Picture this scenario: A worker collapses, unresponsive, their heart beating erratically. Every moment is crucial - but help seems miles away. This heartbreaking situation unfolds far too frequently in industrial settings, where the absence of an automated external defibrillator (AED) could mean the difference between life and death ..read more

'Explosion Proof' and 'Intrinsically Safe' are the two most common, well known classes of lighting based on two different ways of preventing explosions in an atmosphere containing hazardous vapor. This includes handheld, portable, and wearable lighting, as well as complete facility lighting systems. The difference between the two classes of lighting is significant, and is based on the premise of Containment vs Prevention.  ..read more

Vertically straight impacts directly to the top of the head are not as common as you might think. This is why construction firms across the US are beginning to adopt Type 2 hard hats as their new standard. Type 2 hard hats extend impact and puncture protection to the whole head, and protect workers from a much broader range of hazards than standard Type 1 hard hats. In this article, we'll compare the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 hard hats. We will also discuss head protection versus brain protection, the science of head injury, and specific conditions where you need Type 2 protection ..read more

Changes made several years ago to OSHA’s Walking/Working Surfaces regulations continue to generate questions such as “Are ladder cages still OSHA compliant?” and “When will a Personal Fall Arrest System (such as a davit mounted SRL) or Ladder Safety System (engineered cable/rail system) be required on a fixed ladder?”  In this article, we will explain the standards in place, how they affect existing ladders, and what steps you will have to take in order to remain compliant in the future. This is an admittedly confusing topic; hopefully we'll be able to clear up that confusion and set the ..read more

Self-Retracting Devices have become the preferred connecting subsystem for personal fall arrest systems. Due to their increasing popularity and the wide variety of different types available, it is important to ensure that there is an improved understanding of the capabilities and limitations of these prolific devices which have evolved substantially in the last twenty years. When properly utilized, self-retracting devices are exceptionally effective and can help prevent serious injury or death when a workplace fall occurs ..read more

Road & Bridge work occurs on a more consistent basis than virtually any other type of construction, and this type of work lends itself often to the need for leading edge fall protection. Over the last ten years, nothing has been hotter in the fall protection market than the twin personal Self-Retracting Lanyard, except for those of the leading edge variety. These devices have taken the market by storm and they have been portrayed as the ultimate fall arrest solution. The appeal of these products is understandable: The prevailing understanding is that they will withstand contact with a sha ..read more

Every year, dozens of workers die and thousands more become ill while working in extreme heat or humid conditions. More than 40 percent of heat-related worker deaths occur in the construction industry, but workers in every field are susceptible. There are a range of heat illnesses and they can affect anyone, regardless of age or physical condition ..read more

Working in extreme heat is challenging. Heat creates physical and mental stresses that are absent in climate-controlled environments, and requires workers to rely on products and practices that prevent heat stress and Heat Related Illnesses (HRI’s). Practicing smart hydration and electrolyte replacement is only part of the solution; for many there are occasions where additional equipment is necessary to help keep workers cool ..read more

Before you know it, the country will be going back to work - and for those of you who haven’t been behind the wheel for a few weeks, you are likely looking forward to it. it's important to remember that, although much of our lives have been interrupted, the world continues to turn and business continues for many essential workers around the world. When the time comes, there will be lots of things you'll need to re-familiarize yourself with; one of the most important being your awareness of workers in construction zones, and the hazards they face from drivers like you.  ..read more

Staying hydrated is important. Dehydration happens when your body uses or loses more fluid than it takes in. When it happens, your body starts running on empty and can't carry out its normal functions. Lost fluids must be replaced to avoid an imbalance of salts and sugar in the body, which can affect performance ..read more