Safework news - volume six - issue one - winter 2015

safeworknews Newfoundland and Labrador

Volume Six, Issue One Winter 2015

Former paramedic focussing on health and safety

The T h ergonomics of work: H o safe are you?

How

Wellness programs make for healthier and safer employees

L Page 4

L Page 8

L Page 18

Get to know your hot spots Injury hotspots for Cleaners/Janitors

Face 4% 6%

Shoulder, including clavicle, scapula

14%

Hand(s), including finger(s), fingernail(s), wrist(s)

Arm(s) 5% 3%

Chest, including ribs, internal organs

31%

Back, including spine and spinal cord

7% Leg(s)

3% Ankle(s)

photo: Joan Lewis, Cleaner

SOURCES Workplace Health, Safety and Compensa on Commission injury preven on database based on eight years of accepted claims

For further information visit: www.whscc.nl.ca or, please call the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission at: SOURCE Workplace Health, Safety and Compensa on Commission injury preven on database

1-800-563-9000

safeworknews Newfoundland and Labrador

Health Hazard

Carcinogenicity

4

10

Former paramedic charts new course

Making occupational disease claims

Wellness that works

Health and safety opening new doors for Fred Wiscombe

The steps to follow once you have been diagnosed

How to develop programs for healthier and happier employees

6

12

20

WHMIS to GHS

Reducing risk in the welding trade

NEWS FLASH

Setting a common list of classification rules

The Do’s and Don’ts of protecting your health and safety

Keeping assessment rates stable for 2015

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Testing ergonomics knowledge

Are you performing your duties in an ergonomic manner?

18

15

Understanding the impact of workplace violence

Important measures for making workplaces safer

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

Cover photo: Fred Wiscombe by Paul Daly

safeworknews Newfoundland and Labrador

safeworknews is published by the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission) of Newfoundland and Labrador to educate workers and employers about injury and disease prevention, promote a positive safety culture and provide links to Commission resources for safer workplaces.

Editorial Submissions and Inquiries kpeyton@whscc.nl.ca

*ABC Accredited Business Communicator

Editorial Advisor Carla Riggs

Administration Janet Hancock

Editor Kathy Dicks Peyton, ABC*

Contributors Paul Daly Kelly Taylor

Graphic Design Mark Wessels Marketing Sherry Greene Information Technology Florence Maloney

Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement #40063376, Customer #1324969 No portion of this publication may be reprinted in whole or in part without the written permission of the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission. The Commission reserves the right of final approval on all material.

www.whscc.nl.ca Printed in Canada Copyright 2015 Printer: Transcontinental Print

safeworknews publication agreement #40063376

Safety Share Clear the path for safety If you know exactly what to look for, one of the most common things you can see during a safety inspection are blocking violations.

What types of things should not be blocked?

Below is a partial list of common items in most workplaces, however, there can certainly be others:

Always take precautions when working alone Lately I’ve been alarmed by the number of reports of (attempted) armed robberies at gas stations and stores in our province. It reminds me that we have many people who work alone and are vulnerable to violence in their workplaces. Unfortunately, they may face everything from unruly customers to armed robbers.

In this edition of safeworknews we highlight Pharmacist Beverley Vey’s harrowing experience with being held up, twice. She now has measures in place to guard her safety, and we are all grateful that she is able to share her story. It could have been a lot worse.

At the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission we have field staff who frequently work alone. They regularly check in during the day, provide a detailed itinerary and at all times carry a fully-charged cell phone with speed dial programmed in to reach local police.

If staff feel they are entering an unsafe or unpredictable situation, they are encouraged to leave or reschedule the meeting at a location that is more appropriate. These are some examples of safe work practices we use at the Commission.

Working alone has its own unique challenges. If you slip and are injured, how do you call for help? If you are faced with an armed robber or unruly customer, how do you safely escape the situation?

Identify the hazards and ensure you have adequate safety measures in place. Be aware of your surroundings, and have an alarm or call system handy.

Please, do what you can to be prepared.

•

Emergency exits

•

Eyewash stations and showers

•

Electrical panels

•

Electrical disconnects

•

Fire extinguishers

•

Pedestrian aisles

The good news is that blocking violations are easy to identify and fix. Consider painting zones around these areas and installing signs to inform people they can't be blocked.

Regular inspections and emphasis on blocking is the most important element for preventing such issues. Specifically look for items that "have always been there" as these permanently blocked items or areas need to be addressed.

Take a look around your work area today when you head out. See if there is clear access to the electrical panels and fire extinguishers.

Let someone know if something is blocking access. Look to see if any items have been "permanently" blocked by design.

It is certainly better to go 10 feet further for a fire extinguisher than it is to have to move carts, racks or other items just to get to it during an emergency.

Source: Safety Toolbox Talks

Leslie Galway, CEO, Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission

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We

always

welcome

your

feedback

Hi Kathy I always enjoy reading safeworknews and congratulate you and your team on continuing to provide timely and relevant information to workers and employers in the province.

It is refreshing to be able to read a health and safety publication with local content. In fact, I am often able to recognize places and individuals who are included! I am sure that many of the topics also resonate with your readers as they identify experiences in their own workplaces that are similar. The articles and information help us recognize and control hazards in our own workplaces.

Thank-you and keep the information coming.

Regards, Jackie Manuel, P.Eng. Chief Executive Officer Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association

Save me – with connect!

Use connect to submit your Form 7 – employer’s report of injury.

Your Employer report will be received by the

If you are not already registered for connect,

Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation

speak to your in house administrator to access

Commission the same day and help in the

this service.

timely adjudication of your employee’s claim

For more information go to: whscc.nl.ca

and their early and safe return to work.

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3

Former paramedic sets his sights on a new career in health and safety

By Kathy Dicks-Peyton

Being a good paramedic means being able to do as much as you possibly can to save a life, and knowing how to accept it when this is just not enough. During his 20-year career, Fred Wiscombe of Placentia lived by this philosophy until a workplace injury in July 2011 forever changed his life.

Fred’s role as a paramedic was to provide ambulance service, emergency and routine patient care in and around the Placentia area, as well as to and from St. John’s. He recalls many medical emergencies, such as the time he responded to an emergency involving a baby who wasn’t breathing.

“I loved my work,” says Fred. “It’s a job I would never tell anyone not to get into, but being a paramedic is also a job that you’re not going to get a lifetime career from because of the nature of the work and the potential for back injuries.”

Fred Wiscombe and his medical service dog Miki

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Being a paramedic involved a lot of heavy, repetitive lifting. “I remember lifting a little 80 to 90-pound elderly lady and taking her down the stairs of her home in my arms because putting her on a backboard was going to be too uncomfortable,” he recalls.

“Because of my size and strength, there were many times I would lift people and cradle them in my arms.”

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Fred says looking back, it may have been unwise to personally carry patients, but he believed he was providing a better level of care, and their families seemed to appreciate it.

When Fred started working with the ambulance service, the company was situated just two doors down from his parents’ home. The job afforded him the opportunity to stay at home at a time when his friends were heading to Western Canada.

“I also contemplated a move, but my mom got sick and I couldn’t go.”

Fred cared for his mother until she passed away.

It was now just him and his father. “Dad was a senior and I couldn’t leave him either.”

“I was told that if I went back to work as a paramedic that I would eventually end up in a wheelchair,” he says. “This was a hard pill to swallow.”

Being a paramedic was the only job he ever had, and he had only worked for one employer. “I was emotional and I was angry.”

Fred lives with pain daily, has had nearly 60 chiropractic sessions and over 100 physiotherapy sessions.

The things he could normally do around the house like painting and doing maintenance jobs are now totally off limits. There are also many sleepless nights walking the floors.

[ [

When he looks back on choosing to care for his parents, Fred says he has no regrets, and otherwise he probably would not have met his wife Beverley and her daughter Cassandra, and enjoyed the life they have together.

“We got a call to pick up a lady at her house in Placentia and we ended up having to transfer her to St. John’s for X-rays.

While lifting the stretcher in preparation for the drive back to Placentia, Fred says he felt something pop in his back. “It was a sharp, stabbing pain,” he recalls.

“I bit my tongue and continued to move the lady to the ambulance.”

Following his injury, Fred’s employer was not able to accommodate him in a return-to-work program.

The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission works with all parties, including the worker, employer, and union where applicable, to safely return a worker to work. The goal is to target the pre-injury job, but if this is not possible, the worker’s skills and functional capacity are assessed to provide the worker with potential for suitable employment. With effective return-to-work planning, the human and financial costs associated with workplace injuries are significantly reduced.

“When I got in the ambulance, I knew something was seriously wrong – the pain just wouldn’t go away. We continued back to Placentia and radioed ahead to advise that once the patient was taken out of the ambulance, that I would have to be put on a board and lifted as a second patient.”

In cases such as Fred’s, where his employer was unable to accommodate him at their workplace, the Commission facilitated a labour market re-entry assessment. Several retraining options were identified, one of which was to study occupational health and safety. With the support of his case manager, Fred went back to school.

Once in Placentia, Fred went to see the doctor on call in the emergency department at the local hospital.

He was given pain medication and a note to stay off work for a week. After a few days, Fred was told he would need to stay off longer. After two weeks there was still no improvement, in fact, things had worsened.

Fred’s doctor ordered a CT scan. The scan revealed bulging discs. An appointment was scheduled to see a surgeon in St. John’s.

Now, in addition to training for a new career, Fred and his wife have become caregivers to a medical service dog. Miki, as she is affectionately called, is trained for post-traumatic stress disorder and psychiatric emergencies. Fred’s wife, a Registered Nurse, works with the dog at the Waterford Hospital in St. John’s. “It’s a great experience and we are enjoying it,” he says.

The Injury The day of his injury was the end of Fred’s career as a paramedic.

“Fred is confident he will be back to work. “I’ve already had two companies contact me about future employment and that gives me a sense of hope.”

“I was told there was only a 50/50 chance that the problem could be corrected with surgery,” he says.

Six months post-injury, Fred knew he would not return to the job he loved.

Full of confidence and looking forward to a bright future in a new career, Fred is confident he will be back to work. “I’ve already had two companies contact me about future emplo employment and that gives me a sense of hope.””

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WHMIS to GHS – Prepare for the change

Flame

Exclamation Mark

Health Hazard

Flammable

Irritation (skin or eyes)

Carcinogenicity

Self-Reactive

Skin Sensitization

Respiratory Sensitization

Pyrophoric

Acute Toxicity (harmful)

Reproductive Toxicity

Self-Heating

Specific Target Organ Toxicity – Single Exposure (drowsiness or dizziness, or respiratory irritation)

Specific Target Organ Toxicity – Single or Repeated Exposure

In Contact with Water, Emits Flammable Gases Organic Peroxide

Skull & Crossbones

Acute Toxicity (fatal or toxic)

Hazardous to the Ozone Layer

Exploding Bomb

Explosive

Germ Cell Mutagenicity Aspiration Hazard

Flame Over Circle

Oxidizer

Self-Reactive (severe) Organic Peroxide (severe)

Corrosion

Corrosive (skin, eyes, or metals)

Gas Cylinder

Gas Under Pressure

Environment

Safety tips for working outdoors in the sun and extreme heat When you work outdoors in summer, you must take steps to protect yourself from heat-related illness and the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation (UV).

COVER UP AND PROTECT

DRINK UP

ACCLIMATIZE

Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, UV rated sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat. Apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and UVA / UVB protection. Re-apply every 2 hours and after sweating.

It takes time to adjust to working in heat. Work with your supervisor to gradually increase your work load and heat exposure.

COOL OFF SHIELD FROM SUN Set up shade structures or use umbrellas, buildings, or trees to shield you from the rays of the sun. You can get sunburn on a cloudy day.

TIME IT RIGHT Avoid the sun and strenuous tasks between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.

After WHMIS aligns itself with GHS, there will be one consistent approach that is international in scope. This single system will classify chemicals and communicate hazard information through labels and safety data sheets.

Hazardous to the Aquatic Environment (acute or long-term)

A w a r e n e s s

Thirsty or not, drink plenty of water – a cup every 15 to 20 minutes.

Avoid caffeine or alcohol which can dehydrate you.

The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is changing. The new WHMIS is aligning with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).

Take breaks to rest and cool off in the shade or in air-conditioned buildings or vehicles. Don’t over-exert yourself.

The purpose of aligning the systems is to have a common set of rules for classifying hazardous products, common rules for labels, and a standard format for safety data sheets (SDSs). Health Canada’s consultation is ongoing and the GHS system is anticipated to be implemented in Canada in June 2015.

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has information sheets that promote awareness about the anticipated changes to WHMIS after GHS. FREE information sheets can be found at: www.ccohs.ca/ccohs/factsheet.html Information sheets are available on a variety of topics, including: Overview; Information for Suppliers and Importers; Information for Employers; Symbols/Pictograms and their Hazards; Supplier Labels After GHS; and Safety Data Sheets.

With the implementation of the GHS in Canada, employers, workers and the suppliers of chemical products should be prepared to comply with the revised WHMIS rules.

There are e-courses, webinars and other resources available at: http://www.ccohs.ca/products/courses/course_listing.html

Source: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)

Courses for Canadian workers: http://www.ccohs.ca/products/courses/whmis_workers Courses for Canadian managers and supervisors: http://www.ccohs.ca/products/courses/whmis_for_mgrs Compliance courses for Canadian employers and suppliers of chemical products: http://www.ccohs.ca/products/courses/whmis_ghs_suppliers

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Combating driver fatigue Are you safe f behind the wheel? Are you someone who drives for f r a living fo or otherwise spends a lot of time travelling for your job?

Here are some tips for staying awake and aware when you drive to and from work or on your own time: • Get enough sleep before you drive. For most people, eight hours of sleep every 24 hours is about right, but everyone is different.

• If you have a choice, don't drive during your normal sleeping hours. If you are accustomed to being asleep at 2:00 am, you could easily doze off behind the wheel at that hour.

• If you start to get sleepy, pull off the road in a safe place and take a nap. Be sure to lock your vehicle doors and be prepared to drive away promptly if your security is threatened.

• Plan your route with overnight accommodations or highway rest areas in mind. Make reservations at a motel, or have alternative accommodation lined up.

Vacationers can use sources such as an automobile association to locate rest areas. Planning these stops in advance keeps you from driving around tired looking for a place to spend the night.

• Eat lightly and often rather than larger meals.

The meat and potato platter, dessert included at the truck stop can make you sleepy.

• Avoid alcoholic beverages and other drugs.

Even ordinary medications such as cold and cough remedies can contain ingredients to make you drowsy.

• Keep your vehicle interior fairly cool with plenty of fresh air.

• Shift position frequently, instead of remaining static for long periods of time.

• Take breaks at least every two hours. Walk around in the fresh air for a while instead of just walking from your vehicle to a warm coffee shop. A fast-paced walk around the rest area can do wonders to get your circulation going again to keep you alert.

• Switch with your co-driver every couple of hours.

You can also ask your co-driver to stay awake to keep you company and keep an extra set of eyes on the road.

• If you are alone, use your radio or other electronic device for company.

• Keep your eyes moving. Look at the road and traffic far ahead, check your mirrors often and scan the sides of the road.

• Check your instrument panel often, ensuring your speed is within posted limits and not becoming erratic because of fatigue or inattention. Consider turning your instrument lights down low to keep your eyes adjusted to the darkness outside.

Remember the only substitute for sleep is sleep.

Short-term measures may help you stay alert for a while, but eventually you will need to sleep, leep, even if you are behind the wheel of a vehicle. e.

Source: Safety Toolbox Talks

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Test Your Knowledge of Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science of arranging and adjusting your work environment to fit you and your body. Its goal is to reduce stress and eliminate injuries and disorders associated with the overuse of muscles, bad posture, and repeated tasks.

68%

of claims submitted to the Commission are for soft-tissue injuries

Employers are responsible for providing safe and healthy workplaces for their workers. In the workplace, the number and severity of injuries resulting from physical overexertion, as well as their associated costs, can be substantially reduced by applying ergonomic principles.

In an office environment, ergonomic controls include assessing computer equipment, workstation layout, and office furniture. Ergonomic controls can also require changing work practices to help reduce injuries. This can include: scheduling rest breaks, rotating tasks, training employees to recognize ergonomic hazards, and providing instruction in safe work practices.

In your office space, are you performing your duties in an ergonomic manner? Take this test to analyze your situation and determine your next steps to improving your health and wellness.

1. Which of the following might be considered an ergonomic concern? a) Environmental noise b) Indoor air quality c) An uncomfortable office chair d) All of the above

(D) All of the above Are you performing your duties in an unsafe manner?

Since ergonomics is such a broad-based application, there are few issues with regards to the working environment which are not an ergonomics consideration. Nonetheless, not all people practicing ergonomics are specifically trained in these areas. Ergonomics at times needs to be practiced in a team setting, with the expertise of a variety of professionals.

The ergonomics consultant should know how to enlist the other team members appropriately.

2. To avoid problems when typing, you should keep your wrists positioned high above your fingers. True or False?

False One of the factors commonly believed to attribute to the onset of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms is the static and prolonged wrist flexion or extension which occurs when typing at a poorly set up workstation, or poor typing habits.

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You’re better off trying to keep your wrists in a neutral position (i.e. not bent back or down). Usually a change in habit (although difficult) should be considered, however you may also need to lower the height of your chair or increase the height of the table to avoid the flexion of the wrists.

3. A footrest has to be on an angle. True or False?

False The intent of a foot rest is to ensure that your feet are flat on a surface, if you can’t reach to rest your feet flat on the floor. Some people with a lot of leg room and who stretch back to do their work, such as in a control room, may enjoy having their feet on an angle.

4. It is better to pound the keys when typing than to use a light touch. True or False?

False When you pound the keys you are exerting forces which could otherwise be avoided. Most keyboards do not require a lot of force to use the keys. When you repeatedly exert forces with your fingers such as in typing, you increase the potential for eliciting symptoms of a repetitive strain. The less force you exert, the less strain is associated with the movement.

5. Lighting is of no concern if you have a good setup in your workstation already. True or False?

False Ergonomics doesn’t stop at the physical set up of your workstation. Lighting after all, has a physical effect on us.

Common lighting problems include too much light, too little light, glare, reflections and shadows. Awkward body positions are assumed quite commonly when a person is trying to see his/her work under poor lighting positions.

Poor lighting can also contribute to headaches, vision difficulties and poor productivity.

6. Leg room is an important consideration when setting up a workstation or improving an older setup. True or False?

True Without adequate leg room, the seated worker is unable to gain full access to the work surface. This results in poor or awkward postures including twisting and over reaching. The worker who is standing also requires leg room so that he/she is able to rest one foot at a time on a footrest to alleviate musculoskeletal fatigue associated with static standing.

7. Only people who work with computers have to worry about Ergonomics. True or False?

False Ergonomics affects us all. After all, in simple terms it is defined as the science of matching the work ( job) to the worker.

8. A worker, as well as the employer must take responsibility for good ergonomic practices.

True or False?

True However, everyone has a responsibility not just to themselves but to the people around them to be as safe and healthy as possible. The Occupational Health and Safety Act supports this view, and makes it one of the general duties of the worker to take reasonable care to protect ct his or her own health and safety and that of workers and other persons at or near the workplace while at work. k k.

For more information visit: www.whscc.nl.ca

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Making a Claim for Occupational Disease If you are applying for an occupational disease claim we can help you understand what is involved and work with you through the process.

It is often assumed that an actual accident which causes an injury must take place in order to make a claim for workers’ compensation. Contrary to popular belief, workers’ compensation can also be claimed for occupational disease.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, occupational disease is also known as industrial disease, and is defined in both the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act (the Act) and the Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Regulations. The OH&S Regulations focus primarily on preventing illness and enforcing an employer’s duty to report known or suspected hazards that could impact workers’ health. The Act addresses compensability issues if a worker becomes ill as the result of a hazardous exposure in the workplace.

There are quite a few different types of occupational diseases; however, some are far more prevalent than others. For example, if you suffer a loss of hearing as a result of your exposure to loud industrial machinery for long periods, that hearing loss is an occupational disease. A miner exposed to silica dusts at work may develop the lung disease, silicosis, as an occupational disease.

Occupational disease may also be caused by exposure to toxic materials in the workplace. An industrial plant worker exposed to toxic chemicals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, or manganese may also develop an occupational disease if his or her health problems exist because of that exposure.

If you contract a contagious disease because of the nature of your work, this may also be considered an occupational disease. For example, if you are a health care worker and contract a disease such as hepatitis B while caring for others with the disease that may be classified as an occupational disease.

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Clai Claims involving industrial diseases are often a lot mor more difficult to deal with than other types of injury claims. The exposure which caused the illness could have occurred a long time ago and expert evidence to prove a link between the illness and the employment may be required.

When would I make a claim as a result of occupational disease?

If you have been diagnosed with a condition, illness, or disease that you or your doctor believe is caused by exposure to a health hazard at work, you would make a claim for benefits to the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission).

How do I make a claim?

You start the claim process by completing a Worker’s Report of Occupational Disease (6-S) form, which authorizes the Commission to obtain all information necessary to review your claim.

It is important to provide as much detail as possible when completing this form: Medical Information • Diagnosis or medical condition for which you are making the claim • Names, dates, and locations of doctors seen or medical tests completed Work Exposure Information • Employer’s name(s), address(es), contact information, and dates of employment • Type of work performed and description of duties • Hazardous substances to which you believe you were exposed

What happens when my claim is received by the Commission?

When your claim is received, you will be given a claim number and your claim will be assigned to an Adjudicator. The Adjudicator will: • Review your application, gather the required information, and request any relevant information not provided with your form 6-S • Contact you or your authorized representative, to discuss your claim and provide you with their contact information • Make an entitlement decision on your claim, and • Advise you or your authorized representative of the decision, including a detailed written explanation of the decision and the option to appeal, if you are dissatisfied with the decision.

If my claim is accepted, what benefits may I receive?

If your claim is accepted, entitlement to benefits such as health care or wage loss benefits will be determined by your Adjudicator. This will depend on the circumstances of your case and applicable policy and legislation.

In 2011, the Commission released a strategy for the prevention of known occupational diseases.

The mandate is to promote health and safety in Newfoundland and Labrador workplaces and to

We would like to hear from you...

RM

6-S

FO

prevent workplace injuries and diseases. This strategy provides a framework for raising awareness about known occupational diseases in the province. While there is growing awareness of occupational diseases, preventing them remains a global challenge. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), one reason may be the difficulty in determining a causal relationship between workplace conditions and a worker’s health impairments. The problem is particularly evident in cases of diseases with long latency periods and multi-factorial causes.

In any event, employers have a legal obligation to take every precaution reasonable for the protection of workers, and workers must take appropriate steps to identify and address all workplace hazards for the protection of themselves and others.

How long will it take to receive a decision on my claim?

All claims submitted to the Commission are processed on a case by case basis. Decisions are based on a number of variables including: the nature of the medical condition; the amount of information available; how long it takes to gather and confirm your workplace exposure information; matio and to obtain all relevant medical information. n.

Give us your insight on safeworknews content, or topics for discussion relating to employer assessments, workers’ compensation, and workplace health and safety.

Send your comment to: safeworknews c/o Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission 146 148 Forest Road P.O. Box 9000 St. John’s NL A1A 3B8 or send us an email: kpeyton@whscc.nl.ca

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exposure Know the hazards in the welding trade

By Kelly Taylor

Welders are exposed to numerous workplace hazards. However, health hazards which may contribute to developing an occupational disease, are often overlooked. According to the International Labour Office (ILO), gases, smoke and fumes associated with welding may lead to respiratory problems, lung infections and asthma. Depending on the materials used, welding fumes have been linked to certain types of cancers, including liver, stomach and lung. Welders can also be at an increased risk of developing hearing loss due to the high noise levels, and exposure to ultraviolet light from using a welding torch can result in chronic damage to the eyes and skin.

In general, welders are reporting numerous injuries to the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission. In 2014, 110 welding-related claims were filed with the Commission. The most common injuries among welders in this province are to the eyes (23 per cent of claims received); while the second highest statistic is for back injuries, including the spine and spinal cord, at 14 per cent.

According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), welders should be mindful of the following health hazards: Chemical hazards - Welders are exposed to gases, smokes and fumes. These toxic materials can cause respiratory problems and various cancers.

Biological hazards - While it depends on the workplace itself, welders may be exposed to bacteria, waste products and other biological material.

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WORKPLACE HEALTH, SAFETY AND COMPENSATION COMMISSION

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Ergonomic hazards - Many injuries to welders are the result of strains, sprains and musculoskeletal injuries (soft-tissue). Welders often have to lift or move heavy objects, work in awkward positions for long periods of time, handle and hold heavy welding equipment and perform repetitive motions.

Physical health hazards - Welders can be exposed to excessive noise levels, heat and cold. Welding arcs also give off radiation that increases the risk of chronic damage to the eyes and skin.

Psychological hazards - Work demands and deadlines for welders may also contribute to stress.

Adequate controls must be in place to protect welders from all hazards. These controls vary depending on such things as the workplace environment, the type of welding being conducted, and the length of time and amount of work being carried out. The general rule is to eliminate hazards or reduce them to as low as reasonably possible.

Effective ventilation should be installed where possible, and if local exhaust ventilation is not adequate or practical, respiratory equipment should be worn.

Furthermore, welders should always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as fire resistant welding gloves, aprons, eyewear that has UV protection, and ear protection.

Welding Do’s and Don’ts – Protect your Health and Safety!

Do’s • Do use welding wires that contain less amounts of manganese.

• Do use less arc voltage to decrease fumes.

• Do use current pulsing over steady current voltage to decrease fumes.

• Do use argon as opposed to 100% carbon dioxide for a shielding gas in gas-shielded arc welding to create fewer fumes.

• Do ensure appropriate ventilation.

• Do position the welder so the plume is not in the workers’ breathing zone.

• Do wear appropriate PPE including hearing protection, respirator where required, flameretardant clothing, gloves, apron, foot protection, and face and eye protection.

• Do ensure material safety data sheets are available.

• Do use welding curtains to protect other workers in the area.

Don’ts • Don’t take gas cylinders into a confined space (except for those used for a self-contained breathing apparatus).

• Don’t weld or cut any vessel that may have contained flammables unless it has been cleaned appropriately (flushing with water is not sufficient).

• Don’t weld or cut metals that contain any coatings such as paints, solvents, resins, plastics, or binders.

• Don’t store reserve oxygen and acetylene tanks together.

If you are a welder and have questions or concerns about your workplace, talk to your supervisor or manager, your health and safety committee representative, your union, or your health and safety department. Your wellbeing and that of your co-workers work is important – know the hazards and stay safe. e.

Kelly Taylor is an Industrial Hygienist at the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission

• Don’t store empty and full compressed gas cylinders together.

• Don’t forget to identify the potential health hazards associated with welding.

For more information on preventing occupational diseases visit the WHSCC website at: www.whscc.nl.ca or contact Prevention Services at: (709) 778-1552 or toll free at: 1-800-563-9000.

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Get to know your hot spots.

Injury hotspots for Welders

7% Ear(s)

Eye(s)

23% 4%

Chest, including ribs, internal 4% organs

Shoulder, including clavicle, scapula

14% Back, including spine

and spinal cord

Arm(s) 4%

14% Hand(s), fingers,

fingernails

7% Leg(s)

3%

Foot(feet), except toe(s)

photo: Tom Walsh, Welder

SOURCES

For further information visit: www.whscc.nl.ca or, please call the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission at: SOURCE Workplace Health, Safety and Compensa on Commission injury preven on database

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1-800-563-9000

WORKPLACE VIOLENCE A victim’s account

By Mark Wessels Beverley Vey works nine to five, Monday to Friday at a St. John’s pharmacy. She has over 3,000 different customers and fills over 100 prescriptions per day.

Her customers are diverse and might include infants two or three weeks old to senior citizens in their eighties. The prescriptions she fills could be for cancer patients, patients with high blood pressure, or those suffering from mental health illness.

Never in her 28-year career, did she think she would be a victim of a serious crime.

Beverly Vey has been held up at gunpoint twice, and has also encountered several break and enters at her pharmacy.

Incident #1 The first time she was held up at gunpoint, the assailant came into the store seemingly out of nowhere. It was a beautiful day and there were lots of people coming and going. The assailant made it abundantly clear that he didn’t want any money. He instead demanded she give him all of her “narcotics”.

With his intentions made clear he started to get agitated and Ms. Vey attempted to talk to him calmly, suggesting that he reconsider committing a serious robbery.

She told the robber to just walk away and she would forget the episode and promised not to report the incident. Unfortunately this made him even more irritated. It was then she realized a customer could walk through the door and potentially be hurt.

She complied with her assailant – gave him the narcotics and he promptly left the store.

Before the assailant left her parking lot, Ms. Vey managed to get his license plate number, the make and model of the vehicle he was driving and immediately called the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC).

The RNC arrived within two minutes and determined the vehicle in question was stolen and could not trace it to the robber. Fortunately a tip called in to Newfoundland and Labrador Crime Stoppers saw the robber arrested, tried, convicted and sent to jail.

WORKPLACE VIOLENCE continued on page 16

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“Ms. Vey also installed new alarms that alert police. She also ensures she has regular contact with friends so her daily activities are monitored by third parties.” WORKPLACE VIOLENCE continued from page 15 Incident#2 It was late evening the second time Ms. Vey was robbed. She was getting ready to close the store and was chatting with the cleaner. As she walked towards the door, two masked men burst into the store – one holding a gym bag and the other a sawed off shotgun.

TED S E ARR ICTED V C ON

?

One of the intruders pushed her and the cleaner into a corner and held them at gunpoint.

The other intruder went to the safe and asked her to open it. Once the safe was opened, they cleaned out the narcotic cupboard, and as quickly as they arrived they both quickly departed.

The entire episode didn’t last more than three minutes. Once she realized the cleaner was okay, she called the police.

Need Help Call a Health and Safety

Advisor to conduct a workplace risk assessment

709-778-1552

Important measures to make the pharmacy safer going forward Following the second robbery, new security features were implemented at the pharmacy, including better surveillance cameras, a door access lock and buzzer and new signage that alerted people of the enhanced security profile. Ms. Vey also installed new alarms that alert police. She also ensures she has regular contact with friends so her daily activities are monitored by third parties.

Everyone should do a risk assessment of the place they are working in,” she says.

“This includes a review of the ‘what ifs’, and all points of access to the work space.”

An environment that attracts drug-related crime means safety and security measures are a must, and stories like Ms. Vey’s must be told to create greater awareness.

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Safety tips when working alone • Talk to your supervisor and colleagues about your job, the hazards and how to minimize them.

• See if work can be re scheduled so you do not have to work alone.

• Set up a check in system by which you call or text someone at regular intervals so they will know you are okay. Agree on a tracking method to be used if you are overdue.

• Carry an alarm device, cell phone or two way radio. Manage the batteries so you will always be able to get through.

• Use a buddy system, taking another worker with you into higher risk situations.

• File a travel plan when you drive somewhere alone. Keep vehicles well maintained to avoid breakdowns and stock an emergency survival kit in the vehicle.

• When visiting a possibly intimidating client, take a taxi and have the driver wait outside.

• Handling cash or other valuables puts you at risk for violent robbery. Have your employer take steps to reduce the amount of cash on hand to lower the incentive for robbers.

• Have your work area arranged for maximum visibility from windows. Get training in how to avoid and handle a robbery, and learn to use the security system.

Source: Safety Toolbox Talks

Go online to view video of Bev Vey’s experience of Workplace Violence: a victim’s account at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXENSsxs0bY

Save me – use connect!

If you are already registered for connect, speak to your in‐house administrator about using this service.

Use connect for clearance letters.

It’s easy to use and saves time.

Go to: whscc.nl.ca and click the connect icon for more details.

Request clearance letters immediately and get notification of changes in subcontractor status.

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Making safe and healthy choices for overall employee wellness The Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association (NLCSA) decided in 2011 to start a wellness program because it’s something employees wanted.

“We focus on enhancing individual performance with a safe and injury-free mindset based on four fundamentals of energy: Build your energy exercise with purpose. Focus on wellness, not just weight loss.

Nutrition - eat right for your needs. Recovery - rest, stress management and recovery.”

By Kathy Dicks-Peyton Workplace health and wellness programs should be a part of a company’s strategy for achieving a healthy workplace. According to the Canadian Centre for Health and Safety (CCOHS), legislation and other workplace policies or programs can provide a basis for a workplace health (or health promotion) program. When setting up any health program, remember to include training and other support (i.e.: time to attend sessions) and choices where possible.

The purpose of a workplace health and wellness program is to offer a comprehensive health service to employees. Therefore it is important to remember that employees are potentially exposed to a wide variety of health hazards or situations at work on a regular basis. As such, it is impossible to deal with workplace health/wellness issues in isolation from health and safety, and vice-versa.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association (NLCSA) decided in 2011 to start a wellness program because it’s something their employees wanted.

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“When preparing our annual budget, we always send a note to staff asking for recommendations or suggestions for something they would like to do as a team,” says Jackie Manuel, Chief Executive Officer. “They researched a corporate wellness program and brought me a proposal.”

our health and medical benefits coverage go down – that’s huge.”

In addition to individualized programming, the NLCSA has introduced lunch and learn sessions, onsite yoga and stretching and foam rolling massage.

“I remember the first time I participated in a yoga session, I went home that night and had the best night’s sleep in years,” Manuel laughs.

Manuel was impressed with what she read.

“Staff really wanted to walk the walk when it came to health and wellness and we all saw the benefits that could be achieved.”

The NLCSA’s health and wellness program is about individuals. For some it is weight loss, others just want to eat better, sleep better or get existing medical conditions, like diabetes, under control.

Any wellness program in the workplace needs to be leadership driven. The health and wellness culture at the NLCSA is support driven and the program works because staff have found something that interests them, and their leadership is there to cheer them on.

“Our staff have learned how to make better choices in terms of nutrition and being active,” says Manuel. “We have staff with some significant medical issues who are no longer taking medication because they are making better choices, and this is huge.”

“We have had people who have had major success, and others who have had smaller successes,” explains Manuel. “Do I make the best choices every day? Absolutely not, but I can tell you that over all, I am making better choices when it comes to my health and wellness.”

To develop the organization’s health and wellness program, the NLCSA enlisted the services of an international fitness and health firm specializing in personal training and strength coaching, corporate wellness provisions and human safety services.

How do you implement a health and wellness program?

There are a few steps that an organization should follow when developing a workplace health and wellness program for the workplace. Remember, every organization is different and therefore everyone's needs may vary.

They focus on enhancing individual performance with a safe and injury-free mindset based on four fundamentals of energy: Build your energy exercise with purpose. Focus on wellness, not just weight loss. Nutrition - eat right for your needs.

Recovery - rest, stress management and recovery.

The goal of the NLCSA’s workplace health and wellness program is to send people home healthier then when they arrived. If people are less fatigued at work and more cognitively aware of potential hazards around them, they are less likely to get hurt.

“It all comes down to energy, fatigue management and what an individual wants to get out of our program,” says Manuel.

She explains that the most startling result from the program is when her accounting manager who has been involved in administering medical benefits programs for about 20 years – came to her and said she is seeing health costs go down. “For the last two years, we have seen the premiums for

Step 1: Take ownership and leadership and get support from the "top”.

Step 2: Get support from everyone.

Step 3: Acknowledge current and informal activities and collect baseline data.

Step 4: Identify the key needs and expectations of the workplace.

Step 5: Develop a detailed plan.

Step 6: Put your plan into action.

Step 7: Monitor, evaluate and maintain the program..

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NewsFlash The CHHA NL has trained Commission staff on how to better provide services to clients who are hard of hearing, and provided advice on assistive devices.

“Hearing loss is a leading occupational disease among clients of the Commission,” said Leslie Galway, Commission CEO. “Providing better access to information and using assistive devices that help us better communicate with our clients is very important. We are honored to be recognized with the CHHA NL’s 2014 Community Awareness Award, and look forward to continuing to work with the CHHA NL and other community partners to ensure that our clients receive the best service possible.”

(left to right) Robert Murdoch and Cathy Dormody, Newfoundland Power, Tom Mahoney, Director of Worker Services at the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission and John Drover, Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Society, receiving awards from the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association – Newfoundland and Labrador (CHHA-NL).

Commission Receives 2014 Community Awareness Award The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission) has been recognized by the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association – Newfoundland and Labrador (CHHA NL) for its efforts to increase awareness of the challenges of hearing loss, to the public and to its staff.

Recognizing that its clients may have hearing, visual or other challenges, as a result of a workplace injury or otherwise, the Commission has adopted a Service Without Barriers approach. The Commission has been working with the CHHA NL, along with other partners such as the Canadian National Institute for the Blind and the Independent Living Resource Centre, to better understand the needs of its clients and implement practical solutions to providing appropriate client service depending on their particular challenge.

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In the past five years, from 2009 – 2013, the Commission has accepted 699 claims for hearing loss.

Average Employer Assessment Rate Remains Stable for 2015 Effective January 1, 2015, the average base assessment rate for employers in Newfoundland and Labrador will remain at $2.45 per $100 of assessable payroll, and the Maximum Compensable and Assessable Earnings (MCAE) will increase to $61,615.

Assessment rates are premiums paid by employers to cover anticipated costs of workplace injuries, return to work programs, prevention initiatives and the cost of administering the workers’ compensation system.

The assessment rate continues to include a $0.25 surcharge. According to Commission policy, the surcharge can be eliminated when the funded position reaches 110 per cent. The funded ratio as of December 31, 2013, was 106.6 per cent.

The increase in the MCAE reflects a 1.4 per cent increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Any injured worker whose pre injury earnings are at or above the new maximum compensable limit will be compensated based on the new limit. A complete listing of the Classification of Industries and Assessment Rates – 2015 can be found in the Publications section of the Commission’s website at: www.whscc.nl.ca.

Bring your workplace health and safety home?

Did you know that off the job safety practices are critical to managing health care costs, productivity and profits in the workplace? More importantly, off the job safety practices help save the lives of workers and their families.

Most injuries and many of the most severe, are caused by things easily avoided. We need to be consciously aware of our surroundings and the potential dangers that lurk at home and at play, and take precautions to prevent unintentional injuries and death. In case of fire: stop, drop, roll and crawl out; always keep emergency telephone numbers on the fridge, cell phone or just call 911; don’t smoke in bed; and pick up loose toys and objects to avoid tripping. Try installing non slip pads and/or rails in the shower and bathtub, clean up spills right away to avoid slips and falls, change the batteries in your smoke detectors every six months, and salt/sand your driveway and walkways regularly in winter.

Taking the time to think about safety may seem unimportant to some, but it is one activity that will always prove beneficial. Think of those who would be affected by an injury to you or a loved one.

Instilling a culture of safety at home and at play will certainly go a long way towards injury prevention.

Kathy Dicks Peyton, Editor

Kathy Dicks-Peyton is the Manager of Communications and Event Planning with the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission

Give us your insight on safeworknews content, or topics for discussion relating to employer assessments, workers’ compensation, and workplace health and safety.

Send your comments to: safeworknews c/o Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission 146 148 Forest Road P.O. Box 9000 St. John’s NL A1A 3B8

Safety Awareness Sessions, Workshops and Webinars Register for FREE workshop and webinars today or ask about delivering a workshop at your workplace!

April 2015

MAY 20 - WEBINAR: OH&S for Small Business: Where to start (1.5 hrs) 10:00 am - 11:30 am

June 2015

WORKSHOP - MULTIPLE LOCATIONS AND DATES: Fatigue Management, (half-day) – 9:00 am - 12:30 pm - throughout April 2015

WORKSHOP - MULTIPLE LOCATIONS AND DATES: Risk Assessment: Assessing your workplace (1/2 day) 9:00 am - 12:30 pm - throughout June, 2015

APRIL 8 - WEBINAR: How the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) affects WHMIS (1.5 hrs) 10:00 am - 11:30 am

JUNE 24 - WEBINAR: Heat Stress: When is it too hot?

(1.5 hrs) 10:00 am - 11:30 am

May 2015

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT US AT:

WORKSHOP - MULTIPLE LOCATIONS AND DATES: The Benefits of Early and Safe Return-to-Work (ESRTW) (half-day) 9:00 am - 12:30 pm - throughout May, 2015

online: email: call: fax:

whscc.nl.ca workshops@whscc.nl.ca 1-800-563-9000 (toll-free), 1-709-778-2926 1-709-778-1587

In 2007 the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission introduced the CEO Safety Charter to support the continuous improvement of healthy and safe workplaces throughout our province. Charter Signatories are ambassadors who have demonstrated their commitment to preventing incidents and promoting health and safety in the workplace.

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

Do you know a business leader who takes action to make their workplace healthier and safer?

Nominate someone today! Call: 709.778.1568 or visit www.whscc.nl.ca for more information.