What are some of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S.? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), industrial mechanics work in some of the most hazardous environments in the country. Burns, shock-related injuries, sudden impact, falls, or overuse and repetitive strain injuries are just some of the dangers industrial mechanics face. What simple tips and products keep these workers safe?
Pay Attention During Safety Training
Motivating employees to pay attention and retain important information during safety training can be a struggle. It is also, however, absolutely critical. Implementing strict training and safety regulations is making dramatic improvements in worker safety, according to the U.S. Department of Labor and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). “Since 1970, workplace fatalities have been reduced by more than 65 percent and occupational injury and illness rates have declined by 67 percent. At the same time, U.S. employment has almost doubled,” the U.S. Department of Labor adds.
OSHA makes it perfectly clear: improved (and generally more rigorous) safety training is working. Workers should make sure to pay close attention during safety training – especially training on procedures that may be required on a day-to-day basis. For example, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) reveals that more than 3 million employers require lockout/tagout procedures. Lockout/tagout procedures ensure that machinery is fully turned off before required maintenance and other related tasks.
Stock up on Protective Gear and Products
The BLS recommends that workers “use protective equipment, such as hardhats, safety glasses, steel-tipped shoes, and hearing protectors.” Simple fastening tools and equipment can also promote worker safety, and drastically reduce the likelihood of electrical hazards, fires, and overuse injuries. Leveling feet, for instance, stabilize equipment on uneven flooring. Most also use an adjustable pin or knob to raise machinery safely and without risking mechanics’ personal safety.
Cable ties, also commonly referred to as zip ties and hose ties, promote occupational safety by using a pawl and a series of teeth to lock objects, including electrical parts and wiring, into place. Workers can choose from nylon color cable ties to easily identify and sort wires, or flame resistant, metal zip ties that are ideal for high temperature wire management applications.
Promoting worker safety depends adhering to safety regulations. Workers should carefully follow all necessary procedures, wear protective gear whenever possible, and reduce electrical and fire hazards using widely accessible tools, such as metal zip ties.