has difficulty hearing or diagnosed hearing loss.  We start a conversation with them but soon tire of repeating ourselves and eventually we avoid speaking to them altogether.

Approximately 15% of Americans between the ages of 20 and 69, or 26 million Americans, have hearing loss that may have been caused by exposure to noise at work or in leisure activities. The best prevention approaches for high noise levels are: remove the noise, remove the worker and then protect the worker by using Hearing Protection Devices (HPD). HPD are a type of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) worn to reduce (not eliminate) the level of sound entering the ear. PPE is the last line of prevention for a hazard; however, for most situations, HPD are the main defense against Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL).

When should you wear HPD:
    If the noise is measured at 85dB and above
    If you must raise your voice for a person 2-3 feet away to hear you
    If, after leaving the noise area, sounds are “dull, flat or muffled”
    If your ears “ring” after exposure to noise

It’s a good idea to wear HPD with these types of equipment:
    Lawn Mowers and Weedeaters
    Gas Powered Demolition Saws
    Pneumatic Impact Tools

Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR) are required to be printed on all HPD, to aid the wearer in selecting the correct protection for a situation.  The NRR value provides information on the measured reduction of noise in a laboratory setting.  In real world protection, NRR values are overestimated; as such, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends derating HPDs to provide the user a more accurate NRR value in real world situations. NIOSH suggests derating ear muffs by 25%, foam plugs by 50% and molded flanged plugs by 70%.  For example, if you have a pair of foam ear plugs with a NRR=30dB, derating by 50% results in an estimated noise reduction of 15dB.  It should be noted that derating is still only a rough guide and actual protection can vary.

Noise Induced Hearing Loss can be prevented by using the correct hearing protection for your situation and wearing it properly. Failing to use HPD or using it incorrectly, even during short exposures, can have negative consequences; and once noise-induced hearing loss occurs, it cannot be cured or reversed.

The decisions we make today will affect our quality of life on down the line.  It may be easy to convince yourself that everything is okay: “I will only be using the equipment for an hour,” “My ears only ring for a little while after work,” and “It’s part of the job.”  This kind of shortcut is a bad idea in the long run.  Make the right choice and wear your hearing protection.

For more information on Noise Induced Hearing Loss or Proper Use of Hearing Protection Devices please check out OSHA.gov, use the OSHA quick-card at https://www.osha.gov/Publications/3498noise-in-construction-pocket-guide.pdf

Stay tuned to OMAG’s YouTube channel for a video on Hearing Protection soon.

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Caring for Oklahoma Municipal Cemeteries (Part 1)

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Caring for Oklahoma Municipal Cemeteries (Part 1)

As a service to our members, OMAG’s Risk Management Services Department has developed a series of articles addressing various challenges and issues municipal cemetery caretakers might face.  Although tort claims generated from cemeteries aren’t at the top of the frequency or severity list, these types of claims don’t bode well for our public image and are most certainly preventable.

To our citizens, or customers, a cemetery serves two purposes, (1) the burial of loved ones and (2) a place where the living memorialize the dead.  Cemeteries are scattered across the landscape and are found in almost all communities. In addition, many of our cemeteries predate statehood.  Cemeteries and their symbols guide us into the past. Markers tell us not only about the individual who died, but the marker’s appearance and placement provides information about the society from which the individual departed. The symbols and text inscribed on markers contain important information for understanding the past. Consequently, cemeteries and markers are studied by art historians, folklorists, cultural geographers, archaeologists, anthropologists, genealogists, and historians. When cemeteries are ignored and allowed to deteriorate, and markers are damaged or destroyed, society loses important information about the past. Ultimately, an important part of ourselves is lost.

Maintenance and preservation of our cemeteries go hand in hand and are performed out of respect for those who are buried. Maintenance is simple, but may not be easy.  Keeping the grass mowed, trees trimmed, and good lighting not only enhances the overall look of the cemetery to the general public but also discourages vandalism.  Proper use of tools to keep cemeteries free of grass and limbs must be observed diligently in cemetery maintenance. Power mowers and weed eaters, when carelessly used, have and can still scar and break tombstones, especially old ones since they are usually made of softer stone. So, to minimize damage to old stones, grass near these stones should be pulled by hand. When power mowers and weed eaters are used guards should be in place to deflect any debris that is being thrown that may cause damage to the stones. When mowing, it is best to use a mulching mower when possible since there is not an outward discarding of debris. Any cracked or broken stone should be addressed immediately so to minimize further damage to the stone.

Lighting is also essential to maintain security in a cemetery. Lights should be checked regularly
and changed if needed. Good lighting reduces the chance of vandalism. It is cheaper to change a
bulb than repair vandalized stones. A well-lit cemetery draws the public to keep an eye on the
cemetery which deters vandalism. A regular check of the cemetery is also essential. Look for stones that have cracked, been damaged or destroyed, and address the defects as soon as possible.  Also, check fences for needed repairs and vandalism.

Day-to-day, periodic, and long-term maintenance are essential components of a long-term plan to ensure the continued preservation of any cemetery. The establishment of a continuous maintenance program is the most effective preservation activity that can be performed by a municipality. A well-kept cemetery will discourage unwanted behavior within your site. A plan that includes maintenance, landscaping, training, and funding of a permanent work force will help preserve your cemetery.  

Look for future articles, publications, and training events that will assist you in maintaining and managing your municipal cemetery.

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Fall Hazards

Public Works has many different hazards workers need to be aware of and the municipality must have procedures in place to insure workers are protected.  One issue to consider is Fall Hazards. Print the brochure below to share with your employees who may work around these hazards.

Download a printable tri-fold brochure about fall hazards
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Common Mistakes in Confined Spaces Monitoring

Common Mistakes in Confined Spaces Monitoring

Learning from practical, real-world experience often requires learning from our own mistakes. In many cases, this can be an effective way of developing greater levels of competence and understanding in a given subject. Unfortunately, when mistakes are made in confined space monitoring, the cost of this education if often measured in the number of lives lost (see 2016 Falls Creek Baptist Assembly Wastewater stories on the internet - KP). 

The deadly nature of confined spaces leaves little room for error and even less opportunity to “learn as you go”. Learning about some common mistakes before entering a confined space will go a long way toward establishing a workplace air monitoring program based on industry best practices. (If your municipality does not have a gas monitoring detector and calibration kit and you can’t afford one, look into OMAG’s Public Works Safety Enhancement Grant Program on our website www.omag.org/getfreestuff -KP).

Mistake #1 – Not knowing OSHA standards and recommendations

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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - Beware the Invisible Killer

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - Beware the Invisible Killer

As Seasons Change, Beware the Invisible Killer

More than 400 Americans die from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel is burned in vehicles, small engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges, furnaces and the like.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that often goes undetected, and as the weather turns colder in many parts of the country, it is important to be aware of the risks. Carbon monoxide becomes deadly when it builds up in enclosed spaces - and anyone can be affected.

At Work
Workers in certain professions, including welders, mechanics, firefighters and toll booth attendants are particularly at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning, according to OSHA.

To reduce the chances of carbon monoxide poisoning in the workplace:
•    Install proper ventilation systems
•    Keep equipment in good working order
•    Consider switching from gas to electrical or battery operated equipment
•    Prohibit use of gas-powered engines in poorly ventilated areas
•    Provide personal, audible alarms
•    Educate workers about carbon monoxide poisoning

At Home
About 170 people die each year from carbon monoxide exposure produced by room heaters and home generators, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The National Safety Council recommends installing a battery-operated or battery back-up carbon monoxide detector.

The CDC offers these and other tips:
•    Professionally service your furnace, water heater and any other fuel-burning devices every year
•    Never use a generator indoors or less than 20 feet from any window, door or vent
•    Have your chimney checked and cleaned every year
•    Make sure gas appliances are vented properly
•    Never ignore a carbon monoxide alarm; immediately move outside, call 911 and make sure everyone is accounted for
 
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you see someone with the following symptoms who may have been poisoned,move the victim outside immediately and call 911. If he or she is not breathing, begin CPR.  Low to Moderate CO Poisoning - headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness.  High-level CO Poisoning - mental confusion, vomiting, loss of muscle coordination and loss of consciousness.

This article is shared from the National Safety Council’s Safety Spotlight.

Contact OMAG Risk Management Services department if you have questions about this or any other workplace safety topic.  Gary Cauthen can be reached at (800) 234-9461 or gcauthen@omag.org.

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Spaceheaters - Hidden Fire Hazard

Spaceheaters - Hidden Fire Hazard

While space heaters are legal and widely used as an alternative heat source, many fire departments do not recommend their use because they pose certain hazards. If you have a space heater, or are considering getting one, consider the following safety tips as vital information for your personal safety as well as for protecting your property. 
 
•    Have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the area where you have a space heater. 
•    Never use fuel burning appliances without proper ventilation. Burning fuel (kerosene, coal, or propane, for example) produces deadly fumes. 
•    Be sure your space heater is in good working condition. All space heaters need frequent check-ups and cleaning. A dirty or neglected heater is a critical fire hazard. Also, space heaters should be UL (United Laboratories) approved and have knock-over shut-off switches. 
•    Use only the proper fuel for each heater. Never introduce a fuel into a heating unit that is not designed for that unit. 
•    Store kerosene, gasoline, or other flammable liquids outside the home or office at all times. 
•    Use an approved safety can for storing all flammable liquids. 
•    Maintain adequate clearance in all directions around space heaters. Give the heater adequate clearance – 3 feet is the minimum – from walls and combustibles, such as clothes, curtains, furniture, files, etc. Also, do not put them under the desk where you cannot see them and may forget to turn them off. 
•    Never leave children unsupervised in a room with a space heater. 
•    If you use an electric heater make sure the wiring is adequate. Avoid using extension cords. Use an approved power strip with a built in circuit breaker. Do not overload the wall plug. 
•    Never cover the heater’s cord with carpeting or furniture. This could cause the cord to overheat and start a fire. 
•    Avoid using electric space heaters in the bathroom. Never touch an electric heater when you are wet. 
•    When refueling a kerosene heater, avoid overfilling it. If cold kerosene is used, it will expand as it warms up inside your office and may cause burner flooding. This could cause flare ups. 
•    Never fill your kerosene heater while it is burning. 
•    Turn off your heater and unplug it before you leave the office at the end of the day. 
•    When using a fuel burning heater, open a window to provide adequate ventilation. 
 
Over 700,00 fires are started worldwide each year by space heaters. Spending a little time thinking about the potential hazards of space heaters may save your building and lives.

Contact OMAG Risk Management Services if you have questions about this or other topics related to municipal workplace safety issues. Kip Prichard can be reached at (800) 234-9461 or kprichard@omag.org.

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Horseplay - Only Fools Do It!

Horseplay - Only Fools Do It!

Be alert don’t get hurt! Horseplay has no place on the job. It usually leads to an accident or could lead to an act of violence. Someone decides to horse around or play a practical joke on someone else. One thing leads to another, and before you know it someone gets hurt or property is damaged. Think back to when you were in school. You can probably remember horseplay beginning in the elementary grades and continuing through middle and high schools. You probably know someone who did it; most likely you even participated in some horseplay yourself. Sometimes it seems like no big deal but sooner or later things go wrong and one or more people get hurt. 

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Drones - What is the Effect of the New FAA Regulations?

Drones - What is the Effect of the New FAA Regulations?

Drones are more than a passing fad or hobby - they have widespread private and public implications.  In the United States last year drones mapped approximately 2 million acres, however, in the last 4 months commercial drone users mapped 3 million acres.  The explosive growth of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) is due in large part to decreasing price points and new technology.  Drones are expected to total some 1.4 million by 2025.

Public entities have utilized drones for a multitude of tasks, such as:
    Search & Rescue Operations
    Aerial photography, inspection and mapping
    Crime, accident and fire investigation and documentation
    Monitoring/Inspecting powerlines, pipelines and infrastructure
    Law enforcement surveillance

Municipalities wishing to leverage this technology in their operations will be required to comply with the FAA’s newly released Part 107 regulations which became effective at the end of August 2016.  In addition to the FAA regulations, Oklahomans also need to be aware of HB 2599, that Mary Fallin signed into law in May of this year. House Bill 2599 restricts drone flight near any critical infrastructure such as: power plants, refineries/petro-chemical facilities and railroad facilities to name a few. However, HB 2599 does not apply to the federal government, the state or a political subdivision of the state or a law enforcement agency.

Municipalities making the plunge into the use of this new technology have 2 options to comply with the new FAA regulations: 
1.   Follow the same rules as business users. That is, the FAA’s small UAS rule (known as “Part 107”)
2.   As a Government Entity you may apply for a blanket public Certificate of Authorization (COA) which allows flights at or below 400 ft in Class G airspace, self-certification of the UAS pilot and the ability to obtain emergency COAs under special circumstances.

Municipalities opting for compliance under Part 107, can get training here in Oklahoma through Oklahoma City Community College’s Professional Development Institute. OCCC’s Professional Development Institute offers an innovative program to help operators learn how to properly use drones and stay in compliance with the ever-changing rules that drone operators are required to follow. For more information on the courses offered at OCCC, contact Patrick Clanin by phone at (405) 682-7854 or via e-mail at patrick.a.clanin@occc.edu.

To learn more about the new FAA Unmanned Aircraft System Regulations, you can visit the FAA’s website at www.faa.gov/uas. In addition, OMAG has formed an affiliation with “Know Before You Fly,” a non-profit organization that provides information on the FAA’s regulations and resources to determine which route of compliance is appropriate for your organization. You can visit their website at www.knowbeforeyoufly.org.

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