This is a new take, from DOE, on the core fundamentals of an SMS.  We can see the core within this new model, now called an Integrated Safety Management System (ISMS).  The five (5) core ISMS functions provide the necessary structure for all work that could potentially affect workers, the public, and the environment. Define the scope of work Hazards associated with the work are IDENTIFIED,...

The objective of an Integrated Safety Management System (ISMS) is to incorporate safety into management and work practices at all levels, addressing all types of work and all types of hazards to ensure safety for the workers, the public, and the environment. An effective ISMS must address these principles and functions while considering the following: … HomeRead More »

This was a nice attempt to correct the obstructed clock on the wall.  Why they did not just move the clock 6″ to the right or run the conduit differently is beyond me.. … HomeRead More »

OSHA has revised its Combustible Dust National Emphasis Program (NEP) based on enforcement history and combustible dust incident reports. In 2018, wood and food products comprised an average of 70 percent of the materials involved in combustible dust fires and explosions. Incident reports indicate that the majority of the industries involved in combustible dust hazards are wood processing, agricultural...

A plastics manufacturer’s failure to make sure required safety procedures were followed contributed to the death of a worker who suffered fatal injuries when he became entangled in a rotating part inside a bagging machine while trying to clear a jam.  OSHA found that duct tape over the safety interlock prevented the machine from shutting down. The victim was caught by the machine and pulled into...

On May 26, 2022, a crew was in the process of cutting up and disassembling two ammonia refrigeration systems (referred to as P24 and P34 in this report) at an ice distribution facility located in the Mount Paul Industrial Park located in Kamloops, British Columbia. Those present understood that ammonia had been previously removed from both systems. During the removal of a section of the P34 system...

This memorandum is intended to reiterate existing policy that allows Regional Administrators and Area Directors discretion to NOT GROUP VIOLATIONS in appropriate cases to achieve a deterrent effect. In particular, the agency may refrain from grouping violations where there is evidence that worksite conditions giving rise to the violations are separate and distinct, or where different conduct gave...

The current Instance-by-Instance (IBI) policy, published in 1990, applies only to willful citations. OSHA believes that a more expansive application of IBI will incentivize employers to proactively prevent workplace fatalities and injuries and provide OSHA with another tool to use on its mission to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for America’s workforce.  The scope of this guidance...

At 8:42 p.m. on February 19, 2022, Contractor #1 was taking apart an active heat exchanger. While doing this, 419 pounds of ammonia were released, causing upper body burns to an the contractor. Two contractors and one employee went to the hospital. The contractor was hospitalized for treatment.  … HomeRead More »

Homer was a Greek poet who is credited as the author of the Iliad and the Odyssey, two epic poems that are foundational works of ancient Greek literature. Homer is considered one of the most revered and influential authors in history.  But it is one of his very brief statements that most safety professionals can relate to… … HomeRead More »

  Some consultants want to help you make your employees FEEL safe… #phsychologicalsafety I want your employees to feel what it means to actually be safe by the ABSENCE of FEELING PAIN from an injury/illness.   Safety is FUNDAMENTALS, not a feeling or a mental state one has. I know many people who FELT like they were safe right up to that moment the consequence arrived, and they literally...

I am always amazed at how far facilities will go to “exclude” contractors from their PSM/RMP contractor program.  One that is a very common exclusion is “painting contractors”.  Here is an example of how the WRONG painting contractor, provided with a bad scope of work, can cost you more than you bargained for… … HomeRead More »